A new look team, stepping up to the top grade , this was going to be a great learning year

I wanted to start by thanking the following people

The Parents of our boys  – You are all so supportive and encouraging , week in week out.  You put your trust in my choices and direction for our boys , and this is very refreshing and appreciated more than you know

To the Grandparents , Aunties and Uncles – your love for your grandkids, and kind words to both me and the boys is awesome

To Savy our incredible manager. You do the jobs I hate and do it with a smile and with ease. Thanks so much for allowing me to focus on the game , without any stress in the background

To my calming influence and right hand man “Coach Nath”, The boys and I love having you in our team, ( My son especially). Your relaxed nature and way of getting the best out of the boys in your special way is a credit to you, and between me throwing water bottles on the ground cursing and you just putting a hand on my shoulder saying “ its allright , we’re allright”  we are the Yin and Yang of coaches. Thanks so much

Season 2024 was full of lessons for our boys.  We played against the best in the shire and learnt what it takes to compete with these guys.  We learnt how to win and lose gracefully and with class. How to play till the final whistle , how 2 nil half time scores can easily turn the other way. Finally we learnt that Football is about having fun. Its about mateship and creating memories. Trophies don’t last forever , but memories do

The 2024 11A2 team is

Ryan – Playing up an age and moving up a  couple of grades , Ryan was a little shy and nervous at the start. Once he got to know his team mates and experience the physicality of this grade he came into his own.  He took it to best of them , and rarely was beaten in any 50/50.  Its hard to find a more kind hearted kid and he was a pleasure to coach

Cooper – This kid just loves football. He has speed and a touch that saw him not only score but setup some amazing goals.  And the bonus is, he is a Man United supporter.  Great year mate, well done

Charlie –  Every coaches dream kid.  He will do whatever is best for the team and never complains.  He reads the game like no other and can extinguish a 3 on 1 attack individually.  Its not just defence though, this kid can see things other don’t , and creates opportunities where they don’t exist

Brodie – The allround sportsman.  This kid would live on a sport field if allowed. His love for any ball sport sees him with talents and a skillset many dream of.  He sent fear in the eyes of opposition with his ruthless defence

Lachlan – Cheeky yet full of talent , he is the guy that can pull out that one play in a game that changes everything.  His football this year has stepped up another level and his focus is spot on.

Samuel – From an all out attacker  last year to one of the best defenders in the league. What a transition it has been this year for this kid.  He wanted a chance to prove himself, and that he did.  Although it doesn’t look like he listens at training , he is a sponge , and puts every training session into his game plan

Tate –  This Kid is all class. His desire to win at all costs and his commitment to his team is unmatched, and you see this when we are struggling. But do not fear, Tate will pull something out of his hat that leaves team mates, parents and opposition in awe.

Kaden – Its been a long while since Ive seen a kid with so much individual skill and footwork. Kaden proves that determination beats size every day.  A true Centre Mid , he has come up against some quality opposition and stood high . He has proved himself worthy of any accolades that come in the future.

Josh – Having seen this kid grow over the years , this kid impresses me week in week out.  He trains like he plays and does everything and gives 110% even when there is nothing left in the tank. If success was measured on effort , you wouldn’t beat this kid.  As a coach I would have 12 Josh’s on my team if I could, he cannot be faulted

Ollie – Our left back….. he has made this position his own , and don’t tell him otherwise.  His ability to run down a player , win the ball then find a player with a perfectly placed pass is a talent that doesnt get enough recognition.  He is the player that I can honestly say , takes the stress away from me in defensive plays

Tayt – Our Savior.  In this day and age its hard to find a kid that wants to be keeper. Well lucky for us Tayt stepped up and absolutely loves it.  Playing at least half a game in goals each week , his natural talent along with his skills he has learnt from the best in the business “Coach Nath”  has seen him become one of,  if not the best keeper in the comp. he also goes allright on the field , setting up some great goals

The future for these boys is very bright and I look forward to what 2025 brings for them

We are the Eagles, We couldn’t be prouder …………………….

Thanks

Coach Dan & Coach Nath