Congratulations to our 2020 11B’s; we had a fantastic year in my opinion. Once we got confirmation that the season would kick off, the kids got stuck in and we started in the best possible fashion with a win away to the Seagulls. We had our fair share of tough games, but also a number where we dominated – and as always, we had some good fun along the way.

Abbey wasted no time reminding us why we call a bull dog. In this, her last season with us, she battled hard every game and proved time & time again, that size doesn’t matter. Her ever growing confidence and love for the game will be very much missed.

Brandon had another strong year, showing his versatility in a number of different positions. But it was in the middle of the park and in the thick of the action where his used his size and grit to his advantage, winning many a lost or 50/50 ball.

Hawkie had a standout 2020 season. His confidence just grew & grew all year. His never say die approach paid off and he got that elusive goal against Grays Point. It was easily one of the most celebrated goals this year, but then was able to follow it up with another toward the end of the season.

Eamonn was very much the Fridge once again this year. His trademark calmness in the back saved our skins so many times, but then when we pushed him higher up the park, he made some of the bigger kids in the competition look like training cones.

Ethan had a blinder of a season. Even though he carried an injury in the closing rounds, he still threw the kitchen sink at everything and if my memory is correct, he bagged himself 6 goals for the season – with his header against Seagulls being one of the 2020 highlights.

James was another who stood tall this season. He played it so cool & calm at the back, but it was when he got clear up the line, and was able to open up his stride that he looked most dangerous. It was great to watch him grow in confidence as the season when on.

Jenson was sensational in 2020. He never pulled out of a challenge, constantly looked for his team mates and was a pillar of strength for our team. He gave us 110% every single game and I’m pretty certain that he deservedly finished the year as our leading goal scorer.

Tadhg had another season dealing with his dad busting his chops! But he made his dad very proud by the way he threw himself at everything, and his unselfish style of play. He managed to get himself a few goals but the highlight was discovering his defensive abilities late in the season – maybe it does run in the family.

Tyler had another solid year down that left flank. Tyler & Jensen combined beautifully down the wing and at times completely dominated the opposition. His cheeky demeanour both on and off the field made for some very fun moments during the season, but when the chips were down you could always turn to Tyler to help dig us out of something.

Will was a new addition to our team this year and he took on a new position at the back. He made that position his very own and took no time to settle into the new squad. His timing and composure in a challenge was beautiful watch and it just got better and better as the season progressed.

Xavier was another new addition and he too wasted no time making his presence felt. His pace on the ball and control was brilliant, but that left foot, particularly on a set piece, was a thing of beauty. Xavier put in a solid performance every week and was unlucky not score a lot more goals this year.

Zach was another who had a cracking season, playing a pivotal role in our attack. He loved being able to roam a little more this year, but always managed to get back when needed. He was a pleasure to watch all season particularly when he lead from the front with complete and utter confidence.

Thank you to all the parents for making this a fun season. I don’t think anyone took it too seriously (all the time anyway!), so the game was played in the manner that junior football should be played and the kid’s all seemed to be enjoying themselves.

Thanks again to Deb for being the super-manager! It makes such a huge difference to be part of such an organised team.

And finally thank you to the kids for letting me coach again this year. They frustrate the life out of me at training, but it is all worth it when it all comes together on game day. Well done everyone on such a great year, the kids should all be very proud of themselves and the parents should be very proud of their kids!

Thanks, Pete