
12D Season Report
2020 has been a season like no other so I’m really proud of the way the boys adapted to all the differences from previous seasons. Despite the uncertainly of Covid-19 everyone was glad when the season started and the boys were super keen to play.
Before a ball had even been kicked we lost Axyl for the season with a foot problem and then Cody broke his ankle. I wasn’t sure how the team would go on a full-sized field. Would they even be able to run that far, can they all kick it far enough? Turned out all that worry was for nothing.
We had a slow start to the year with a heavy loss to a title favourite in the first game followed by a draw. Only one goal scored after two games (Ryan) and I wondered how the season would unfold. The next game provided our first win, a huge 9-0, with four goals to Oliver, three to Zane and two to Riley.
The season was now well underway and the boys had a big reward for their efforts and a massive boost of confidence. Three more wins followed, including an inspiring win with only 8 players, including a goal from Cody who had just returned from his broken ankle, before a loss to the eventual champs. Following was a win, loss and draw which got us to the final game. The final game was truly memorable; a beautiful sunny day at Anzac Oval and an atmosphere nearly like past seasons (with social distancing of course). A win in the last round was a great way to finish a fantastic year; we swapped a few player positions around and Aidan and Max each got their first goal of the season in a great game by everyone.
Our centre backs pairing of Harry and Aidan were our defensive rocks all season long, they did a great job. We had plenty of energy from the likes of Ruben, Ethan, Cooper, Noah, Cody and Simon out wide along with Oliver who found he liked all the space out on the wing to use his speed!
Ryan, Nate and Max mostly played in the middle and provided the connection between our backline and forwards. Zane provided speed and long legs in attack and defence and Riley was superb playing all of the centre positions in attack, midfield and defence at various times. A big thanks to all the boys who volunteered to play goalkeeper, 5 or 6 players who regularly took turns in goals.
Our final record was 7 wins, 2 draws and 3 losses, and lots of fun and learning which all added up to a great year for the boys. Hope to see you all again next season.
Special thanks to the Eagles Committee and all the volunteers who made the season possible against all odds. For the kids, parents and the community it was really needed, and your efforts are truly appreciated.
Coach: Paul Loney
Manager: Michael Clay

