With a lot of players returning to soccer after a few years away, new players coming into the side, and the amount of interruption due to the rain, the 14C Boys had it all against them this season. To their credit, they worked hard on their skills and their relationships to produce a few fantastic performances that are worth singling out.

On a single weekend, they played back-to-back games against grand finalists Grays Point, and were unlucky not to scrape away even on both occasions. In both cases their coordination in defence, communication across the field and their support for each other showed out. These two performances showed that, while they didn’t finish in the running for the finals, they were good enough to do it. They played through niggling injuries and colds to show they had what it takes.

After been beaten a couple of times by Kirrawee, they put in place a plan to shut down their attack, which led to a much improved result. Again, they challenged that side (also a finalist) to the very end, and showed they were willing to think about the way they play.

Lastly, their last game against Cronulla Seagulls, although the result didn’t go their way, the coordination in attack was some of the best goal setups we’ve seen from the boys, which excited us as coaches to see the potential for this team next season. All parts of the game are coming together and against all odds, we have the makings of a successful season next year if we can string a few dry weeks together.

It was an absolute pleasure for Mick and I to coach your boys this season, they were and are a polite, respectful and kind bunch of blokes both on and off the field. A special thanks to Marjy for her amazing work as manager – without her Mick and I would truly have been under water!

Thanks 14Cs!

Phil