The Under 9 South team comprised of 25 eager young players from 5 different schools, with only four players having played the previous year in the under 9s. At the first game it became apparent that both the coach and players were pretty nervous. The coach did not read out half the team at his first address, and the players in the first half appeared a little shell shocked and overwhelmed against Prahran, a more experienced and taller side. The 4 senior players in the second half however lead by example by going harder at the ball with many others following their lead. After the first game, while it was obvious there was a fair bit of work to do, the team looked very promising.
As the season progressed the skills and determination of each player developed rapidly. The younger and smaller players began to shine and the individual players began to work as a team. While the team generally took a quarter or two to get going they always finished very well. The teams highlight was in round 8 against East Sandringham. The level of hand passing, and team work was the best ever seen for the season, with every player contributing, and eight individuals scoring goals.
Over the season under 9 South won 4 games and lost 8. Two of the lost games were by less than 5 points. The team was also unfortunately not able to win a game in the lightning premiership due to the combination of the teams typical slow starts to the games and short matches played. The coach did however attempt to artificially enhance the players in the last 2 games with snakes and cordial before the game but it was to no avail.
Over the season the players skills developed remarkably, which was due to the determination and hard work each player put in at training. Despite coming from different schools the team combined very well and they should be very proud of their achievements and the friends they have made.
Awards
Best and Fairest- Tom Morris and Ben Branson
Runners up Best and Fairest Lachlan Davies
Most Determined Lachlan Gill
Most Improved Gavril Gourevitch
Best player of the Lightning Premiership Austin Parker
Coaches Award Joel Edgley
There are always many people behind the scene who assist in the running of a football team.
I would like to thank my team managers Nicki and Steve Morris who and did a fantastic job in co-coordinating the games, the parents, and organizing the specific duties each week. My assistant coaches Steve and Miranda Marron, and Greg Taylor who assisted at training and were great moral and vocal support at each game. I would also like to thank all parents whose encouragement and assistance was fantastic all season
Until next year
Tim Branson
Proud Coach of the Under 9 South 2009
