2009 proved to be a year to remember for everyone associated with Hampton Rovers Under 9 West. We were blessed with a wonderful group of people full of sportsmanship and support and we had an amazing bunch of wonderful kids, all as keen as mustard, willing to listen and learn, and raring to go.
We had 26 children in our Under 9 West team (21 from St.Marys, 3 from St.Joan of Arc, 1 from St.Kevins, 1 from Hampton Primary ) and all of them bonded together brilliantly.
After an initial learning curve in the first three games, the team improved unbelievably and ended the season with 8 wins and 4 losses as well as reaching a semi-final in the Lightning Premiership.
Every player improved dramatically throughout the season and some of the passages of play by seasons end were simply astounding. Every single player touched the ball and got a kick or a handball; almost every player took a mark; 19 different players kicked a goal; and most importantly, 26 players smiled.
I think the highlight of the season was our final match against Bentleigh, who had defeated us by 60-odd points at the beginning of the season. We all knew our kids had improved, but to see us come out and win the way we did was breathtaking. The expression on each of the kids faces was priceless and We Do Like To Be Beside The Seaside… was truly sung with gusto!
Congratulations to all of the trophy winners:
Best & Fairest: Oscar McMaster
Runner-Up: David Seager
Most Determined: Jack Chadwick
Most Improved: Darcy Tilbrook
Coaches Award: Lachlan Haig
Best Player in Finals: Flynn Coyne
Special thanks must go to Peter Jolly who was magnificent in his role as team manager, as well as all of our helpers each week on game day and at training. Thanks also to all of the parents whose cheering was infectious, and last but by no means least, thanks to all the kids of Under 9 West…you were sensational!
Cheers,
Ralph Bergman Coach – Hampton Rovers Under 9 West
