In 2013 Hampton Rovers U11 fielded 3 sides, with numbers down, it was decided to field 2 sides in 2014. I volunteered to Coach the U12 West side. Our side was made up of remaining players from the U11 East team and most of the St Mary’s Boys from the other two teams. We started the season with a playing list of 22.
The season started with a bang and we won our first game and lost our second game by only 7 points. We found it tough going for the next 4 weeks with consecutive losses. With an injection of newly learnt skills and tactics, we came up against Mordy/Braeside who had been relegated down from the top division. We won this game with a hard fought last quarter effort. Sadly this was our last win for the season. The boys really started to develop as a team from here on, playing some of the top sides and losing one game by only the smallest of margins. On average we won a quarter in each match we played. They played their football in the right spirt with passion and determination. Second efforts and tackling during the season were outstanding. I can truly say I saw each boy develop over the season.
Training on the whole was well attended during the season with the boys having many opportunities to develop and hone their skills. Would especially like to thank Bernie and Frank for helping out with training, couldn’t have done it without them.
Congratulations needs to be extended to our boys who featured in the League Best & Fairest: Hugo, Tom, Michael, Lucas, Ben D. and Finnigan. The disappointment I felt as coach with my son only playing the first 2 games was balanced by the great team of boys I had the privilege of coaching and the wonderful group of parents and assistant coach I had this year. Like most fathers I took on the role so I could be involved in his favourite sport. So l would like to take this opportunity to personally thank the following: Assistant Coach Gavin Sharp for his input, time and dedication over the seasons. Team Manager Steve Crosby for the time spent week in week out ensuring match day went off without a hitch. Gavin and Steve also between them put out all our great weekly match reports, big thanks to you both! Runner Greg Lay for advice and effort. Trainer George Surace for the great knowledge and experience he brought to his role. WaterBoy Frank Benvenuto you helped out far beyond your role. Boardman Andrew Booth your advice and precision was appreciated.
A big thanks goes out to all the parents for your support and help during the season, stepping in to fill all the roles every week. Special mention to Andrew Warren for stepping into the Manager role for a few weeks. Lastly, a final congratulations to all the boys on their season. Well done!
Simon Ziesing
U12 West Coach
Trophy Winners
Best and Fairest – Hugo Lay
Runner Up Best and Fairest – Tom Smart
Best Team Player – Lucas Sharp
Most Courageous – Ben Doolan
Coach’s Award – Jeremy Booth
