Footy Manager’s Report – Round 12

I was edgy Friday night/Saturday morning, some results and action from people close to me yet far away were playing on my mind, I found solace in watching the Under 19s play at Boss James for a half, (they won) community people doing community things, what’s more natural than chasing a football I figured. I feel life is basic when we give time and effort and results show, it’s the way it should be. I have been fortunate to meet many great people in my 22 years residing in Bayside, many via Rovers or offspring of, schools, fitness facilities, junior sport, not just footy but soccer, athletics, cricket also.

Every now and then someone shines brighter than most, in this case it’s Liz Dawes. I arrived at Boss James at 11.15 am Sunday, sunny day with a great smell in the air. Maybe spring is on the way I thought. As I was thinking this I heard my name yelled out, I turned and it was Liz waving at me, we walked over and had a hug. This lady always finds time for everyone in the community, she always wants to know more about me, my family and the Rovers.

I had the privilege to coach Liz’s youngest son, Nick in 2011. I first met Liz then. Years later I understood her eldest son, Connor, was sick and would soon pass away. As parents I know I would not be able to function if this happened to one of my children, I have no idea where Liz gets the strength to crusade forward in the hope of raising enough awareness and funding to help find a cure for Brain Cancer.

You are a Hero Liz Dawes and your army of people that find the energy to bring the RCD Foundation to front of mind. The Rovers once again got behind the RCD and placed a smile on Liz’s wonderful face.

I enjoyed my Sunday even though my U14 lads lost…sometimes the greater good needs to present itself so we can all see beyond a result of kids trying to have fun. I must say the crowd at Boss James was well behaved in all three games I witnessed on a sunny day. Thank you, Liz Dawes for being a Hero to many.

Around the grounds

U11 D3 had a great win over the Vamps, D6 lost to Mordi Brae in a close one on the postage stamp by 4pts

U12 D2 Girls, Kabel is the new super coach, his ladies won by plenty whilst Robby’s ladies worked hard for little result, poor grading sees these cherubs looking for the end of the season. Hang in there girls.

U12 D1 went down, bad kicking is bad footy, 1 goal 12 points. D6 went down in a tight one against St Bedes.

U13 fought hard against Mordi Brea, went down by 2 goals, thanks to Mordi for lending us some players, D6 went down by 4 goals to Oakleigh.

U14 Girls went down by 2 goals to Sharks, and D4 went down to the Knights by 4 goals.

U14 D1 went down to East Malvern by 7pts whilst the mighty D5 beat Ajax in a canter, 6 goals to the good.

U15 D1 was beaten by Ajax in a must win game, D2 lost to Waverley Hawks, D4 lost to Ajax by 100pts, not sure how Ajax have this team in D4.

U16 girls playing with Zebs had a huge win over East Malvern.

U16 lads came up short against St Paul’s, good news is they will play finals.

U17 lads pushed St Peters all the way going down by 3-4 goals, great effort boys, getting better every week.

U18 Girls, had another great win over Vamps by several goals. With 3 rounds to go the girls can play finals, let’s wish them well.

Thursday night the coaches and TM’s are dining at Hobsons in Sandy, our keynote speaker is Lance Picioane, Ex Hawthorn and North Melbourne player. He founded Love me, Love you Foundation. We welcome Lance to chat with us about his Mental Health and how we can help others, I have asked Lance to discuss social media and potential telltale signs that our youth face.

OK, let’s commit to be the very best we can be this week, be your own Hero, love what’s looking you in the mirror, own it, love it.

Passion Teamwork Fun Respect

Cheers Caggs