11 days, 17 hours, 48 minutes, 2 training sessions and a praccy match this coming weekend…a lot of planning and finally the siren will sound for the start of another record breaking year at the Rovers.
A HUGE welcome to all new and returning members.
The children and their development within our game and community underlie everything our committee has invested over the course of the summer months. Registration numbers have exceeded 470 – a Rovers record following the 2017 record of 445. 95 girls’ members see 2 x U12 teams, with many girls shared with Zebs to help form U14 and 16 teams and a strong stand alone U18 team will see us very competitive under new coaches, Richard Coyne in U18, Callum Jackson and Josh Vinton in U12. Plenty of hours have gone into locking in these teams; Emma Nicholl has lead the way here, thanks Em, a job well done.
All coaches are up and about; a big thanks to coaches that heard the call and have joined in to help. We will have 3 x Under 8 teams, 4 x Under 9s, 2 x U10, 11, 12, 13 and 14 teams. Chris Leeds has joined the footy department, he offers plenty and will focus on the U8-11 age groups.
Our under 9 & 10 squads are light on for numbers, although we could add a few extra players for several teams to bolster the load. If you know anyone that would like a game please ask them to get on board ASAP, we will need support for these age groups. Boys love to play up in these situations, we will offer all members the chance to add some school yard cred to their CV.
Plenty going on at present, Richard Bowen our VP has led the way with a new detailed agreement with East Sandringham Junior Football Club (detail due on the club website shortly). This makes sure all community children have a game of football and one that meets their current ability so they can thrive and enjoy what it’s all about. The Under 15 lads are training hard and have been allocated into teams that align with current development, I am so happy for these boys who have been a super tight group throughout their journey at Rovers.
Kabel has plenty of new gear that will be on show on Friday the 13th for the club opening night. Tan is working OT for this season opener and we look forward to all members enjoying a night out. Amy is working away with TMs aligning all volunteers with necessary details. Tim Hall has been working on numbers and registrations, Gavin our trusty Secretary has been working hard with the SMJFL keeping us all abreast of what’s needed to get all teams on the park.
Jase keeps a calming hand on the helm and gets involved when needed. Like any great President, prefers stealth mode, acknowledges that the stars of the show are the children and make no mistake, he drives development and fair play, 10/10 always.
Looking forward to Round 1, LET’S GO ROVERS.
Caggs
