We went into this week’s contest expecting an easier game because we were coming up against one of the developing teams in our division, in Waverley Park Hawks. However, it was not the result on the scoreboard that was the most significant event to come out of the game.
We had accounted for the Hawks quite easily in the first encounter but this week they showed how far they had come over the season and threw the challenge out to our boys in the first quarter. Although they were unable to score themselves they managed to hold us to just 2 points.
At quarter time I asked the team what they thought was going on and they identified that the Hawks were tackling and pressuring more than us and looked like they wanted the ball more. After the break they turned this around and we managed to run away with the game.
As a coach this makes me happy that it shows me the boys are understanding how we are trying to play as a team and then they can go out and implement our plans. It was another very good team effort with a number of the team who could have earned an award for their contribution.
This week we were captained by Miles Cooper who played another quality game for us, maintaining the high standard he has set all year, winning an award for his efforts.
The second award went to Daniel Smith. I really love having Dan as one of the team. His enthusiasm and willingness to listen to what I say embodies what I think is the perfect team player. This week he was rewarded for his effort with plenty of involvement in the game particularly in the second half with his strong defensive work on the half back flank.
The final award went to a player who provided the highlight of the game and definitely one of the high points of the year. At the start of the season, Joseph Sansotta claimed he was the best tackler in the team. Each game he is always trying to prove this point with his hard work. However, this week he showed us there is much more to his game kicking not one, but his first two goals of his career. Neither of them ‘gimmes’ but both of them due to his hard work from a contest.
The joy that this created, not just for Joe and his family, but for all the boys on the team and the other parents demonstrates what a great team we have that is willing to celebrate the individuals success. The spirit in the team that we have developed over the past couple of years is far more important than any wins we have on the scoreboard.
Well done boys.
Goals: Joseph Sansotta 2, Miles Cooper 2, Alex Condon, Josh Meikle, Jack Carson, Finn White
