Under 16 Season 2021
The 2021 season began with the promise of 3 boys’ teams and a girl’s team, however an influx of registrations enabled us to fill a 4th boys team.
Our boys’ teams consisted of teams in Divisions 1, 3, 4 and 5, while the girls competed in the Girls League Division 2.
Over the last few years, our coaches have encouraged the community spirit by training the age group both as large groups as well as in their individual teams. This enables the interaction of players between teams, and allows both new players and seasoned players to train together. Coaches are able to help each other with training drills, and players are keen to help out playing for other teams when they are short of players for their matches.
Div 1 had the division with the most teams, making it tough to break into the top 4. They played a competitive season, despite losing a player to a broken foot, as well as several other players with ongoing injuries. Some of the players also had the opportunity to play for the State U18 team, giving them a peek at the next level of football.
Div 3 finished 4th in their division, making it into the top 4 play off. They came up against the undefeated team from Quinns FC in their semi-final, where they had the game of the season and defeated them 2-1, despite the use of much gaffa tape to repair well worn boots during the match! Their good fortune did not continue into the Grand Final, where they lost to Forrestfield United, who had defeated the team 2nd on the ladder in their semi-final. It was great to see so many players and coaches from the other teams attend the Grand Final and show their support for their club.
Div 4 also finished 4th in their division, coming up against top team Port Kennedy in their semi-final. In a very close match, they eventually went down 1-2 to Port Kennedy, who went on to win the Grand Final 8-1.
Div 5 had a tough season, a fairly new team with new players and coaches. They persevered throughout the season, and even continued to come to training after the season had finished!
The girls team had a fantastic season, finishing at the top of their league. They often played with less than a full team, still managing to win most of their matches. They played and won their semi-final against Hammersley Rovers JFC 2-0, going into the Grand Final to play 2nd placed Port Kennedy SC. Unfortunately it wasn’t to be the League Winners/Top 4 Winners double, with the team going down a respectable 1-2 in the final. The girls have also had the opportunity to train and play with the women’s team towards the end of the season, who have praised the girls for their skills.