Uralla United Football Club would like to invite your club to participate in a women's carnival to be held on Saturday 18th April 2009.
The carnival will be held at the Uralla Sporting Complex, Plane Avenue Uralla.
Nominations close on Friday 20th March 2009 with full payment to be received with the nomination form.
The carnival is 9 aside with 2 reserves - maximum 11 players per side.
All players MUST be registered with their respective club to participate.
Players are to be over the age of 15 to compete.
For any questions regarding the carnival please contact:
President: Quinten Dillon Ph: 6778 4953
Secretary: Natalie Walker Ph: 6778 3360
Nomination Form & Carnival Rules are available below for download:
(to download, right click on file & choose 'Save Target As...')
Kempsey football prodigy Sam Walker will head to the exclusive The Kings School (TKS) in Parramatta early next year.
The year 10 St Paul's College student recently won the Gus Taylor Scholarship to attend the exclusive independent school and will use the opportunity as a stepping stone to further his football aspirations.
Walker was an integral part of the Macleay Valley Rangers triumphant premier league side this season and his talent was quickly recognised, both locally and abroad.
"It's all about getting a foot in the door," Walker said.
Since joining Kempsey Saints as a five year-old, Walker has been starring on the field in any position from keeper to midfield and up front. He joined Rangers four years ago and soon after became a regular in FMNC's State Youth League side. This season was his first year in the top flight and he rounded out a superb debut by winning the Rookie of the Year award at the club's presentation last month.
"He'll be a huge loss for the team and the club," Rangers premiership winning coach Dean Riordan said. "I was hoping to get three years out of him, now all of a sudden he's gone."
While at TKS, Walker will be expected to train three days a week and play in the school's GPS side. There is also a possibility he could play with the Blacktown Demons in the clubs Premier under 18s side.
Former Rangers assistant coach Glenn Wykes and his father Trevor, one of the leading football minds at TKS, both played an integral role in getting Walker to the school.
Now his aim is to reward their faith by taking his game to a whole new level.
"I want to play as high as I can, for as long as I can," he said.
Report courtesy of Macleay Argus 15th December 2008
Coaching Course - Junior Licence
Rob Clarke
Regional Community Football Officer
Northern NSW Football
2nd December 2008
Xmas/New Year Office Hours
MERRY XMAS
HAPPY NEW YEAR
FROM ALL AT
FOOTBALL MID NORTH COAST
OFFICE HOURS:
FMNC offices will close on Friday 19 December 2008 & reopen on Monday 5 January 2009.
Leon Bean
Secretary
Football Mid North Coast
1st December 2008
SSG now Optus Small-Sided Football
You are no doubt aware that FFA recently announced Optus as the Official Partner of our Game Development programs as well as our Official Telecommunications partner. This exciting new agreement means that Optus are now the naming rights partners for small sided football as well as the community coach education pathway.
FFA are currently working very closely with Optus to determine how we can best provide assistance and benefits to the football community through this partnership, in particular to those youngsters playing small sided football and to those people involved in FFA coach education initiative. At this stage we are hopeful that this support will extend to the provision of participant kits to new players to the game as well as other tangible support to clubs. As we have alluded to in discussions around the Football Development Charter, FFA also intend to further resource our Member Federations as you continue to coordinate the rollout and delivery of small sided football and the education of coaches in your region. Such support will be made possible through our partnership with Optus.
A decision has also been made in relation to the name of what has up until this point been referred to as small sided games. After engaging an agency to come up with some alternatives, along with considerable internal and external discussion, FFA have decided that it will be known as Optus Small-Sided Football from this point onward.
To this end, all future collateral and communication that is produced and distributed by FFA will feature Optus Small-Sided Football and it is expected that Member Federations also use this description in any of your correspondence. A dedicated Optus Small-Sided Football logo is being created at the present time which will used on any equipment or collateral produced in 2009 and beyond.
By way of a general update on the progress of Optus small sided football, FFA anticipates that there will be in excess of 120,000 children playing small sided football in every zone/association within each Member Federation in 2009. All of the resources provided for the 2008 season are currently being reviewed and revised and will be distributed in the first week of December. A second DVD, providing a guide for parents/coaches as to what they can do with their players at training, is being developed and will be available for the commencement of the 2009 season.
Matt Bulkeley
Head of Game Development
Football Federation Australia
6th November 2008
Curtain closes on United's season
PHOTO: Port United - Award Winners 2008
Another season of Mid North Coast football came to a close for Port United with its senior presentation at the Settlers Inn, the club's major sponsor. With five senior teams in action for United in 2008, there were plenty of highs and lows and, of course, a great deal of fun in particularly for the Dragons.
The club would like to thank all those involved this season from the players, to the volunteers and the committee.
Port United's annual general meeting is set for Tuesday, November 25, at its Dixie Park clubhouse. Those interested in attending can contact the club at:
portunitedsoccerclub@yahoo.com.au Also, email if you're interested in playing in 2009 and would like further details on how to get registered.
FMNC Premier League:
Port United's season could be summarised as a host of missed opportunities and inconsistent football with both the first and reserve grade teams falling short of making the semi-finals. "We were all disappointed to not make the play-offs as we knew, when we had our best 11 on the park, we could be competitive with the leading sides," lamented coach Greg Baldwin. "Our biggest problems were our lack of composure in the opposition final third area and some poor finishing in front of goal."
"There were a number of games where we completely dominated the opposition and enjoyed much more possession, but struggled to break the defence down and get in behind them. It's an area that will need a lot more focus next season."
The first grade team was hampered by injuries to key players with Alex Gillespie and Tim Yule missing much of the year. The side played some reasonable football at times and demonstrated an improved short passing game. However, they were rarely able to maintain quality for 90 minutes. They lost six games with only three of those being considered poor. The worst performances were saved for Camden Haven (twice) and Panthers in the second round.
"In the end, we had too many draws, so despite getting a point in those games, we saw them as losing two," Baldwin said. "On the positive side, the progress of some of the young guys was pleasing with Ryan Moon and Adam Woonton getting a taste of first grade and both should be with the club for another year or two."
The club had two strong YD sides in 2008 and is expecting a few players from that group to make the transition to Premier League next season. Despite being in the top four for most of the year, the reserve grade outfit lost three of its last four matches to crash out in the last game against Taree.
Even though United didn't feature in the finals, there is a feeling of unfinished business within the club and many players are already looking forward to 2009. The nucleus of both sides will be maintained next year, as at this stage there are only a couple of players moving on.
The Premier League awards went to:
Rookie of the year - Ryan Moon
Reserve grade players' player - Jeremy Rourke
Reserve grade player of the year - Bryson Thomas
First grade players' player - Tom Adams
First grade player of the year - Tony Raymond
PHOTO: Port United - Premier League 1st Grade Player of the Year 2008
PHOTO: Port United - Premier League Rookie of the Year 2008
Women's Saturday League:
Defending premiers Port United had a disappointing end to the 2008 season, bowing out in the semi-finals. With coach Bruce Dowling leaving the local area, captain Angela McKechnie and Nikki Lowe (players' player) stepped up and took on the coaching role.
Some mixed results ensued for the team, which saw United lose an uncharacteristic 10 matches throughout the season. Injuries proved too much for the well-drilled team, though club stalwarts Julie Hehir, McKechnie, Lowe and Kylie Chard began to hit their straps.
With a new-found striker appointed, in the form of Tracy Whittling, goals were aplenty, assisted by the powerful boot of Jo Jones. Natsumi provided plenty of attack down the sidelines with her fast pace, where Cath Cavanagh, on the opposite flank, often found herself with an open goal and the ball at her feet.
Strong performances from midfielders McKechnie and Megan Couper, often slicing the defence, saw United's attack frequently unstoppable. Tahlia Johnson was strong on all areas of the paddock, assisting in both attack and defence. Led by Lowe, United's defence was often a major force for the opposition. Partner-in-crime Julie Hehir had several tricks up her sleeve to bamboozle the defence with 'dummies' and 'fakes' often delighting the crowd.
Player of the year Cath Bigg always brought her never-say-die defence, until succumbing to an unfortunate ankle injury. New girl on the block Tina White had a fantastic first season often turning defence into attack with her massive left foot. Goalkeeper Maryanne Kay consistently pulled off fantastic saves with her agility and flexibility.
If you would be interested in coaching the women's team in 2009 or would like to register to play, contact Nikki Lowe 0418 652 993.
The women's awards went to:
Players' player - Nikki Lowe
Player of the year - Cath Bigg
PHOTO: Port United - Ladies Players Player 2008
Men's Saturday League:
United's Saturday Men's League team had a very good year, despite falling short in the grand final, losing a close 1-0 encounter with the old rivals Port Panthers.
United played some of its best football in the final month of the competition, disposing of the undefeated minor premiers Lower Macleay 3-0 in the last round. They also knocked over Camden Haven by the same score in the semi and then backed up to defeat Lowies again 2-1 in the qualifier.
United's young, first year player Luke Hanson improved as the year progressed and won the players' player, while another newcomer Ross Tunbridge took out the coach's award. United was well-served by every member of the squad and look forward to another successful season next year.
The men's awards went to:
Players' player - Luke Hanson
Player of the year - Ross Tunbridge
Men's Dragons Saturday Competition:
2008 was the first season for the newly-formed Dragons. As the average age for the squad was 38, the side gelled really well and had a ball (sorry for the pun) every time it hit the field.
Alan Garratt coached the team with a lot of heart and patience. Many feel his casual approach got the squad to the finals.
Congratulations go out to Josh Moore for being the players' player and also to the other great defender in Shane Robinson for taking out a very well-deserved coach's award. Not to mention, the ticking time bomb Peter Moore who undoubtedly gives 300 per cent whether he's fit or not.
The Dragons awards went to:
Players' player - Josh Moore
Player of the year - Shane Robinson
Report courtesy of Port Macquarie News 29th October 2008
Pittwater Classic Football Tournament
Pittwater RSL Football Club invites you to the Pittwater Classic Football Tournament
When: 14th & 15th March 2009
Where: Sydney, Academy of Sport
Who: Division 1 Teams only
Age: U10-U16
Dear Coach / Manager,
On behalf of the Pittwater RSL FC Tournament Committee and the Sydney Academy of Sport, located at Narrabeen, We cordially invite you to enter your team in the Pittwater Classic Soccer Tournament. The competition is open to Boys & Girls teams in divisions U10-U16 with up to 16 players. (please see online for team information) www.classic.pittwaterrslfc.com.au
All teams are guaranteed 3 games minimum with semi-finals and finals so 50% of the teams will play 4 games. We are targeting the top teams in division 1 or A division of each association, providing a competitive inter-association club only environment. Join us in March for an exciting weekend of soccer in Sydney's Northern Beaches. Our Academy of Sport venue offers ocean breezes providing fresh air while keeping the temperatures pleasant and playing conditions excellent. Enjoy a weekend away with additional activities including canoeing, Swimming and other activities
Our staff of tournament organizers have dedicated themselves to ensuring an enjoyable experience for you and your team. Our goal is to produce the most competitive and best run Football (soccer) tournament.
The event is fully sanctioned by Football NSW so you can sure that all your insurances are valid.
Each player and coach will receive a tournament pin and program. Finalist players and coaches will each receive a medallion and each first and second place team will receive an impressive team trophy.
Between games or at the end of the day, The Narrabeen Venue is less than 5 minutes to beaches and the Venue has Onsite Accommodation for both motel style and Dorm style accommodation but beds are limited so be sure to get in quickly, details available soon for booking, all bookings done online via the club web site.
Be a part of the action! Bring your team to "THE BEACH" this spring. To assure your teams' place in the tournament, completely fill out the online application today at www.classic.pittwaterrslfc.com.au where you will find out all the additional information you need to plan the best long weekend of soccer you have had.
See you in March!
Pittwater RSL FC Tournament Committee
P.S Register early as team numbers are limited and on site accommodation is limited, online registration is Now available register Now 29th October 2008 Johnny Warren Program Trials
The Johnny Warren Football Program will be offered throughout Football Mid North Coast in 2009
About the Program Creates a pathway to elite football so that young players living anywhere in NSW have the opportunity to have their talent and skills recognised and developed.
Has dedicated programs and top level coaches will help keep the "best and brightest" in the game.
Will open up avenues for the further development of women's and girls' football in NSW.
Provides the opportunity to bring the best coaching and technical expertise to NSW.
Will raise the bar for football in NSW by providing an integrated athlete pathway from club to elite level.
Provides a substantial lift to the game through harnessing the vision of Johnny Warren in developing the Australian style of football.
In seeking to achieve its aims, the Foundation will seek the financial support of corporations and individuals.
Note for Coaches, Parents and Players The Johnny Warren Program is an elite program for players performing at well above average or elite levels.
It is not a development program for players aspiring to those levels.
Target Participants in FMNC (IN FMNC, Boys should U/13 in 2009 and Girls should be U/13 to U/15 in 2009)
In Northern NSW two central programs are run ;
1. The Hunter Region up to 24 boys and 12 girls will be selected to be part of a program that runs from early November until late December and re commences in mid January until mid March.
2. The Northern Regional Program , with up to four centre's meeting monthly as one group, weekly in Regional centres.
How Can I be Nominated? My Coach can nominate me, through my Club, by emailing FMNC Secretary Leon Bean at: fmnc_inc@bigpond.net.au
All players in the 2009 FMNC Under 13 Boys Regional Youth League (RYL) train-on squads have been nominated, and will be informed of this by their respective coaches.
Selected players in the 2009 FMNC U/15 Girls Regional Youth League (RYL) train-on squads have been nominated, and will be informed of this by their respective coaches.
No self-nominations will be allowed
When and Where? Trials will be held at:
the Zone Field Taree on Sunday 2/11/08 from 10am to 12am, and then
Wayne Richards Park on Sunday 2/11/08 from 2pm to 4pm.
Wayne Squires
Director
Football Mid North Coast
27th October 2008
Soccerama is a success
Kempsey Hornets FC hosted the first Macleay School Soccerama at Kemp Street fields last Friday.
The day involved primary school children from Crescent Head, Smithtown, Greenhill, South Kempsey, West Kempsey, Bellbrook, Willawarrin and Frederickton public schools, as well as students from St Josephs.
Pupils played a round robin format, with teams split into year groups: kindergarten to year one, years one to two, three to four, and five to six.
Pupils from Kempsey High, Melville High and St Paul's assisted with scoring and refereeing.
Organiser Liz Watson said it was hoped the day would become an annual event. "It's the first time we've done this, hopefully we can keep it going," she said. "The kids are enjoying it."
Just fewer than 100 teams were vying for the trophy, which was awarded to Willawarrin Public School, as the school with the most points at the end of the day.
Ms Watson said that ideally Hornets would like to run the tournament at the beginning of the season, probably around March, and would try to do so in future.
Report courtesy of Macleay Argus 22nd October 2008
Jets Westfield W-League Squad Announced
The line-up for the Newcastle Jets Westfield W-League squad has been announced as the countdown commences to this weekend's first round in the inaugural national women's competition.
Newcastle's Cheryl Salisbury will Captain the squad that includes a mix of her former Matilda's squad members and some of the brightest young stars coming up in the women's game.
The full squad is;
Cheryl Salisbury (C)
Alison Logue (GK)
Hannah Brewer
Sam Wood
Libby Sharpe
Amber Neilson
Gemma Simon
Leia Smith
Rhali Dobson (ex Wauchope SC)
Joey Peters
Stacy Day
Katie Gill
Gemma O'Toole
Nicole Jones
Emily Van Egmond
Kirstyn Pearce
Harmonie Attwill
Head Coach Gary Phillips is also keeping close to his chest three potential signings, including Melbourne's Brianna Davey as a fill-in goalkeeper for a two week period and the possible signing of two overseas players.
"Brianna fills a gap we have at the moment for a backup keeper as we continue to look for a permanent standby for Alison," Phillips said. "I am also looking at two overseas players, which may or may not come off. If the international transfer applications I have in place fall through, I'll move quickly to fill the roster locally."
Phillips is also racing against the clock to complete the required international transfer paperwork to allow Katie Gill to play in this Sunday's season opener at Wanderers Oval, Broadmeadow.
"We have a few boxes to tick with getting Katie on the park but we will do everything in our power to make it happen," Phillips said.
For Salisbury, the presence of Gill who has been playing in Europe, will be a major boost for the team's chances not just against Canberra this weekend but for the whole season.
"Katie would put the finishing touch to our Matildas combination of Amber, Joey and myself," Salisbury said. "The experience here, combined with the enthusiasm of the younger players, would really give us a confident start."
The Jets will meet Canberra United this Sunday at Wanderers Oval, Broadmeadow, kicking off at 1.30pm. Tickets are available at the gate.
David Cromarty
Marketing & Communications Manager
Northern NSW Football
22nd October 2008
Northern NSW Gets Development Boost
PHOTO: Rob Clarke - Northern NSW Football Development Officer
Northern NSW Football has appointed a dedicated Football Development Officer to service the Northern Region of the State in recognition of the continued growth of football in the area.
Rob Clarke commenced with Northern NSW Football on Monday and is spending his first week at the Northern NSW Football Head Office at Hexham prior to working from a centralised location in Coffs Harbour from next week.
From his Coffs Harbour base, Clarke will service the Far North Coast, North Coast, Mid North Coast and Inland regions, to compliment the support provided by Peter Haynes who fills a similar role in Newcastle, servicing the Newcastle, Hunter, Lake Macquarie and Taree/Forster areas.
Clarke has been involved in coaching and development for over 20 years, covering both junior and senior football, as well as youth development and representative programs including National Championships, most recently coaching the Tasmanian Under 15 and Under 17 Girls at the 2007/8 Championships in Coffs Harbour.
"I'm really looking forward to the challenge of working full time in community football," Clarke said. "This is a very proactive region and I couldn't have asked for a better area. My aim will be to be as supportive as possible to all the associations to assist them in facilitating the continued growth of the game."
Football Manager for Northern NSW Football David Smith said the position will allow Northern NSW Football to continue to enhance the servicing of club coaches and players in the Northern NSW area through the provision of a 'hands on' role on the ground delivering immediate access to coaching and development resources.
"Rob's role is a vital one in extending our Community Football role currently supplied by Peter Haynes in the southern regions of Northern NSW and taking this across the remainder of the State's north," Smith said. "Both roles will work co-operatively with the FFA's newly appointed Regional Participation Manager for Northern NSW, Kean Marshall, to provide an array of resources for coaches, support staff and players alike."
Clarke will take up his new position in Coffs Harbour from next week.
20th October 2008
Country Athletes/Coaches/Officials Scheme
Country Athletes Scheme
This scheme is designed to assist talented young athletes from country areas of NSW to gain access to training, coaching and competitions similar to those enjoyed by athletes from the city.
Who can apply?
Athletes eligible to apply for the Country Athletes Scheme must meet each of these criteria:
be 17 years of age or under as at 31 December
be competing at state-age level in their sport
be permanent residents of NSW
reside more than 150km radial distance from the old Sydney GPO and
be registered, affiliated or have reciprocal rights with the recognised state body for the sport in NSW.
When can I apply?
Applications open September 30 and close December 31 each year.
How to apply
If you would like to apply for this program you'll need a copy of the application and guidance notes from: www.dsr.nsw.gov.au/grants/cas.asp
Country Coaches and Officials Travel Scheme
The scheme is designed to assist coaches and officials from country areas of NSW access opportunities to participate in educational courses that assist them gain or maintain required accreditation.
Who can apply?
Coaches and officials are eligible to apply if they meet the following criteria:
are 16 years of age or older
are permanent residents of NSW
reside outside the greater metropolitan areas of Sydney, Central Coast, Newcastle and Wollongong
are actively coaching or officiating on a regular basis in NSW
are registered, affiliated or have reciprocal rights with the recognised state body for the sport in NSW.
When can I apply?
Applications open September 30 and close December 31 each year.
How to apply
If you would like to apply for this program you'll need a copy of the application and guidance notes from: www.dsr.nsw.gov.au/grants/ccos.asp
13th October 2008
Caitlin Cooper Cup
Below is a team photo of the Wauchope 14's girls side that competed in the Caitlin Cooper Cup on the October long weekend in Port Macquarie.
The girls competed against Lismore, Wakehurst, Kanwal, Beenleigh & Adamstown to name a few. The Wauchope girls went through undefeated only dropping 4 goals in the tournament.
The grandfinal was played out at Regional Stadium Port Macquarie between last years winners Wakehurst & Wauchope with Wauchope coming away with a convincing 2-0 win over a disgruntled Wakehurst.
PHOTO: Wauchope 14's girls - 2008 Winners Caitlin Cooper Cup
from left: Terry Burn(coach) Jacquelin Elliot, Emma Lloyd, Danielle Burn, Pania Park, Emily Clarke, Cailey Smith, Georgia Peterson, Savana Purse (front) Stef Ostler, Noni Hawkins, Shannon Day, Sarah Houseman & Shannon Steel
25th September 2008
Referees selected for FMNC P/L Grand Finals
Referees selected for the FMNC P/L Grand Finals are;
Yd1 Zone Championship Ian Towle - Centre
P. Baker - Assistant
D. McClintock - Assistant
S. Growth - 4th Official
Reserve Grade John McGowan - Centre
A. Williams - Assistant
S. Pincham - Assistant
M. Ring - 4th Official
1st Grade Dave Cramp - Centre
D. McClintock - Assistant
M. Whitlam - Assistant
P. Forbes - 4th Official
Leon Bean
Secretary
Football Mid North Coast
25th September 2008
Vote for Jade North in 2008 Deadly Awards
Voting is now open in the 2008 Deadly Awards - the national Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander music, sport, entertainment and community awards.
Jade North has been nominated for a Deadly Award in 2008. The 'Deadlies' are THE most prestigious award in aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander circles.
Jade is every bit a 'local lad who made good', with very strong roots and family ties in the Manning Area of FMNC.
He has been a great supporter of FMNC, epsecially with his appearance and support for our U19s and Northern SYL/Development squads earlier this year.
He also acted as FMNC ambassador (as well as the Newcastle Jets ambassador) at several local schools, and was a huge hit with the youngsters everywhere he went.
Besides being an exceptional sportsman who excels at our football code, Jade is also one of Nature's true gentlemen; a tremendous role model for young people from all backgrounds and all corners of the Zone.
FMNC members can return the support by voting for Jade
in this prestigious nomination at:
Registration is required before voting, but this is painless.
Wayne Squires
Director
Football Mid North Coast
24th September 2008
Southern Zone Office New Contact Details
The Southern Zone Office is moving on Friday 26th September 2008 to the Zone Field at Keith Coleman Drive in Taree.
The new contact details from Monday 29/9 are:
Phone: 6557 7733
Fax: 6557 7732
Postal Address: PO Box 280 Taree 2430
There have been a few delays with the phone installation so the office will be offline for a while. If you are unable to get through please ring the Northern Office.
We apologise for any inconvenience.
Donna Nielsen
Administration
Football Mid North Coast
18th September 2008
Finals Reports
Hot defence wins the day for Hornets
Kempsey Hornets 18s girls held on to win a memorable Football Mid North Coast grand final in Port Macquarie last week.
Up against Port Panthers, the Hornets faced the daunting prospect of playing their opposition on home turf, but rather than let that faze them the players started brightly, winning a penalty inside the first 10 minutes. Trudi Watson stepped up to put the Hornets one up, but some unruly behaviour by the Panthers fans put her off the task at hand and she sprayed the shot wide.
Five minutes later it was Port's turn, as they too lined up a dot shot only to miss the target.
That seemed to give the Hornets players heart and a lovely through ball to Emma-Maree Russell saw her dart through the Panthers defence to score. Within minutes Kempsey was threatening again. Ilarna Kelly found herself with the ball inside the opposition six-yard box but she was unable to squeeze a shot off through the tangle of legs and Port cleared - Hornets 1-0 up at the main break.
Two free kicks just outside the scoring zone after half time came close as first Melissa Hoskins, then Watson tried to extend the lead, but it was Russell who again proved the star, firing a speculative shot from 18 yards out which happened to glance the inside of the post and roll into the back of the net.
From the kick-off the Panthers players swarmed to attack, quickly gaining a free kick just outside the area. A wide, curling shot proved too much to handle for Hornets keeper Alleira Morris and Port were back in it.
Coach Brett White passed the message out to his players to hold firm in defence and Erin White, Carol Davis, Zoe Winkler Hoskins and Watson combined beautifully to hold the Panthers out.
A late penalty had Hornets fans fretting, but Morris dealt with the threat safely and the team hung on for a memorable win.
Russell was named player of the match for her two outstanding goals and overall contribution to the game.
Grand final fever hit the fields last weekend. The Macleay was well represented with the majority of clubs featuring in the finals.
Macleay Valley Rangers FC had six teams in the Football Mid North Coast junior grand final held at the Koala St fields in Port Macquarie. The youngest team in the competition, the under 11s, coached by Darren Morn, played in a local derby against South West Rocks. The young Rangers came away victorious to the tune of 2-0.
It was a great achievement for the under 12s and under 13s to make the grand final but were unable to go all the way this season.
The John Browne coached under 14s dominated their grand final and had a comfortable 6-1 win. The under 15s grand final went into extra time with the Rangers coming up with the lone goal of the match to win the title.
Kempsey Hornets had two girls teams in the grand final, the Austute Designs 11s and NRMA Safer Driving 18s with both teams winning.
The younger Hornets girls matched their Port Panthers counterparts. At the full time whistle it was 0-0 and extra time was played, but you could not separate the two teams and they were named joint winners.
For the second year in a row, the Hornets 18s girls took out the title.
They beat Port Panthers 2-1.
The Saints 15s girls were a surprise package in the grand final. After finishing seventh in the competition, the girls excelled all expectations to make the grand final. At full time minor premiers South West Rocks were too good winning 2-0.
The Wauchope Soccer Club's Under 13's girls Gumnuts won their grand final on Saturday completing an undefeated season conceding only seven goals claiming both minor premiers & premiership titles.
To cap off a remarkable season, the team did not concede a goal in the finals series, completing the year with a 2-0 win over a fancied Port Panthers Stowe electric side that only lost two games in the series both to Wauchope.
All players put in a great effort with one goal to player of the match Emma Lloyd coming off some accurate passing down the left side with a final pin point pass from Shan-lee Carter to Emma for a great one touch finish into the corner of the net & the other goal to Laura Cook being a combination of passes from Noni Hawkins to Emma Lloyd & well finished off by Laura Cook the teams leading goal scorer.
Defence played a critical role in the match with centre mids Laura & Madison Auld working hard in the heat to attack & steer play through the middle of the park & also get back to help defend when required, a great effort.
A defensive line of Shannon Steel, Cailey Smith, Renique Mullot to start the game played with aggression & intensity with Danielle Burn steering defence playing at the rear as sweeper for the match made some impressive clearances & runs up the middle & outsides. Rachael Lawson also had a good game as striker punching holes in the Panthers defence. Jacqueline Lindsay played well in left mid giving it her all.
Strength off the bench included Nicole Haigh, Briony Hollis Shan-lee Carter & Sophie Gibbs.
First half goal keeper Amy Collins did not have much work to do in goals though she put in one of her best efforts on the field in the second half.
Second half goal keeper Noni Hawkins had to save the only real shot that Panthers had on had on our goal for the entire match.
Captain for the match was Madison Auld with the girls also voting Emma as players player for the day.
PHOTO: Macleay Valley Rangers Youth Division side
Photo courtesy of Macleay Argus
Against the odds The Macleay Valley Rangers Youth Division (under 18s) side achieved what many thought was impossible, defeating the undefeated. The 15 young footballers played in a grand final they will never forget against the older Camden Haven Redbacks.
The Rangers started the season strongly, but struggled to come to terms with the loss of key players when the premier league competition started. Throughout the year, nine players from their ranks were selected at different times to play in the Premier Reserve grade and Premier League competitions.
In the midst of adversity, however, the team pulled together, finished strongly and achieved fourth spot on the competition table. Their finals campaign got off to a rocky start with a humbling 3-1 loss to the minor premiers Camden Haven. With their backs well and truly against the wall and facing elimination games the team once again needed to gel. They did just that with a solid victory over the fifth placed South West Rocks and a gutsy performance against the more fancied Port United Dragons, this game going to penalties.
With the Rangers scraping into the grand final and Camden Haven progressing with relative ease the rematch both teams were hoping for had arrived. The previous year had infamously resulted in both teams named joint premiers.
Last year the game was in the middle of penalties when the referee was forced to call a holt to proceedings when the lights went out. For both teams there was a sense of unfinished business and the stage was set for the heart stopping season's climax.
The game itself was fiercely contested. Hard tackles and heated moments became the norm as time progressed.
Camden Haven as expected created some very good opportunities to break the dead-lock. However, all were kept out by some brilliant goal keeping from the eventual man of the match, Sam Walker.
A key moment in the game that could well have handed Camden Haven the championship occurred only five minutes into extra time. A key Ranger midfielder was controversially sent off after receiving his second yellow card.
Again with the odds against them Macleay Valley came home with the tenacity that characterised their season, keeping them out and forcing the game into a penalty shoot out.
With the experience of the previous week’s semi final under their belts the Rangers were well versed in the pressure of penalties. This proved to be the difference between the two sides with Sam Walker, Mitch Fuller, Liam Taylor and Luke Warwick all scoring their goals while Camden Haven missed twice.
The fairy tale was complete leaving only room for the team's captain Campbell Griffin to lift the championship trophy and the celebrations to begin.
Report courtesy of Macleay Argus 16th September 2008
Westpac FMNC 15s Grand Final Report
PHOTO: FMNC 15s - BRow -Mitch Whalen, David Maiolo, Tom Griffin, Alistair Sinclair, Matt Moore, Brendan Berry, Jarrod Kohler, Adrian Walker, Kyle Predabon, Rick Clark (Manager) FRow - Tahwa Bowden, Blake Clark, Steve Rayner (Coach), Reece Rayner, Chad Applegate, Sam Mahoney
The wet weather postponement for a week had the Westpac Football Mid North Coast 15 years State Youth League side travel to Darling Street Oval in Newcastle on Sunday for the Grand Final Showdown with Newcastle with FMNC going down 3-0.
The week off enabled the playing surface to recover from the weather and was in near perfect condition for the match. FMNC started strongly, defending solidly to nullify most of Newcastle's attacking options while at the other end Blake Clarke and Tahwa Bowden were proving difficult for the Newcastle defence.
Both FMNC and Newcastle had chances with probably the best falling FMNC's way and with a bit off luck and stronger finishing FMNC could have been 1 or 2 goals up. Bowden and Tom Griffin both had good chances but were denied by the Newcastle keeper. After a good build up of play FMNC midfielder Jarrod Kohler received the ball on the edge of area and blasted a low drive leaving the Newcastle keeper with no chance only to see his shot cannon back off the post to deny a goal.
Newcastle went ahead just before half time and again just after half time before Newcastle scored a late 3rd goal to clinch the title. FMNC were gallant in defeat even especially after also going down in the season decider last season and look back on a very successful couple of season playing in the State Youth League which given these players from our region guaranteed high level football week in, week out, year in, year out.
The Westpac state youth league 13s, 14s & 15 sides celebrate the season with the Presentation being held next Sunday in Taree at the Manning River Sailing Club.
Trials are being held for the 2009 State Youth League sides this Sunday in both Kempsey and Forster.
Next seasons competition will be played under a changed format with two competitions in one with a State Championship and a Regional Youth League being contested.
8th September 2008
2009 FMNC Representative Structure Updated info - Youth League/Dev Squads muster dates
2009 will see a variation in the structure of the FMNC Representative scene.
The Federation is no longer willing to conduct an SYL competition. In its place
will be two separate competitions run in tandem. The Regional
Youth League and the NNSW Football Regional Championships. The age
groups for both competitions will be 13,14,15 boys and
15 girls.
The Development squads will continue as before with 11 and 12 boys and 11 and
13 girls.
REGIONAL YOUTH LEAGUE
This competition will include the following Zones:- Hunter
Valley Macquarie
Mid
North Coast - two teams Newcastle
Central
Coast
It will be a three round weekly competition played over 15 weeks on a home and
away basis (no decision has yet been made on whether or not to have semis) and
conducted on Sundays. It is being conducted by the Newcastle Combined Zones and
we are playing in the competition by invitation. This competition will be
structured around the Federation run Regional Championships
FMNC will have one of its squads based in Port Macquarie and one in the
Manning, Great Lakes area. There will be
no restrictions placed on where Zone players wish to participate.
Players may play for Clubs independently of Representative duty, but on the basis that their
first and main commitment is to the Zone Teams.
NORTHERN NSW REGIONAL CHAMPIONSHIPS
This competition will include the following Zones: Hunter
Valley Macquarie
Mid
North Coast - one team Newcastle
North
Coast Northern
Inland
It will be played on average (this is an average only) every three weeks on a
Sunday, 10 matches on a home and away basis.
Our team in this competition will be selected from our Youth League teams on a
weekly/monthly basis as required.
Negotiations and planning for both competitions is still a work in progress. A
draft draw for the NNNSW Regional Championships will be available shortly.
TRIAL DATES
Sunday 14th Sept:
RYL
10.00am - 12.00 noon - Zone
Field Taree, Wayne Richards Park, Koala St. Port Mac
Dev Squads 10.00am - 12.00 noon - BoroniaPark. Great
Lakes, Kemp St. Kempsey
Sunday 21stSeptember
RYL
10.00am - 12 noon - BoroniaPark. Great
Lakes, Kemp St. Kempsey
Dev Squads
10.00am - 12 noon - Zone
Field Taree, Wayne Richards Park, Koala St. Port Mac
Northern Regional Development Squad
Muster
2009 Northern Development Squad
Players are sought for the Northern Development Squads in the
following age groups;
11 Years Boys - 2 teams
12 Years Boys - 2 teams
11 Years Girls - 1 team
13 Years Girls - 1 team
Muster Dates, Times & Venues
Sunday 14th September 2008
10.00am to 12noon Kemp St. Kempsey
Sunday 21st September 2008
10.00am to 12noon Wayne Richards Park, Port Macquarie.
All interested players must make every
effort to attend both trial days.
For further information contact Football Mid North
Coast on 6585 0351 or Fmnc_inc@bigpond.net.au
Northern Regional Youth League
Muster
2009 Northern Regional Youth League
Players are sought for the Regional Youth League in the
following age groups;
13 Years Boys
14 Years Boys
15 Years Boys
15 Years Girls
Muster Dates, Times & Venues
Sunday14th September 2008
10.00am to 12noon Wayne Richards Park, Koala St. Port Macquarie
Sunday 21st September 2008
10.00am to 12noon Kemp St, Kempsey.
All interested players must make every effort to attend both trial days.
For further information contact Football Mid North
Coast on 6585 0351 or Fmnc_inc@bigpond.net.au
Southern Regional
Development Squad Muster
2009 Southern Development Squad
Players are sought for the Southern Development Squads in the
following age groups;
11 Years Boys - 2 teams
12 Years Boys - 2 teams
11 Years Girls - 1 team
13 Years Girls - 1 team
Muster Dates, Times & Venues
Sunday 14th September 2008
10.00am to 12noon Boronia Park, Waters St. Forster
Sunday 21st September 2008
10.00am to 12noon Zone Field Taree
All interested players must make every effort to attend both trial days.
As so many of the Great Lakes Under 11 Development players are unavailable on Sunday, September 21, we will not be conducting a Trial for the Great Lakes squad on that day.
Instead, the Second Trial/Muster day will be held:
Monday, September 22, 4:30 - 6:00pm at South Street, Tuncurry.
2009 Southern Regional Youth League
Players are sought for the Regional Youth League in the following age groups;
13 Years Boys
14 Years Boys
15 Years Boys
15 Years Girls
Muster Dates, Times & Venues
Sunday14th September 2008
10.00am to 12noon Zone Field, Taree
Sunday 21st September 2008
10.00am to 12noon Boronia Park, Waters St, Forster
All interested players must make every effort to attend both trial days.
Kempsey football prodigy Sam Walker will head to the exclusive The Kings School (TKS) in Parramatta early next year.
PHOTO: Port United - Award Winners 2008
Creates a pathway to elite football so that young players living anywhere in NSW have the opportunity to have their talent and skills recognised and developed.
Kempsey Hornets FC hosted the first Macleay School Soccerama at Kemp Street fields last Friday.
Voting is now open in the 2008 Deadly Awards - the national Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander music, sport, entertainment and community awards.
Hot defence wins the day for Hornets
Juniors taste success
Undefeated Gumnuts score grand final win
