With this being the final session of the current training block and a local grassroots tournament taking away around half the regular players, a different approach was taken. Instead of a typical session, all available players gathered at 9am for a fun and inclusive mini tournament.

Players from all age groups were mixed together and split into five balanced teams, creating a great opportunity for camaraderie and mentorship across the age ranges. The rules were designed to keep things light-hearted and engaging: only one goal per player per game, and an important reminder to look after the little ones.

Each team played one another in quick-fire seven-minute matches, with all teams getting the chance to compete in a round-robin format. The event not only offered great game experience but also reinforced the values of teamwork, leadership, and respect within the club. It was a brilliant way to round off the block, with plenty of energy, enthusiasm, and smiles all around.

The teams were as follows:

Team Erin: Erin E, Isabelle S, Lily N, Jean P, Coach Chris

Team Eleanor: Eleanor C, Charlotte C, Rusne V, Mandy M, Coach Suzy

Team Hattie: Hattie F, Ivy A, Emily W, Beth F, Coach Tyler

Team Lacey: Lacey B, Iris W, Naomi L, Ellie M, Amelia H

Team Heidi: Heidi J, Isabelle S, Billie D, Maygen M, Sofia Cryer

After all the round robin and then the knockout games Erin’s team, with Coach Chris, of course, won the day with a sudden death penalty shoot out!

Coach Chris summed it up perfectly:
“It’s so important to bring the different age groups together now and then so the younger ones can be inspired by the older players. Huge well done to the older players who did just enough to keep the games competitive and showed great maturity by involving the younger ones throughout.”

From start to finish, throughout all the games, the energy, teamwork, and sportsmanship were incredible. The smiles on the little ones’ faces said it all… they got to score against a coach or a U16 and felt like stars! A fantastic day of futsal, fun, and inspiration for all involved, thank you everyone!

A couple weeks off for the school holidays and we will see everyone back on Sunday 8 June for the final block of this amazing season.

Here are some images from the day: