At the end of every block, we ask the girls to show us what they have learned over the previous weeks. We had covered a wide range of sessions focusing on play both in and out of possession, with plenty for the girls to think about and put into practice. It is always interesting to see how they approach these free sessions. Are they able to apply what they learned in previous weeks, and most importantly, can they play with a smile on their faces?

The girls chose the games and the restrictions they wanted to use. We saw one touch finishes, goals scored only from inside the D, and challenges where every player in the team had to score, along with several other creative conditions that kept the intensity and enjoyment high.

First Hour – Beatrix P – I don’t think this young lady even realises how good she is. Once she’s locked in and focused, she is simply unstoppable. She loves a tackle, throws herself into every battle, and on top of that still finds a way to grab goals as well. Top day from start to finish, and honestly, we can’t wait to see just how far you can go in the future. Awesome work, Bea 👏⚽🔥

Second Hour – Lily N – The goalscorer was back with us today, and when Lily hits the ball, it stays hit! She absolutely smashed a couple of brilliant goals into the back of the net and caused constant problems up front. What makes it even more impressive is that she was doing it against players far older than herself, showing real confidence, strength, and fearlessness. A seriously fab performance and a huge impact in that second hour. Top job, Lily ⚽💥👏

We may be finishing this block, but there is no slowing down. The futsal journey continues as we head straight into the U11, U14 and U15 West Riding Spring Futsal League next week. For our U11s, this will be their very first taste of league futsal in Leeds, and the message could not be clearer. There is no pressure on results. Go out there, give everything you have, and trust that the result will take care of itself.

Our focus will be on the principles of the game. Recover quickly. Support each other. Move the ball with speed and purpose across the court. If we see even moments of these principles in action during that first games, it will be a huge achievement and something every player can be proud of. And who knows, with that belief and bravery, the goals will come too.

Playing players outside of their age group will always bring challenges, whether that is up or down. There are real benefits when used in the right way. It can stretch a player who is hungry to improve, pushing them technically and physically against older and stronger opponents. It can also rebuild confidence, helping a player rediscover their belief and enjoyment of the game. What it must never be used for is chasing a result by deliberately mismatching players just to win. That is not who we are.

You often learn far more about players in defeat than you ever do in victory. At Bootham, the result has never been the measure of success. How you play is what matters. Did you give everything you had? Did you keep going no matter what? Did you listen, support your teammates, and play for the team? If the answer is yes, then you have already won.

Coach Chris