With one of the biggest local girls tournaments taking place today, good luck to everyone who entered the York Railway Institute Girls event, and with the U14s also playing in Hull, we were left with a very select group for training.

As it was the final session of the block, we did what we always do and played plenty of matches, giving the girls the chance to showcase everything they have learnt. With so many different age groups involved, from our youngest players to our most experienced, we asked everyone to look after each other and make sure every player was included.

The games were excellent, the spirit they were played in was even better, and the smiles on everyone’s faces said it all. Days like today are what grassroots futsal is all about. Friends enjoying the game, encouraging one another and creating memories that will last far longer than the results ever will.

First Hour – Harriett-Rose – Another one of our young superstars! Harriett-Rose never lacks effort or enthusiasm, and today she showed exactly why she’s such a favourite around the club. We saw some lovely roll-backs with the foot, fearless tackling against some of the bigger girls, and a brilliant finish to top it all off with a goal. What a fab day from one of the club’s biggest characters — top job, Hattie! 👏⚽

As we come towards the end of another season, I’ve been reading the many debates online about end of season awards and whether every child should receive a trophy or medal. It is clearly a subject that divides opinion, with many believing awards should only go to the winners or standout players.

I understand that viewpoint, but I see it differently.

At grassroots level, we are not just rewarding results. We are recognising commitment, effort and resilience. These young girls give up their time week after week, training in the cold, travelling to matches and continuing even when things are difficult or confidence is low. In a world where young people are often criticised for giving up too easily, surely those who keep showing up deserve some recognition.

As a club, we award engraved medals for 50, 100, 150 and 200 appearances at training and matches. Considering we train around 35 times a year, those milestones represent years of dedication and loyalty to the club.

Yes, there can only be one winner in sport. But there is nothing wrong with thanking every player for giving their absolute best, supporting their teammates and being part of something positive. A small medal may mean very little to an adult, but to a young player it can mean they feel valued, appreciated and proud of themselves.

And sometimes, that matters most.

Coach Chris

A few images from today: