As we conclude another fantastic soccer season, we want to extend our heartfelt gratitude to everyone who made it possible.

Special thanks go to our exceptional coaches and managers: Travis Bell and Gareth Bryant (Seniors), Chris Evans (U10s), Bridget Dansie and Derek Eilers (U9s) – managed by Kris Watts, and Chris Allan (Aliens and U8s) – managed by April Allan. Your dedication, energy, and enthusiasm have been instrumental in the development and success of our teams.

This season, our students have shown remarkable commitment to the school’s values of self-worth, caring, and responsibility. On many occasions, their actions on and off the field were a testament to these principles and received positive feedback from the wider community.

Self-Worth:

Our players displayed immense confidence and belief in their abilities, even in challenging matches. Their resilience and positive attitude were evident when they turned around games with persistence and teamwork.

Caring:

In many instances, players went above and beyond to support their teammates. Examples include encouraging words during tough moments, helping injured players, and celebrating each other’s successes, fostering a sense of unity and friendship.

Responsibility:

Our teams consistently showed responsibility by attending practices regularly, listening to their coaches, and applying what they learned in games. Their sportsmanship was exemplary, as seen in their respect for referees, opponents, and the spirit of the game.

To the parents, your support from the sidelines and behind the scenes has been invaluable. Your encouragement, participation, commitment, and willingness to lend a hand is all instrumental in fostering a positive environment for our young athletes and is deeply appreciated.

As we continue to build the Craigburn soccer community, I would like to extend an invitation to anyone who is able to join our team of volunteers and help individually or as a shared role to coach next year.

If you’re unsure about the ‘how,’ coaching clinics are facilitated and are scheduled early each year.

Let’s carry forward the spirit of this season and continue nurturing these wonderful values in future games and beyond.

We hope to see you all out there again in 2025!

Warmest regards,

Tara Bell ⚽️ (Coordinator)

A word from our coaches:

Under 8s

This season, our U8s soccer team demonstrated resilience, growth and teamwork. Throughout the season, players developed their skills on the field, showcasing improved coordination and communication during games. The team’s bond was evident as they supported each other, celebrating both victories and losses and learning from challenges together. They showed brilliant sportsmanship and supported the other teams through their victories and challenges, showing true Craigburn spirit. Their hard work and dedication not only enhanced their individual abilities but also strengthened their bond as a cohesive unit. We’re proud of their progress and excited for what lies ahead!

Chris Allan, U8s/Aliens Coach

Under 9s

This year our U9 soccer team welcomed several new members with a squad of 13. This year we focused on developing our passing skills, our goal kicking and the concept of staying in our positions and trusting our teammates to pass the ball or defend the goals.  I’m proud to say that all the boys grew in their capacity to play the game  whilst holding up our Schools core values of self worth, caring for each other and being responsible to themselves and each other. I thank Bridget who stepped in to coach the team at the last second and I thank you for the opportunity to help you and work with the kids. A big thank you to all parents that helped out during the training sessions and games with equipment and support. I look forward to next year when the boys will have an opportunity to learn more while growing their skills further.

Derek Eilers, U9 Assistant Coach (Bridget Dansie, Coach)

 

Under 10s

The U10’s team had a mix of wins and losses throughout the season.The improvement from all players from round 1 until the final game was the most pleasing part of the season. Teamwork was also a highlight.

Well done under 10s!!!

Chris Evans, U10 Coach

Seniors

A great season for Craigburn’s Seniors, finishing with 6 wins, 4 loses and 1 draw for what I view as a very successful season. All season the children played the roles that were asked of them and worked together as a team. When faced with challenging situations, they handled themselves very maturely and upheld the school values all year. All the best to the year 6 boys who will go off to high school next year!

Again, a big thank you to all the kids for making it a great season, and parents who volunteered to help in various roles during the year too.

Travis Bell and Gareth Bryant, Senior Coaches