Hello Team Western!
Welcome to the latest edition of the Western AFC Junior eNewsletter! We’re excited to bring you all the updates and highlights from another fantastic weekend of youth football. Our young athletes continue to shine, and we can’t wait to share their achievements with you.
Weekend Wrap-Up: Celebrating Our Junior Stars
This past weekend was filled with impressive performances and unforgettable moments across all age groups at Western AFC. Here’s a snapshot of what made us proud:
- Match Highlights: Our junior teams delivered spectacular performances, with thrilling finishes and stunning goals. The level of skill and sportsmanship was truly exceptional.
- Sideline Support: The energy and enthusiasm from our players, parents, and coaches created a vibrant atmosphere. Every cheer and high-five added to the joy and camaraderie on the field.
- Star Performers: We’re spotlighting the standout players and teams who went above and beyond. Their passion and determination were evident as they gave their all on the pitch.
Update for Junior Football Players!
All junior football matches will conclude very soon. But don’t pack away your boots just yet—there’s still more to come! Check out the details below…
Stay tuned for more inspiring stories of triumph and teamwork in the next edition! Your support makes every achievement possible, and we’re excited to see what our juniors will achieve next. Let’s keep cheering them on!
Weekend Highlights
FIRST KICKS - Great session this weekend team - it sounded like Jess’s drill was a hit! We love seeing some beautiful football being played in our 5 v 5 games, great use of space and so much confidence from everyone.
Excellent work from:
Player of the Day (POD) 1: Max - whose energy and enthusiasm I love every single week and his determination to be involved in the game today was amazing
Player of the Day (POD) 2: Matthew - for stepping up today with a lot of willingness to give everything a go along with great listening and focus, well done!
Moment of the Day (MOD): Quinn - for excellent dribbling, moving the ball with a breakaway run and general great game play.
FUN FOOTBALL
STORM –
Player of the Day (POD): Henry – for his best game of the season and a great goal
Moment of the Day (MOD): Grace & Bentley -
TORNADOES – Another close game, low scoring, great defence.
Player of the Day (POD): Josh
Moment of the Day (MOD): Marlon
9TH GRADE
WOLVES – Finished the game with some cheeky penalties. Well done everyone. Today was some of the best passing and teamwork we have seen this season. So impressive how all of the kids are building with confidence and dedication to helping their teammates out.
Great effort all. Any parents that have penalties photos feel free to share them. Thanks
Player of the Day (POD): Charlie - with some nice touches as keeper first half and then smart defence in the second half. Great work and so impressive to see the progress made.
Moment of the Day (MOD): Oliver - with a hat trick of goals in the first half and a great attempt at a bicycle kick.
10TH GRADE
ALL STARS – What a match at Hansen’s Park! The Western All Stars showed incredible sportsmanship against Cashmere Tech FC Silver, playing with only seven field players and no substitutions.
Sam had a standout performance with relentless shots on goal and exceptional positioning, earning the “Moment of the Day.” Henry delivered an incredible goal from nearly half the field, making him our "Player of the Day" for his outstanding conversion rate and playmaking skills. Patrick was crucial in both defense and goalkeeping, winning duels and handling a penalty with strength and skill.
Aiden pushed the play forward with skill, consistently creating chances and linking defence to attack. Cater impressed with his precision, even scoring from the center line. Hector’s improved role in defense was key, disrupting attackers and starting counterattacks. Fletcher excelled as both a goalkeeper and a Wing-Back, with vital blocks, clearances, and attacking runs.
The Western All Stars demonstrated true sportsmanship and teamwork. Proud of each player’s effort and dedication!
Player of the Day (POD): Henry - delivered perhaps his best game of the season. His ballistic shot from almost half the field found the back of the net—a smooth, unbelievable performance. Henry’s conversion rate is outstanding. Well done, Henry always trying to thread the needle, finding pockets of space where others see none. Making him our "Player of the Day"!
Moment of the Day (MOD): Sam - earns the “Moment of the Day” for his relentless shots on target. We lost count at around 7–8 attempts to sink the ball into the net. Always ready for the immediate pass—anticipating movements, gaps, and opportunities. Sam’s positioning and determination were exceptional.
WARRIORS – What a nail-biter of a game for the Warriors today, ending in a tough 2-3 loss. We started strong, going up 2-0 early in the match, but the Nomads proved to be a formidable opponent, gradually working their way back into the game. Despite our best efforts, they managed to equalize and eventually pull ahead.
In the final few minutes, we had some promising chances to level the score, but unfortunately, the timing just wasn't in our favor. It was one of those games where every second and every play mattered, and while we came up short, the effort was commendable.
A special shoutout to Braxton, who had an outstanding performance in goal during the second half. His reflexes and determination kept us in the game and were a big factor in holding off several strong Nomads' attacks. Will also deserves recognition for his fantastic goal and the energy he brought to the field. His drive and enthusiasm were evident throughout the match and really boosted the team's morale.
The Warriors played with heart and determination, and though we didn’t get the result we wanted, we can hold our heads high knowing we gave it our all. Let’s regroup, learn from this experience, and come back stronger in the next game. Keep pushing, Warriors!
Player of the Day (POD): Braxton - had an outstanding second half in goal
Moment of the Day (MOD): Will - had a fantastic goal and great energy around the field
FLAMES – What a game! The Flames really showed their grit and determination tonight, battling it out to a hard-fought draw against Cash Tech. It was a thrilling match from start to finish, with every player giving their all and leaving everything on the field. The teamwork, strategy, and sheer willpower displayed were truly impressive. A huge shoutout to each and every member of the team for their incredible effort and sportsmanship. You all made us proud!
Player of the Day (POD): Piper – Your relentless effort and skill shone through all game, both in attack and defence. Those tackles and passes were top-notch!
Moment of the Day (MOD): Hazel – Your explosive run down the left wing was nothing short of spectacular! Beating 3 players, dribbling with flair, and turning defense into attack in a flash.
Training Schedule & Logistics
Our regular training sessions are set for every Thursday at Westminster Park (weather permitting). Here’s the breakdown:
- Fun Football Teams: 4:00 - 5:00 PM
- Wolves & Flames: 4:30 - 5:30 PM
- Warriors & All Stars: 5:00 - 6:00 PM
Please arrive a few minutes early to get ready and start your session. These trainings are crucial for developing skills, teamwork, and having a great time!
Stay Connected
Communication is key. If your player can’t attend a session or game, please:
- Update Your Team Page: Inform your teammates and coaches promptly.
- Contact the Coach Directly: Notify any attendance changes.
This helps us plan effectively and keeps the team prepared for all activities.
Weekly Highlights
- Player of the Day (POD): POD winners will lead halftime activities and wear the captain’s armband in the next game. Your leadership is truly commendable!
- Moment of the Day (MOD): MOD winners should bring a post-game treat to share. Your memorable moments enrich our team spirit!
Upcoming Events
- Junior Prizegiving: Saturday, September 14th, 10 AM - 12 PM @ Inflatable World
- Derby Day: Saturday, September 7th – time TBA
Training Resources
Check out the skills video at the end of this newsletter to keep honing your game. Practice makes perfect!
We look forward to seeing everyone back at Westminster Park next Thursday. Let’s keep up the energy that makes Western AFC exceptional!
Go, Western!
Coach Arron