Pre-Season Checkin with the UNDER 17s

For the full gallery of images taken at this session please follow this link: gallery.cgi

With Pre-Season competition fast approaching we paid a Thursday afternoon visit to Minto Fields to catch the -17s and -15s being run through their paces. Coaches Richard Harrison (Under 17s) and Rob Hutchinson (Under 15s) have had just a few weeks with their new squads, but already its clear the experienced Football thinkers have organised their teams well.

Last year's Club President Richard was instantly amongst it when we arrived, playing alongside his 17s side in a possession drill. This year he has the privilege of being assisted by experienced former Under 13s coach Sam Alessi , and the two utilised their combined knowledge to run each drill co-operatively. While Richie was an on-field, acting as a practical source of guidance, Sam would observe from the side-line, calling out direction and ensuring the girls stayed focused.

Between exercises I had a chance to speak to Richie about his objectives for the season, the coaching setup and primary areas of focus.

As typical of the man he was confident and calm, but also analytical and focused as always. After a very successful Under 17s campaign last season, Ritchie will be hard pressed to replicate a season where outgoing coach Leah Blayley led them to Championship and Premiership glory. However the current side with the addition of several new or promoted players (from -15s) has the team excited and confident. The decision to appoint two captain candidates early on in Emma Fattore and Natasha Aitken also seems to be a strong decision, since both players were part of last season's success.

Luckily we did get a chance to talk to the new captains, and they were all smiles and red faces.

First question was to describe their coach in one word. They quickly responded by saying Richie was funny (yeah right haha) and passionate, before adding on approachable after some more thought.  No surprises there!

In terms of preparing for the new season the girls noted that bonding was important due to the new faces, but added that the team's "chemistry" seemed quite strong and that the newbies had quickly found their place. Tactics wise Richie's instruction has been clear, with his players saying significance is being placed on Possession, tracking back and covering, which means playing from the back is likely to be an important part of their play style this year. Perhaps picking Fattore and Aitken as captains was intentional with both being Midfield/Defensive minded.

On a relaxed note I then asked what the captains most enjoyed about football. Tough question apparently, because they shared many umms, ahhs and questioning looks at one another before answering.

Everything. That welcome distraction from everything else, and that freedom to express themselves and do something they enjoy.  Couldn't ask for more football loving captains than these.

Lastly if they were on FIFA, what would be their strongest attribute?

Emma: Holding/STRENGTH (FIFA definition:  decides how a player copes with any physical battles; important for defensive players)

Natasha: INTERCEPTIONS (FIFA definition: More likely to stick out a leg or do something unexpected to prevent a pass)

Thanks to the Under 17s and Under 15s for their time and we all look forward to seeing you in action come the Pre-Season Cup!!!

 

Caleb Rodriguez

Media Officer