A long week in the tumble drier, that is Tournament Week in Palmerston North, couldn't have ended more successfully for the CBHS 1st XI. The team showed true grit and character to hold on to a 2-1 over Trident to finish 9th equal and top of the middle 8.

Captain for his last game, Josh Solly led from the front, diving into tackle after tackle and inspiring the team to drag their tired bodies to repel numerous aerial bombardments in the stiff breeze. 

After being scratched 5 minutes before kick off due to illness, goal keeper, Josh Reid was called upon in the 41st minute after stand in goalie Harri Rowe was injured in a desperate goal saving lunge. Josh pulled off a couple of his own and kept the defence strong until the end. 

The teams Most Improved Player of the Tournament, Tom Noonan, switched from being the man at the front, to the man at the back to repel constant attacks from the Trident midfield. It was lucky that he had carved in some racing stripes behind his ears the night before.

Central midfielder Omar Cameron was a rock throughout the week and would not be out of place if voted the teams Tournament MVP. He constantly put his tired body on the line in the final game, even drawing the ire of the referee.

We wish the four Year 13's all the best and hope they continue to progress their football careers for their clubs or universities in 2018.

For the rest of the team, Chris Boomer, Jayden Ball, Josh Shamy-Watts, Mohammad Mann, Harri Rowe, Seb Sutherland-Todd, Darius Van Wyk, Tyler Allen, Tom Corlet, Jake Corlet, Ben Crowley, and Jasper Mintrom - They played out of their skins and will take all the learnings from Tournament and the season into 2018. They are already amping for next season with a solid core of players Year 12 or below.

Tournament week is not only about the the learnings on the field, it was inspiring to be a part of the experience and seeing the boys bond and grow as a group and individuals.

Needless to say, they should be asking to help you with the dishes this week!

Tournament could not have gone ahead without the organisation and expertise of super coach/Manager/Life Motivator, Mike Boomer.

Thank you from providing an unforgettable experience for the boys. You can read Mr Boomer's full tournament report below.

Sam Zarifeh
MIC Football