This week we take a look at our 10th grade Bellbirds team and hear about how they got on this week:

The Bellbirds played their second game of the 10th grade season against the Kookaburras on Saturday, losing a high quality match by only a couple of goals . Coming off a big  win in the first game the boys were a bit shellshocked with three excellent early goals from the Kookaburras, leaving the Bellbirds feeling pretty deflated. 

At halftime, the Bellbirds had an encouraging team talk with coaches Tina and Robbie and prepared themselves for a positive second half. The Kookaburras scored another good goal quickly after halftime to build on their lead even more and the retreat line was moved back to halfway. Heads could have easily dropped but the Bellbirds' response was excellent and made everyone very proud. They really dug deep and got the rewards for their effort. A penalty kick for a handball on the goal line gave the Bellbirds a chance to get on the score sheet and Lucas buried the shot deep into the goal. Team spirit grew and the Bellbirds scored another two goals with excellent passing through to Lucas and Tom.

 With two minutes to go, the result was in the balance and the retreat line was moved back to normal. But the Kookaburras scored from the kickoff to put themselves backing the lead, with the smallest player on the pitch running through the tiring team to score an incredible goal.

 For the Bellbirds, playing together as a team in 9th grade has definitely been an advantage in terms of positional play and understanding the strengths of each team mate. The boys are able to understand how important their role is within the team and how to support the players around them. The boys have worked very hard on positions and what they mean, as well as working together as a team. Passing has improved tenfold since last year, which has been an important part of training. The Bellbirds' goals for the 2019 season are teamwork, improving on individuals skills and footwork, learning how to be respectful and to above all, have fun. With two very passionate coaches, and eight very dedicated players, it is absolutely possible to achieve all of these goals.

- Lucas Marsh (player), Tina Washington (coach) and Fred Woodcock (referee and parent)