Warriors Seniors
Ladies and gents - just a few comments following a wonderful season with you all. This has been my first year ever as a manager/leader of a team at any level and I wanted to thank you all for making it such a rewarding and fulfilling experience.
I would like to express my thanks to the other clubs for their commitment to an enjoyable social competition and for helping us out when we've needed numbers (Ant and Raj, honourable mentions here). Thanks to Tom and Aaron, who have led the organisation this year (and massively helped us this week with dispensations), and to Sarah from Aztecs for helping on the sidelines with bookkeeping for us.
Whilst we were unlucky to lose the semi-final against the Aztecs, our team still 4 goals gave us a chance and our opposition had to earn it. We have a bloody good side and if we all come back next year, we are always a chance for medals on that last day of the season.
To the returning vets, Mick, Andy, Scott - it was again such a pleasure to play with you again. Every year the fun never stops and (Andy and Scott) it's so good to still be playing with you like we were back in the Under 15s on grass. Scott, congratulations on your nomination for overall Men’s MVP for Vic League 1; Any congratulations on your WGHA award for most valuable Men’s player. Mick – congratulations on your continued success in goalkeeping at the highest levels, you represent the organisation well.
To our younger brigade, Aaron, Sam, Jason - you guys are all fantastic young players and keep improving with every game. It is a pleasure to see your skills keep developing week on week and your commitment cannot be faulted.
To our new recruits - Cam and Matt - it has you guys have been wonderful additions to the team and your energy and enthusiasm is infectious. Well done to you especially Matt - I hope you've enjoyed your first season of hockey!
And now to the most important crew that have honestly kept us afloat - the ladies. Cally, Bec, Mikayla and Skye you have been commendable all year. To play with the heart and the skill that you have brought to the men's comp has been, for me, the proudest note of this team. Your example will inspire the younger generations of girls to know that gender is no barrier in sport and that they can feel comfortable and equal playing hockey. My daughter watches you when she comes and I want to thank you for showing her that she can play with her daddy too.
It has been a most enjoyable season - have a wonderful summer and I hope to see all of you deviants pitch-side in March next year.
James Belfield
