We head into the home straight now for the 2010 season and many of our teams are looking very promising for the finals. I look upon our Auskickers, U9 and U10 teams and am astounded by the improvement throughout the season. From my point of view this year has been a huge success on and off the field. I walk the ground each weekend and watch our kids improve week by week. If you close your eyes and listen, you hear the sounds of success; parents cheering and clapping; teams singing their song; and children having fun. That’s what this great game is all about. It has been an extremely satisfying year.

 

It hasn’t been all smooth sailing however. There are, on occasion, situations that occur that I’m confident on reflection we’d all wish we’d have handled a little differently. It can be easy to lose our cool in the heat of the moment, but we must remember to check ourselves, keep an eye out for our bud’s (parents) and keep a lid on those emotions best kept at bay. Remember, this is kids sport!

 

As we head towards the end of the 2010 season, please, don’t jeopardise a child’s enjoyment, your team’s success, or the great reputation our members have for their adherence to the AFL Code of Conduct. Please remember that if you are officiating (boundary, goal umpire, manager, coach) you are acting on behalf of the club. As a goal umpire, boundary umpire, water runner, runner; you are not to coach. The penalty may cost your team a spot in the finals race.

 

For those unaware, Baulko are hosting the Preliminary Final round on 29 August. This promises to be a huge day and there is a high likelihood of home games for our finals contenders. I wish all our teams the very best heading into the final rounds of competition and can’t wait to hear the famous battle cry “CARN BAULKO!!!” on Grand Final Day – Father’s Day.

 

Be sure to hang around and support your club in the final rounds, and stay tuned for finals scheduling.

 

Cheers,