The 2023 season saw the formation of a new team at the Eagles, bringing together players from across 3 different clubs. The 13B’s were born, and it was immediate connection between the boys. Whilst the preseason was not as long as we would have hoped, the boys kicked off the season with a strong trial victory, laying the foundation for a very successful season.

The focus of this year was to build team chemistry and to have a technical focus on a strong passing game. Full credit to the boys for the way they trained every week, turning up and putting in the work to focus on their role in the team and their contribution to the overall team dynamic. As a coach there is nothing better than seeing your team come together and work hard for each other. Our team motto each week was “want it more” and that certainly came into our season results.

The season can be seen as nothing but a success. The scoreboard showed 11 wins, 3 draws and 4 losses, seeing the mighty 13B’s finish third on the table and progress into the finals. Through the season, we were the only team to beat all other teams in the competition, and the only team to beat the eventual premiers twice. This shows the ability of our boys and the fight they had within them.

Across the pitch, all players contributed. The goal scoring was shared amongst those in the front 1/3 of the field, our midfield was the engine room of transition between defence and offense, and our defenders played a vital role in our teams success and worked hard all year to protect the goals. Without a dedicated goalkeeper this season, all the boys stepped up when called upon to have a go in goals, despite it being outside their comfort zone. This alone makes the results this season even more impressive!

Our semi-final was a hard fought contest against a strong team and we were unlucky to go down 4-3. Again, the score line showed the fight within this team and the never say die attitude of our boys.

I am so grateful to have had the chance to coach the 13B’s this season. They are a fine group of young men who carried themselves with respect throughout the season and did their club and families proud. A massive shout out to Jen, our team manager, for keeping us up to date with all the necessary information throughout the year and taking care of all the administration on game day. Your passion for the boys was unreal and you were a brilliant support. Finally, to the parents, families and supporters who came out each week to cheer the boys on. Your support is one of the big reasons for our success and I am grateful for the partnership this year.

Bring on the 2024 season!!

Cheers,

Simon