futurum
St Paul’s Grammar School Penrith
penrith,
Geordy Armsworth (centre), Brandon Diaz and Jordan De Matta (right)
Jak Bukovinsky started playing Futsal in Year 7 in 2007: I had played outdoor soccer in Primary school and went to watch the tryouts with friends and was asked to play. Our most challenging game was the semi-final against Victoria. We had played them the day before and defeated them 7-6. They were very determined to avenge that defeat and there was a lot of aggression in the game. Our win was largely the result of stubborn defence – the whole team was big. FUTURUM asked the players why they did so well: Because of team unity – we are good friends (Brandon). We work well as a team. We have different gifts and use them well. And Mr Jeffery is an excellent coach (Cameron). There is not just one good player; all members are skilled ( Jak). Mr Kevin Spanner, son of team member Cameron, tried to be present for every match: My involvement was chiefly as a (very) vocal supporter and fan on the sidelines. The boys were successful because of their talent and teamwork.
They have a good sense of their own place in the team as well as tactics that have worked for and against them in the past. What really got them over the line in tough games was their tenacious fighting spirit –Other teams may have had a number with better skill but none fought for each other as did our boys. I also think that they believed and trusted in their coach, Mr. Jeffery. The school response to their win was good to see. I was very impressed with Dr. Collier’s personal letter home to each of the boys. I believe it is good for St Paul’s to be widely known in the community as an excellent academic and sports school. It will attract a wider audience to the school. Mr Jeffery added: Futsal (indoor soccer) teams are trying out for the 2009 Windsor Regional Championship at the end of March and early April. About 100 are trying out for six teams, as against 60 or 70 last year, so the game is gaining in popularity.
spgs PENRITH
For Cameron Spanner, the main highlight was scoring 27 goals in the 2008 season: I have been in the team since I arrived at the school in 2007 and usually play striker at the front. My favourite goals were the two I scored in the semi-final game against Victoria. It was a very physical game, with lots of pushing and diving and so forth. Just at the point that Victoria seemed to be gaining the upper hand, one of our players was sent off. By means of a lot of manoeuvring, I was able to start scoring, and we won 2-1 with my two goals. I love soccer in all its forms.
17 futurum
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S tP GRAMMA