A CROSSWAY SEASOLADIES N INNEWSLETTER REVIE201W3 In this edition:
Club President Report & Crossway Achievements Ladies Division One Results, Player Profiles and Season Review Ladies Division Two Results, Player Profiles and Season Review
D a v id H e a d 201 3 was a terrific year for Crossway FC with four new coaches, a new ladies team and eleven trophies. We welcomed Tim Argall and a large contingent of players, officials and parents from Nth Blackburn who have so positively re-shaped the landscape of our ladies squad. Tim led the squads training this season and his team (United) were co-winners of two fair play competitions and were also Cup semi finalists. We also welcomed three other coaches, Brent Backhouse (Rovers) who won “the triple” (League, Cup and Fair Play) in his first year, Shane Mitchell (Reserves) who after a slow start brought them home with a really impressive second half run winning most matches and building a competitive team. Finally Jayne Wilson (Fury) joined us as a player coach and has taken a lot of new and first time players and built the Fury into a cohesive unit with a terrific spirit. They were also co-winners of two fair play competitions. Our Ladies First team were Cup runners up, third in Div 1 and Fiona was runner up in the VCFA B&F competition. The Men’s firsts won “the double” in their first season in Division 1 (League Champions and Fair Play) and perhaps best of all Crossway FC won the VCFA overall Club Fair Play Competition.
CROSSWAY FOOTBALL CLUB ACHEIVEMENTS 2013
Finally this club depends on a number of people who contribute huge amounts (often behind the scenes) at the risk of missing someone out let me make special mention of Mark Wadia, Steve Houghton, Margaret Head, Tim Dehn and Tim and Michelle Wallace - your efforts are much appreciated. David J Head
Club President
DIVISION ONE
Ladies
STEPH HEAD
One of the versatile players, ultimately she found herself in the Firsts, initially as a midfielder and then as goalkeeper. Always smiling, and always up for a game, Sheree produced many diving saves and many laughs with some of her comical errorsJ thankfully none resulted in goals. SHEREE WOOD
Steph has found her home this season on the wing providing many damaging crosses for her teammates. Consistent on the ball and (just like her twin) she used her lethal throw in to create goal-scoring opportunities.
JERUSHA HO
Focusing more on her studies this year Jerusha was unable to play as many games for us as we would have liked. When on field she was as damaging as ever and scored a screamer of a goal in our cup semi final win.
MARY ARGALL
Having started the season with three games in the Firsts, Mary suffered a double stress fracture in her lower back. Her commitment to her rehab saw her defy the doctors and play the last month of the season with United. We are likely to lose her to an American college sometime next year – hopefully late in the season.
Trish was our midfield general, always assigned to tag the danger players. Relentless on the ball and the opposition she found herself on the score sheet this season with some great goals.
ELISE CASTERSEN
Hard on the ball and the opposing player, there are not too many knocks that can keep this girl down. Across from Blackburn this year Elise has slotted into a great backline combo with Gabby.
RILEY CHRISTGOERGL
TRISH CANNY
Another off season acquisition from Blackburn, Riley found herself playing out of position this year on the wing. She adjusted well and has left many opposition players behind with her pace and ever improving touch.
KAT DEITH
A super dependable defender who harmonises the team with her positivity. Tough on the ball and a constant annoyance to opposition players, Kat had another outstanding season.
Gabby is the voice of the team who brings cohesiveness with her constant instructions and game chatter. A tough player, who loves a good slide tackle, and who has managed a third consecutive season without major injury. GABRIELLE FIELDING
This year was 'apparently' her final season in Crossway colours. As one of the founding members of the ladies Crossway team, Ros has been invaluble member. A workhorse and Mrs Fix-it around the field, her versatility and drive saw her playing a number of key positions and she will be sorely missed next year.
MEGZ RINDFLEISCH
Unfortunately Megz season ended early due to a chronic back injury that only saw her play a few games. She is another damaging winger who was set for a big season after getting off the mark with an early goal.
ROS SPARGO
2 0 1 3 G O ALS 30 17 5 4 2 1 1
Fiona Grace Riley Trish Jerusha Megz Jamie
TRACEY STEINRUCKEN Tracey moved to Queensland this year after getting married in the off season but still managed to pull on the black and white early in the season. An ever consistent rock solid midfielder who could run all day.
JAMIE SUTTON Jamie started the season back in goals before escaping into the midfield where she remained for the rest of the year. She set up numerous attacks with her pinpoint through balls.
Fiona Bashford The start of the season saw us acquire a number of talented players from Blackburn, which helped bolster both our numbers and our confidence leading into the new season. After a few games getting acquainted with each other and finding a balance around the park Crossway Ladies Firsts were off and flying and looking set for a big season. Our league hopes ending after our third narrow loss during the regular season. However the Ladies continued their dominance in the Cup making their third consecutive final. Unfortunately the girls went down 2-1 to a strong Berwick outfit. Their performance in this game typified their play throughout the season, strong, fair and courageous. Well done girls, a great season!
"Fearless leader or just plain fearless... our girls will follow her anywhere!" Fiona stepped up to captain the Ladies First team this season. Her wealth of experience and passion for the sport meant that she took on this role with ease. Coming runners up in the VCFA best and fairest (with 2 games unable to be played) she once again demonstrated why she is well respected and feared within the competition. FIONA BASHFORD
D a v id & M a r g a r e t H e a d
For the fifth consecutive year the team won a trophy – this year as runner up in the Cup Competition. Disappointingly we didn’t do as well in the Fair Play competition – however I was really proud of the team’s behaviour and team spirit across the season – you have a terrific attitude. We welcomed a group of new players (including five from Nth Blackburn) and were fortunate to have kept the majority of the team that has been so successful over many seasons. Sadly Ros Spargo, a founder member of the Crossway FC ladies team, announced her formal retirement after six seasons. It’s hard to put into words how we as coaches feel about Ros – as Tina Turner once suggested she’s Simply the Best!! We understand she is open to guest appearances next season – so hopefully we will still see her around. Thank you to Cat Shepherd for her support and to Fiona who is a passionate captain who led from the front all year. It was both a pleasure and an honour for us to coach this team again this season. VALERIE HOE
When not injured from indoor soccer, her quick pace caught many opposition players by surprise. Val consistently chased down balls and persistently harassed opponents never giving up on the ball. GRACE KIM
SAM HEAD When not discussing wedding plans including flower arrangements Sam provided versatility across the backline. A passionate player who always gives her all. “Cross-what? Cross-Way!” KARI PRESANT
An exciting addition to our team this year. Her dangerous footwork and quick pace tore many oppositions apart. Grace scored many crucial goals this season and apart from one minor slip up, which had her seeing red, was a consistent ball winner each game.
A good decision maker who is strong on the ball. These attributes found her playing in the key positions of centre half or defensive midfielder this year. Kari held her position well on the field and was always there to support her teammates.
DIVISION TWO
Ladies 2 0 1 3 G O ALS U N I TE D : 1 4 Fi on a 9 G ra ce 6 Bec 6 J asm i n e 5 Lou i sa 5 S i m on e 4 Ri l e y 4 G e org i a 2 Cat 2 S a ra h 2 Al i e 1 J am i e 1 M eg z 1 1 1 1
M i ri a m Cassi e H an n ah Ca rol i n e
F U RY: 1 S te p h a n i e 1 N i co l a 1 Al i son 1 Sh an d i
It is disarming when Sarah comes off the field – consistently a strong performer, she was always the first to point out her mistakes. A generous and kind team member, Sarah often travelled from the other side of Geelong to be with us this year. And we were blessed by this.
CAT SHEPHERD
Cat’s season was cruelly cut short by a second ACL injury – three games in. In spite of this, she never lost her humour or her keenness for the team; often as our loudest spectator. Hopefully 201 4 will provide her with more on-field success.
SARAH RINAUDO
GEORGIA VAN DER WESTHUIZEN
Georgia has the best turn on the ball of just about anyone in the club. Her ability to sneak goals is legendary. Her finishing the season at left back, where she was totally at home (having played in 5 other positions) was a surprise to all but her.
Tim Argall It is a pleasure to write a short reflection on the Crossway Ladies United team in season 201 3. Our backgrounds were diverse, our outcomes impressive. 1 2 wins and 1 draw from 20 games, 4th in the league, semi-finalists in the cup. 65 goals scored by us, with a goal difference of +31 . 37 ladies played for the team this year – 1 3 Firsts players subbed for us, along with 3 Fury players – and it was brilliant that 11 of our original squad players were able to spend time on the pitch as subs, or become starting players, for the Firsts. As well, in being equal winners of the Ladies Division 2 and the Association-wide Fair Play Awards, we were the highest finishing team of all those who tied for those awards – proving that you CAN play so fair as to not get any cards or behaviour points, and still win lots of games and finish near the top of the table! Player development has always been my major focus – our team, some of whom have been together for 5 years – is a mix of young in body and young in spirit – all linked by a strong desire to learn to be better players and a stronger team. This season was a stunning success in both regards. The move by ten players and myself to Crossway FC this year has enabled these personal developments to continue in an environment that has allowed for growth and maturing – to all who welcomed us all to the club this year, particularly David and Margaret – our humble thanks to you. Having Tim Dehn as an ever-present and effervescent manager, and Alie Kennedy as an insightful and thorough captain has been a blessing I have been incredibly thankful for. Roll on, 201 4.
ALIE KENNEDY Captain courageous, Alie leads from the front – playing where needed (often in goals, which she’d rather not do!), defence or midfield, and playing in spite of setback. Alie has been a great encourager and motivator – always ready to try something new, and inspiring her teammates to do the same.
Alie Kennedy
It has been an absolute honour to lead the Crossway United team this year. I have been impressed with all the players this year. There were many games in which I could not name any single player who had been best on ground because the entire team had pulled together and played their best. I am stoked we have come out at the end of the season in fourth place, as well as winning the Division 2 Women’s Fair Play award. This is evidence that you can show God’s grace and love even on the soccer field. A few important people to thank
Thank you to all those from other teams who played for us during the year! Everyone slotted into the team smoothly and we apprciated the help.
Thank you to Tim Dehn for managing our team! It was always encouraging to hear his voice coming from the side lines cheering us on. Rain, hail or shine, Tim would be there. He was at the Thank you to Seamus van der ground early every Saturday our Westhuizen who came every week team was on set up, serving us by to run our lines! It makes such a giving up his free time. difference having a skilled linesmen!
Our most valuable player, Simone would come to games “fresh” from night shift, and still play a blinder! Started the season slowly, but became the centre of attention in many late season games because of her amazing skill and positional development. SIMONE WERAGODA
To Tim A, you are an amazing coach who doesn’t just take an interest in us as a team but also as individual people. Thank you for taking Monday Night Training, even on the horrible winter nights, you were there, ready to get us running. On behalf of all the girls, thank you for the improvements we have all had and your graceful and loving way in which you have taught us and coached us.
SARAH SMITH What a blessing to have a player of Sarah’s experience and wisdom in the centre of our defence. Although she actively sought to be out of the limelight, Sarah ensured that she would often be noticed with her telling tackles and clearances. CAROLINE DEHN
A confidence player, Caroline’s strength and poise on the ball will be the hallmarks of her play in season to come. Starting at left back this year, she is developing strongly as a winger and attacking midfield. We look forward to more goals and superb displays in the future.
JASMINE GRIERSON
Hard to believe she is only 1 5, Jas played less than half our games, and still managed to be equal top scorer. Most dangerous coming from deep in midfield through into attack, Jas is a player whose contribution is noticed when she is not playing; we love having her around when she can be there!
BRYNDYLL HORNETTDEVERS
Bryn came back to soccer this year after a break of two years. An uncompromising defender, Bryn is fast and incisive, often when least expected. She is a great utility player, filling in in many positions – a great asset for the future.
JORDAN SMITH
The pressures of Year 1 2 meant that Jordie didn’t play as much as she would have liked. Her fitness and ability to tag players were important additions to the team when she was able to join us. Her generosity is always appreciated.
HANNAH ARAPOGLOU
Hannah is one our youngest players, but belies this with increasingly strong performances. She is most at home in any position in defence and is most effective as she moves to shut down opposition players with her uncompromising positioning and tackling. A very bright future is in store. LYNETTE MANOLITSA
Lynette, a former Mitcham player who made the move to Crossway. Played a number of games for both the Firsts and United early in the season before sadly having to leave us for personal reasons.
MIRIAM ACHETRARITEI
We were sorry to only have Miriam in our team for a handful of games, as she proved herself to be a dynamo in midfield, fearless and determined. She always added strength to the team when she was available.
Our fittest player on the team, Laura was known to do a fun run before a game! She can run all game, and found a role as a tagger of opposition star players. Laura’s capacity to learn and evolve as a player during a game proved to be a significant asset as the season progressed.
JESS ARGALL
Our rock in the middle of the midfield, Jess’ diagonal balls, her reading of the play and her strong suggestions in the huddle of ways to beat the opposition point to a great future on the field and in the coach’s box. Jess also had a superb memory for opposition weaknesses, and directed the team’s play accordingly.
BEC SUTTON
LAURA DAWSON
The smallest voice off the field, one of the “loudest” players on the field. Louisa’s determination and commitment was inspirational – she outplayed the Association B&F winner each of the three times they lined up against one another. Our loss to Sydney next year is their gain. LOUSA SHING
Initially uncertain about playing, Bec’s pace and focus meant that she became one of our most potent strikers very quickly. Our equal top scorer, Bec can play a range of attacking roles with equal effectiveness. Her sunny disposition added much to our team huddle. CASSIE BEVERIDGE
Cassie juggled this season with her other sporting love – cheerleading. A consummate utility, Cass would fill in at centre half when need be, slide easily into the midfield if there was a gap, and would play up front (her favourite!) whenever possible. JESS SALISBURY
An enthusiastic and determined wing back, Jess has one of the hardest tackles in the competition. As her confidence grew, so did the strength of her performances. One of the squads most committed trainers, Jess was always up for any challenge on Saturday.
At the beginning of the season Amy thought her life outside of soccer would prevent her from playing many games, however as the season progressed she found she was freer than anticipated. With her field experience and soccer head she found herself playing in a variety of positions, quite a challenge for any player. Amy wins the award for the most 'iced' player this year.
JULIA JORDAN
NICOLA WILSON A natural at sports and probably one of the fittest on the team, Nicola, at times, seemed to be everywhere on the pitch. Her footwork, ability to trap the ball and game sense has improved over the season making her a valuable part of the team.
AMY TEH
Having played soccer quite a few years early, Julia arrived eager to get involved. With her speed, tenacity and ability to read the play she quickly became an integral part of the team. Although preferring to play in the attack she graciously took up a role on the back line whenever we needed.
With some experience on the field, but her first season with Crossway, Fiona found herself in a team with new players. She played an important role in giving a foundation for those less experienced and provided a tremendous support to the last line of defense, sometimes playing a sweeper, sometimes centre back. FIONA BAIRD
NICOLE MAPLEDORAM
With Kathryn being injured early in the season Nicole stepped up and offered to have a go at keeping. She surprised even herself at both her ability and enjoyment of the role until it came to an abrupt halt with a broken finger. When not keeping she had an integral role in our last line of defense.
CIARA GALLAM
Although small in statue, Ciara proved she was a force to be reckoned with. Bringing excellent ball skills from her futsal background she was often seen tapping the ball out of the reach of the opponents. As the season progressed she became more familiar with the intricacies of the 'outdoor' game.
STEPHANIE BROCKWELL
Although one of the youngest in the team Steph has been an integral part of the team. Over the season we have asked her learn the position of striker and with her speed and agility she is learning to position herself ready to sprint after the ball.
As one of the returning players, Lauren provided another strong back line of defense. Unfortunately her exciting travel plans meant that she missed the end of the season and her presence was missed! LAUREN COLLINS David Head's reflections on Fury's first ever goal...
JAYNE WILSON
Well, so much for hanging up her boots this season... Jayne was back again and nothing was stopping her. Agreeing to help coach and manage our team, as well as play, she was always busy organising something, and playing on her 'soccer' app!
Julia worked hard down the left wing beating multiple players then moved the ball to the edge of the penalty area before crossing to the centre where I couldn't believe my eyes as Stephanie Brockwell delivered a Beckham like move by moving towards the ball then quickly turned in the other direction sending the defence the wrong way, before allowing the ball to roll across her path then threaded a clever pass through to Allison Fallon who turned up just at the right time at the far post to slot home our first goal.....and what a goal of the first of the season. Alison perhaps you can show your brother how to time a run to the far post !!
Jayne Wilson
201 3 was a year for development. The team came together with a variety of skills, some had a few seasons under their belt, some were just starting out and others were returning to the sport. This resulted in a group of enthusiastic ladies who enjoyed getting to know the game and each other over the season. As the season progressed we became more confident in our abilities and our skills improved dramatically (thanks Tim A for your time at training on Monday nights) and the resulting scorelines reflected this. Although the goals scored were few and far between, they were celebrated like we had just won the cup! To come to the end of the season without a win and still find ourselves eager to play and give our best is a credit to the ladies. Winning 2 fair play awards in the competition is something the team should be proud of - it's amazing how you can come away with a couple of trophies without a win! We were so grateful to Michelle who ably lead the team as captain both on the field and off the field (we certainly noticed when she wasn't there). Her understanding and explanation of the game off-field and instruction/encouragement on-field helped us to know where to be and who to tag. Thanks ladies for your contribution it's been a pleasure to coach and manager you this year.
Arriving with expectations of great things (walking in her brother's footsteps) she didn't disappoint with our first goal. Alison provided movement through our attack and even in defense at times.
Returned for another season with the club and despite battling with a sore ankle during the season, Courtenay continued to play - only opting out when the physio told her to rest the foot! She continued to provide movement down the wing.... COURTENAY GOUGH
ALISON FALLON DAPHNE PANAYOTIDES
This season Daphne was given the challenge of holding a strong defensive position in our final line of defense. She was definitely up for the challenge learning to read the play and anticipating the movement of the attacking players.
KATHRYN CAMERON
Goal Keeping is one of the hardest positions, especially in a team that is learning, however Kathryn took up the position with gusto. It was a slow start with an early injury and coming to grips with the differences from hockey. However she wasn't going to be beaten and she spent hours practicing, both at home (with her son - thanks James) and at training, her skills, anticipation and movement improved significantly. One of her goals was to have half a game without letting a goal through, which eventuated towards the end of the season.
SHANDI TSCHUNG
With a background in Futsal, Shandi demonstrated a great foundation of both ball and general soccer skills on the field. Over the season she has increasingly learnt the finer details of kicking into space and ran her heart out, up and down the field.
KYLIE BAILEY
As one of the newer players, Kylie always seemed to enjoy the game irrespective of the score line. Over the season her skills have developed significantly, and she has come to be a defensive player.
A quiet but enthusiastic member of our team, providing excellent support around the mid field and wing. Her speed helped bring the ball toward our goal. CANDICE UNG
MICHELLE WALLACE As our captain and the most experienced player, Michelle took charge on the field. She had the arduous task of directing and teaching the girls - as well as keeping tabs on her own opponent!
M ic h e lle W a lla c e It's been a delight to captain the Ladies Fury this season. Making the change from the Firsts to Fury had its challenges initially, but it has been wonderful to be a part of seeing the girls develop their skills and learn to trust and work together as a team. Playing slightly out of my comfort zone in the centre back, I had to develop my own skills and awareness of the game... which is still a work in progress! Soccer has become part of a normal Saturday for our family, and it's been nice to play alongside my mum and sister Nicola again this season. I may not always be the calmest player on the field - apologies for yelling so much - but I have enjoyed the new friendships (both on and off the field) and am proud to see how far we have come in 1 8 short weeks! I am looking forward to 201 4, and our first win...!! Go FURY!
A few important people to thank
To get a game off the ground each week requires a massive effort - grounds marked out, oranges cut up, drinks filled, kit cleaned, transport to grounds, lines run, cheering etc... Thanks to those who helped in any capacity (players and non-players) without you we wouldn't get on the field. However, in particular we'd like to thank George for turning up almost every week to run the lines and transport players. Thanks also to the parents/ boyfriends/ partners/ friends who took time out of their lives to watch and encouraged the team.
T h a n k y o u f o r a n o t h e r w o n d e rf u l se a so n o f f o o t ba ll. K e e p sa f e o v e r t h e su m m e r a n d I h o p e t o s e e y o u a l l a g a i n n e xt s e a s o n .