WESTERN SPRINGS
2 December 2015 www.wsafc.org.nz
8 Evergreens Quiz Night
14 Business League 7-a-side football
20
Original concept
Emeralds at
miniNationals Norwest D E S I G N S
12
10
Life Members
Club Physio
16 Holiday Programmes
18 Sponsor and Committee Football
22 Coerver Cup
23 Phoenix - discount tickets
Revised
mini
DESIGN
Graphic design: logos, magazine layout, book covers and promotional material.
027 403 6793
THANKS TO EVERYONE WHO HAS CONTRIBUTED TO THE NEWSLETTER THROUGHOUT THE YEAR... HAPPY HOLIDAYS!
Newsletter coordinator and designer Mini Reis Š 2015 Email: minimaxdesignstudio@gmail.com www.wsafc.org.nz December 2015 3
FROM THE EXECUTIVE CHAIRMAN 2015 has been another very successful year for the club. We have again enjoyed good growth in our playing numbers and now have over 2300 registered members. We have also enjoyed a greater engagement with our wider community through a number of initiatives. Football at WSAFC is truly a 12 month operation and it’s great to see so many of our members, both Juniors and Seniors, enjoying their football and our wonderful facilities during the summer months. I would like to take this opportunity to thank ALL of the volunteers that help make this such a great club. We are very grateful to those who sit on our various committees, coordinate junior grades and coach, manage and support our teams and to everyone who gives up their time to be involved in our club. We value your input and appreciate all your support. As part of our strategic plan to engage with our community and expand our revenue streams we have this year introduced a new tiered sponsorship program. I am extremely grateful
FRONT COVER DESIGN Mini Reis Photography: Mini Reis, Pauline Foster, Denis Ng Thanks to our major sponsors: McDonald’s, Bayleys, PBT and Jeremy Sutton
4 December 2015 www.wsafc.org.nz
to Miranda Burdon for her considerable input with this initiative. We are fortunate to have a bunch of fantastic sponsors and we encourage you all to continue to support these businesses as they support the club, and if you are using their services please let them know you are from the club. In particular, I’d like to welcome two new Gold Sponsors, Jeremy Sutton Family Law and McDonald’s (Pt Chev and Grey Lynn) – it’s a pleasure to have these two businesses join our existing valued Gold Sponsors, Bayleys and PBT Group. These sponsors along with our Family Sponsors allow us to continue to develop as a club and to offer the best possible football experience for our members. On behalf of the club, I wish you all a very safe and enjoyable Christmas break and look forward to another fabulous year for WSAFC in 2016 Regards Grant Russell
CONTRIBUTORS: Grant Russell Tracy Cunnington Miranda Burdon Stephen Lowe Justin Lopes Geoff Brogan
Carlie Eve Dave Cranefield Keith Maddison Denis Ng Warwick Hooper
NOTICE BOARD H ELP WANTE D
2016 R E
G I STRA TION
Junior a nd the 2016 Youth registrat io season will ope ns for n on Monday 7 Decem ber 2015 close Fr and iday 12 F ebruary 2016. All curre nt email wil members will be l the reg istration sent an links. It will be up on ou r website as well.
looking WSAFC seeks a DESIGN ER to help with . ents elem gn after our online and print desi in our This volunteer role will be perfect for someone ion for our local community with design skills and pass club. ately
We estimate that this will take up approxim 4–6 hours per month.
ed Whether you’re a student, or an experienc l club, loca your to e spar to designer with a few hours you. from we’d love to hear our fabulous If you’d like to have a chat about helping Zealand, team at one of the biggest clubs in New ton ning Cun y Trac act cont then please in the first instance on
comms@wsafc.org.nz or 021 032 200
6.
Sunday 13 March
d Boot Swap Junior Open Day an eddon Fields 9am – midday at S ations, a boot swap There will be skill st purchase and you’ll be able to kit any of the WSAFC irts). (socks, shorts and sh
w in February llo fo to ls ai et d e or M w, newsletter but for no lock in the date!
www.wsafc.org.nz December 2015 5
THANK YOU
TO OUR SPONSORS
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Combined, these great sponsors have enabled WSAFC to continue to develop the resources at the club, to provide activities and new programmes. Their support is essential for us to continue to grow and develop. Please consider the huge role they play in keeping WSAFC going and show your support of each of these businesses whenever you need one of their products or services. If you get the chance, make sure you tell them you are a member at WSAFC so they know their support is appreciated and a worthwhile business decision.
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2015 also saw the introduction of a number of new community sponsors who make up the family of sponsors. These include West Lynn Paint & Panel beaters, Jervois Dental, Lotto, Deloittes private, Playmaker Sports, Konica Minolta, Harmony Homes, Vibe Property Managers.
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After what has been another great year at WSAFC we have many people to thank but foremost on this list are our loyal and committed Ssponsors. NS TER TEPRRNINSGPRIN E GS S ES W W PBT Our long term Gold sponsors Bayleys and SP SN TNER PRIN RING TEESR Gold Transport were joined this year by twoWESnew GS S W sponsors in the form of McDonald’s and Jeremy Sutton Family Law. All four have set a very high standard in their support of the club their CL CL O and C I OC AT IA LL ION T BA BALL FIO OO NTF OOT enthusiasm to be involved. We are extremely L O OC CI IA CL C T L ALL AT we B appreciative of the strong support base have N FTOBOATLin IONIO FOO both our community but also our partners.
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3 CHEERS FOR OUR VOLUNTEERS! WE NOW HAVE 2,250 MEMBERS PROUDLY WEARING THE GREEN AND WHITE OF WESTERN SPRINGS ASSOCIATION FOOTBALL CLUB EVERY WEEK. IT’S THEM THAT MAKE THE TACKLES, SCORE THE GOALS AND ENJOY THE LIMELIGHT – BUT WE WANT TO TAKE A MOMENT TO ACKNOWLEDGE THOSE BEHIND THE SCENES. FROM THE COACHES, THE MANAGERS, THE ASSISTANTS AND THE REFS, TO THE ADMINISTRATORS, THE DRIVERS, THE KIT WASHERS AND THE CHEFS – THERE ARE OVER 400 VOLUNTEERS THAT GIVE THEIR TIME AND ENERGY TO OUR FOOTBALL CLUB, WEEK IN, WEEK OUT. THANKS TO THEIR COMMITMENT, WE’RE NOW OFFICIALLY THE LARGEST CLUB IN NEW ZEALAND, WITH MEMBERSHIP, ENTHUSIASM AND RESULTS ON THE RISE AT EVERY LEVEL. WITHOUT OUR VOLUNTEERS, WE SIMPLY COULD NOT FUNCTION. SO WE’D LIKE TO SAY A MASSIVE THANK YOU TO EVERY ONE WHO’S INVOLVED IN THE CLUB. WE WISH YOU A MERRY CHRISTMAS, A SAFE AND HAPPY NEW YEAR AND LOOK FORWARD TO KICKING OFF AGAIN IN 2016.
FROM THE WSAFC EXECUTIVE TEAM
QUIZ NIGHT SUCCESS! - FRIDAY 13 NOVEMBER SAW THE FIRST RUNNING OF OUR EVERGREENS WSAFC QUIZ NIGHT, WITH OVER 100 PEOPLE ATTENDING A VERY ENTERTAINING EVENING. As well as using the event to get club members together for a gathering outside of football, the key reason behind the night was to raise funds for the Evergreens Club.
Quiz Night Sponsors
The quiz night raised over $1500 towards the Grants Fund, a large part of this due to the generosity of our sponsors, which meant we were able to run an evening with great prizes, auctions and raffles.
Cqdify
Evergreens has been formed as a way of players, supporters and past members putting something back to our footballing community. We raise funds through events and subscriptions, so that we can then provide grants to people who need a little bit of extra help, whether their circumstances are through financial constraint, illness or misfortune.
It’s easy to join Evergreens, just click the link https://reg.sportingpulse.com/v6/regoform. cgi?formID=50592 or go to the WSAFC website – the subscription for the balance of this membership year is $30.00 to 30 June 2016 or $20.00 if you are a registered player We are also looking for worthy causes for our grants – players or teams that have good reason to need a bit of extra assistance for a project they are fundraising for – the application form is available from the club website. Forthcoming events will include tennis and golf days in the New Year, and a follow-up to the Quiz Night early in the new season.
8 December 2015 www.wsafc.org.nz
Arnotts Crown Tavern Earthwise Ebos Grey Lynn Glass Lotto Sportswear Mindfood Moselle Racing Team Mud Pie Deli Peter Baker Transport Unilever Universal Video Warner Music WSAFC
www.wsafc.org.nz December 2015 9
OPEN TO
THE PUBLIC
SPORTS PHYSIO ACC & Private provider • Education • Prevention • Treatment • Rehabilitation
The seven a side season is well underway and it is great hopefully, we can better the result achieved last year and PROUD TO BE PHYSIOTHERAPIST OF we CHOICE FOR to see the range of abilities that come down and enjoy our get into the final. While I am away, Katie and Matt will still facilities. Although the duration of the games are not as long keep the clinic ticking over and will be here when you need as the 11 a side equivalent, often the intensity can be higher some treatment or a helping hand. The clinic will be open with as people still take it very seriously. Making sure you take the reduced hours over the Christmas and New Years period to Contact Justin on 021 673 732 www.backtoyourfeet.health.nz time to do a proper warm up is important, getting onto the allow your physio’s to have a well-earned break too! Clinic is located upstairs at Western Springs Pavilion, Seddon Fields, 108 Meola Rd field early and going through the FIFA 11+ movements and Stay on your feet and see you on the sideline exercises helps to get your body primed to perform and will reduce injuries
WESTERN SPRINGS AFC
We have had a lower turn out for this circuit of BASE Training but are still running it on Monday and Thursday mornings at 6.30am. If you would like to come down and have a go please get in touch. The next cycle of BASE Training will start mid January for 6 weeks to make sure you are in good shape to start the season! I will be away in Japan this year with Auckland City FC this December for the Club World Cup along with Sam Burfoot and Darren White from this seasons WSAFC Men’s Team…
Justin Lopes
Please text us to to arrange an appointment
Justin: 021 673732 Katie: 021 023 45503 Matt: 027 631 5631 Follow us on Twitter@back2yourfeet for updates on the team and other BTYF activities.
Justin Lopes and Back To Your Feet Physiotherapy are proud to be the physiotherapists of choice for WSAFC. We provide physiotherapy services to both WSAFC Senior Mens and Womens teams, New Zealand Football. the New Zealand Roller Derby Team, the New Zealand Ice Fernz, Auckland City FC, Pirate City Rollers and Auckland Roller Derby League. Justin has a 10 year history working in football at national and international level with all age groups. We play the game, we know the game and we know how to get you back playing. Our passion for prevention, rehabilitation and performance is what drives us to make us the premier football physiotherapy clinic in the country... all on your doorstep! Our clinic is based upstairs in the WSAFC pavilion and we are here to provide ACC covered treatments for no charge to all WSAFC members, we offer discounted rates for their families, and the public only has to pay $20.00 for an ACC consultation.
We are open all day Monday to Friday and Saturday mornings. Please text Justin for an appointment on 021 673 732 10 December 2015 www.wsafc.org.nz
B.A.S.E. Training Balance And Strength Exercises to prevent injuries in footballers
Reduce your chance of injury this 7-a-side season. Come and train like a pro with the best in the business! •
•
Twice weekly progressively challenging supervised training sessions for 6 weeks Football physiotherapist designed programme Research shows balance and strength exercises reduces chance of getting injured
•
Seddon Fields, 108 Meola Rd, Western Springs 6.30am -7.30am Mon & Thurs 14th Sep - 22nd Oct 2015 $150.00 for WSAFC members $180.00 General public
Prevention
Treatment
Rehabilitation
Places are limited...Contact Justin to confirm your spot!
021 673 732
www.wsafc.org.nz December 2015 11
EXEC CHAIRMAN’S AGM REPORT This is my first year as Club Chairman and I’d like to start off by proudly listing and reflecting on a few of the successes from the 2015 season and at the end of my report I’ll list a few of our goals for 2016/17 which we can measure ourselves against this time next year.
2015 was another exciting year of growth for the club both in terms of membership and income. It was also a year that saw the club strengthen its community position with new sponsors, new longer term sponsor agreements, new supply agreements and increased community engagement.
Off Field Successes
The current success that this club enjoys and should continue to enjoy is due to the dedication, drive and commitment of all of the people involved with the club both past and present. I am extremely grateful to everyone that gave up their time to support the club this year, be it coaches, managers, grade coordinators, parents, referees, or committee members. At the end of the day we are only a collection of people with a shared vision and a desire to give up our time for a great sport.
• Total Membership growth to a new record of 2322 registered members • Gross Income of $900k, a surplus of approx $90k and total assets of $1.9m • Adoption of a new Tiered Sponsorship plan and new longer term contracts with all Sponsors • Retention of our current DOFs and First Team Coaches – Neil Emblen (Mens) and Rico Wilson (Womens) • Formation of the Evergreens • The continued quality of our committee members and volunteers throughout the club On Field Successes • Retaining our place in our first season up in the Men’s NRFL Premier League • The progression and development of young home grown players in our Mens First Team • Beating local rivals Bay Olympic 11–1 at home in the NRFL • A top half finish in the Women’s NRFL Premier League and Semi-finalists in the National Knock Out Cup • National selection for Sam Brotherton and Sam Burfoot in the full All Whites squads as well as Sam Brotherton playing every minute of NZ’s U20 World Cup • National Selection for Evie Millynn in the Women’s FIFA World Cup team • Selection of Liam Williams, Connor Probert, Dane Schnell, as players and Chris Zorocich as coach of the NZ Under 17’s World Cup Squad • Runners up in the National U19 tournament in Napier • 5 Junior teams and 6 Senior teams winning their Leagues • Increased representation in Youth Metro leagues 12 December 2015 www.wsafc.org.nz
We want to be a fun and social place where all our members, our junior parents, and our guests immediately feel welcome, valued and engaged with the club and are provided with the very best facilities. We want to offer all of our players the best opportunities to learn, grow and thrive and for our premier teams to achieve success against the very best opposition. Our start to the season was a little disjointed and difficult with NZ hosting the FIFA U20 World Cup. However, whilst this caused some disruption to us as a club we can also be very proud of Neil’s involvement with a successful U20 All Whites campaign and especially proud that we were able to support the tournament by hosting the FIFA referees before and during the tournament. A big thank you to Paul Rutland, Michael Hope and Keith Maddison for their efforts assisting FIFA and congratulations to last year’s WSAFC Players Player of the Year Sam Brotherton who excelled for the U20 All Whites. It was very exciting for all supporters of our Mens First Team to see them playing at the highest level in the NRFL Premier League and to see the development of some young and talented footballers under Neil’s astute guidance. The season was tough as to be expected with a young squad, however there
were a number of fantastic results to celebrate including an awesome away win over Glenfield Rovers to end their record breaking unbeaten sequence as well as the scarcely believable 11-1 win over local rivals Bay Olympic. We look forward to improving next season and I know Neil’s goals are similar to ours and he will want further improvement after the success he has already had. We will continue to support Neil in his quest for success and silverware. Wouldn’t it be great to see the Chatham Cup in our new trophy cabinet? I would also like to acknowledge the wonderful support given to Neil and the team by Jack Winters, Matt Munford and Chris Zorocich. We are fortunate to have such dedicated and quality support staff. 2015 was our first season with Rico Wilson in charge of our Women’s First Team and I am pleased to say we are very fortunate to have Rico at the helm of our women’s football. Not only is he a very good coaching appointment but a top bloke as well. If only I could convince him to play for our O40 side. The Women’s First Team finished 5th in the NRFL Premier League and whilst I’m sure Rico’s goals were probably loftier than this, I firmly believe that he and Steven Upfold will continue to develop a team to challenge for the very top. I would like to see the profile of our Women’s First Team grow and nothing would be better than seeing them play at home to a packed balcony and packed sidelines of enthusiastic supporters. I’d like to say thank you to all of our sponsors who supported our club this year. Together these great sponsors have enabled WSAFC to continue to develop the resources at the club, to provide activities and new programmes. Their support is essential for us to continue to grow and develop. I strongly encourage everyone connected with the club to show your support for these businesses whenever you need a product or service that they offer. If you get the chance, make sure you tell them you are a member at WSAFC so they know their support is appreciated and a worthwhile business decision. Miranda Burdon a junior parent has worked tirelessly to bring the
club and our sponsors together and I am extremely grateful to Miranda for her time, commitment and support this year. The club have contracted Tracy Cunnington to assist us with all aspects of communication but with an initial focus on the Junior side of the club. Between Tracy and our committees, we will continue to develop and improve all of our communications to members and to the wider community. Our monthly newsletters have been very successful, though we are always looking for new contributors and stories of interest to our members. We want to keep our website fresh, relevant and informative, and we will also be looking to extend our communications through other forms of social media. Tracy, Neil, Zoran, Geoff and the Junior Committee have done a fantastic job this year with our School Holiday Programmes for Juniors, to the point where they are ‘the hottest ticket in town’ for parents and so in demand that we have had to restrict the numbers attending. Neil and Rico’s Junior Academies and the Coerver term programmes have also continued their growth and success. The quality of coaching our young players receive is superb and I know these programs will be developing some really talented players. Our ground lease with Council remains unsigned and this is a key goal for us to start the new year. Over the years we have enjoyed a very healthy relationship with the Local Board and in particular the Chair Shale Chambers who has been a great supporter of WSAFC. However, despite this and despite a lot of time, hard work and tough negotiations, we have had to concede to Council on a few terms in the lease. As you may be aware Council has made a large commitment to transport and have therefore looked to cut funding in other areas. Unfortunately, sports field development and community funding have suffered and we have had to look to other ways to offset previous Council funding. As always I am grateful to Keith Maddison and our other advisors for all their time and effort. I am currently working alongside the other major clubs in the Auckland Football Federation in an attempt to improve the performance and direction of AFF. As clubs we are united in our belief, that recently the Federation has not been acting in the best interests of its member clubs and doing everything possible to promote and develop football in our region. This was very obvious at the recent AFF AGM. As clubs, we are
Life Members
all very keen to work together to see a better, stronger and more dynamic local Federation which will benefit the game at all levels.
Colin Gallagher, Keith Maddison, Willie Sellar, Mario Campbell, Stephen Lowe, Steve Wildsmith, Derek Jones. Absent: Joanne Powell & Martin Bell
This AGM see’s both Michael Hope and Mark Evans stepping down from their roles as Junior and Senior Chairpersons respectively. The good news is that they will stay on as committee members and their knowledge and experience will be vital to those that are elected to fill these vacancies. I have enjoyed working closely with both Michael and Mark over many years and am extremely grateful to them for the time and effort they have put into the club as I am also grateful to all the other members of the Executive Committee for their continued strong governance of the club. Lastly, I am very proud that the Executive Committee have agreed to put forward at this AGM, three very worthy individuals for election as Life Members. Each individual has had a long association with the club and given many years of worthwhile service in various volunteer roles. Should they be elected it will be a pleasure to shout them all a drink after the meeting. Goals for WSAFC 2016/17 • Council ground Lease resolved and signed • Obtain NZF Quality Club Mark Level 1
Warwick Hooper, Senior Chairman
• Sign a lead sponsor • Chatham Cup and Womens National Knock Out Cup • Representation in all Mens Youth Metro leagues • Representation in all Womens Youth Premier Leagues • Winning the ACFC U17 Tournament and the Napier U19 tournament • Retain all existing Senior and Youth Coaches • Every coach at the club attends at least one coaching course Grant Russell
Phil Dunn, Senior Chairman www.wsafc.org.nz December 2015 13
BAYLEYS THURSDAY NIGHT
BUSINESS 7-A-SIDE LEAGUE WESTERN SPRING’S THURSDAY NIGHT 7 A SIDE BUSINESS HOUSE COMPETITION IS NOW WELL UNDERWAY WITH SOME TIGHT COMPETITION IN BOTH THE MIXED AND THE MEN’S LEAGUES. WHAT HAS BEEN PARTICULARLY PLEASING IS THE POSITIVE MOOD AND CONDUCT OF ALL TEAMS DESPITE THE ON FIELD COMPETITION. IT’S THE CLUBS INTENTION TO EXPAND THE COMPETITION NEXT YEAR TO INCLUDE A FEW MORE TEAMS SO IF YOU THINK YOUR BUSINESS MAY BE INTERESTED EMAIL THE CLUB AND WE’LL KEEP YOUR CONTACT DETAILS FOR NEXT YEAR.
14 December 2015 www.wsafc.org.nz
Western Springs Thursday Tournament 2015 MIXED 6.45pm POSITION
TEAM
P
W
D
L
FOR
AGAINST
GD
PTS
1
NETFLIX
6
6
45
17
28
18
2
BANTERLONA
6
5
1
36
14
22
15
3
DANCE & DRAMA
6
4
2
23
16
5
12
4
TGOC
6
3
3
13
17
-4
9
5
BAYLEYS
4
2
2
7
14
-7
9
6
Grant Thornton SKYDIVERS
6
2
3
21
21
0
7
7
MESSI
5
2
3
12
16
-4
6
8
PC ALLSTARS
5
2
3
11
17
-6
6
1
9
NADS
5
10
LACES UNTIED
4
POSITION
TEAM
1
4
9
20
-11
3
1
3
15
23
-8
1
MENS 7.30pm 1
SCREAMING EAGLES
6
P
W
D
L
FOR
AGAINST
GD
PTS
2
STRATON OAKMONT
6
4
1
1
16
6
10
13
3
COTTAGE BLOCK
6
3
2
1
15
12
3
11
6
25
8
17
18
4
GERIS
6
3
3
13
15
-2
9
5
VALS
6
2
2
2
12
7
5
8
6
DELOITTES
6
2
2
2
11
20
-9
8
7
GRUBS
6
2
1
3
17
15
2
7
8
LAZY THURSDAY
6
1
3
2
9
8
1
6
9
KANYE WEST HAM
6
1
5
13
26
-13
3
10
FUJI XEROX
6
1
5
6
19
-13
1
www.wsafc.org.nz December 2015 15
JANUARY HOLIDAY PROGRAMMES AT WSAFC Looking forward to the long summer holiday, but know by mid-January the kids will be eager to start kicking the football again? Here at Western Springs, we’ll have lots of options to keep their skills up over the summer period. Coerver Holiday Programme Monday 18 January – Friday 22 January Seddon Fields 9am – 3pm daily $38 per day or $185 for the week Ages 5 – 15 years welcome Come for the whole week or just a day or two. The choice is yours.
16 December 2015 www.wsafc.org.nz
Neil Emblen’s Boys Programme Monday 25 January – Thursday 28 January
Rico Wilson’s
Girls Programme Monday 25 January – Thursday 28 January
Seddon Fields
Seddon Fields
9.30am – 12.30pm daily
9.30am – 12.30pm daily
$140 for the four days (no daily rate)
$140 for the four days (no daily rate)
Ages 5 – 15 years welcome
Ages 5 – 15 years welcome
EMERALDS Team: Hope Nomani, Charlie Duffy, Neve Dobson, Sylvana Grbin, Bella Cranefield, Nicole Ng, Helena O’Connor, Aimee Lamont 2015 was a very successful inaugural year for the 10th grade Emeralds. This was the first year the team had been together as an all girls team. The great unknown was how good the team might be. Playing in the top division of the 10th grade girls competition we were soon dominating and won every game of the grading round comfortably. The girls were clearly enjoying developing their passing game, and using their ball skills, and quickly became a tight group of team mates and friends. It became obvious early on that we needed to challenge the team and pushed to play up in the 11th grade girls competition. In the 11th grade competition we remained unbeaten through the entire season topping our division, scoring 60 goals and conceding only four. Achieving second place in the 11th grade girls tournament at WSAFC was also a highlight mid season. Post season we turned our attention to tournament play. Despite our best efforts the short format and some harsh referee calls consigned us to 4th against the other top 10th grade teams from around the region. The Nationals gave us a chance to exact revenge and we hoped the longer games would suit us better. In early October the Norwest United 10th Grade Nationals was held over three days out at Huapai. Most of the time the weather was mostly overcast and blustery. Fortunately, the heavy downpours occurred early in the morning before the games started. However this left the fields muddy in parts. The three-day tournament began with a Friday opening ceremony which started with the teams marching up to the front of the Norwest clubhouse, while parents and supporters stood cheering from the side lines. There were eight girls’ teams in the competition. With a team coming from as far down south as Christchurch. There were also 24 boys’ teams in the tournament. The Western Springs AFC was proudly represented by the Emeralds, Nero and BVVB. Despite being a 10th grade team, the Emeralds had a couple of 9th grade girls playing up a grade and competing with girls a year older. The girls were up against familiar rivals in the lineup. Eastern suburbs strikers, Norwest and Three kings United. Teams that the Emeralds have not yet won against leading up to the Nationals. The other formidable team that the Emeralds have not faced but where their reputation precedes them are Ellerslie United. After day one, Emeralds were in second place just behind Eastern Suburb strikers. Competition was tight and scores were close. In between games, the girls relaxed with card games, charades and sing offs with the Western Springs boys over at the next gazebo. Results from day two were pretty similar to day one. It must have been frustrating for the team when the ball just would not find the back of the net. At the end the two days, Emeralds came away with three wins and four draws. The Emeralds were second equal with Norwest who clawed their way back from fifth the day before. Eastern Suburb Strikers remained at the top of the table, while Three King United Broad remained at fourth.
Going into the finals playoffs. The mood at camp was quieter than usual. You could feel the tension in the air, but the girls were focused and ready. Pre match warmup rituals were underway as Emeralds prepared for the semifinal matchup against the host club Norwest. The first half was fast and furious and there were some scrapes and bruises. Having only one substitute was also tricky at times. Nevertheless, Emeralds came away with a 2–0 lead at half time. The second half was just as tense as the first as Norwest bounced back with a goal. Reignited they put pressure on and leveled the score with a last minute equalizer from a well-positioned corner kick and a brilliant volley into the back of the net. When it came to the penalty shootouts. The stress showed in the player’s faces. Taking turns the players stepped up to the spot and took their shot. The cross bar challenge during training must have helped as the Emeralds came away with the win, four goals to two. The cheering from the sideline supporters thundered the ground as if the finals were won. The girls looked relieved but contented. In the other semifinal matchup we had the tournament favorites Eastern Suburb Strikers go against Three Kings United Broad. This game also ended with a penalty shootout with Eastern Suburb Strikers moving on to the finals. The finals were hard fought and physical. There were anxious moments when a key Emerald player had to be carried off the field as a result of a tackle. Just before the end of the first half, a quick counter attack move awarded the Emeralds with a goal. Some great long range shots from both teams were unlucky to harvest any goals. As full time approached the Strikers were putting on quite a bit of pressure. As the final whistle blew, Emeralds defense held on for a 1–0 win. Mums were flailing their arms around like crazed witches. While dads did not fare any better on the coolness scale as they danced like chickens on hot coal. It goes without saying the girls were over the moon as they piled on each other and then transitioned into a celebratory dance called the “Nae Nae”. This is the first time Emeralds have beaten the Strikers and the first time a WSAFC girls 10th grade team had won the Nationals and been unbeaten. At the prize giving ceremony, the Emeralds were also recognized with tournament awards. Helena O’Connor won the silver boot, Charlie Duffy player of the final and Nicole Ng goal keeper of the tournament. The amazing result was a testament to great defense, self-belief and teamwork. The girls in the team were a pleasure to coach, all showing great skills and commitment and most importantly every week they had great fun. All in all, it was a fantastic first year for the Emeralds. Everyone is looking forward to next year already although it is hard to imagine how we will top this year!
David Cranefield (Coach) and
Denis Ng
www.wsafc.org.nz December 2015 17
ANNUAL SPONSORS AND COMMITTEE MEMBERS FOOTBALL WHAT A SPECTACLE… GLORIOUS FOOTBALL A gloriously fine and hot early spring afternoon greeted a bunch of keen footballers as they arrived at the club for the first Annual Sponsors and Committee Members Football Game. The theme for the day was a light jovial game of footy (yeah right) and a chance to mingle whilst enjoying a few refreshing beverages and a tasty late lunch. Eligibility was simple – you had to be either a Committee Member, a Sponsor, a Life Member or a First Team player (Men’s or Women’s – no discrimination here) Captains for the day were Life Member Keith Maddison in the home kit and former Club Captain and Current Sponsor, Scotty Sheppard from PBT in the away kit. After a quick plum pud to determine picking order, the captains went about making their team selections. Unsurprisingly Neil, Liam and the Men’s First team players were the early selections, with a few fancied committee members anxiously waiting for their names to be called by the skips. Fortunately, Messrs Rutland, Noyer and Campbell found themselves on cooking duty and were spared any ignominy. Scotty’s team were quickly into their stride and 1–0 up, with Embers controlling from the back and well supported by Life Member Colin Gallagher defying his age, Michael Hope and new Gold Sponsor Jeremy Sutton. Up front, the attacking flair was being provided by the talented ladies from the First Team, Captain Rebecca O’Neil, Flora from Lotto and Stephanie. Tracy Cunnington, was providing the communication and the pace out wide until she was unceremoniously chopped down by the bully… sorry
18 December 2015 www.wsafc.org.nz
Mark Evans. It didn’t escape my attention that the Captain Mr Sheppard subbed himself very early on complaining of heat exhaustion. Keith’s green team came out strong in the second half with most – sorry all – of the running being done by the youthful front line of Myer, Arnold, Liam and Club Chairman Grant Russell. The creativity in the middle was provided by Treasurer Zoran Jerkovic with Ashleigh our First Team GK and Bayleys Sponsorship Manager, showing some nice touches. The backline was marshalled well by Life Member Steve Wildsmith but the pace and energy did seem to increase when he was subbed for Mini Reis and the Green team scored a well deserved equaliser. As the sun poured down and some very young legs were introduced from the bench, Scotty’s black team scored a late winner with a well taken goal from Jeremy Sutton. Club legend Jacko controlled things well with the whistle, without ever leaving the centre circle, until a late appearance in the second half where if memory serves me well, he may have missed a sitter. Wouldn’t have happened in his younger days! Anyway, a fabulous day as you can see from the photos, no injuries and a few well earned drinks on my balcony afterward. Lets hope this festive game becomes a very regular fixture on the calendar. Thank you to all of those that turned up and provided such a spectacle for me.
The Man on the Balcony
www.wsafc.org.nz December 2015 19
NORWEST NATIONALS Early October the Norwest United 10th Grade Nationals was held over three days out at Huapai. Most of the time the weather was mostly overcast and blustery. Fortunately, the heavy downpours occurred early in the morning before the games started. However this left the fields muddy in parts. The three-day tournament began with a Friday opening ceremony which started with the teams marching up to the front of the Norwest clubhouse, while parents and supporters stood cheering from the side lines. There were eight girls’ teams in the competition. With a team coming from as far down south as Christchurch. There were also 24 boys’ teams in the tournament. The Western Springs AFC was proudly represented by the Emeralds, Nero and BVVB. Despite being a 10th grade team, the Emeralds had a couple of 9th grade girls playing up a grade and competing with girls a year older. The girls were up against familiar rivals in the lineup. Eastern suburbs strikers, Norwest and Three kings United. Teams that the Emeralds have not yet won against leading up to the Nationals. The other formidable team that the Emeralds have not faced but where their reputation precedes them are Ellerslie United. After day one, Emeralds were in second place just behind Eastern Suburb strikers. Competition was tight and scores were close. In between games, the girls relaxed with card games, charades and sing offs with the Western Springs boys over at the next gazebo. Results from day two were pretty similar to day one. It must have been frustrating for the team when the ball just would not find the back of the net. The refereeing was strict at times and the girls were caught out a few times on the fifa rules. The stumbling coaches had to scramble between games attempting to provide crash courses on how to perform the correct throw in technique. They also tried explaining the intricacies of the offside rule. Often this was received with blank looks or agreeable nods of confusion. At the end the two days, Emeralds came away with three wins and four draws. The Emeralds were second equal with Norwest who clawed their way back from fifth the day before. Eastern Suburb Strikers remained at the top of the table, while Three King United Broad remained at fourth. Going into the finals playoffs. The mood at camp was quieter than usual. You could feel the tension in the air, but the girls were focused and ready. Pre match warmup rituals were underway as Emeralds prepared for the
semifinal matchup against the host club Norwest. The first half was fast and furious and there were some scrapes and bruises. Having only one substitute to burn was also concerning at times. Nevertheless, Emeralds came away with a 2–0 lead at half time. The second half was just as tense as the first as Norwest bounced back with a goal. Reignited they put pressure on and leveled the score with a last minute equalizer from a wellpositioned corner kick and a brilliant volley into the back of the net. When it came to the penalty shootouts. The stress showed in the player’s faces. Taking turns the players stepped up to the spot and took their shot. The cross bar challenge during training must have helped as the Emeralds came away with the win, four goals to two. The cheering from the sideline supporters thundered the ground as if the finals were won. The girls looked relieved but contented. In the other semifinal matchup we had the tournament favorites Eastern Suburb Strikers go against Three Kings United Broad. This game also ended with a penalty shootout with Eastern Suburb Strikers moving on to the finals. The finals were hard fought and physical. There were anxious moments when a key Emerald player had to be carried off the field as a result of a tackle. Just before the end of the first half, a quick counter attack move awarded the Emeralds with a goal. Some great long range shots from both teams were unlucky to harvest any goals. As full time approached the Strikers were putting on quite a bit of pressure. As the final whistle blew, Emeralds defense held on for a 1–0 win. Mums were flailing their arms around like crazed witches. While Dad’s did not fare any better on the coolness scale as they danced as if chickens on hot coal. Goes without saying the girls were over the moon as they piled on each other and then transitioned into a celebratory dance called the “Nae Nae”. This is the first time Emeralds have beaten the Strikers and let alone win the Nationals unbeaten. At the prize giving ceremony, the emeralds also got recognized with some additional awards. Namely, the silver boot, player of the final and goal keeper of the tournament. The amazing result could be a testament of the great defense, self-belief and teamwork. Well done Emeralds!
Springs back to back holders Courageous performances from the youngest teams from Springs helped to secure enough points to take out the Coerver Club Cup for the second time this year. With some surprising losses early on in the tournament from the 13–14 year bracket, it was down to the 7–9 year and the 10–12 year teams to carry the club through. Each year the Coerver Club Cup is contested by Affiliate Members, including teams from TKU, Eastern Suburbs, Sacred Heart, Pukekohe and Tauranga. This year Western Springs were proud hosts and the visiting teams were well impressed by the standard of the pitch and the facilities available. Unlike other tournaments the Coerver Club Cup is based on aggregate points across all grades and including points gathered from the various skills stations (shooting for points, dribbling for the fastest time, etc). After the pool rounds only Los M qualified to the finals but were knocked out by Sacred Heart. The Group being won by Manurewa Lightning over Tasty FC from Pukekohe.
22 December 2015 www.wsafc.org.nz
WS Bullets were winners of the 3rd and 4th playoff while Firebolts lost 5–3 to Tauranga in the final of the 10–12 years. In the youngest division however, Springs Vitesse were playing Springs Forza in a mighty arm wrestle of a final which ended locked at 2–2 and went to penalty sprint off. In the pool rounds Forza had triumphed 4–1 but in the finals it all came down to a sprint off which Vitesse took out in style. Max Buellens had a special mention for his efforts in the sharp shooter and skills stations. Overall it was another brilliant club effort in what is designed to be a very technical tournament that rewards teams who can pass with pace and maintain control of the ball in tight spaces and under pressure. We look forward to hosting the next one at Springs in 2016.
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WSAFC GOLD SPONSORS Complimenting McDonald’s local sponsorship of clubs like Western Springs AFC, a new national sponsorship has been agreed with New Zealand Football. Building on the Small Whites and McDonald’s Skills Zone programmes, McDonald’s Junior Football cements McDonald’s position as a key supporter of junior football in New Zealand. McDonald’s is working with New Zealand Football to increase the number of young players registered with clubs around the country, and also providing additional resources to football development officers. 15,000 footballs will also be handed out to Kiwi kids through the season.
Proud supporters of Western Springs AFC Since planting roots in Wellington in 1972, PBT, then known as Peter Baker Transport, has grown from a one man, one truck operation to the country’s leading provider of Courier, Transport, Bulk and Logistics services. At PBT, we operate as an extension of your business and before we do anything we take the time to understand your unique business requirements. We use these requirements to tailor and develop smart solutions that will not only work for you but will provide your business with an economic and quality service. As part of our commitment to WSAFC, all new business bought on through a WSAFC affiliation will result in a percentage of that sale being donated back to the club.
Give us a call today – 09 250 0449 www.pbt.co.nz
Jeremy Sutton NZ Family Law Bayleys have continued to be a major sponsor of WSAFC so please make sure you support them if you are considering selling Bayleys are pleased to be able to offer all WSAFC members an opportunity to support their local club by way of a $1,500 donation for every property which is listed exclusively and sold by Bayleys Real Estate Ltd. If you’re thinking that this might be the time to sell, let’s make a time to discuss the possibilities. Call Bernadette Morrison on 021 345 520 24 August 2015 www.wsafc.org.nz
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Know your legal rights and options Jeremy is a specialist family lawyer with over 20 years experience in family law. Please see his website for free information or call Jeremy on 09 309 4647
WSAFC FAMILY SPONSORS Freephone: 0800 933 008 Telephone: 09 356 6000 www.konicaminolta.co.nz
Jervois dental provides you with personal care. We specialise in managing your anxiety, with high tech sedation (if needed). Ceramic crowns, can be done in a single visit using CEREC cad cam.
Graham Shaw is the only dentist, so you know who you will be seeing. See our website for more details: www.jervoisdental.co.nz 139 Jervois Road Herne Bay. Phone: 09 3602475 Email: admin@jervoisdental.co.nz
Deloitte Private works with individuals, families and privately owned businesses to complete accounting & tax compliance work cost effectively using cloud based technology. Whatever your ambition for your business – boosting performance, expansion, solving operational issues or selling – we also have the specialists, strategies and connections to make it happen.
Lotto is a high quality international sportswear brand, that combines Italian fashion flair with performance technologies to help athletes play and look their best. In New Zealand, Lotto is football. We sponsor and supply clubs and tournaments nationwide because we love the game.
Darren White +64 9 3030778 dwhite@deloitte.co.nz www.deloitteprivate.co.nz
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M: 021 118 7703 W: www.info@vibeapartments.co.nz West Lynn Painters & Panelbeaters is a local family business run by father and son, Barry and Drago Jujnovich. Using the most up-to-date services available, your car will look like new.
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Pop in for all your paint or panelbeating jobs or call them on 378 6090 www.wsafc.org.nz August 2015 25
THE GREAT WSAFC BOOT SWAP SUNDAY 13 MARCH 2016 (CLUB OPEN DAY)
BEFORE THE KICK-OFF TO THE 2016 SEASON, WE ARE ORGANISING A COLLECTION OF SECOND-HAND BOOTS IN GOOD CONDITION, TO BE ‘GIFTED’ TO KIDS WHO NEED A BIGGER PAIR OF BOOTS FOR THE NEW SEASON. How it works: Upstairs in the clubhouse, you will find a boot collection box. Bring in your old boots (tied together by the laces) in a bag marked with the size. Drop them into the collection box. During the Club Open Day on Sunday 13 March you are invited to come along and select a pair of boots that will fit you/your child for the 2016 season. You can make a voluntary $5 donation if you take a pair of boots. Strictly one pair of boots per individual. The idea is to be able to pass on your old boots to others when they become too small, and in turn, you get to take a bigger pair for free. However, the offer of a free pair of boots is open to all families, whether you have an old pair to donate or not. Likewise, please feel free to donate old boots even if you do not want a pair in return. Any surplus boots will be donated to a club who needs them. 26 December 2015 www.wsafc.org.nz
2015 COMMITTEE MEMBERS 2015 Executive Committee Grant Russell – grant@harmonyhomes.co.nz Executive Chairman Zoran Jerkovic – zoran.jerkovic@bayleys.co.nz Treasurer - 027 577 3715 Joanne Powell – jopowellnz@gmail.com Registrar & Junior Controller 5th-8th grade Peter Andrew, Mark Evans, Michael Hope, Steve Lowe, Paul Rutland, Barry Noyer.
2015 Senior Committee Warwick Hooper – warwick.hooper@lionco.com Senior Chairman Mark Evans – mark.evans@aucklandcouncil.govt.nz Mario Campbell – info@greylynnglass.co.nz 0275 744 644 Zoran Jerkovic – zoran.jerkovic@bayleys.co.nz 027 577 3715 Barry Noyer – badbaz44@hotmail.com 021 615 881 Douglas Robinson – robinsond@poal.co.nz Paul Blanchard – paul.blanchard@transdiesel.co.nz
2015 Junior/Youth Committee Phil Dunn Junior/Youth Chairman Michael Hope – michaelhope67@gmail.com Jason Laing, Kate Beddoe, Paul Thomas, Mike Cunnington.
Football Development Officer Geoff Brogan – FDO@wsafc.org.nz 021 400 480
Communications & Sponsorship Coordinator Tracy Cunnington – comms@wsafc.org.nz
Club Manager Paul Rutland clubmanager@wsafc.org.nz 027 294 7984 www.wsafc.org.nz December 2015 27
COACH SUPPORTERS
SCORE PLAYERS FOOTBALL
WIN
CLUB
STRIKER
www.wsafc.org.nz www.wsafc.org.nz www.wsafc.org.nz
GAME GOAL BALL TEAM DEFENDER REF TURF
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