After being promoted to the topflight, the U15 knew it would be a tough season. As maybe expected, they lost a fair few games after only securing a couple of wins and draws. However, a late rally saw a good league cup run, progressing through to the semi-finals.
Player retention was fantastic, with most players attending all training sessions and most games. We also welcomed 2 new players – Zoe and Rosie – who have fitted into the team perfectly.
Many of our U15s are also part of the club Young Leader Programme They help coach the mini soccer teams on Friday evenings and referee mini soccer games on Sundays. Special mention to Sophia W, Priya and Ellie, for being invited to referee at the Epworth Forest Tournament a few weeks ago.
The whole team have recently started training with our Womens team and are benefiting hugely from the experience.
Thank you to the following people for their support during the season
Lisa Collins – Lisa Collins Hair Design who is the U15 team sponsor. Lisa is a long-term supporter and sponsor of the club, and the team really appreciate her support.
Jason and Lee – for their support and guidance in training
Parents – for their support, taxi services and line running expertise
Chloe (Captain) and the rest of the Womens Team – for their support and advice in training. And for putting up with some pretty wayward tackles.
The end of season awards are always difficult to decide upon as arguably every player in the team has demonstrate skills, attitude or commitment that would be worth of winning an award. However, choices much be made, and I am really pleased to confirm the following awards:
Players Player – Sophia K
Sophia is a very popular player. Always ready with a smile, sense of humour and top-drawer banter.
On the pitch, Sophia is an incredibly strong player with some great skills and willingness to get stuck into the game. Sophia is an integral part of the team and I look forward to seeing what she achieves in season 2022/23
Parents Player – Ava
Ava is super committed to the team and attends as many training sessions and games as her busy Athletics schedule allows. Her on pitch effort is unmatched, and she provides energy and drive to any game she plays in.
Ava is one of the most positive people I have met – her fantastic attitude and effort has a hugely positive impact on the team and I am very pleased that she will be a part of the team next season.
Most Improved – Cara
Cara joined us just before this season, having never played football before. By her own admission, she struggled to kick a ball. Cara’s improvement over the season has been dramatic. Her game management, interpretation and anticipation is excellent. Cara also is a formidable defender who’s player marking is strong and precise. I look forward to seeing her confidence improve further as we move into the new season.
Coaches Player – Ellie
Ellie has attended every training session, every extra training session and every game thorough the season, playing in many different positions. She is a formidable player, with a strong kick and a great 2nd keeper for the team.
As a young leader, Ellie has completed all the compulsory requirements set by the programme, including the FA courses. She is now waiting to turn 16 in a few months to take her 1st coaching course.
Ellie frequently referees the club’s mini soccer games. She has also been leading coaching sessions for our Wildcats members for many months and loves the work she does with our young players.
Outside of club activities, Ellie has been a referee at the recent Epworth Forest Tournament and has been coaching at football holiday clubs.
Ellie is a great ambassador for Rugby Town Girls and Womens FC and for female football.
As I move into my 6th season of coaching this team – it has been a privilege to work with them from U10 to now moving to U16. They are a fantastic group of young women, and the time I spend with them during training are some of my favourite parts of the week.
We now move into preseason training, ready for a foray into the U16 league!
Let’s do it all again Team 16!
Claire Angus
U15 Manager