2023 has again seen huge participation in school soccer with over 80 kids playing in seven teams from Under 7’s to Seniors. The school soccer community is a great one to be part of and to see the kids smiling, having fun and supporting each other is excellent. The Under 7’s have embraced their first foray into school sport (and the cold mornings) and a big congratulations must go to them as well as our other players new to the sport this year. Likewise our year 6’s, many of whom are in their 5th year of school soccer - we hope you enjoyed your final year representing CVPS. And everyone in between - you should be proud of the enthusiasm and sportsmanship you bring each week, win lose or draw.

Each team has also participated in a district night carnival at Bowker St throughout the season, and while the teachers may have had some tired students the following day, they all throughly enjoyed the opportunity to stay up late and play under lights. A big pat on the back for you all!

A massive thank you must go to our wonderful coaches and team managers without whom we wouldn’t be able to field these teams. The under 7’s have been ably coached by Martin Cole, assisted by Derek Franklin and managed by Natasha Franklin. Steve Richards stepped up to coach the under 8’s this year with help from Andy Smith, managed by Kelly Blackwell. Our two U9 teams have enjoyed expert tutelage by Craig Fountain and Dylan Drewitt and are kept in line by Cassie Smith and Brooke Hamden.  The U10’s are superbly led by Angelica Crabb and well organised by Lou Gardner.  Our two senior teams have been coached by long standing volunteers Dave Merritt and Rob Nadin.

A special mention must go to Rob who has been volunteering as a soccer coach for more years than we’ve kept count of throughout all his children’s time at Coro. With Charlie in year 6 this year we will be farewelling Rob and want to thank him for his many years of service to school soccer - Cheers Rob!  As soccer coordinators we’d like to take this opportunity to recognise the time and effort that goes into volunteering and we thank you all for your efforts this year. 

 Looking ahead, 2024 will be the last year we will have children at Coro and therefore will be our last year in this role. Please take a moment to think about how you can contribute to the ongoing success of school soccer - we’d love to do a handover year next year with the coordinator/s of the future and urge you to come and have a chat with us if you think it’s a something you might be interested in doing.

Kate Merritt and Nikki Maas 

Soccer Coordinators