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Sun 17th August 2008

2008 GRAND FINAL - Hensley Athletic Field
U12 Girls: Coogee Utd V Easts
Result: Coogee Utd 0 Easts 0
(Coogee Utd win on penalties)

Who said fairytales do not come true?
If you could have written a script you could not have ended it better.

Whilst we started with modest ambitions this year the Coogee juggernaut became irrepressible to the extent that there was great belief and real will to win. It just goes to show that with commitment, application and real desire anything can be achieved. But this season was about much more than a bunch of girls getting fit and playing football. It was about friendships and camaraderie and memories that will last a long time. It was about laughter and meeting new people through a sporting club which brought us all together. The fact that we achieved something special along the way was just an added bonus.

What a day yesterday was. Picture perfect conditions, a great stadium and a sea of black and white in the grandstand in great voice. How could we fail. In my haste to get to the ground I forgot Natalie's shin pads. Luckily for me we managed to get a spare pair. I think I would have been ex communicated from the family. Whilst a number of girls professed to having butterflies pre game it did not show as they attacked Easts with gusto from the kick off. The game itself was fairly evenly matched and in truth I always suspected that it would go to penalties. I knew we were going to win when just as the referee blew the whistle to signify that it was penalties I found a gold coin on the pitch. I turned to Berni and Joseph and told them that our luck was in. It was at that stage that I decided to include Georgia in the five penalty takers and place Kiarna in goal. The rest is history.

16 matches, one loss, and only eight goals conceded during the entire year says it all really but as usual it is all about the girls so allow me the indulgence of recounting my impressions of each of the girls this season.

Jessie - Found her feet in the sweepers role and showed her class when it mattered most. Was strong and was one of the main reasons why we were so hard to break down all year. A natural athlete. Converted a penalty which almost gave Berni a cardiac arrest.

Ruby - Another great athlete. Strong and ensured that if an opposition player needed nullifying she was the person to do the job. Took a penalty with great conviction. A pleasure to coach.

Yaz - Four foot nothing, nine years old but a heart as big as Phar Lap. Can't wait to see her playing in her own age group. Determination personified.

Annalisa - Another one who is just loads of fun to be around. The best dressed footballer in the league. Never shirks her responsibilities and always plays in the right spirit.

Natalie - Loves being a part of the team and showed bucket loads of improvement during the year. Never complains and gets the job done with a minimum of fuss.

Lisa - Versatile player who covered a multitude of positions during the year. Showed some real glimpses of class.

Mia - Strong and dependable. Is only going to get better. Has some real skill with the ball at her feet.

Alkira - Another who will benefit from this season. Blended into the team very well and was great in the holding midfielders role. Who will ever forget her goal against Easts.

Kiarna - The heart and soul of the team. The girls really looked up to her both literally and metaphorically. Her penalty saves won us the grand final.

Ailish - A revelation this season and the teams most improved player. Caused havoc for opposition players on the right hand side.

Harriet - Is only going to get better as she gets stronger. Great dribbling technique.

Georgia - Who will ever forget her slotting the penalty to win us the championship. Has great balance and a real ability to stand up defenders. Will play representative football. Must get her pedigree from her Italian heritage.

Mayliss - Never stops trying. Has huge amounts of skill and the engine of a rolls royce. Another one who will play representative football.

None of this would have been possible without the dedication of the rest of the management team. To Berni, Joseph, Fred and Maurizio a big thank you from all of us. To all the parents and supporters thank you for allowing me the pleasure of coaching your children. I hope I have taught them a little about this beautiful game and a bit about playing it the right way.

To see the emotion and joy on everyone's face after the game yesterday tells me that it was oh so worthwhile. Lets do it again next year.

Enjoy the off season and see you in 2009.


- Report by Raff Del Vecchio

Sat/Sun 2/3rd August 2008

U12 Girls: Coogee Utd V Easts
Result: Coogee Utd 1 Easts 0

HOUDINI PULLS ANOTHER RABBIT OUT OF HIS HAT

I do not know how many names I have called Raff during the season (some rated MA15+) but a new one is Harry Houdini.

Who would have ever thought this man could coach these mostly 10 year old girls to a grand final in the Under 12's competition. Based on all the anonymous feedback I have received from the parents and players during the year it seemed as though I was the only one who believed in him, NOT. Well I have to give it to the Italian as he came up with the goods and exceeded all pre season expectations to deliver a fairytale result for our girls.

What a long two weeks it has been for the coaching brigade. I cannot believe I wake up in the middle of the night with an image of Raff holding his whiteboard presenting his proposed field positions much to Maurice, Fred and my dissatisfaction. Raff loves to play the Italian style defensive football whereas Fred likes a more attacking style. Maurice and I just want to win (at all costs).

At training Raff decided to introduce a last minute corner strategy which would see the girls stand outside the opponents goal box and charge in after Kiarna crosses the ball in. We thought he was mad and that this strategy was only suited to the top European League. Weren't we wrong, but more of this later?

It was inevitable that controversy was to strike when once again ESFA failed to appoint an official referee. I will refrain from sharing my feelings about the fill-in referee as he did volunteer his services for free.

In the first five minutes we were under the pump with Easts launching a few attacks, one of which saw a shot for goal deflect of Kiarna's knees and hit the goalpost almost conceding a goal against us. The attack continued until Jessie showed them who's boss passing a great ball to Georgia who ran to the halfway mark and then offloaded to the flying Mayliss. We were convinced Mayliss would run down the sideline and then position herself or a team-mate for a shot at goal until a six foot (12 year old) Easts player tackled Mayliss rugby style much to Raff and Laurance's frustration (as can be clearly heard on video). We were very unlucky not to have got a free kick.

The Easts defence immediately set up another attack which was foiled by the one and only Ruby who like Jessie, delivered a great clearance kick to Aylish who beat two Easts defenders and set Mayliss up for a great cross to Georgia who just fell short of getting a boot to it. I know all the girls played their hearts out on Sunday, but Aylish was the stand out for me as she did not stop all game and constantly turned defense into attack with many great runs up the sideline around the Easts players.

Even though most of the first half was played in our quarter Jessie, Mia, Natalie, Ruby and Annalisa made us look well in control with magnificent clearance kicks by all throughout the game. Natalie had some amazing kicks which I had not seen before (obviously you have been holding off for the finals to show off your talent) and the fearless Annalisa kept charging at the giants stopping most of the attacks with ease. Ruby always seemed to turn up in the right place at the right time with Alkira by her side. The midfielders backed up fantastically running back to help defend every time Easts broke our midline. Harriet (twinkle toes) required some encouragement early on (I think the Mexican jumping beans hadn't been digested as yet), but once she got going she like Aylish started to create opportunities for Coogee with dazzling runs. Yassie worked tirelessly as usual making several breaks and being encouraged by her father who could be heard on the other side of the field screaming "go to it love, go to it". This young girl showed no fear and was on the receiving end of some big hits.

Late in the first half Easts launched their strongest attack which looked certain to succeed until Jessie again cleared the ball from just in front of goal to the halfway line. This kick set up our next attack where Alkira showed how great she really is beating three defenders before Easts sent the ball back to the halfway line. Mia (with Raff screaming "big kick, big kick") was not going be shown up and sent the ball flying down to Georgia who ran along the sideline before being shoulder charged from behind in the Easts quarter. My feelings could be heard on video and will only be played after hours. Our girls though had the last laugh with a corner kick being awarded to us. This is where the Italian's training kicked in. All I could hear is Raff calling out to the girls "number 1, number 1" as Kiarna placed the ball for her corner kick. I thought she was out of energy as she had backed up for the whole half, but I was proven wrong. Our strikers stood back on the outside of the box (confusing the Easts girls) and then Kiarna kicked the ball to perfection delivering it to Mayliss' boot which did the rest, sending the ball high into the air with the goalkeeper getting her fingers onto the ball but to no avail as the ball successfully hit the back of the net giving us our one and only goal.

Now picture this (it's all on video), hysteria set in with deafening screams on my right from Louise, Laurence, Collette and Maria who were jumping up and down like they were on trampolines. It gets better folks. I then see (also on video) an Italian by the name of Raff screaming like someone stole his lunch. I thought he may have hurt his big toe or something, but I quickly realised he was screaming (whilst jumping up and down) "it worked, it worked, it worked". It sure did and was the catalyst for Coogee launching attack after attack for the remainder of the first half.

Now I know I wasn't going to payout on the referee, BUT I will say that we were all concerned that he thought the girls were playing 45 minute halves instead of the standard 25 minutes. The alarm bells rang when I had already recorded 25 minutes of football even with all the throw-ins cut out. My guess is that we played about 33 minutes in the first half. Raff highlighted our concerns to the referee who responded with a gesture at Raff to be quiet, before he finally succumbed to the screaming Coogee mums and blew the half time whistle. We had thirteen timekeepers for the second half and they all let the referee know they were watching.

The second half saw our girls being muscled by the opposition some more with a few heated moments occurring where Raff and the parents were screaming out for free kicks to the referee when our girls were held back, elbowed and shoved. Georgia was pulled up with the referee's daughter and they were told to stop pushing each other. Georgia kindly advised the referee "you should tell her to stop pushing because soccer is a non-contact sport". The girls shook hands and went back to battle stations.

What happened next would give Mia and Jessie the new nicknames of "straws". I think we saw the dark side of Raff (also on video) when he caught Mia (again) and Jessie gasbagging but gee they deserved more than just a scream. With Easts constantly launching attacks, these lovely young ladies were discussing the weekend social pages and not even watching the game. They were the 'straws that broke the camel's back'. We quickly recomposed ourselves and went back to business. We love you girls.

The final 10 minutes were heart stopping when Easts made another break through our defence with Jessie chasing down the biggest 12 year old I have ever seen. The Easts attacker got to within two metres of the goals for what was to be a certain goal before Lisa heroically dived at the striker's feet and grabbed the ball with the striker and Jessie leaping over her whilst on the ground to avoid crushing her. The screaming was uncontrollable and Lisa got up, ran to the edge of the box and kicked the ball to Harriet who was at the halfway line panting. We thought we had another attack underway when controversy struck again with the man in black (referee) blowing his whistle. He walked over to the sideline to seek the advice of an ESFA representative and after some deliberation awarded Easts a free kick right in front of our goals for Lisa supposedly kicking the ball when outside the box. I must admit that I went home and checked the referee's decision with the third umpire (my video) and can confirm that he was wrong and the screaming Coogee mums were right. You did well Lisa to not let anything in. Nonetheless the girls were able to clear the ball and successfully defend against the continued Easts attack until the final whistle blew and we won the game.

All in all it was a nerve racking game which showed again how heart and determination can overcome the most difficult challenges (it's a bit too deep I think). But I would have to say the Italian, also known as Mussolini, Lazarus, Houdini and Raff came up with the goods and showed us all why he is coach and we (Fred, Maurice & I) are his humble servants. I must add that he could never have done it without his relief Manager Alice who filled in for Berni who I think went to schoolies week in Hawaii for her 50th birthday.

My closing point (much to everyone's relief) is that I have a lovely group of people on my video tape dancing around Queens Park shaking their bottoms at the camera. That scene will definitely make it on the end of season DVD. I will leave the last report to Raff and wish all you beautiful girls the very best for the grand final. Go out there, take all of it in and have lots of fun on the day without the screaming parents on the sideline. We will all be in the grandstands drinking champagne.


- Report by Joseph

Sat/Sun 5/6th July 2008

U12 Girls: Coogee Utd V Queens Park J
Result: Coogee Utd 2 Queens Park J 1

Firstly I would like to thank Joseph for his recent match reports and unwavering support during our one loss this season. It is very comforting to know that you can have such a trusted ally when the chips are down. Whilst I have instructed defamation lawyers to closely scrutinize his reports now is my opportunity to draw my own analogies with famous figures in history.

Some of you more religiously orientated people would be familiar with St Thomas, or as he is more commonly known "doubting Thomas". He was the one who wanted to see proof of crucifixion and blatantly refused to show faith. After mercilessly calling for my removal as head coach and openly questioning my acumen and competence as a tactician Joseph shall forever be known as St Thomas of Coogee. Another figure who comes to mind is Benedict Arnold, and for those of you who are unfamiliar with this infamous figure I suggest you Google him and then draw your own conclusions.

Now onto the game. Once again ESFA gave the Coogee girls match of the day status with a 3pm kick-off at headquarters in front of the canteen. A larger than usual contingent of Coogee faithful were present for this must win game against Queens Park J. I think it was the lure of the Chandon provided by Fred and Laurence which had them flocking to Heffron.

To describe today as one of those magic days which epitomises all the great reasons why we are involved in grass roots football would be an understatement. Great weather, a boisterous enthusiastic crowd and magnificent sportsmanship (not to mention the right result) all culminating in one of the most enjoyable afternoons I am sure we have all had in a long time. Each and every one of these girls should be so proud of not only what they achieved today, but what they are achieving this year. When Georgia slotted the winner my instant reaction was to embrace (in a manly sort of way) Benedict, I mean St Thomas which proves that all is forgiven... You guys have no idea how tempting it is to make messiah analogies now but I will refrain...

Well where do we start. The defence led by Jessie, in her new sweeping position was stupendous. Jessie was brilliant, assured and always in control. She was so well assisted by Mia and Natalie who both performed with distinction. Annalisa left one of her best performances for when it most mattered. Today she was strong and willing. Kiarna has quickly become a mainstay of this team and we are relying upon her more and more. And what about Ruby, she was given a job to do and she stuck to her task with conviction. She was asked to play on Queens Parks best player and I can safely say that girl hardly got boot to ball all day. Lisa made some telling saves during the match as is crucial to the finals campaign.

Alkira does all hard work in the midfield often unnoticed (I notice Alkira) and the two wide players Ailish and Yaz caused havoc for the opposition all day. Both these girls gave us width and whipped in some tasty crosses for our front two to feast on.

What can I say about our two magnificent strikers. I would not swap them for any player in the entire competition. The complement each other brilliantly, one with the silky skills the other with an engine of a Rolls Royce. A goal a piece in each half and they thoroughly deserved it. Today’s win assures us of a top two finish and the promise of more thrills and spills in the semi finals.

The only thing missing today was that the team matriarch was unable to attend due to other commitments. It is not the same without you Berni we miss you!!!. Please come back soon. Your passion, commitment and humour are sorely missed.

It is now six hours since the ref blew full time and I am still buzzing.
Thank you girls you make it oh so worthwhile...


- Report by Raff Del Vecchio

Sat/Sun 28/29th June 2008

U12 Girls: Coogee Utd V Maccabi
Result: Coogee Utd 3 Maccabi 0

To those who have studied history or religion you may be able to relate to my match report. To the rest of you I will try and explain my subjects or alternatively you can go to Google and undertake some research of your own.

Sorry in advance to those devout Christians or Fascists who may find my comparisons offensive, but I am just being my comical and irresponsible self.

Now before I get into today's game I would like to voice my disappointment of Benito Mussolini, better known to all of you as Raff Del Vecchio who omitted last week's entertaining report from the Coogee United website on the basis that it was too harsh on him. For those of you who don't know Mussolini, he was an early 20th century Italian ruler who advocated censorship and would only allow the information (also known as propaganda) he felt comfortable with to be communicated to the people. I once read in a history book that Mussolini's only unfulfilled dream was to live in Kensington, just around the corner from Kensington oval. Please update the website Benito.

In the spirit of World Youth Day, a miracle was performed today on Raff Del Vecchio that brought back memories of my religious studies many years ago in which Lazarus (the older version of Raff) was raised from the dead by Jesus. After last week's disastrous performance (due to poor coaching methods) the modern day Lazarus (Raff) was on the way out following calls on Sunday night from concerned parents, kids and even the team manager requesting a change of the guard. Don't worry Lazarus, I mean Raff, I turned down the role of coach and asked everyone to be more patient with you as everyone deserves a second chance. Well done today coach as you came back from the dead and brought the girls home to a 3-0 win against Maccabi.

Now to the game. I thought we were up the creek without a paddle again when "Twinkle Toes" Harriette called in sick. Berni again turned up late and tried running me down as I was getting out of my car in a spiteful attempt to beat me to the field followed by a few more stressful moments that saw the remainder of the team turn up with a special surprise from Kiarna who came to play sporting a broken toe. Harriette still turned up and provided great support from the sideline sitting next to me.

Kiarna's presence lifted the team during her first half goalkeeping performance and more so in the second half defensive run. A second half free kick on the Maccabi quarter line was taken by Kiarna who's kick would have been the envy of most 'A - League' players going over the Maccabi defenders and the Coogee strikers to just miss the corner post. We might have to call you 'Big Foot' from now on.

The first half was hard with only one goal being scored by Coogee. Aylish who continues to improve out of sight had a scary moment in the first half with a sore tummy and threatened to bring up her weetbix on the field. She was well attended to and made a return to the field and danced around the defenders all afternoon. Alkira, Ruby, Lisa and Yassie were everywhere and proved their value to the Coogee defence and attack with just about every play involving this quartet. They kept bringing that ball up to the strikers with Lisa again showing her versatility resting from her goalkeeping duties and playing a great game in the midfield.

Miss Mia has picked herself and the defenders up and showed why Coogee United is the best defensive team in the competition with another big fat zero in the against column this week. She also had a great game and was well supported by Natalie and Annalisa who dismantled all the Maccabi attacks and then kicked the ball well out of our quarter and in some instances out of our half to turn defence into attack.

The strikers had a great game with Mayliss Georgia and Jessie continually pounding the Maccabi goalkeeper. I think I saw Jessie have an afternoon nap on the field and was awoken by a scream from Lazarus "Jessie, what position are you playing today?" Jessie, the best place to sleep is in the opposition's half as you are an attacking player and would be less out of place there. Nonetheless she still has the ability to pull a rabbit out of the hat with some fantastic runs.

Mayliss is a supercharged robot who seems to be from another (much more superior) planet. Every week when I review the game video and photographs I find almost every scene that has the ball in it also has that angry but beautiful face of Mayliss in it. She plays to win and never gives less than 100%. With a great goal and unlucky not to bag a few more, Mayliss continued in her selfless way to offload to players better positioned ensuring the Coogee team had a successful outcome today.

Finally to my mate Georgia. You had a fantastic game today and your constant breaks through the defenders and goalkeeper put a big smile on all our faces. Georgia had several unstoppable runs displaying her technical prowess putting away 2 goals and unlucky not to have bagged a couple more. Like Mayliss, she also offloaded several balls to better positioned players and showed great teamwork on the day. Georgia's panting in the second half did not go unnoticed, earning her a half hour run on the treadmill tonight with a week of fitness training planned with Dad.

Just a little trivia for everyone, next year the entire Easts 12b side goes up an age group and 50% of the Easts 12c team also go up. This shows how talented our Coogee United girls are, playing as good as (if not better than) girls a few years older and more experienced. I know I have said it before, but you guys are champions.

The coaching staff and manager also play a little role in their success, but it is the girls who turn up each week and deliver the results. Maurice, Fred and I did a fantastic job at training last week in Raff's absence, but I will attribute some of today's success to Raff's second training session at Kensington oval Thursday. Almost everyone turned up to the second session which shows the commitment of the girls and their parents.

Last but definitely not least I would like to thank my crazy but talented friend Antony Scheuster for turning up and providing his professional services for free. He took 2,500 photos of which many were spectacular. My end of season DVD has become infinitely more difficult, but I will get it done somehow and will also give all the girls a second DVD with a heap of photos from today and throughout the season.

I think this will be my last match report due to my darling wife once again reiterating my obsession with this team from videoing, photographing, coaching, writing reports and the most stressful of all (yet to come Maria) the end of season video.

Thanks again to the great turn out today and stay well.


- Report by Joseph

Sat/Sun 21/22nd June 2008

U12 Girls: Easts V Coogee Utd
Result: Easts 2 Coogee Utd 0

'Easts 2 - Raff Del Vecchio 0'

Well that would have been the title had I wanted to hurt Raff. Instead I have come up with a more sensitive and less spiteful title:

'Raff Del Vecchio cracks Coogee United's Golden Egg.'

What would my match report be without having a shot at the coaching staff who allowed that big '0' in the 'losses' column to crack?

Now to this horrible game which I knew was doomed for us half an hour before the game even started. For those Stupid-stitious (superstitious) people out there you will be able to relate to the following events that led me to this conclusion:

Berni attacked me as I got out of my car (nice to see you there on time for a change Berni).

Mayliss and the French Connection were on a secret mission in Como and got lost. Berni was sure they should arrive in time for Raff's post-match speech.

Lisa (who forgot to do her homework) was not coming.

Kiarna broke her big toe (thank goodness it was her left foot) chasing boys in the playground and was not playing.

And last but not least, we went against Raff's call for "Heads" and lost the toss. We had four consecutive wins of the toss going opposite to Raff's advice until this black day.

I have not watched the game on video yet, but I do remember we made a few mistakes throughout the game and missed some golden opportunities to execute goals in the first half which was dominated by Coogee. Georgia, Mayliss and Jessie played well, but were all adequately marked by the opposition. We were told in advance that this was going to happen, but again Raff didn't do anything about it (don't cry Raff, I was only joking). It doesn't always come together on game day, but with some fine tuning at training by the three amigos this week the girls will be back at their very best for the rest of the season.

I felt the midfielders Harriette, Ruby, Aylish and Alkira played extremely well and were by far the standouts for us on the day. These girls made many breaks and provided excellent support for both the strikers and defenders. Well done girls.

For the first time in many weeks our defenders were under pressure. Mia, Natalie, Annalisa and Yassie were challenged by the opposition on many occasions in the second half, but it was a long wind-assisted kick which opened the door for an Easts striker to go one on one with Mia (if I recall correctly). Mia unfortunately lost her first one on one challenge, but it will only make her more determined to win next time. I didn't have my glasses on, but it appeared as though Mia was filing her nails at the time having spent the previous five minutes talking with Yassie on the field. I definitely have that conversation on video girls. Then it was the Easts striker versus Lisa (who had homework on her mind) and the scorecard tells who won that challenge. Lisa did play well and was able to execute some fantastic kicks with the wind against her and saved some strong shots at goal.

Some uncertainty on the field led to a confusing second goal for Easts. Georgia was kicked in the ankle and was on the ground crying when the ref asked her if she was ok. Georgia replied "no", so her wonderful father Joseph and her beautiful team mates came to her assistance whilst Easts continued playing (unchallenged) to score a controversial goal. After a few minutes in the sideline Georgia returned with a limp to join her team on the pitch.

A final confession to all, I did give Raff some advice about playing a more attacking game instead of the usual defensive one. So some of the criticism should be directed at me, but only some (ha ha ha). Fred, Maurice and Rob were too quiet for my liking with the Mums clearly setting the standards for sideline screaming last week.

Anyway like most I left the game on Sunday feeling heartbroken and a little deflated. There is a saying which goes something like this "to fully appreciate winning, one must first experience losing". Hopefully when we win the grand final in a few weeks time we will all understand the meaning of this quote.

By the way we are now coming fourth on the ladder and will at worst come fourth at the end of the season (5 July 2008) giving us a seat in the semi finals where we will most likely play Queens Park 12J whom we play in our last game in two weeks time. Well done on your achievement girls.

Thanks again to all the family and friends who turned up on Sunday. Maybe we can bring a BIG crowd this Sunday for the Macabi game to cheer our girls on. I have asked a professional photographer who is marginally better than me (not joking), to come and professionally photograph the team during the match for inclusion in my end of season video. Big smiles on Sunday girls.


- Report by Joseph

Sat/Sun 14/15th June 2008

U12 Girls: Maccabi v Coogee Utd
Result: Maccabi 0 Coogee Utd 4

Hi to our beloved Coogee United Family,

I am sitting at home Heineken in hand, watching Sunday's game on the video camera and typing this soon to be masterpiece.

To describe Sunday as cold (and wet) would be like saying Maurice is moderately expressive on game day. It was freeeeeezing, and to all those Eskimos out there we feel your pain.

Thanks again to my fill-in video man Andrew for his first half services which enabled me to spend some time photographing the girls with my new camera. Andrew, you do not "suck as a cameraman" (as stated by you on the video), but I think you can improve a little as you only managed to capture one of our three first half goals on video. It can be said that you performed this week at 33% of your potential, but do not despair as I got some fantastic photos for the end of season video. Thanks also to my darling (partially disabled) wife who spent 20 minutes at home drying out my drenched camera gear with her hairdryer.

Now to the game. Maccabi kicked off with the wind behind them, but Ruby (in her new attacking role) blew their candles out within two seconds with an intercept opening the way for Mayliss to stylishly carve her way for nine seconds through the opposition before a long pass to Georgia who showed them we meant business with a 10 second run and goal to complete this text book performance. It was great to see the girls playing out the moves we (led by Raff) teach them at training (ha ha ha).

Ruby played a fantastic attacking role this week and proved her versatility and skill as an all-round player, setting up Mayliss and Georgia on many occasions and dropping back when needed to restart the attack. Mayliss and Georgia finished up with two goals each which did not truly reflect their unrelenting attack on the Maccabi goalkeepers throughout the game. The intensity of our attack was summed up when our goalkeeper (Lisa) spent most of the second half standing at the halfway mark on the field.

Alkira, Aylish and Harriette continue to play football like the Matildas, constantly breaking through the opposition's defence and immediately backing up in defence when needed. Alkira did not put a foot wrong and has this ability to always be at the right place at the right time. Not much got past her and like most this week managed to make several breaks and some beautiful long passes to Georgia and Mayliss up front. Aylish (the quiet achiever) continues to improve every week and it was great to see her making several breaks through the opposition and also backing up in defence. Aylish's rose coloured cheeks in the sub-zero conditions were a testament to the effort she put in on Sunday. Harriette seems to be eating Mexican jumping beans before each match as can be seen in her non-stop running and attempts at scoring a goal. It will pay off soon Twinkle Toes! I do however want to know how the girl who is always the last one to run around the oval at training claiming to have a stitch can come out on Sundays and outrun just about every player on the pitch for 50 minutes without breaking a sweat?

Now to the defenders who spent most of the game in the opposition's half, what a perfect performance from you guys. As goalkeepers Natalie touched the ball probably twice or three times and Lisa probably none in the second half. These two also played a great game when not in goal where the attack could hardly make a dent in their defence.

Once again Annalisa and Mia seemed to be more interested in discussing matters arising from the weekend social pages rather than the business of football. I found myself screaming out to them from the opposite end of the field and was happy to see I was not alone as Raff can be heard doing the same on camera. Regardless of the minor flaws these two diamonds have, I can honestly say they too played fantastic football this week with nothing looking like troubling them all day.

Yassie continues to create confusion about the position she plays. Quite often Raff and the coaching staff are left scratching our heads as to the position we put her in and find ourselves constantly referring back to Raff's whiteboard for verification. This girl plays just about every position every game. Even when not goalkeeping you find her picking the ball up as witnessed a few weeks ago. Keep up the great work Yassie you dynamo.

Finally, Kiarna played one of her best games this season. She did not stop running all game and managed to send that ball back into the opposition's quarter with that golden boot of hers. Her throw-ins are the envy of almost all the teams we play with her long throws (over the opposition heads) usually leading to a break. Kiarna had a spectacular run in the second half hunting down an opposing striker from 15 metres behind, turning what may well have been a Maccabi goal into the next Coogee United attack. I could hear myself on video screaming out at the top of my voice "run like the wind Kiarna".

As for us oldies, Maurice (on the opposite side of the field) was his boisterous self and can be heard on video over the noise of cyclonic wind and driving rain screaming out to the girls. I photographed him jumping up and down with a smile from ear to ear after one of our early goals. Maurice, Raff and I have some stiff competition from Rob Lowe who I am proud to say has just about overtaken all of us as the most vocal on video. Keep it up son.

The mums too were very vocal as can be heard on video when the referee wanted to stop the game 10 minutes in due to the torrential rain. I could hear Alice and Sharon screaming at the referee reminding him that it was winter and convincing him to continue play.

And finally for Berni, I seriously thought you were there on Sunday. Alice looked very impressive walking on the field with that clipboard, but we could all see through that facade that she had no idea what she was doing (unlike me). Raff was more concerned about Alice's criticism of his fashion choice, namely the Coogee United Beanie than the game at hand. Don't leave us again Berni as it all falls apart when you are away.

Well done to all the families who come out week to week and cheer our future Matildas on. To brave the elements on Sunday is a true reflection of the enjoyment these beautiful girls bring us.

Once again thanks for the opportunity to entertain all of you with my match report.


- Report by Joseph

Sat/Sun 31st May/1st June 2008

U12 Girls: Coogee Utd v Eastern Suburbs
Result: Coogee Utd 0 Eastern Suburbs 0

On a windswept winters afternoon the Coogee girls hosted an Eastern Suburbs side that had been causing carnage in recent weeks, including a 5-1 rout of the Queens Park side which we drew with 1-1 a fortnight ago. Understandably there was much debate amongst the coaching contingent as to what formation we were to adopt. Eventually, it was decided on four across the middle of the park resulting in Ruby and Jessie playing in supporting roles to the two up front. The game itself was devoid of any real goal scoring opportunities as two very well marshalled defences cancelled each other out. The challenge for the brains trust is to come up with a strategy to break down these well coached defences.

Again with a strong wind and boisterous support from the Coogee faithful behind them the girls started very impressively and totally dominated the first half. Harriet playing in a more advanced role was creating headaches for Easts and was bringing Mayliss and Georgia into the game.

Ruby was dominant in the middle ably supported by Jessie. Kiarna was brilliant in goal coming off her line with confidence. Her sister Alkira was equally impressive, always strong in the tackle and working herself to a standstill. I cannot be happier with our defence. We have conceded a handful of goals in nine matches. This in truth is why we are so successful this year. Natalie, Annalisa, and Mia deserve special recognition for this. As usual Yaz was combatative. What she gives away in size and strength she makes up with heart and tenacity. It was good to have Lisa back. It gave us option. Ailish was brave after having been laid low with the flu during the week.

The two up front were fed scraps but toiled til the end. The second half saw us under constant pressure, but we never relented and the resolve we showed in defence ensured not too many anxious moments. If the first half of the season is any indication we are in for a roller coaster culmination to the season.

Nine games undefeated and still top of the league. Go Coooogeee!!!


- Report by Raff Del Vecchio

Sat/Sun 24/25th May 2008

U12 Girls: Coogee Utd v Queens Park
Result: Coogee Utd 1 Queens Park 1

Can I commence by thanking Joseph, Maurice and Fred for looking after the ship last week. It is comforting to know that the team is in good hands when I am away. In saying that it was great to be back and doing what I enjoy.

Anyway, this week saw us pitted against a very well drilled Queens Park side whom in our previous encounter earlier this season we had drawn 1-1. A couple of late withdrawals left us with the requisite 11 meaning all girls played a full game. Uncharacteristically we were very slow out of the blocks and after 10 minutes or so we were down 1 - 0. We slowly worked our way back into the game, and in truth we probably finished the game shading the result. I am actually quite pleased that we are meeting some stiff opposition. Fair play to Queens Park. They are a well coached side which maintains its shape and are very hard to break down.

Game day captain Mia was her ever reliable self. She is integral to this team and foiled wave after wave of Queens Park attack. She was very ably supported by the Annalisa who put herself about and Natalie who never stopped trying all day. Alkira read the script to perfection in that central midfielders role. She balanced her defensively responsibilities with making herself available up front. Job well done. Ailish gave us an option on the right and learnt how difficult it is to play in that wide role without a rest! Yaz and Kiarna shared the goalkeeping responsibilities. Kiarna pulled off a great save in the first half when if we had gone down 2-0, we may have found it difficult to come back. As usual Yaz buzzed around the field all day creating havoc.

Jessie continues to provide the creativity in the hole behind the two strikers and Harriet pulled out a performance to savour with many marauding runs down the left hand side. If her crack from outside the area had bulged the net I think it would have sent the Coogee faithful into raptures. Georgia and Mayliss came to realise that some games you do not get the service that you would like and have to work really hard to create opportunities. They both stuck to the task and Mayliss coolly finished one such chance.

All in all a pleasing result. Who would have thought eight games in we would be having such a season. As Joseph so eloquently put it in last weeks match report, our objective at the start of this year was to have fun, gain experience and maybe win a couple of games. Well, we are far exceeding that!!

See you Tuesday


- Report by Raff Del Vecchio

Sat/Sun 17/18th May 2008

U12 Girls: Coogee Utd v Queens Park
Result: Coogee Utd 0 Queens Park 0

Let me start by announcing my resignation as acting coach as my heart has not beaten as fast nor have I screamed so loud. I must say coaching is the most unenviable role in sports and as such should be left for the responsible and capable members of the sporting community such as my idol Raff Delvecchio. Thankyou to Berni, Maurice and Fred for keeping me and the team together today as I never imagined it would be soooooooooooo difficult to replace players, reconfigure the field and be an excitable dad from the sideline. I had poor Harriett playing as striker on the opposite side she normally plays, but she didn't let us down. So much for the whiteboard Raff.

Today Coogee United played Queens Park 12J who were placed second in the competition, after us that is. Going into this round they were the leading goal scorers (25 goals) and we were the leading defenders (4 goals) making this the challenge of the century (or at least the round).

Following this week's communication to the team about how our coaching style would differ to Raff's, I received a lovely email of support from Natalie telling me how she believed I would make a better coach than her dad. Those lovely words of wisdom earned her the captain's role this week. Yesterday Natalie asked Raff's advice about picking Heads or Tails for the toss. Raff suggested Tails and in the spirit of being different Natalie picked the opposite and ultimately won the toss for our team. Well done sister.

Of all our games this was the most physical with our girls hitting the ground, the opposition and each other on numerous occasions. Georgia's bruises and grazes are a testament to how hard it was out there earning her a hot Radox bath.

The 0 - 0 draw did not truly reflect the way our girls played especially with what I believe has been one of our best second half performances this year, keeping the ball mostly in the opposition's half.

The girls up front played as strong as always with Mayliss, Georgia and Jessica constantly breaking the defensive line. They were unlucky not to have scored a couple of goals and should be proud of how they played today.

The mid fielders were exceptional with Alkira, Yassie, Aylish and Kiarna stopping many of the attacks dead in their track (hey that rhymes). These girls were everywhere, setting up our forwards on numerous occasions and then sprinting back to defend when the opposition broke through. They played their positions to perfection.

Now to the best defenders in the comp made up of Mia, Natalie, Annalisa, Ruby and Harriett. These girls, who to my amazement still get to have girlie conversations on the field, were spectacular. This was a David and Goliath match up with the opposing strikers standing at least a foot taller than our defenders. They did not relent to Queens Park and were quick to send the ball back to the mid fielders setting up the next Coogee United attack. It is not hard to see why we are the best defensive team in the comp.

Last but by far not least is the most important position in the team, the GOALKEEPER. It was a totally different scenario today with two giants running at little Miss Lisa. I would have run away or at least closed my eyes, but that was not for Lisa. She stood up to the attack and saved a couple of certain goals, one of which included a kick to the arm by the strikers when she was on the ground and holding the ball. Her display in goal lifted the team and helped preserve our undefeated status for the season.

I would also like to express my thanks to Rob and Andrew for the professional videoing services they provided today and to all the wonderful family and friends who turn up each week and make this a fun time for all. Raff will be heartbroken when he sees the cakes (on video) that Mayliss brought for her birthday. They were so delicious and were washed down by the kids with non-alcoholic champagne. It was funny to see Luke sipping away on a Latte and Lloyd drinking his champagne.

On a final note, when starting this season our objective was to perhaps win a couple of games and give the girls some experience playing against girls a couple of years older. Instead they have showed us what heart, skill and sportsmanship they have and have made all of us proud, not of what they have achieved, but of who they are. You are fantastic girls even though you have aged Raff and the coaching staff by at least 10 years.

Thanks again to Fred, Maurice, Berni and Raff for the opportunity and support today.


- Report by Joseph

Sat/Sun 3/4th May 2008

U12 Girls: Coogee Utd V Easts
Result: Coogee Utd 3 Easts 0

Perfect conditions greeted the undefeated Coogee Utd side to take on last seasons benchmark Easts. It is a good thing that size does not win football matches because the disparity in physical presence was enormous. The Coogee faithful had not even had time to compose themselves when controversy struck as Georgia was denied what seemed like a perfectly good goal inside the first minute of the game. Scrutiny of the video by the official match cameraman later that evening seemed to vindicate initial views that the goal should have stood. The next twenty five minutes then became an exhibition in how football should be played. Our girls were majestic and no amount of superlatives would do it justice. Suffice to say that everyone present enjoyed the game enormously.

Georgia scored a brace, one of which was after some great lead up work from Mayliss (who again worked herself to a standstill). Another highlight was seeing Alkira cut a path through the Easts defence and then finish with conviction. The smile on her face was priceless. Lisa has solved a conundrum for me in that she actually loves being keeper. Not only does she like it but she is damn good at it. Her swift distribution from the back turned defence into attack and got us moving in the right direction. Yaz was her usual combatative self. Jessie continues to exhibit her football brain by laying the ball off and bringing other players in to the game. Kiana is providing us with an extra dimension with her booming throw ins. Allish is improving every week.

Whilst the attackers normally get all the accolades sometimes we need to be reminded that you cannot win football games without a solid defence. We have now gone three complete games without having a goal scored against us. Mia continues to be the last line of defence with Harriet, Annalisa, Natalie and Ruby all working solidly together. These girls have been stupendous and allow the flair players the opportunity to strut their stuff.

No letting up as we are going to continue to train hard and more importantly continue to learn and enjoy what is referred the world over as the beautiful game.


- Report by Raff Del Vecchio

Sat/Sun 26/27th April 2008

U12 Girls: Coogee Utd V Maccabi
Result: Coogee Utd 5 Maccabi 0

Coogee Utd continued on its unbeaten run to the season with a comprehensive 5-0 rout of a depleted Maccabi side. It was a workmanlike performance from a side which is really beginning to find its rhythm and understand what has been taught of them by the coaching staff over the last eighteen months. For posterity the goals were scored by Jessie (2), Georgia (2) and Mayliss.

Today's is a match report with a difference, because it is about time that I commented on some of the idiosyncrasies of the magnificent supporters of the team from a coach's perspective.

The day started with team matriarch Berni being reprimanded for having the audacity to not wear Coogee Utd merchandise to the match. Her punishment was to wear a heavy Coogee Utd tracksuit for the duration of the game. She looked resplendent, if not bothered by the heat. In truth, she organizes me and this side would not exist and run so smoothly if it was not for her dedication to the cause.

Turning to my two lieutenants Joseph and Maurizio. Both of these guys are passion personified. They are at every training session always willing to assist. I very much value bouncing ideas of them both. I cannot believe Joseph forgot his video camera today. God bless Maria for going home to get it. Just as well she did because we now have Jessie's amazing throw in on video captured forever. Maurice's booming voice provides loads of entertainment.

I am really pleased that Rob continues to bring to the games his better looking younger siblings. It is refreshing to see that Harriet (and Coogee) gets such support from the extended Lowe family. Fred is another one who is always available to lend a hand to the cause. I just wish I could speak French because I cannot always understand what he is saying. My high school French just does not seem to cut it - I knew I should have listened more in class!

Turning to the mums, and what a fine bunch they are. I know I have said it before but the game day experience would not be the same without you guys. Every week, rain, hail or shine you guys are there shouting encouragement on the sideline (yes I can hear you from across the other side). I am positive the girls appreciate it and I certainly do. It is the little things like Louise bringing the oranges or Trish helping out with any slight knocks that the girls get or Laurence bringing those magnificent cakes to team functions that make us the unit we are. Nobody asks this to be done but it just gets done, which makes it all the more special.

Last but not least Mrs. DV who allows me the indulgence of pursuing my obsession for this magnificent game, which on weekends includes but not limited to watching two games and usually reffing another three then reliving these moments via Josephs videos!!. Not to mention training and then attendance and meetings... May it long continue.


- Report by Raff Del Vecchio

Sat/Sun 12/13th April 2008

U12 Girls: Coogee Utd V Maccabi
Result: Coogee Utd 4 Maccabi 0

Can anything stop this Coogee juggernaut?. That is the question that is being posed as the girls cruised to an emphatic four nil victory over Maccabi. What looked like being a washout only minutes before the game turned into perfect footballing conditions at a picturesque location. Has anyone ever seen the weather change so quickly? Lucky, our illustrious manager kept her composure, notwithstanding many phone calls and texts messages whilst negotiating a car full of kids and major traffic congestion to still get to the park on time. It amazes me how Berni can do some much running around yet still be so organised.

Anyway, greater challenges lie ahead in the coming weeks but nothing more could be asked of the girls so far this season. It is an absolute delight to be associated with a group who play the game in such good spirit and obviously enjoy each others company. It was timely to see the cartwheels making a return.

As usual it is all about the girls so here goes. I am really pleased with the way Annalisa is going about her business this season. Plays the game simple and is prepared to get stuck in. Our goalkeepers Mia and Yaz were reduced to being spectators for their respective stints but played solidly as outfield players. Nat had another big game and I like her improvement. Ruby is quickly establishing herself as the defensive midfield lynchpin in the side. Every good team needs a player like this, someone prepared to do the tough stuff but also mixes it up with a touch of flair. The Steinmann sisters competed competently and add size and strength to the team. Jessie's link play with the forwards was brilliant. The through ball for the second Mayliss goal was majestic. Ailish showed her versatility by having a stint in the back four which showed another facet to her game. Lisa continues to be the master of the backheel. Harriet had loads of fun venturing further forward this week.

If there is a better strike combination in the league I am yet to see it. Great hatrick by Mayliss who finally got just reward for her efforts. Georgia again proved a major handful for defenders and got her customary goal.

A two week hiatus in our schedule should have us freshened up and ready for an East's team which were the benchmark last year.


- Report by Raff Del Vecchio

Sat/Sun 5/6th April 2008

U12 Girls: Queens Park V Coogee Utd
Result: Queens Park 1 Coogee Utd 1

Queens Park was the setting for Coogee Utd second hit out for the season against a physically imposing Queens Park team. Again, we were blessed with a picture perfect autumn day which made conditions conducive to free flowing football.

The game finished 1-1, but in truth it was probably two points which we let slip. Even objective observers (that is you Stef) conceded that we were the better team, although fair play to our opposition who provided sturdy resistance.

What this Coogee team does have is character, as again we came back from behind. To borrow a term from boxing parlance we punch way well above our weight. I just wish that we can learn to apply the knockout blow. Anyway, enough of that before I get punch drunk. Lets get onto the individuals...

I ask that you allow me a little indulgence in saying how pleased I was with Natalie's performance yesterday. It was the best I have seen her play. Joseph's defensive tuition must be working wonders. Our two goalkeepers Yaz and Jessie are brilliant. Very assured and distribute the ball from the back with precision. Both of them are equally adept on the park and give the team lots of options.

Ruby continues to astound me with her rate of improvement. She has become an integral part of this unit. Harriet does the simple things very well. She plays within her capabilities and more importantly always plays with her a huge smile on her face. Lisa was causing Queens Park lots of trouble on the right. She has certainly found her niche.

Mia got us out of lots of difficult situations at the back along with her partner in crime Annalisa make a really good defensive duo. I am particularly pleased what the two new girls bring to the team Allish and Alkira (how is that for alliteration) they bring another dimension to the squad - both are strong and have a good turn of speed.

Georgia continues to show sublime dribbling skills and pleasingly towards the end of the game was looking to lay the ball off to players in better positions. Still, three goals in two games is an exceptional return. Mayliss continues to be the heart and soul of this team. She works herself to a standstill always tracking back to help the defenders yet making herself available up front.

Two games two draws and still undefeated. Who would have thought.

Thanks to the large contingent of family who came out to watch. Onto next week, Maccabi and the debut of our secret weapon. The fifth Steinmann to put on the black and white. I can't wait.


- Report by Raff Del Vecchio

Sat/Sun 28/29th March 2008

U12 Girls: Coogee Utd V Queen Park
Result: Coogee Utd 3 Queens Park 3

After was seemed an inordinately long pre season the Coogee girls took to the field for their first hit out in 2008 yesterday. Pre season hurdles were put in front of the team when ESFA decided very late that they would not be running an U 11 competition but have a combined U 12 league. This in itself presents a few challenges to our girls as they have moved to a full sized pitch and will be playing against teams comprising of girls two years their senior. Notwithstanding, yesterday was one of those days which makes it all worthwhile. It is days like yesterday that we should think about when we are standing on the sideline in the middle of winter, wet, cold and being comprehensively outplayed.

Our girls showed courage, tenacity and a real will which I am convinced will hold us in good stead for the remainder of the year. What is particularly pleasing from a coaching perspective is that things that we do at training are replicated on the pitch. To see Lisa dragging the ball back to beat a defender was one of my all time coaching highlights. Now to the details...

In a pulsating, see sawing drama packed game which saw us come from behind on three occasions to eventually force a three - three draw against a very good Queen Park team. The defence was stupendous with Mia marshalling her troops of Natalie, Annalisa and Harriet very well. By playing Mia in a sweeping role should result in us not getting caught square very often. These girls are improving at a rate of knots.

Ruby is turning into a very competent midfielder and I think she had found her niche in that holding midfielders role. She is assured on the ball and tracks back well to assist the defenders. Allish had a tremendous debut and is progressing very nicely. She gave us width on the left and held her position well. Yazmine continues to make life difficult for the opposition bobbing up in all the right places. She had a fine game and doubled as a very competent second half keeper. Jessie played that position in the hole behind the two strikers to perfection yesterday and gives us that extra attacking impetus.

Georgia scored two goals and was always a threat when running at opposition defenders. Her combination with Mayliss (who worked tirelessly for the team) is going to give lots of teams headaches. Last but not least is Lisa. Yesterday was the day when something seemed to click with Lisa. She understood exactly what playing wide on the right meant and as a result scored a memorable goal. Well done to all our girls.

I hope all of you enjoyed yesterday as much as I did. Well done to our supporters who provided for a great atmosphere. Long may it continue!




- Report by Raff Del Vecchio