First XVIII
cOACHPaul Hood
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CAPTAINBen Podbury
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BEST & FAIREST |
PerformanceRecord: 4 wins 3 losses
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players drafted & rookied |
Some exciting initiatives were put in place for the St. Joseph's College First XVIII in season 2003. The highlights of these were the players' dedication to regular training sessions and an increase in the players' availability for matches. The dedication of this year's group was evident from the very beginning, with over forty players appearing in a practice game against Geelong College.
The team carried this momentum into the beginning of the season proper with a huge victory over competition newcomers, Salesian College. Forward pocket maestro, Tristan Starcevic, starred on this particular day, kicking three goals and gathering numerous possessions. In Round Two, our side travelled to Essendon to face perennial powerhouse, St. Bernard's. Unfortunately, a spirited effort was not enough to match the size and strength of a highly skilled team. A similar result occurred the next week against St. Bede's, Mentone. However, the form of Year 11 students Ben Johnson, Corey Warner and Tim Sheringham was a highlight. With the Round Four matches against Mazenod looming as a 'crunch' game, the senior players displayed some terrific leadership. Liam Rock and Ben Podbury formed a dynamic partnership in the midfield and set a terrific example for their team mates. David Middleton also played outstandingly in this match to boot six goals. The turn-around in form was timely as Round Five saw us play Parade College, a team, which has had outstanding success at the highest level of schoolboy football in recent years. The performance in this match was the highlight of the season. Against a physically imposing opposition, our players' dedication and teamwork won the day. Gary Desire's speed and skill on a wing played a pivotal role in our victory. In what was to be our penultimate game against Whitefriars, the team again played some inspiring football. In seemingly difficult conditions, the group showed that at the training was paying off, with great teamwork leading to an easy victory. It was extremely pleasing to see the squad combine so effectively and the victory was a deserved reward for the team's dedication. Michael King was outstanding during this match, reading the play tremendously in the midfield. In week seven, we played our final game against be La Salle. This match took on tremendous importance with the winning team going through to the semi-finals of the state-wide competition of the Herald Sun Shield. Despite injuries to star players Ben Podbury and Paul Messer, our team gave a tremendous account of themselves. In the end, we fell short by the slender margin of ten points. Matthew Trewhella had been an outstanding player all season in defence but showed his versatility in this game to kick four goals in the second half and almost pinch the game. Although a defeat was not the ideal way to end the season, all players could be satisfied knowing they had given their all. Overall, the season has been a success with many signs pointing to a bright future for the First XVIII. Our side for the final game of the year contained ten players who will form the nucleus of next year's squad. Regular training throughout the season has had an effect on the players' ability to team together and sets an encouraging foundation for next year. As well as the efforts of the players, a dedicated bunch of staff and volunteers have also worked hard to support the team. Many thanks go to Mr. Greg Vaughan ( team manager ), Ms. Rachel Hovey ( trainer ) and parents who graciously donated their time each week. Thanks also to staff members Mick Hinds and Shane Dawson ( trainers) for their ongoing support. Thanks also to ex - staff member Steve Catanzariti for giving up his time to act as a runner. Finally, the entire squad would like to thank SJCs Mr. Football, David Breheny, for his continued work in his variety of roles- motivator, manager, organiser and mentor to the squad. Go Joeys. Mr. Paul Hood. 1st XVIII Coach. |
ACC Round 1
St. Joseph's 20-12-132 def Salesian 4-3-27 ACC Round 2 St. Bernard's 16-14-110 def St. Joseph's 3-4-22 ACC Round 3 St. Joseph's 7-3-45 def by St. Bede's 16-21-117 ACC Round 4 St. Joseph's 16-21-117 def Mazenod 3-5-23 ACC Round 5 / Herald Sun Shield Round 1 St. Joseph's 15-9-99 def Parade 10-3-63 ACC Round 6 / Herald Sun Shield Round 2 Whitefriars 2-8-20 def by St. Joseph's 11-7-73 ACC Round 7 / Herald Sun Shield Round 3 De La Salle 12-5-77 def St Joseph's 10-7-67 |