For Wagga United Crows’ women’s soccer teams, the season will draw to a close on Sunday.
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Crows’ Madden and Leonard Cup teams may not have qualified for finals, but coach Chris Driscoll and club president Ian Hardinge are satisfied with their efforts in 2016.
“This might seem like a bad year, but I couldn’t be prouder of all the ladies who have played,” Hardinge said.
“We had many first-timers, some young and some not quite as young.
“They have suffered horrific injuries, some huge floggings but their motivation and commitment never wavered.”
“Chris Driscoll has done an outstanding job with the ladies, and we are very pleased that Chris has agreed to coach them again in 2017.”
Driscoll admitted the season has not panned out perfectly.
“It’s been tough result-wise,” he said.
“Off the field it’s been a good season for Leonard and Madden teams.”
When he signed up for the coaching gig, the club told him there’d be enough players for one team. But 38 players registered with Wagga United; more than enough for two teams.
Most plan on returning next year according to Driscoll.
Through the season, numbers dropped, as crucial players sustained major injuries and university students were unavailable during holidays.
“I’m not making any excuses, the girls knew what they needed to do,” Driscoll said.
“I’m still proud of the girls this year.”
Driscoll plays for Tolland in the over 35’s competition.
“It doesn’t matter who I play for,” he said.
“I’ve taken up coaching to give back what I’ve learnt from coaches over the years.
“It’s my first time coaching at Wagga United and I’ve enjoyed it.”
The squad’s packed with players in their late teens; Driscoll’s eager to develop their skills and find a core of strong leaders.
“I won’t poach players, but if players from other teams aren't getting a fair run they’re more than welcome to come and see what United’s about,” he said.
“We’re always keen for people to come and have a try.”
Wagga United’s injury ward
Sophie Moseley: Concussions, ankle, nose
Felicity Kerslake: Knee (major)
Clare Roberts: Ankle (major)
Kellie McPherson: Major injury at start of season. Another injury three weeks ago
