The Canungra Owls Under 6 Green and Under 6 Yellow teams are enjoying a season focused on teamwork and having fun, with coaches Jack Lacey and Terence Butler helping young players take their first steps into the game.
For many players, this season marks their first experience in organised team sport, and Lacey said one of the biggest rewards has been watching the children grow in confidence.
“A lot of them started off quite shy,” he said.
“Just seeing them grow into themselves and getting more involved has been really good.”
Lacey said the friendships developing within the group had been a highlight of the season.
“The way they interact in the group now is definitely a lot more interactive. There’s definitely more of a team element in it now,” he said.
While results are not recorded at the Under 6 level, Lacey said the focus remains on enjoyment and learning the fundamentals of the game.
“There is a fair bit of skill in them already,” he said.
“A lot of them really love kicking the ball. Mostly they just run around after it and have fun.”
The first-year coach, whose son is also part of the team, said seeing the players achieve small milestones made every training session and game worthwhile.
“The smiles on their faces is the best,” he said.
“When they actually do something and they’re so proud of themselves, it makes it all worth it. When you see their hard work pay off when they kick a goal or make a tackle, it’s really rewarding.”
Lacey said coaching junior football had quickly become one of the highlights of his week.
“It’s the most rewarding thing I’ve ever done,” he said.
“I look forward to training and the games every week. Honestly, it’s the best thing I’ve ever done.”
Both the Green and Yellow teams continue to build skills, confidence and friendships as they enjoy their first season as Owls.
