Player recruitment success means more coaches needed for Strikers

A SUCCESSFUL player recruitment drive has left Nambucca Soccer Club hungry for mentors who love the game and want to see the round-ball game thrive in the Valley.

“We now have 60 mini-roos, aged between five and seven,” registrar and coaching coordinator Joel Mason told News Of The Area.

“This will help impact the future of youth in our area with valuable positive activity.”

Joel said that the club’s big-picture goal was to field premier league teams, and that already some juniors were gaining experience playing in the men’s and women’s competitions.

“But we struggle with enough volunteers,” Joel said. “We need coaches, managers, groundspeople and canteen helpers.”

Kelly Trisley, grandmother and team supporter, said  that often parents were learning the ropes as the players were learning.

“[New coaches] need support from experienced players to help train them in coaching the younger teams,” she said.

Kendall Dodson, under-eights team manager and husband, coach Owen Dodson, said they had stepped in as beginners.

“A few weeks into training no one was coaching, so we stepped up,” Kendall said.

“Volunteer coaching can be a juggle with work and busy family life. This commitment can seem daunting but sharing the coaching roles amongst a group of parents can work. The club supports this approach to make it more manageable.”

News Of The Area asked under-10 boys coach Dave Jarrott what it took to coach.

“There is practice during the week, and preparing for the game, planning substitutes and directing players,” Dave said.

“Also, younger teams must take their turn being game leader, which is another name for referee.

“If you are confident knowing the game, and willing to learn the ropes with support from the club, you can contact us.”

Anyone interested in joining the Strikers’ volunteers should follow the club on Facebook. Inquiries can be made on the club’s page, or via email at admin@nambuccastrikersfc.com

By Sharon JANE