THE rain has battered the Coffs Coast and as a result seagulls have flocked to the washed out pitches instead of footballers.

Coaches and players have been itching to get back together and one innovative coach decided training would go ahead no matter what the weather – at the ten pin bowling alley!

Coffs United coach Dan Clarke believes football isn’t just about playing and the camaraderie and friendships are an important component.

“Under 11’s and 12’s are transition years, from small to big, from non-competitive to competitive, the under 11’s Lions have resisted the temptation to focus on serious and success, and rather to focus on friendship and fun.

“We have made our goal this year to try to keep the kids playing and enjoying the game for many years into the future, we want them to enjoy caring about each other and having fun together.

“We realise the power of social games, due to the wet this week we swapped the soccer ball for the ten pin bowling ball and bingo we all come together, and you never know, a caring culture might nurture not only community warriors down the track but great midfielders tomorrow as well,” said Clarke.

With council grounds closed for most of March, Coastal Premier League coaches have been innovative in finding all weather surfaces like tennis courts, indoor venues or the beach.

Strength conditioning has also been a key focus for many of the CPL coaches as training sessions down the gym and running have become more prominent in this season’s preparation.

 

By David WIGLEY