COMMUNITY football kicked off last weekend and the Nambucca Strikers’ home ground Coronation Park was a hive of activity from 9am when the Mini Roos kicked off until 7pm when the senior men finished.

After a delayed start due to the unprecedented high rainfall, the season finally kicked off to the delight of football clubs and players across the region.

Nambucca Strikers Club President Keily Chase shared the enthusiasm whirling around the ground.

“It was a massive first day for football, everyone was smiling and excited to be back on the field for season 2022, there were so many parents telling club volunteers how excited the kids were that their games were on.

“Despite the rain leading up to the weekend there were stories of kids jumping for joy and dancing excitedly when coaches texts went out that the field was open and games were going ahead.

“Some kids wanted to sleep in their kit so they were ready to go as early as possible.

“It shows just how much everyone has missed football in the off season and how much anticipation there was to start again,” said Keily.

With pitches around the region closed for prolonged periods, playing football on the beach has grown more popular, as Nambucca under 10s coach Jonathan Zirkler explained.

“Our training session this week was held at Swimming Creek Beach due to Coronation Park being closed.”

Jonathan was proud of his team’s effort in their season opener.

“It was a great performance by the team with notables being Noah who was superb in goals and ran to a standstill in the second half.

“Credit also to Ryder for volunteering to play with Macksville who were undermanned and Henry who scored a hat trick in the second half,” he said.

 

By David WIGLEY