let’s all play

VOLUME #1 // AUGUST 2011

Gold Coast & Tweed Heads Edition

GOLD COAST UNITED TO SUPPORT LOCAL FOOTBALL

+plus• One on one with Graeme Croal • Junior football league• Women in football• Parenting tips• The Grand Finals Draw• Futsal

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Positive

Let’s make junior sport positive everyday ...it’s all about having fun!

• Offerpositivecommentstoplayers,coachesandotherspectators

• Applaudtheeffortsofmatchofficials,playersandcoaches

• Focusonachild’seffortsandselfesteemratherthanwhethertheywinorlose

• Rememberthatchildrenplaysportfortheirenjoyment

• Rememberthatchildrenlearnbestbyexample-teachthemwhatsportsmanshipmeans

• Respectthedecisionsofmatchofficialsandteachchildrentodothesame

InpartnershipwithForinformationaboutPositive or it’s pointless visittheDepartmentofCommunities’websitewww.sportrec.qld.gov.au

Editor’s NoteWELCOME TO OUR FIRST EDITION.

Dear reader

Football IS THE NATION’S blessed sport code, with the support of a traditional and well established global culture. The game is very popular with youth and therefore more and more parents are paying attention to the grassroots programs, introduced by the FFA.

Let’s all Play Football Magazine will from now on be your medium of communication to express your opinions and passion; and for all team members, including the administrators of football on the Gold Coast (Gold Coast Soccer), to inform you on what is and might be happening in the world of football in our region (Gold Coast and Northern NSW).

Our first edition is being published at the same time that Gold Coast United has taken an impor-tant step in reaching-out to you as a football community, (you can read more about that inside this issue). What I can tell you is that the entire GCU crew is craving your affection, and this time around they are getting out and walking the talk. I personally had the experience of talking to their captain Michael Thwaite, as well as some of their players. If their passion doesn’t get you go-ing, maybe nothing will! They have a burning desire to connect with the local football community and in particular the grassroots level of the game.

Our football code requires more than superstars to triumph, it requires that we all play a part in fostering the historic values that make football the world language. Whether by playing, cheer-ing, volunteering at your local club or giving us some feedback on our initiative to publish this magazine, we’ll need your input to grow and deliver what you want. You know football is big and by being a part of it in whatever capacity, you are definitely being a part of something bigger than yourself.

‘Til next issue

Let’s All Play Football

We welcome Letters to the editor and contributions for content regarding football.

The deadline for submission is 7 days prior to publication date, for more information please

contact us info@letsallplayfootball.com.au

Editorial content and contributions do not necessarily reflect the views of the publisher.

Publisher: Oscar Carre oscar@letsallplayfootball.com.au 0488406346

Editorial & Advertising: info@letsallplayfootball.com.au

Graphic Design: Phil Coulson CSquared Design

Contributing graphic designer Nebojsa Dolovacki www.lineaart.com

Contributing writer: Roy Skillen

Printer: Lismore City Printery: 6621 5371

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CONTENTS6 GOLD COAST UNITED TO SUPPORT

LOCAL FOOTBALL

8 NEWS

12 GRAND FINAL DRAW 2011

16 THE EMERGENCE OF FEMALE SPORTING ATHLETES

17 LETS ALL PLAY LIKE MESSI

20 GRAEME CROAL

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CONTENTS23 FOOTBALL FOR PARENTS AND

CHILDREN

24 HOW TO BUILD TOMORROW’S CHAMPIONS

26 EPL review

28 FUTSAL SECTION

30 INJURY PREVENTION IN FOOTBALL

31 WHAT IF?

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GOLD COAST UNITED TO SUPPORT LOCAL FOOTBALL

WE WILL BE INVOLVED WITH GOLD COAST SOCCER AT EVERY LEVEL AND WILL SHARE COMMUNITY EVENTS.

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GOLD Coast United’s links with the local football community have been strengthened further with the news that the club will sponsor the Gold Coast Premier League for the remainder of this season. The agreement includes a cash injection from United into Gold Coast Soccer Inc, in exchange for the naming rights to the local flagship competition, which will be known as the ‘Gold Coast United Premier League’. An added incentive for the winner of this season’s local Grand Final is also included in the deal, with a match up against Miron Bleiberg’s men awaiting the team crowned as Premier League Champions this term.   The sponsorship is just one element of a rejuvenated working relationship between United and the local governing body with a string of new initiatives to be rolled out over the next twelve months, including a new beach soccer tournament and a football expo. United will also increase their presence at all Gold Coast Soccer events, presentation nights, carnivals and football-related activity. Club CEO Clive Mensink says the formalised partnership will be of great benefit to the game in the region as the relationship evolves in the coming years.

“Clive Palmer has said from day one that we wanted

to provide pathways for young players on the Gold

Coast. We have already been doing that successfully

in our first couple of years, but this new working

relationship with Gold Coast Soccer takes us a step

closer to strengthening the foundations that will

allow those pathways to flourish in the future.

 

“Our sponsorship of the local competition is an

opportunity for us to assist the game at grassroots

level and provide our support, but moving forward it

is the partnership itself that will provide most benefit

to the game.

 

“Gold Coast Soccer has a very important role to

play with the club and vice-versa. We are all in this

together and want what’s best for the code. We are

delighted to be formalising our relationship and the

football community will now be able to recognise the

intrinsic links between the two organisations.

 

“We will be involved with Gold Coast Soccer at every

level and will share community events. This will

provide additional visibility and exposure for both

our brands with the ideal outcome being increased

support for the local game and also Gold Coast

United.

UNITED TO SPONSOR LOCAL PREMIER LEAGUE

“IT IS A SYMBIOTIC RELATIONSHIP WITH THE INTENTION OF ASSISTING BOTH ENTITIES TO ACHIEVE THEIR GOALS AND BENEFIT THE GAME AS A WHOLE.”

NEWS

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JUNIOR COACHES TO BE TRAINED ON THE GOLD COAST 

FFA and Accredited Staff are set to run junior coaching workshops on the Gold Coast.

As part of Gold Coast Soccer’s vision, all junior teams are to play under the same system and acquire the same skills. “This requires a commitment from all clubs to support the GC Soccer Coaching Workshops”. For more details including registration information please see our events section or visit www.goldcoastsoccer.com.au

GOLD COAST UNITED

DUTCH IMPORTS SHOCKED BY THE PHYSICAL ASPECT

OF OUR GAME

According to Daniel Fraser from www.goldcoast.com.au, the newly recruited Dutch Peter Jungschlager and Paul Beekmans were shocked at the physical nature of the Australian football style. This is not the first time our style of play is viewed as too physical; during the 2006 World Cup warm up game between Australia and Holland, Marco Van Basten also complained when both countries played stated that the Socceroos were using the physical approach as a tactic to stop the opponents from playing their game.

A word of advice to the new GCU imports: IT’S GOOD FOR YOU, and this is Australia.

SOCCEROOS ROAD TO BRAZIL STARTS IN BRISBANE

Football Federation Australia announced Australia will begin its qualification campaign for the FIFA 2014 World Cup in Brisbane. The opening match of

the 3rd round Asian World Cup qualifiers will see the Socceroos play Thailand at Suncorp Stadium on Friday, 2 September at 8pm.

NEWS

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EXCELLENT NEWS FOR ALL FUTSAL ACADEMY PLAYERS (AND PARENTS)

It might not have been the best and most enjoyable game for Ronaldo or Jose Mourinho; but for the 109 children who played against them in a game that took place in China to open a football school, the 109 children represented the years of Real Madrid’s existence, they have earned an important

milestone that can mark an important and defying memory, that they can use in their careers, for those who manage to become professional footballers can include in their resumes that they PLAYED AGAINST CRISTIANO

With NEXT Futsal Academy session being Sunday 21st August 2011 the Academy fees have been subsidised to just $10.00 per player per 1.5hr session. This is an offset of 30% !!!!

This is a fantastic incentive provided by Gold Coast Soccer to all the players and parents who attend the Futsal Academy. visit www.goldcoastcityfutsalassociation.com.au

Cesc finally says I Love you Arsenal But It is Time To Win Trophies. After a 40 million euros deal a door closes.

NEWS

REAL MADRID PLAYS AGAINST 109

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Field 19.00am Under 13 Div 110.30am U12 Div 112.00pm Premier Youth2.00pm Premier Men Reserves4.00pm Premier Men6.30pm Women Div 1 Group A

Field 29.00am U15 Girls Divl11.00am Under 17 Girls1.00pm Men Div 2

Field 38.30am Under 13 Girls10.30am Under 15 Div 312.30pm Under 17 Div 22.30pm Under 15 Girls Div 2

Field 48.30am Under 13 Div310.30am Women Div212.30pm Underl2Div22.30pm Women Div 3

Sunday 11th September 2011

Sunday 10th September 2011

Field 19.00am Under 14 Div 111.00am Women Div 1 Group B1.00pm Men Div 1 Reserves3.00pm Men Div 1

Field 29.00am Underl2Div311.00am Under 17 Div 11.00pm Under 15 Div 1

Field 38.30am Under 13 Div 210.30am Under 15 Div 212.30pm Under 14 Div 22.30pm Under 17 Div 3

Field 48.30am Under 13 div410.30am Men Div312.30pm Under 12 Div42.30pm Men Div4

GRAND FINAL DRAW 2011

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THE EMERGENCE OF FEMALESPORTING ATHLE TES

More and more often we are seeing a rise in the number of women taking part in professional sports. Basketball, rugby and Football have always been sports played traditionally by men,

however there are now many teams and tournaments out there for women too. Tennis is perhaps the sport that is most popular among female athletes.

This is quite a turnaround, as historically not many women played sports. If we look as far back as the ancient Greeks women were

not allowed to take part in the Olympic Games, they were not even permitted to watch them. Thankfully things have changed and in the last quarter of the twentieth century the numbers of female athletes grew substantially.

Since the 1970’s soccer became a sport played by women as well as men, and now there is even a FIFA Women’s World Cup which takes place every four years. Soccer is also a popular sport played by women locally and not just on a professional level. Many local clubhouses will have a women’s team and a men’s team.

However, women’s soccer still has a long way to go if it is to rival the popularity of men’s soccer. If you are interested in supporting women’s soccer you can find out where your local team is based and support them by going to see their games. You might even be interested in joining your local team if you have an interest in starting your career as a female soccer player. Also, you might like to watch the professional tournaments on television or even plan a trip to go to the Women’s World Cup the next time it’s on in 2015.

The World Cup did a lot to boost the profile of female soccer players and their teams and women’s soccer is now more popular than it’s ever been, long may it last.

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It may sound like a sweeping statement that we should all learn to play the game like the great Lionel Messi. Surely he is the untouchable one

that was born from the spawn of God himself with technical abilities that simply cannot be taught. But while it is true that many children are born with natural abilities such as balance, speed and vision, these alone are not enough to ensure that they will go on to become great football players.

When we look back at the life of Lionel Messi we see a child born with a great drive to succeed and a father that supported his dream. There are videos of him and his dad practising drills and skills over and over again with both feet at an age when most people think kids would be best just learning how to kick a ball.

But there is a massive shift in understanding and be-lief underway in how children should be taught the beautiful game and exactly what should come under the banner of “basic skills” that it is now believed all kids should know by the age of 10. It used to be that basic skills would include passing, shooting, posi-tioning and fitness, but these are now put under the different label of “decision making”, which experts believe should be learnt later on. The new theory of coaching kids from the age of 5 -10 is based around making them not fear the ball. Giving them as many touches as possible, encouraging the use of both feet and the learning of BASIC SKILLS such as the

Ronaldo step over along with the Maradona and Cryuff turns.

The aim is to create kids who love the ball, kids who demand it and know what to do in tight situations. The aim is to have groups of players coming through the ranks that are willing to run with the ball and make things happen whether it be out of defence, on the wing or menacing defenders up front.

Over the coming weeks we will look at exactly how to incorporate these in to your training sessions or games whether you are a coach or parent just having a kick around in the garden with you kids. We will also be talking to, Darren Tan, who has worked with the likes of Manchester Utd and Cristiano Ronaldo during his caree,r and who is now the head of coach development at Football Federation Victoria on his views of how the beautiful game should be played.

SKILLS

LETS ALL PLAY LIKE MESSIBy Roy Skillen

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GRAEME CROAL

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THE INTERVIEW

Graeme: I am Graeme Croal, I am 42 year old and I was born in Sydney, Australia.

LAPF: Do you have a family? Wife and Kids? Graeme: Yes. I am happily mar-ried to my Wife, Michelle and 3 Kids. Lockyer is 9, Zali is 6, and Jasper is 1.

LAPF: Why do you live on the Gold Coast? Graeme: My wife lived here and I travelled around Australia for 1 year then settled back in Queensland about 15 years. It was a lifestyle and affordability choice at the time. The Coast still has a lot to offer for families.

LAPF: Why do you play football instead of other codes? Graeme: I played all codes when I was a kid but never left soccer. Plus there are so many year round options like indoor, beach, all ages and divisions to suit everyone.

LAPF: When did you start playing football, and for who? Graeme: Started played when I was 5 years old in the Under 6’s

for Collaroy Plateau Youth Club, in the Manly Warringah District.

LAPF: Family, work and football. How do you manage it all? Graeme: It can be difficult to manage family, work and football commitments. You do sacrifice a lot but it can be very rewarding.

LAPF: What responsibilities do you hold at the club? Graeme: At Robina this year I am Senior Director, Coach two under 9’s teams, Assistant coach for Men’s Division 1 1st and Reserves, and I also play and coach Men’s 4th Division.

LAPF: Is Michelle happy? Graeme: HA, HA! That is a tricky question!!! Just look at the answer to the last question. She likes that I am involved in the club but would like me to be at home more…. Enough said!! Next question…

LAPF: Your family seems happy when they come along, what’s the secret? Graeme: The family enjoys getting out in the fresh air and sunshine,

and socializing with the other families. They also like to have a laugh at Dad running around on the field trying to kick a goal every now and then! And of course our eldest son loves his soccer. The playground is also a great draw card.

LAPF: How does your son feel to be coached by his dad? Graeme: At times it can be chal-lenging but mostly he likes me to be there as his coach. It is a great way to bond and build on our relationship...when we aren’t butting heads!!

LAPF: How are things with the club this year? Graeme: It is going well this year with a dedicated and hard work-ing committee and some great families.

LAPF: Are there any plans to grow or make it better next year? Graeme: We are always looking at ways to improve. Especially exciting is that our new back field lights should be working for next season so that will give us more playing room.

Graeme is a wonderful 42 year old gentleman who works as hard for his family as for everyone else.Apart from running a business he has other tasks that he does voluntarily, including being in charge of the football department at Robina City Soccer Club; Lets All Play Football caught up with him to find out how he does it all.

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THE INTERVIEW

LAPF: Are there any plans to have an under 17 youth team soon? Graeme: The club is very strong with Juniors (both boys and girls) and we are always looking at ways to support and nuture these kids so that they stay at Robina.

LAPF: How many players are registered now? Any plans to increase? Graeme: There must be about 500 registered players with a lot of interest from other teams wanting to join Robina.

LAPF: For your 1st division, what will be next year’s plans to bring more families to the games? Graeme: I do feel that we need to encourage more support for the senior games at home. Some ideas are to invite junior teams to play

at half time or mini intra club carnivals in the afternoons.

LAPF: Is your current coach staying? Graeme: Our current coach has had a very unlucky season to date and their position on the ladder does not do them justice for the way they have played. I believe the current coach is still interested in staying for next season.

LAPF: What has been achieved this year with infrastructure? Graeme: This year has been frustrating as the lights on Field 2 were not completed but will be ready for 2012. GCCC has also promised to returf the main field and complete drainage works at the end of this season.

LAPF: Does your family hold a season membership for the Gold Coast United? Graeme: No, unfortunately we don’t, but we have attended a few games.

LAPF: What would you do to increase the number of people at the home games to Gold Coast United? Graeme: I would suggest that every registered junior (at least) be given a free game pass to encourage families to attend and also to have a local team play their week’s game as entertainment before the main game. Like the Rugby league, I suppose.

LAPF: Your favorite players? Graeme: Tim Cahill or Lucas Neill.

info@letsallplayfootball.com.au or 0488406346

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However, you need to keep in mind that when your child is taking part in a team sport there are going to be times when

they lose a game, and this can be an upsetting expe-rience. As a parent you need to comfort your child when their team loses and there are many ways to do this. A good thing to do is to compliment your child on how well they performed during the game despite losing, this will help to boost their confidence. You should also communicate with your child openly about their feelings on losing and try to talk to them positively in order lighten their mood. These steps should enable the child to move on from the loss and start to look forward to their next game.

If you are the one coaching your child in their chosen sport then you will be aware of both the ben-efits and the drawbacks. This kind of parent/child coaching can often take place with more solitary sports such as athletics or gymnastics. The benefits of this kind of coaching are many in that you are getting the chance to improve the skill of your child while maintaining your close relationship with them. Sometimes when a child gets older they will become more withdrawn from their parent, but if the parent is regularly coaching the child in their sport the relationship will stay close.

However, parents need to also keep in mind that when they are coaching their child they might become overbearing or smothering. Remember to

always give your child the free time and space in between practices and your role as their coach will be both successful and fruitful.

FOOTBALL FOR PARENTS AND CHILDREN

Playing football can be a great way for a parent to bond with their child. Parents can support their child during that big game and children can spend valuable time with their parents through their chosen sport, be it during at home practice or preparation for upcoming tournaments. The advantages are doubled when you take into account the fact that you are spending time with your child through a shared hobby and in the meantime your child is keeping fit and active.

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Optus Small-Sided Football is a modified form of 11-a-side football, designed to meet the needs of players under the age of

12, who have very different developmental charac-teristics and needs to adult players. The philosophy of Optus Small-Sided Football focuses on enjoyment and freedom of expression with limited emphasis on coaching per se, particularly in the formative years of a player’s development.

Almost without exception, young players in the ma-jor footballing nations of the world are introduced to the game through small-sided football. Brazil, France, England, Scotland, Ireland, The Netherlands, Germany, Japan, USA and Korea all introduce their young players to the game using this approach. Considerable research has been conducted into the benefits of small-sided football in many of these countries.

Overwhelmingly, the findings have shown that small-sided football are enjoyed more by children and are a more effective method of improving

their technical ability as footballers (compared to 11-a-side football). Whilst there are exceptions, in most parts of Australia Rooball has been the widely-accepted format of the game for new players up until the age of eight or nine. The rules and regulations of Rooball vary in terms of field size and goal size as does the age at which players progress to 11-a-side football. At the age of 9 or 10, the general trend is for these players to then move to 11-a-side football on a full-size field where they compete against other clubs in the local area. There has also been an inconsistent approach in terms of the philosophy of football at this age, with the emphasis or otherwise on competi-tion, winning, points tables, finals and the like, with variations depending upon the particular state or territory and/or association.

The recent results of a national survey have been extremely positive, providing lots of valuable feed-back which will help to ensure that the continued implementation of Optus Small-Sided Football is successful. Some statistics of particular interest can be seen below: 

HOW TO BUILD TOMORROW‘S CHAMPIONS

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91% of parents felt their club emphasized the players development, enjoyment and philosophy of small-sided football over winning games

Over 90% of parents reported that their child enjoyed playing football in the small-sided football format

Over 80% of parents reported that the reasons for implementing small-sided football were communi-cated to them

Over 70% of parents were offered appropriate information and education supporting the move to small-sided football

Over 90% of parents felt the coach of their child’s team embraced the small-sided football philosophy

Over 85% of parents felt their child touched the ball lots of times and was very active

Over 85% of parents felt small-sided football pro-motes a positive playing environment for children

Over 80% of parents felt their child’s playing ability and skills improved throughout the season

More people felt it was easier to become involved as a volunteer in small-sided football and there was not a feeling you needed to be a football expert. Parents who are new to the game are likely to be more com-fortable playing the role of “game leader” or “super-visor” of teams playing Optus Small-Sided Football. Given that children playing at this age do not need to be “coached”, and by extension, these adults don’t need to have a great understanding of the game to be able to carry out this role effectively, finding parents to volunteer for these roles should become signifi-cantly easier. so why not contact your nearest club and enquire about the Tiny Tots program or contact us by email (info@lesallplayfootball.com.au) and we will help you get connected.

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The new season of the English Premier League has kicked off and if the early run-ning is anything to go by then the famous

trophy will definitely be staying in Manchester. The only question now is whether Manchester Utd have done enough in the transfer market to retain it, or if Manchester City can be consistent enough to steal it away from their illustrious cross town rivals.

Utd started their title defence with a 2-1 win against West Bromwich Albion, but despite dominating much of the proceedings only came away with the three points thanks to an 80th minute Steven Reid own goal. Wayne Rooney had got the visitors off to a bright start when he steered a shot from the edge of the area in to the bottom corner after just 13 minutes. But West Brom struck back just before the break when a shot from Shane Long squirmed its way under new 18 million GBP signing David de Gea. There have been a number of question marks raised about the new Utd Keeper after some dodgy pre-season performances, but boss Alex Ferguson says that the youngster is still learning his trade and will overcome his shaky start. Ashley Young was the shining light for the defending champions and looked a constant menace down the left hand side and it was from his dynamic run and cross that Steven Reid forced the ball in to his own net to seal the win for Fergie’s men.

Manchester City on the other hand were never in trouble against newly promoted Swansea City who only had the cross bar to thank for going in at half time with the scores level. But it was just a matter of time before the sky blues got the break through and it came from striker Edin Dzeko who will surely grow in confidence after a horrible time last season. City boss Roberto Mancini had decided to leave the dummy spitting Mario Balotelli on the bench alongside new signing Sergio Aguero, but when Aguero did get his chance he didn’t waste any time in announcing himself to the Premier with two superb strikes that sandwiched a David Silva tap in which gave his new side a comfortable 4-0 victory. If the

Argentinean can continue this type of form you have to wonder whether Balotelli will become surplus to requirements at Eastlands.

The other big spending club of the summer was Liverpool and for the first half an hour against Sunderland Kenny Dalglish’s men looked the part, but would later rue a host of missed chances which included a horrible penalty from Uruguayan striker Luis Suarez. Suarez did grab one though but as the reds failed to keep up the frenetic pace Sunderland slowly came in to their own and when Sebastian Larrson volleyed home the equaliser in the second half it saved a well-deserved point for the Black Cats.

Chelsea and Arsenal also laboured in their open-ing fixtures with 0-0 draws against Stoke City and Newcastle Utd respectively. Arsenal fans are now wondering what will happen to the club after the departure of captain Cesc Fabregas to Barcelona, which has certainly left a gaping hole in their mid-field. Newcastle midfielder Joey Barton was in the news for the wrong reasons again after he accused Gunners striker Gervinho of being a cheat before admitting that he played up to have the new Arsenal man sent off.

New boys Queens Park Rangers also struggled on their return to top flight football and were routinely put to the sword 4-0 by an impressive looking Bolton Wanderers side.

In other matches Wolves started their new campaign with a 2-1 win away at Blackburn, while Wigan Athletic and Norwich City drew 1-1 in their opening match.

All in all it was a great first weekend in the Premier League and with another nine months still to be played out I for one am excited about a season that is already promising to be one of the closest in recent history. And here at “Let’s All Play Football” maga-zine we are preparing to drink the thousands of cup of coffee that it will take to stay up all night so that you don’t miss a beat.

EPL review

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Local Business  

Backs Local Football 

Santa Cruz Realty is proud to announce becoming a major sponsor 

of the Robina City Raiders Soccer Club. 

 

Brandon & Darren Mackay are the principals of this independent 

family owned real estate agency and are also players in one of 

Robina’s senior football teams. 

 

Santa Cruz Realty has provided funding for the construction of a 36 

seater grandstand for the “Home Team” spectators.   

 

To further promote their business as well as  

generate further funding for the clubs growth,  Santa 

Cruz Realty have offered Robina City Soccer Club 

the following opportunity.  

 

If any property is listed for sale exclusively with 

Santa Cruz Realty by a parent or friend of Robina City Soccer Club, 

they will donate 20% of the commission earned to the club. 

 

Brandon said, “This isn’t just about promoting our Real Estate 

agency, it’s about supporting football at the grass roots level.  It’s 

about giving back to the game I love.” 

 

Santa Cruz Realty can be contacted on 5578 6161 or email  

realty@santacruz.com.au. 

Local Business  

Backs Local Football 

Santa Cruz Realty is proud to announce becoming a major sponsor 

of the Robina City Raiders Soccer Club. 

 

Brandon & Darren Mackay are the principals of this independent 

family owned real estate agency and are also players in one of 

Robina’s senior football teams. 

 

Santa Cruz Realty has provided funding for the construction of a 36 

seater grandstand for the “Home Team” spectators.   

 

To further promote their business as well as  

generate further funding for the clubs growth,  Santa 

Cruz Realty have offered Robina City Soccer Club 

the following opportunity.  

 

If any property is listed for sale exclusively with 

Santa Cruz Realty by a parent or friend of Robina City Soccer Club, 

they will donate 20% of the commission earned to the club. 

 

Brandon said, “This isn’t just about promoting our Real Estate 

agency, it’s about supporting football at the grass roots level.  It’s 

about giving back to the game I love.” 

 

Santa Cruz Realty can be contacted on 5578 6161 or email  

realty@santacruz.com.au. 

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FUTSAL ARENAS

ASHMORE PCYC Dominions Rd, Ashmore This multi-purpose sports hall hosts Gold Coast Futsal on a Monday night with an elite men’s’ competition.  The sports hall accommodates an international size futsal court. Change rooms with toilets and showers. Support from the Ashmore PCYC and all PCYC facilities

Competition days:

Tuesdays – U / 12 Girls & Open Men’s

Thursdays – U 14 Girls

Fridays – Open Women’s

BOND UNIVERSITY Bond University Health and Fitness Centre at University Drive, Robina, and Qld Gold Coast. Two court venue. The sports halls are equipped with Change Facilities & showers available. Snack and drink machines access.

Competition days: Mondays open Men’s

CARRARA STADIUM Broadbeach-Nerang Road Carrara This multi-purpose sports hall is air-conditioned and plays host to Gold Coast Futsal on a Wednesday night with an elite men’s’ competition. The sports hall accommodates three Futsal courts, including One full international size Futsal court Change rooms with toilets, showers, The centre operates a canteen (downstairs)

Competition days: Wednesdays – Open Men’s TALLEBUDGERA SPORTING COMPLEX 1525 Gold Coast Highway, Tallebudgera, Qld. Gold Coast. Three court venue. Our newest venue, the facility is state of the art, and has, toilets, change rooms and a snack food bar. Plenty of street parking available.

Competition days: Wednesdays – U/11-16

FUTSAL SECTIONEveryone has expectations for their future … And success means different things to different people. Some are happy to live from day to day. Others – like you – want much more. You think bigger. You want to move faster. You want to go further. You’re determined to achieve something extraordinary. Then all you need is Futsal; Gold Coast Futsal Association operates Futsal leagues on the Gold Coast; their ambition is to share your ambitions, to bring all that technique and passion to life on the Futsal field. You can bring your team or just yourself to enter in the competitions, local, regional or nationally.

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VARSITY COLLEGE (senior school) junction of Varsity Parade and Assembly Drive Varsity Lakes This multi-purpose sports hall is air-conditioned . Facilities: The sports hall accommodates two Futsal courts. Change rooms with toilets and showers.

Competition days:

Monday / Thursday Over 35

Saturdays – U8 & U10

GOLD COAST CITY FUTSAL ACADEMY

Junior Development skills and drills Focus on skills where players can perfect their football & Futsal technique, Academy offers training sessions for 7-10 years old.

Junior Elite Academy  High demand training sessions to improve player’s overall game, this is invitation only Elite players will participate in games, tournaments, tours representing their respective Academy. Training sessions 10 to 12 years old.

Youth Development skills and drills Sharpen those skills acquired in early age and introduction to team play (tactics) academy offers training sessions for 13-16 years old.

Elite youth Academy  High demand training sessions focus on tactics & set plays , this is invitation only. Elite players will participate in games, tournaments, tours representing their respective Academy, training sessions for 13-16 years old

Goalkeeping Elite training  The Goal keepers are coached by our specific GK coach, using cutting edge coaching techniques to implement and develop alertness, ability, strength and confidence in young keepers. Training sessions are held every second training session, where the focus is on key keeper drills to help any young goalkeeper develop their full potential.  Sessions times Junior Development skills and drills (JDSD)  11’s & 12’s -Sundays 10.30am to 12pm.  7’s to 10’s –Sundays 12pm to 1.30pm Junior Elite Academy (JEA) Sundays 8.30am to 10.30am Youth Development skills and drills (YDSD) 13’s to 16’s - Saturdays 2pm to 3.30pm Elite Youth Academy (EYA) 13’s to 16’s - Saturdays 3.30pm to 5.30pm Goalkeeping Elite training (GET) – Every second training session

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Players might also like to consult with their trainer about designing a workout that strengthens the body against injury. This

will involve exercises that focus on building strong muscles and bones. There are also some basic steps players can take to prevent becoming injured or over working themselves when they train. Firstly they should warm up and do stretches before beginning their training. Players should also activate their glutes by using band walks, and make sure they are landing correctly and not allowing their knees to cave inward. Players should always be sure not to over train themselves by allowing for adequate rest in between sessions.

Another thing to avoid is playing in fields where conditions are bad, as uneven ground can easily cause damage. Also, if a player has been away from the sport for a long period they should gradually ease themselves back into the game, rushing back in to the level you were at before can be a major cause of injury. Lastly, ensure that cleats and shin guards are properly fitted, molded and multi-studded cleats are known to be safer than screw in cleats.

In terms of treating an injury should it occur, players should never go ahead and play until their injury is treated and healed. Normally small injuries can be treated through rest, ice and elevating the limb.

INJURY PREVENTION IN FOOTBALL

Being able to play football in the knowledge that you are doing everything possible to save yourself from injury should be a high priority for all players. Preventing injury means you will be performing better for your team in the long run. The first thing you need to consider is whether or not the way in which you do your training exercise is causing the minimal possible damage to your body. Often athletes will be performing exercises such as squats or bench presses incorrectly.

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WHAT IF? By R M Skillen

Football is a fickle business. Championships, relega-tions, promotions even whole careers can be decided on the flip of a coin, an inconspicuous divot in the ground, the perception of a man with a whistle and an inferiority complex or the lack of tactical knowl-edge from a manager only handed the role with while the club chooses a foreign coach with a funny sounding name to waste their money on. And there is no doubt that with a different team talk, ref decision, tactical move or transfer, the careers of some of the games greatest ever players could have been a whole lot different. How would Paul Gascoigne have coped at Manches-ter Utd instead of Tottenham and with the famous Alex Ferguson hair dryer treatment? Would Ronaldinho have survived his proposed three month stint on loan at Scottish side St Mirren? Could Jose Mourinho have got Steven Gerrard and Frank Lampard playing to their full potential while in the same Chelsea side? Would the famous Pele have reached his amazing tally of 1000 goals plus had he moved to a star stud-ded tougher European side? And what would have come of Diego Maradona had Sheffield Utd stumped up the cash to him as a 17 year old? It is a world of what ifs, buts and should have beens. But that is exactly what we all love about this amaz-ing game. The what ifs give us all hope.

MARADONA After much negotiating Sheffield Utd reluctantly forked out 500,000 GBP for 17 year old Argentine, Diego Armando Maradona. But Maradona’s stay at Bramall Lane was short lived with a handful of sublime performances attracting the attentions of the mighty Liverpool. After making the switch to Merseyside, Maradona, went on to become the clubs all time greatest goal scorer picking up numerous personal awards and club trophies along the way. But there is one thing missing from the great one’s CV that still haunts him to this day, a World Cup win-ners medal. It seemed to many that his best oppor-tunity had come in 1986, but an injury in that years FA Cup final meant that he entered the tournament less than match fit. But a proud Maradona battled through superbly guiding his side to a quarter final tie against England.

The game was tight and hard fought but early in the second half it looked as though Argentina had made the breakthrough, but as Maradona chased a long ball played in behind the England defence his injured leg seemed to give way and he clattered in to England goal keeper Peter Shilton on the edge of the area. The ball evaded them both and trickled in to the back of the net sending the Argentinean fans in to raptures. Unfortunately their celebrations were short lived as the ref had already awarded the English a free kick. From then on, with Maradona sidelined, England slowly gained control and after Peter Beardsley scored one of the greatest goals of all time it was them that progressed to semis. With their confidence high the English were flying and looked almost unstoppable, and who knows what could have happened then. STEVEN GERRARD Just months after lifting the 2005 European Cham-pions League trophy with Liverpool, Steven Gerrard shocked the football world by handing in a transfer request. Just days later a 35 million GBP move to Chelsea was completed with everybody wonder-ing whether the self proclaimed “Special One,” Jose Mourinho, could get the midfield pairing of Gerrard and Lampard to fire. Mourinho promised he could, but with both player getting caught pushing forward early on in the 2005- 06 season and with results not going Chelsea’s way it was Gerrard who found him-self pushed out of position and later to the bench. It was much the same in the England set up and as the international side lined up for a World Cup quarter final match against Portugal the splinters in Gerrards backside began to deepen. But after a Wayne Rooney brain-snap got the youngster sent off, Gerrard, finally got the call to show his stuff. But despite a sublime energetic performance as a lone striker that helped guide the ten men of England through to the semis he once again found himself playing out of position wide on the left hand side. His frustration was clearly visible and as his energy dropped so did England’s. Amazingly it was Gerrard that shouldered all of the blame for the dismal World Cup exit and with the British press on his back a move abroad was inevi-table, but what came next was a shock to everybody. Steven Gerrard retired from international football at the tender age of 25.

WHAT IF? Is the critically acclaimed book from sports journalist R M Skillen and is available now from Amazon.com and other on line retailers.

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