August 2008 Newsletter

Hi Rovers!

I can’t believe it’s spring already, or is it??? Not only are we wrapping up 2008 but we have already started preparing for the 2009 and we need to bring everyone up to speed with a few small issues while we still have contact with everyone.

Awards Day 13th September 2008 – Bring and Braai
We will be having our annual awards day at the Reitvlie farm in Swartkoppies Street on Saturday the 13th September. The day will be a very informal event. The braai’s will be lit at 12:00pm and prize giving will start at 12:30pm. We expect to finish around 3pm. If you cannot stay for the braai, please come for prize giving. This will be the awards day for ALL TEAMS so please make an extra effort to be there. There is an entrance fee payable to the Rietvlie Farm. Kids U/12 R10 and all others, including adults R15.
Here is a list of what you need to bring:


· YOUR FAMILY
· Meat
· Blanket/chairs to sit on
· A salad (To share)
· Drinks
Please don’t just drop your boy’s off. They have worked hard this season and I know they would love for you to be there to support them!

2009 Player Registration
We have started to send out the application forms for the 2009 season. This is done to avoid the rush that took place earlier this year. Please note that we have implemented a R150-00 early registration fee and R200 for registration after the 31st March 2008, to cover the ELFA registration of players. This is non-refundable. We also have a new registration form where we require new information, ALL players are to please submit a new form and supply 2 new ID photos for your player cards. If a player has not been registered before we will also need a copy of their birth certificate.

The club registrar needs to fill in an ELFA document for each player before we submit the registration. To assist in lightening the workload registration forms and registration fees for 2009 can be returned to your coach/manager from today onward.

Click on the link bellow to download the registration form

http://boxstr.com/files/3296438_pzqry/Registration%20Form%20Rovers%281%29.xls

Top Soil – needed
We need to top soil all our fields in November. If we don’t I am concerned that they will not last the 2009 season. If there is anyone who can assist us with this please contact me.

2009 Subs
We have done our calculations for 2009 and unfortunately have no choice but to increase the subs. This is to cover an increase in ELFA registration fee, increase in rent, increase in maintenance costs etc. etc. Please understand that the club has to pay costs for a full year not just the playing season. Please also remember this must be one of the cheapest forms of activity for your kids. Where else will you find 8 months of fun for as little as R550?? We will still offer discount if subs are paid in advance.

The subs will be structured as follows:
· 2009 Non refundable registration fee: R150-00 Payable before 31st March 2009.
· Subs Paid before 31st March 2009: R400-00
· 2009 Non refundable registration fee: R200-00 after 31st March 2009.
· Subs paid after 31st March 2009: R450-00

Unfortunately going forward we will enforce a “No Pay – No Play” rule.

Coaches and Managers for 2009 Season
We are looking for coaches and managers for the 2009 season. Calling all Dads, granddads, MOMS, older brothers, Uncles, cousins, WHOEVER who is willing to make the commitment to coach one of our teams for 2009 please talk to me. If you are worried about your abilities, we will be running workshops again to ensure that all our coaches are trained. If are keen and want to find out more please do not hesitate to contact me. My contact details are below. From the feedback I have and what we have planned, we are going to have more teams in 2009 than we have coaches for!!!!!!!!

Referee’s for 2009
As a club we are always in need of referees on Saturday and going forward Sundays too. If you would like to attend a course to become a referee please talk to me. This has been an issue at the beginning of our 2009 season when we try arrange a number of home games to run at the same time. Unfortunately all referees must attend an ELFA course and get “carded”. This is to maintain a standard of refereeing; it also gives the ELFA some control should an issue arise during the season. This is a fantastic way to be involved in the club as referees are scheduled to ref and therefore do not need to avail themselves every weekend. AGAIN MOMS ARE WELCOME TOO!!

Final Meeting 18th September 2008.
We will have our final AGM on Thursday the 18th September 2008 at Impact Tutorial Center on the cnr. of De Vaal and Vaal str @ 6:00pm sharp. Here we will wrap up the year with a financial report back and the election of a committee to take us into 2009 PREPARED!!! Everyone is welcome. If you would like to get involved in the club in anyway this is your opportunity to put your hand up. Those of you have attended our meetings in the past you will know the meetings last only 1 hour. See you there!!!

Rules & Code of Conduct
We have drafted a set of rules and a code of conduct we at Rovers subscribe to. I need to clarify our intention with this.

We HAVE NOT had any incidence that relate to behavior problems or conduct of players, parents or coaches over the past year. Thank you all for that!

The rules and conditions may seem as though we are “clamping down” or trying to take the fun out of what we are here for, this is certainly not the case. As you read through them you will clearly see our intentions. Going forward I am sure that we all want to be associated to a club that not only performs on the field but off the field too. Our aim at Rovers FC is to teach our players to play the game properly, sportsmanship is part of this, as is ensuring a high set of behavioral standards on and off the field. It is not only important for us as Rovers to outline what is expected of parents, spectators and players, but it is also important for you as a player/parent to know what is expected of us, the club administrators, the coaches, the managers too. As we move forward and grow we need to tell new members of the family what is expected of them. Please adopt this code as part of the reason you want to be associated with Rovers FC!

2009 Season Starts
We will break after the last game on the 6th September 2008. Pre-season training will start on the 2nd February 2009. Please do not wait for an announcement to appear in the newspaper as I have come to learn that Rovers results and information very rarely finds it’s way to print. We have had a few requests for teams that want to continue training through the break. My only concern with is that the fields need a chance to recover from the heavy season. Should your team wish to continue please talk to me before you simply go ahead so that we can see what other arrangements we can make.

Well that’s all for now. Good luck to our boys for their last few games. Remember once the whistle blows, it’s up to you to make it happen.

Keep Kickin’,
Glenn Du Toit
Rovers Chairman
082-9034222

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...vs Olympia.

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Bocksburg 2 x 1 Rovers U/11

With only 10 players and no subs. We had a tough game but the boys did not give up.

With a loss of 2x1 the boys played a good match.

The boys come in strong in the first half when Devon scored our goal. Well done Devon.

Midfielder’s great play, you kept the gaps closed!

The man of the match goes to Tristan, well done, good game, you kept the defense strong, communicating with the players and not allowing the opposition through.

Clearing the ball to the other half, well done.

Our next game: Birch Arches vs. Rovers U/11

Time: 9:30AM

Date: 30 August 2008

Local: Birch Arches Field

Have a blessed week.

Team Manager.

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General Rules of Rovers Football Club

Code of Conduct:

Club
1. To provide a structured facility that promotes a positive environment for players, parents, coaches and managers to enjoy the game of football.
2. To protect the players from related forms of abuse from other players, opponents, coaches, parents and spectators.
3. To provide be affiliated to a regional SAFA accredited body.
4. To provide players with the necessary equipment to play football i.e. a field, playing kit - shirts and pants and soccer ball’s.
5. To provide skills training for coaches to enhance player performance.


Coaches
1. To be a diligent and positive instructor who constantly keeps up to date with the latest coaching practices to ensure the development of players.
2. To contribute to the physical, mental growth of the player.
3. To be a role model for the players.
4. To respect the referees, officials, players and spectators of Rovers FC and opposing clubs.
5. To ensure that demands on players time, energy and enthusiasms are reasonable
6. To be conversant with the laws of the game and observe its integrity
7. To give all players and equal opportunity.
8. To care for equipment, kit and facilities.
9. To maintain a level of discipline and professionalism in all activities associated with Rovers FC.

Players
1. Play within the laws of the game.
2. Never question or argue with a referee.
3. Exercise control over tempers, emotions and actions towards other players, officials and spectators.
4. Give only your best in all aspect aspects of football.
5. Co-operate with your coaches and managers.
6. Understand that training is just as important as playing.

Parents
1. Understand that children / players participate in football for their enjoyment and not yours.
2. Always encourage children to participate.
3. Encourage children to play within the laws of the game.
4. Always lead by example.
5. Learn the laws of the game.
6. Appreciate and respect the managers and coaches.
7. Respect referees, officials, players and spectators.
8. Report injuries, illness or medical issues that may require treatment to the coach, such as asthma.
9. Send your child ready to play with the correct attire for the training or matches.

Spectators
1. Understand that children / players participate for their enjoyment and benefit and not yours.
2. Recognise and applaud good performance.
3. Always be supportive and encourage player to do their best.
4. Do not ridicule players.
5. Be positive and constructive with comments towards players and coaches.
6. Show discipline and respect for officials, players, referees and other spectators.
7. Do not use foul language.
8. Understand the laws of the game.

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Rovers U/11 vs. Birch Arches

This saturday, Rovers FC U/11 will be playing against Birch Arches.

Game will kick-off at 9:30AM.

Photos and feedback from the match are welcome from everyone.

Go Rovers!

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Rovers Football Club Code of Conduct

Rovers Football Club has set out a code of conduct for all members of the Rovers family. It is essential that all players, parents, coaches and managers subscribe to said rules and code to ensure a successful club. Rovers FC was established to provide a facility where players and parents can get together and have fun. However we still need to set out levels and standards that we as a Rovers family subscribe to.

General Rules of Rovers Football Club


1. Rovers Football Club is managed through an elected committee of volunteers.
2. Decisions relating to the management of Rovers FC are made by said committee.
3. All coaches at Rovers FC coach on a voluntary basis.
4. The management of team issues, such as player selection, player positional play, and disciplinary action within the team context is the sole responsibility of the coach and manager of the team. At no point will parental interference be entertained.
5. Players brought to the club for training or matches are not to be left unaccompanied.

6. Where the parent or guardian is unable to accompany the player arrangements must be made with a team coach, manager or committee member to supervise the player until such time that they are collected.
7. NO PLAYER will be permitted to wait after a game or training without adult supervision. Parents are to ensure that players are collected straight after practice.
8. Should players have been left to wait to be collected and there is no adult supervision available, the player will be dropped off at the Letaba Police station (+- 500m from the gate in Letaba Str.) to be supervised until such time that the child is collected.
9. Players will not be permitted to walk home after an evening training session or game.
10. Parents and players are to respect the decisions taken by coaches and managers. Should a dispute arise relating to coaches or managers, parents and players are to address their concerns with the chairperson of Rovers FC. The chairperson will then deal with the issue within the confines of the club and committee.

11. Coaches reserve the right to enforce disciplines such as attendance, tardiness, conduct and sportsmanship.
12. Coaches, players, parents or spectators who conduct themselves in an inappropriate manner will be asked to leave the sporting grounds, whether the ground is at home or away.
13. Rovers FC subscribes to the football rules laid out by FIFA and the local body SAFA.
14. Rovers FC is affiliated to SAFA through the ELFA and thus subscribes to the SAFA and ELFA code of conduct.
15. Rovers FC will abide by any ruling passed down by the ELFA.

16. Swearing on the sidelines or directing verbal abuse at players, coaches referees are NOT PERMITTED at ANY game where Rovers is represented.
17. Alcohol is NOT PERMITTED at ANY game where Rovers is represented.
18. Any player, parent, spectator or coach who is involved in any physical altercation will called to account for their action through an internal disciplinary process.
19. Members of the Rovers FC have a responsibility to uphold the rules of the club and the code of conduct attached to these set rules.
20. Rovers FC will endeavour to provide a safe and enjoyable environment for players and spectators alike. To fulfil this it is essential that the club has the full support of the players, parents, coaches and committee alike.

21. Parents are requested not to embarrass their children.

RULE 22: ALL PLAYERS, COACHES, PARENTS WILL HAVE FUN AND ENJOY THEIR TIME AS PART OF THE ROVERS FAMILY – THIS RULE IS NOT NEGOTIABLE!!!

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Registrations are open for 2009 season

Registrations are opened for 2009 season.
Download your registration form and submit.

To download the form, please click in the headline above.

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What a game!!

Archive photo: The Mighty U/8 Team

Last Saturday the U/8’s took on Old Bens at their home ground (Benoni). Coach Mart started with his SUPA-SUBS (our junior boys) to see how they would cope. Unfortunately we slipped 2:0 down in the first 10 minutes of play, but Coach Mart continued to show faith in his boys by keeping them on the field for a while longer. All the while our spectators bit their nails down to the bone!! Well done Chad & Ethan on your 100% effort!!

Coach Mart then subbed the seniors in and the team ignited and evened the score in the next 7 minutes by smashing in 2 goals! The field was on fire & the team played as though they were avenging our Supa-Subs who were cheering their team on from the side line.

This was the most impressive performance the U/8’s have displayed so far! Both teams played as though they had shifted 2 divisions up, resulting in an electric & tense atmosphere & a fantastic match of junior soccer. Special mention must go to Dean who really rose to the occasion! Broden, Cameron, Jordan, Alldair, Brendon, Kamo, Blane, & Matt well done! You all played like champions! (Unfortunately Angus was ill and could not make the game). Final score 2:2.

The U/8’s have made an impressive turn around from winning only 1 match last year to currently in the top 3 of the same division this year. Special thanks to Coach Mart for all his hard work and commitment to the team.

Our next game is at Home against Olympia on Saturday 30th August 2008, kick off is at 09h30.

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U/11 Drew with Alberton

We drew 2 all to Alberton.

Once again well done boys, its great to see an improvement.

Well-done Joshua, our midfielder scored the two goals, you made us proud, keep up the good sportsmanship.

The man of the match goes to Jardel, as he had a brilliant game, allways communicating to his defenders.

Jardel is standing in as goalkeeper as Slade has an injury; we wish Slade a speedy recovery.

Its good to see the players communicating with one another as it is very important for the team play.

Our next game will be against Bocksburg on the 23rd of august, 8:30am.

Have a blessed week

Team Manager

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Photo Galery

Pics from 09/08/2008

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Next Fixture for Rovers FC U/11

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Words from the Chairman

On Saturday the 9th August we were fortunate to have all our teams playing at home.

The day started with the U/12’s and U/8 kicking off early.

With pressure mounting on the U/12 team who have been struggling to record a win for sometime now the home ground advantage was just what they needed. Cheered on by parents and the U/11 team they played like the superstars they are and beat Alberton 2-1. Coach Jason had a few tense moments but it does need to be said that the 2-1 score was not a true reflection on the game. Our boys had plenty opportunities to thump more goals home. They were all over Alberton. Well Done boys – YOU MADE IT HAPPEN!!!!

The U/8 continued to improve and have become a team to watch going forward. As the game progressed Benoni Northers were not going to make it easy for them. The boys showed their strength in character as Benoni kept coming back at them. The Rovers boys didn’t let up with continual pressure and eventually what can be described as the goal of the day when Matthew Royal had a crack at goals from 25m away and as they say in the classics LAADDDDUUUUUMMMMMAAAAAA!!!!! The U/8 sealed it pushing the score to 4-2 and putting it out of reach for Benoni Northern’s boys! At this rate the U/8 team will be pushing to move up to Division 1 next year.

The U/11’s took on the might of Scaw Metals from Germiston. The Scaw boys came into the game undefeated and in their last encounter thrashed Rovers 7-0. With the heavy load of the previous encounter to carry the boys went in with one thing in mind, revenge!! WHAT A GAME!!! The game was tense to say the least, Scaw managed to get one past our keeper, 1-0 to Scaw. Then after what can only be described as “Nuclear” pressure our boys equalized. The score stayed 1-1 up until the last few minutes when the Scaw strikers made a break and slotted the winning goal. The boys didn’t give up and kept the pressure on inspiring the U/7 & U/8 who had gathered on the side to shout for Rovers. As I said What a game! The boys were unfortunate not to equalize in the end, but it needs to be said, well done Scaw!

Our youngest team the U/7’s continued their undefeated season beating Alberton 3-1. The boys started the game in a manner that has been signature of this team for the past 2 seasons, Attack! Attack! Attack! This resulted in the first goal coming early in the game. The mid field has started gelling nicely with the strikers and pushed the ball through for what became the second goal. There was a lot of pressure in the second half and Alberton did not make it easy when the scored to put the score at 2-1. Later in the half the boys again showed what they were made of and hammered home the winner sealing the score at 3-1. WELL DONE BOYS. 3 games left and still UNDEFEATED!!!!!

Thank you to all who supported us on the day. We will continue to make the game as fun as we can.

THANK YOU FOR BEING PART OF OUR ROVERS FAMILY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

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Next Fixture Old Bens

(Correction)

This is the next game for the u/8 team.

This saturday will play against Old Bens away..

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Rovers FC u/11

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Words from Rovers U/11 Team Management

News on the game for the under 11 Div 2
Played on the 9 August 2008

Rovers vs Scaw

The team played like champs congradulation is in order
The last game we played scaw we Rovers F.C lost 9 nil to them
This weekend we lost 2 1 that shows you the boys have improved on there ball skills and ball control
The players played strong

The man of the match was Stuart Papworth

Where there was a gap Stuart was there to fill it up
Well done Stuart
Tristan keeps the back covered clearing the ball as a player he has improved his skills

All the players played like champs
Well done boys
You make us proud

Thanks

Regards

Angela Lopes

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Sportsmanship @ Rovers FC

In the pic, sportsmanship in actin

Rovers u/12 played against Alberton this past saturday during the All-in-One event held at Rovers ground and lost for 2-1.

The Goal was scored by Dean in a rebound kick.

Soon will post a game review from the coach side.

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Its Goooaaaaaaal!

The Boys celebrate the only goal from the match.

Goal from Dean.

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Ball Winning...

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Pictures

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The winning formula...

The score keeps on mounting.

Rovers U/8 team played last Saturday against Bocksburg... and won 2x0.

The winning formula worked again. This was no different from the previous game against Springs, the tactics, opportunities, balls out...The boys could have won by a superb margin, if was not for the missed opportunities.

But life goes on!Important to say that both goals were scored by Jordan. The first was scored in the first ten minutes, and after long show of quality soccer, scored the second. (congratulations to the coach, you are polishing a diamond).

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Watch us play here...

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All-in-One Update

This is the promissed update of the All-in-One anounced last week.

U/7 Kick off 10:30- Home Alberton

U/8 kick off 9:30 – Home Benoni

U/11 kick off 11:30 - Home Score Metals

U/12 Kick off 9:30 - Home Alberton

Have in mind that food and beverage will be available on site.

Bring all your family and friends for a day of entertainment.

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Fotos Rovers U/8 Team vs Bocksburg

Playing the ball to win

Listening wise words from Coach

Celebrating the winning...

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News from the Chairman

Hi Rovers Family

We are into our final few games for 2008 and I cannot believe how much has happened in my life over the past few months since I took over as chairman. Time flies!!!

As we start winding down and work to ending off the season on a high there are a few news worthy items that I am sure you are all interested in.


Coaches day held in June
What an incredible day we had, our coaches days was a resounding success. We had 130 kids attend the day with teams from Alberview and Glenview primary. All of this helped us promote our club like never before. A HUGE thank you to Bridgette who was there from early on to help with the coffee and muffins, to the moms who helped in the tuckshop and of course to our coaches who showed what they were made of by being there from 6:30am ready to run as Dudley took them through their paces.

The biggest gain was the incredible knowledge gained by our coaches. This knowledge will help Rovers as we continue to raise the standard of our coaching so we will raise the standard of play.

Fund Raisers
We had a rather good response to our LCD TV raffle we ran. We managed to raise over R12500. Although we initially said we would allocate half the cash raised to the club, as a committee we felt that with current tough times it would be difficult to then ask parents to pay in additional amounts to get a tracksuit for their boys. Therefore we took the decision that any child who sold R250-00 worth of raffle tickets would qualify for a tracksuit from the club. Those who fell short were asked to pay in the difference. Unfortunately this left the club R6000 poorer than planned, but we are after all here first for the players.

We will be looking at holding more of these raffles in the future. As a parent I know how frustrating selling these lists can be but it is the most effective way to raise much needed funds to run the club. Alternatively we will have no choice ask parents for more financial support to help cover costs. So please do everything you can to assist us in making these fund raisers a success.

9th August Game day
We have managed to arrange a game day on the 9th August where ALL our teams will be playing at home. In having this we will be able to open the tuckshop and sell boerewors rolls to raise money. We need volunteers to help so please contact me directly if you can help. Please make every effort to come along and support the ROVERS teams on the day. Teams will be notified of kick-off times before the day.

NB!!! Please use the toilet at home…….we don’t have one……yet!

Tracksuits.
All our boys who sold their R250 tickets and those who elected to pay in have/will receive their tracksuits this week. If there is anyone who would still like one, please confirm with payment by Wednesday the 30th August 2008. The cost is R250-00. We will be placing a small order on Thursday. If you miss this chance you will only get another opportunity next year again.

Donations received.
We have had a few items donated to assist in our building a better club. We have received a donation of the following:
· A signboard and palisade fencing from Emfuleni Golf Estate
· 3 x Light poles from Beach Boys beach soccer. These will be used for our junior field for 2009 season.
· 2 x soccer nets from Beach Boys beach soccer

We do need help to collect some of these items so if there is anyone who has a flatbed that can collect the signboard and palisade from VDB Park please contact me urgently.

Donations needed
· Going forward need help with sign writing on our newly acquired signboard. If there is anyone who has a contact with a sign writer who will help us please contact me.
· We need 6/8, 8m poles to erect for lighting on the top field for the new season. If anyone has poles lying around at work or knows where we can get these donated please let us know.
· For the lighting we will need spots. It is our intention to make the top field our main field. To do this we will need between 12 and 14 spots to ensure that the field is lit properly.
· We will also need 250m worth of cable to wire the field.
· With the poles secured for the baby field we will still need 3 spots and approximately 100m of cable.
Finally we are still trying to raise sponsorship for the club to help build a club house and ablutions. If there is anyone who can assist us in making contact with potential donors please let us know.

Supporters/parents conduct at games.
It is disappointing to hear that some of our parents get so carried away at games that they forget that we are a junior club and the boys who play are not professionals. Parents, I know how excited and passionate we get at games. When a kid makes a mistake, telling him he is stupid, or shouting at them is not what we want to happen. We will protect our players from bullying, even if it is a parent doing it to their own kid. Our teams are in the league to win, we do not apologize or lose focus of this, but if a parent does not know how sportsmanship and general conduct ties into this then they will be asked to go and wait in the car until the game is over. Please don’t embarrass your kid because you don’t know how to behave! Players, referee and coaches are OFF LIMITS! If you have a problem there are channels set up to address your concerns.

That’s all for now. Sorry for the last point but unfortunately issues like this need to be addressed.
Keep up the work and keep encouraging your boys as they have come a long way in their play and development.

Keep Kickin’,

Glenn Du Toit
Rovers Chairman
082-9034222

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Rovers U/8 vs Springs

Rovers U/8 demonstrated they're superiority playing 9 side vs Springs. The boys were close to
perfection. At lest performed better than Bafana Bafana, hehehe.

The game had lots of quality passes, a "crackling heather" from Etan, balls hitting the
bar...Was a very emotional match.


Since the beginning of the match, it was very clear how well prepared our boys are, (a big
thanks to couch) The game was basically played in they're side. Our keeper could very well
take a late morning nap while waiting for the game to finish. Had no activities in his box.
(sometimes soccer regulations seams unfair, ne? hehehe).

To be fair, not everything was roses, a credit of an outstanding player must be given to
springs keeper (in my view), our boys kept him busy and did not disappoint his couch or father
(for our frustration).

Nor unusual but different, the visitors had a girl defender that played the game in the same
level as the boys. She was not afraid to confront and take charge from our boys. well done
girl.

In the mist of confusion in the box, kamu found a gap and placed the sphere deep in the
net. That was 1-0.

The game continued with Rovers pressuring the visitors. Parents like me in the sideline
getting nervous and shouting instructions... One of this days the couch and referee will
send me home, for shore, but I cant help it.

came second time and the situation did not improve for Springs. Our boys multiplied the
pressure on the visitors... (were is your good manner boys? hehehe)

In rebound from one of many corner kicks, Alldair blasted the ball that unfortunately hit
the pole, but did not spot there, Kamu, Dean, Jordan had the opportunity to score but they
lost the compass. We could have won for more. But its not a problem, they did well.

Did not take long, Jordan demonstrated his quality's when he scored the second goal of the
match. Well done.

Alldair, Dean and Matt were substituted in the second half, giving place to David (Emerson's),
Branden and Etan.

Congratulation Rovers. Well done.

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Feedback from YOU!

Dear Coaches and parents.

As webmaster of this site, I receive very little feedback from the games and teams in general.
Please make use of this email address roversfclub@gmail.com or celsoamade@hotmail.com to send all info you may have that would like to share. I am available in the second address full time, you may access me via MSN.

Sometime, parents that attend the games take photos, please share with Rovers family at http://www.roversfclub.blogspot.com/.

I am shore that our players would love to show they're friends what they have been doing.
Parents and supporters are also invited to share with us your view of the games.

For the collective, please contribute.

Celso Amade

MSM/Email: celsoamade@hotmail.com

Email: roversfclub@gmail.com

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All-in-One @ Home

Saturday the 9th, will be All-in-One @ home.

Arrangements have been made to have the Rovers Football Club united at home at the same time.

Bellow is the proposed time table for the fixtures, pending update in next week edition.
Login next Wednesday for the last update.

U/12 kick off 8:30 – Home Alberton
U/8 kick off 9:30 – Home Benoni
U/7 Kick off 10:30- Home Alberton
U/11 kick off 11:30 –AWAY to SCAW

Have in mind that food and beverage will be available on site.

Bring all your family and friends for a day of entertainment.

CHECK UPDATED TIMES NEXT WEDNESDAY.

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Dribling - Breakout!

Breakout!
This is a drill designed to improve dribbling skills and get players to keep their head up at the same time. It's easy to set up and fun to do. You need every player to have a ball and as many cones as players.


You will be using the centre circle as the starting point of the drill. Place the cones around the circle an equal distance away, say about 10-20 yards, depending on age of players.

Get the players to dribble inside the circle with the emphasis on keeping their head up while dribbling to avoid each other in the confined space. Get them to attempt different types of skills, including “pull backs”, “outside of foot only” and so on.

After about a minute or so, shout “breakout”. The players then have to dribble fast from the circle to a cone, turn around, and then come back to the circle. It’s really important that only one player can go around each cone, so a player has to find another cone if somebody is already ahead of them.

Stand in the centre of the circle as the players dribble around their cones. The winner is the first one back to you, stopped, with the ball under control. You can make sure that there are no arguments about who is first back by getting them to slap your outstretched hand to signal that they have finished.

If you don’t have strict rules about how the ball is controlled on the way back, you’ll get them flying all over the place as the players race to get back to you. Remember this is both competitive and can be treated as a fitness drill.

You can also do the drill by how many times each player has come back to the circle to slap hands for a two minute time period.

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Teach 4v4 System

The best 4v4 by far It should be Government policy that soccer coaches use small sided games before the age of 13. The 4v4 system accelerates development of technical ability and game intelligence. Over the next few months David Clarke will be looking at coaching the 4v4 system, what it involves and what you and your players will get out of it.

So why teach 4v4?
Small pictures are clearer for children; space and options are more compatible with their abilities. 4v4 is the smallest sided game you can have that has all the elements of a real soccer match without any of the confusions that surround learning football.

In a real soccer match children have the option of passing the ball forwards, square or backwards. Three children cannot do this because one of the directions will be missing. With five children the extra one duplicates one of the elements. He becomes “also wide, also deep or also back.” This “also” position clutters the picture.

4v4 also provides the minimum numbers needed for all of the parts that make up a soccer game. One player is up top for penetration. Two are needed for width and one holds back to supply depth. In 4v4 the responsibilities are very clear. All tasks are covered and none are shared which keeps things simple.

What do the players learn
You are improving young players’ technique through a far greater number of ball contacts. The emphasis on control, passing and shooting gives the fundamental building blocks of football. And its fun for all the players, they are all involved, they attack and defend. The number of passes is increased and therefore the one touch control, one touch pass, sequence is used all the time. It is also a good indicator of players’ fitness because they are constantly running and playing the game. It is soccer learning at its best, fun, creating match situations and therefore a learning environment.

My experience
When I first started out as a coach as a team we grew sick to death of the best teams having big boys at the back who could kick hard and a fast player up front who could score goals. Wham bang thanks for the three points.

That was when I turned to the 4v4 system - AC Milan, Ajax and Barcelona were using it so why not me? Now all my teams train that way. They not only enjoy themselves but by the age of 13 they have become successful on a team and individual basis. And boy have we produced some good players.

Evidence it works
You don’t have to look far to find the countries that use small sided games. It’s a list of world champions: Brazil, Holland, France, Spain, Germany, Italy all play small sided games at young ages. You can see it in your players who visibly grow up during these games and you can feel the sense of achievement for yourself when players respond to the freedom.

Cut it out
Never mind the points system, the winning comes later. If you teach kick and rush football at the expense of technical development you’re not doing anyone any favours. You may win more matches with the younger age groups but you’re taking all the fun out of it. And you will find you’re pushing the stronger, faster players at the expense of some of the more gifted.

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Get Your Wingers Dribbling

Get your wingers dribbling If you reckon your wide men's dribbling skills could do with some polishing up, there are several areas you can work on to improve effectiveness.
Time to dribble.Type your post here


Many coaches believe there is a time and a place for dribbling: in the attacking third of the pitch. Lose the ball here and the risk of the opposition creating a goal scoring opportunity is reduced; dribble successfully (e.g. go past the defender) and the chances of being rewarded with a goal increase.

A is for Attitude
Your winger must be positive, in training and matches, and believe he has the ability to beat the full-back. Even with the first controlling touch their body should be side on and they should be looking to commit a defender.

One way they can gain confidence is for you to encourage them and accept it’s likely THEY WILL FAIL MORE THAN OFTEN THAN THEYSUCCEED.
Dribbling is a high risk/high reward skill – risks have to be taken to create goal scoring opportunities, and when you understand that, it will put the unsuccessful attempts in perspective. Remember, criticising them for being tackled and losing the ball will only make them less likely to try again.

The other way to build confidence is to get your winger to...
Practice, practice, practice

Every winger should have skills he can use to beat a defender. Once techniques such as the step over are acquired, set up 1v1 games sessions. Remember, observe if your attacker is:
Comfortable with the ball and able to keep it under close control Playing with their head up so they can see their options Slowing down as they approach the defender Using body feints to unbalance the defender Able to change direction once the defender is unbalanced Exploding past the defender with their head up

Other ways to beat a player
A winger doesn’t have to dribble past a defender to beat them. A one-two is always effective, or if, for example, your full back has the ball, the winger can drag their marker with them towards the ball, and spin off behind the marker into the space vacated when your full-back plays the ball over the top. Alternatively, if there’s space to run into and they’re quicker than their opponent, a winger can just knock the ball past and give chase. Finally, sometimes there’s no need even to beat a man – David Beckham, has made a career out of taking one touch to control the ball and with his second touch bending dangerous crosses around thedefender marking him.

Positional play
One of the key reasons teams employ wingers is to stretch defences width ways, thus creating gaps infield for forwards and attacking midfielders to exploit. The most obvious way to do this is to ask your wingers to stick close to their touchlines when your team has possession.

This way, they can either receive balls to feet, allowing them to run at the defender, or they can run into the space behind when a ball is played inside the defender.

Sticking wide also makes them free for the ball switched diagonally across, say from a central defender. Receiving this type of ball means a winger is more likely to find himself in a favourable 1v1 situation where the defender has no cover.

End product
Once the player has beaten the defender on either the outside or inside, you want an end result.

This means can they:
• Shoot

• Cross the ball/pull it back for an attacker

• Play a defence-splitting pass?

If these options aren’t on they must retain possession – unless, of course, there’s another defender to be beaten!
Type the rest of your post here

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Coach Your Goalkeeper to Defend High Cross Corners

Coach Your Goalkeeper to Defend the High Cross Corners, free-kicks and crosses can cause chaos if your goalkeeper doesn't jump high and catch the ball. International goalkeeper David James says practice, practice, practice.

A. Defending the High Cross
Use a 15m x 15m square. Put your goalkeeper and two attackers in the square. Put a player at each corner with a ball. The coach calls out a number (1 to 4) and that player kicks a high ball to the keeper. The keeper has to attack the ball and win it in the air under pressure from two attackers in the box. Keep repeating, practice is important.

B. Defending the High Cross and Clearing
Put your goalkeeper in the goal against two attackers. Two players with multiple balls stand on the wings to cross high balls into the box. Two other players are 25m down field in a marked off target area (cones will do). The goalkeeper attacks the high ball, wins it in the air and immediately turns and throws it downfield in the opposite direction from which the cross came. This switches the field and catches the attackers still charging at the goal.

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Rovers U/7 & U/8 @ Boks Tournament

The Keeper replacement

Dangerous Situation

Looks like:

Sarg: "On your post soldier"

Soldier: "Yes Sargent"

The thee Mosqueteeres

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How to Keep Keepers Keen

How to Keep Keepers Keen It can make a young goalkeeper's life a lot easier if they're always in the right position to make the save.

Always on the go
Before a goalkeeper even uses any part to touch the ball, they should be making constant adjustments to their position in relation to where the ball is on the field of play – even when it’s at the other end of the pitch! Below, we look at where keepers should be positioned in general play and when facing a shot.

Phase 1: The middle attacker plays the ball to themselves, at any angle left or right, and gives chase. They shoot with their second touch.
Phase 2: The middle attacker plays the ball left or right to either of the two supporting attackers. The supporting attackers can either shoot first time or take a touch before shooting.
Phase 3: The middle attacker can either take a touch left or right and take a shot, or pass. If they pass, the supporting attackers can now shoot on their third touch if they choose to.

THE COACH SHOULD OBSERVE THE KEEPER’S MOVEMENT FROM BEHIND THE GOAL.
As easy as 1-2-3
1. If the ball is in the attacking third of the pitch, the keeper should be in the front third of their penalty area.
2. If the ball’s in the middle third, they should stand in the middle third of their penalty area.
3. If the ball’s in the defending third, they should position themselves a little distance from their goal-line.

Sweep it up
Why is all that important? Because as well as making saves, a goalkeeper’s job is to provide support for their defence. The space between the keeper and defenders should be small enough to make it tricky for opponents to play a ball into it without either the keeper or defenders getting there first. A good position also means the goalkeeper is available to receive a backpass from an under pressure teammate.

Stop that shot – part 1
To prepare for a save, goalkeepers should:
Constantly adjust their position in relation to the sideways or backward/forward movement of the ball.Be towards the midline of a triangle formed by lines joining the position of the ball and the two goal-posts (see diagram).Once in line, plant their feet and be balanced when the attacker is in possession and in a position to shoot.Get on their feet quickly again after saving the shot and be ready for the next one!

Shop that shot – part 2
When an attacker’s through on goal in a 1v1, the goalkeeper should also:
Move along the line to the ball if it’s outside the playing distance of the attacker, and as fast as possible. Once the keeper has closed down the attacker, they should slow to a couple of arms’ lengths away and force the shooter to make a decision. Slowing down makes it easier to react, and makes it harder for the attacker to dribble around the goalkeeper.

Remember: The goalkeeper is a specialist position so it deserves special attention.

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The moooood.

I am sure these fellas enjoyed the most.
The weather was a bit chili and windy...
But they made the best of all for the occasion...
I know where to be in the next time!

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Past Weekend @ Boks.

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Shape Up Your Team

Shape up your team to defend all over the pitch Shapes are important in soccer. They happen all over the pitch, but you must make sure your players know how they work. Playing 3v3 matches shows you how to use triangles.

3v3 helps your players keep shape
Playing 3v3 brings up situations that often occur in 7-a-side or 11-a-side. It illustrates
how poor shape has an effect on the other players, making their own job much harder. The
triangular shape in midfield is very much something coaches can use to great effect all over
the pitch. But you must use it properly. Have a look at the diagrams and I'll show you what
I mean:

In the top diagram the white team have the ball and have to bring it out from their own
goal. The grey team has adopted the shape of a triangle, however, the middle player has
dropped back deep to protect his goal, in effect becoming a sweeper behind the other two
grey team players. This means that the white player bringing the ball out is unmarked and
can either directly attack straight down the middle or create 2v1 situations with his team
mates. The two grey wingers have a problem. Do they mark their player or go towards the man
with the ball.

A simple wall pass opens the path to goal
By moving away from the player they are marking they leave themselves open to a simple wall
pass and leave the goal at their mercy. If they stay, this creates a 1v1 directly in front
of their own goal. Or the white player can elect to move towards one of his teammates
creating a 2v1.

Problem for the man on the ball
In the bottom diagram the grey team is still in a triangle but the middle player has moved
up to the man on the ball. This gives the man on the ball an immediate problem as he tries
to bring the ball out. He is under pressure to pass the ball because he dare not dribble
past him. Passing is difficult so the grey team are more likely to win the ball. The grey
player can also force the player to pass one way or another by moving slightly to one side,
forcing a pass and allowing a grey team mate to intercept.

The difference in these two situations highlights not only how bad shape can make effective
team play more difficult, but also how important communication is. If you don’t explain how
it works young players might conclude that the situation in the first diagram is reasonable.
They can play like this for quite a while believing they are following your coaching, and
then blame one another for any mistakes that lead to goals.

Key coaching tip: Teach your players by showing them both these situations.

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Rovers U/11 vs Elsburg

We are Black, We are White, We are Strong as Dinamite, Rovaaaasssss!

The celebration of another victory. U/11 Side won 2-0 against the Elsburg.

Yes Dean! Its cool to win!

To be feared in the field, but we can be sportsmans too.

Man of the match. Excelent performance!

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