(By Kim Fitzpatrick, Charlton)
I have been thinking of what moment/s to contribute, and there are “sooo” many.
Jayne Burton sent through the one I had thought of as one of the most memorable — the 2009 preliminary final at Wycheproof in the worst conditions ever.
Wind like never before and dust. We were in office. When we arrived at Wycheproof the official tent blew over, scorers had to be moved; it was crazy. I have a strong pass, but it blew back at me numerous times.
The “A” grade match was drawn at 18-all at full time. We had to play extra time, and the conditions had become worse.
Wedderburn took an early 3-goal lead in extra time; however, we clawed our way back. Our goaler, Tahnee Perry, I remember had the foresight to lean out of court and goal from behind the post to get the ball in. We got up to win 22 to 21.
Our senior football team, played Birchip-Watchem in the preliminary final, and scores were also locked together at the final siren but we won in overtime.
Shared Sporting Highs
Another would have to be my first NCNA “A” Grade premiership in 2003. The year after I had Cobi.
We played at Donald, up against Wedderburn.
I did something that day that I have never done before and never did afterwards.
At half-time, Jayne was giving instructions, and I had to run to the toilet! You would think I would sweat it out!
Shane also played in the senior team against St. Arnaud that day, and also won the grand final. It was a bit special that we both won together.
Providing Inspiration
Another year that was a little different was in 2007, when I was coaching a 16-and-under team, which I had coached previously.
Right from the start of the year, I was told that the players required a little more inspiration. So each week I would write a pre-game speech. Being time pressed, our trips to footy each week involved me preparing these speeches (guess what? I cannot find my book – I had it at the reunion the other year! I was planning on sharing some some of those inspiring messages.)
When finals time rolls around, we have a frequent visitor to our courts. Looking a little different each time, and arriving on transport such as a golf buggy and a pee wee, but always coming with words of wisdom for our finals players. See attached photographs.
More on Charlton Football: Charlton Champions
More netball "moments' at: Wycheproof Netball and Charlton Netball
Submit Your “Memorable Moment”
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