Each school provided a grade 5/6 boys and girls team which participated in the modified nine-a-side games in a round robin format.
The standard of play and overall enthusiasm of the children impressed staff at CFC as well as AFL Victoria.
Girls’ competition
Holy Name P.S and Lalor P.S met in the Grand Final after some strong form in the pool rounds. Lalor P.S started brilliantly kicking three goals however, Holy Name grinded away to take the lead at half time. The second half saw them run away with the victory after kicking goals at a rapid rate with their miserly defence making things difficult for Lalor. A special mention must go to Lisa Mascaro who kicked eight majors (set up a few too) and totally dominated the grand final. A fantastic effort.
Boys’ competition
Lalor P.S (undefeated all day) and Holy Name (lost one game by two points to LPS) were the clear standouts with their skill level and team play on show. These two sides later met in the Grand Final where there was an upset of sorts. Holy Name P.S (pictured) jumped out of the blocks and slammed home four unanswered goals in the first half to put the game away. Lalor P.S fought very hard in the second half to get back into the contest but it wasn’t enough.
Phiv Demetriou and Ash Brown were on hand from AFL Victoria to present the trophies and medallions to Holy Name and Lalor P.S in the boys’ and girls’ competition.A “Harry O’Brien Medallist” was presented to the best and fairest player of each team that participated. O’Brien is the ambassador of the club’s program and a great role model to all these children from CaLD backgrounds.
We would like to thank SEDA for all their help in making the day a great success and to their students who did a fantastic job as coaches, field and goal umpires.
These schools had previously taken part in a “10 experiences” program with the club which included:
- six weeks of clinics at their individual schools learning about the game and practising skills.
- Working through there You Can Kick Goals Resource promoting Harmony, Leadership, Fair play etc.
- Super Clinic at their school with CFC Players on hand to give tips, sign autographs and pose for photos.
- Tickets to a Collingwood FC Match.
- Tour of the MCG / National Sports Museum and Lexus Centre.
- Opportunity to play on the MCG/Ethiad Stadium at Half Time
- Opportunity to take part in the Northern Region Multicultural Schools Cup
- Opportunity to advance to State Multicultural Cup.
For further information about the Collingwood Multicultural Program please feel free to contact Harmit Singh via email - harmits@collingwoodfc.com.au
