Football Clinic – December 2014

A group of Thailand Tigers and Auskick families recently gave up their Saturday afternoon to run a football clinic at a boy’s home for children who are less fortunate than most of us. The chance to do this was made possible through Coxy and Phil’s organisation, and they deserve recognition for their work.

Over 50 boys from the home turned out, with a range of ages similar to Auskick. They were split into groups and introduced to kicking, handballing, goal kicking, marking and tackling by rotating through stations run by groups of Tigers, Dads and Auskickers. The level of enthusiasm from the children was great and the boys picked up the basics very quickly;  you had to remind yourself that the majority of them had never seen a footy before.

After the skills sessions the group was split into four teams and 2 matches were played, with age separating the teams. The two games were played in turn, with one set of teams watching the others play. The Tigers and Dads also put on a quick exhibition, demonstrating positional play and kicking to targets, in addition to wheeling round and nailing long bombs from the centre square (no names, you know who you are!).

Everyone involved had a great time, and there were some highly talented athletes in the group. Aside from getting a chance to play our great game of Aussie Rules, it was an opportunity for the children to practice their English and forget about the terrible backgrounds that have resulted in them being at this centre through no fault of their own. It was truly heart wrenching hearing their stories.

Thanks to all involved with the day, and to the iCare Foundation for giving the club the opportunity. A special mention also to Jezza and Nic Cox, who did a great job translating and supporting the boys; and to Dan, Alfie and Zac from Bangkok Auskick who got amongst it and helped the boys learn how to play.

Special thanks to the Thailand Tigers and Auskick Dads who helped out on the day as well. The Tigers all went away keen on continuing the clinics, with many ideas about how this might happen. There is also going to be a Charity Drive in the new year to source some clothing and sporting gear for the boys. If you have anything to donate, please contact the club.