On behalf of everyone at Manly Warringah Football Association, a big welcome to all for the 2016 season.
With record numbers registered again, it is shaping up as the best season on record.
With so many players looking forward to the kick-off, from the new sub-juniors and extra girls competitions all the way to the not-so-new over-45s players, anticipation, tension and nerves are mounting.
With over 1200 teams, representing 17 clubs, the challenge is on to get over 600 games played each week throughout the winter season.
The world game has never looked so good with the success of the national teams, the Socceroos and the Matildas, the A-League coming to the business end after a great season, Manly United starting the NSW NPL season well and the local fixtures this weekend.
I would like to thank all 17 clubs and their hard working committees for the wonderful effort in getting all the hard work done before the season starts.
The amount of work required to get players registered, teams graded and formed as well organising gear is huge, so a big thank you from all the players in the association.
We are also working closely with the referees association again this year to improve the conditions for all referees.
I urge all players, coaches, managers and supporters to respect the game day officials.
Referees are everyday people giving something back and they are human, so mistakes and differences of opinion are inevitable.
Please resist the urge to have your say and respect the person doing the hardest job on the pitch.
The Soccer Post is produced every week and sent out electronically, so if you would like to receive a copy please let us know at reception@mwfa.com.au
Finally, I wish every player and team the very best for the 2016 season and I hope to see you during the year at one of the many suburban grounds on the northern beaches.
Jeff Smit
President MWFA
