ON behalf of everyone at the Manly Warringah Football Association, a big welcome to all ahead of the 2017 season.
With record numbers registered to play, it is shaping up as another cracking year.
No doubt levels of anticipation, tension and nerves are mounting, be it those in the sub juniors or over-45s.
With over 1200 teams representing 17 clubs, the challenge is on to get over 600 games played each week throughout the winter season.
Every one of our clubs has been busy getting everything in order for the season kick-off this weekend.
I would like to thank all the MWFA clubs and their hard working committees for the wonderful effort in getting all the hard work done before the season starts.
The amount of effort 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 have been working closely with the Northern Beaches Council to improve the fields and facilities at all grounds.
The pitches are in the best condition ever and thats a big job considering around 17,500 players run on them every week.
I urge all players and teams to be considerate when training and playing to try to preserve the fields, especially the goal mouths, during the year.
We are also working closely with the Manly Warringah Referee’s Association (MWRA) again this year to improve the conditions for those in charge of games.
I urge all players, coaches, managers and supporters to respect referees and their assistants.
Referees are everyday people giving something back to our great game – but they are also human, so mistakes and differences of opinions are inevitable.
Please resist the urge to have your say and respect the person officiating.
Our own representative team, Manly United, have started their campaign strongly.
They look set for a huge year, so why not make your way down to our football headquarters, Cromer Park, to cheer on the men, women or our youth teams.
Don’t forget – every registered player is entitled to a season pass to attend home games free of charge.
The Soccer Post is still produced every week and sent out electronically.
If you would like to receive a copy, please let us know at reception@mwfa.com.au
In closing, I wish every player and their team the very best for the year.
Good sportsmanship and fair play will ensure everyone has a great season.
Regards
Jeff Smit
President MWFA
