Soccer kicks off season

MANSFIELD Soccer Club has kicked off again this season on May 1, after a successful 'Come and Try' day on Sunday, April 3. They will start again with three groups: five to seven year olds, eight to 10 year olds, and 11+ years. Kate Stonnill, who's been at the club's helm for some time, has handed over the reins to Chris Nealon, who'll steward the club moving forward. The Mansfield Soccer Club was set up in 2002 as a grassroots club to introduce children (aged five to 16 years) to the game of soccer. It had a very informal start with the focus on skills and fun, and was a great way to get out and run around on a cold winter's morning. Since then the club has grown steadily and has maintained its relaxed and inclusive atmosphere. For a number of years, the club attended Gala Days in other towns, such as Benalla, Wangaratta, Myrtleford and Euroa, and played regular friendly matches against teams from Alexandra and Shepparton. The club was very competitive and successful at these meets. However, the challenge then became finding towns that have similar ages, especially the over 11 age group, as the club seemed to have outgrown other small clubs. Unfortunately, a number of smaller clubs have since folded, so the competition has again been focused in Mansfield. A new initiative in 2018 was the start of a social game for seniors (15yrs to adults). It also gave those who have outgrown the Sunday game to continue to enjoy soccer. They meet at 6pm on Wednesdays at the main oval and play under lights. Players need to be registered with the club to play. In 2021 the club finally moved to its new ground at College Park. Although the season was impacted by closures the numbers attending were still strong and the new club room/kitchen is a great asset. New goals and equipment was purchased, including a new line marker, after years of fundraising. The Community Bank (Mansfield and District Bendigo Bank) has been one of many strong supporters of the club which has been successful with two grants, the latest providing funds for a new barbecue which was put to work last Sunday. This is part of the bank's Community Impact Program for 2021, with 2022 applications now open. The barbecue will provide the club with a way to continue fundraising for the club which helps to keep fees low and accessible to all. To get involved you can contact the club at mansfielddistrictsoccerclub@gmail.com or just go along on Sunday 10am until 12 noon.

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