Kanga Cup 2011

Canberra Times 16 July 2011

Well, I guess it's only fitting that the first of our posts on the family blog is a soccer post.  For the week of 10 - 16 July, the family's activities, day and night, revolve around soccer. Each year for that matter, for the past 5 or so years, the first week of the July school holidays, is devoted to running kids from one end of Canberra to the other, so they can play in, to quote the Kanga Cup organisers, 'the largest tournament of its kind in the southern hemisphere and one of the biggest tournaments in the world.''

Zoe's new team, Canberra FC u/18's got a mention in the local newspaper, Canberra Times, for a thrilling final (Canberra Times Article:  Kanga Cup finals go down to wire! ) and Grant who plays for Majura FC this year, made it to the Semi's.  They both had a great time and not only enjoyed the football, but enjoyed the atmosphere and the social events (particularly Zoe) throughout the week.  Super Coach, Pete, did an amazing job organising Zumba Classes, bowling and watching Mariners Games during the week, and then dinner and an ice bath session at the AIS for the walking wounded after the event.  Zoe enjoyed herself thoroughly, thanks Pete!





Victory Celebration!

Greeting the Giants!



Grant played a team from the Northern Territory affectionately nick named, the Giants, who had about 6 boys on their team who towered over our tallest player (Jackson) by about a foot!  Our boys were completely overwhelmed and dare I say a little initmidated.  However, after moving from the atrocious ground at Kaleen, the boys were able to play some lovely passing football throughout the week and were very successful.  Well done Phoenix, you played with great spirit and sportsmanship and you really showed what you're capable of!

On Saturday after the Kanga Cup was over, Grant was lucky enough to play the two visiting Korean teams as part of his training for the Boys U/13 ACT in training squad (final squad to be announced Mon 25 July).  The boys played very well and were able to hold the Koreans to a 1 all draw in both matches. 

ACT Boys and Korean Teams