Local sports news for Bundaberg

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bobbrisbane@justsports.com.au

I recently had the pleasure of presenting a cheque to the Deakin Family of Moore Park Beach for $2570.85.

This amount was the total profit from our recent Family Fun Day held at Moore Park Beach Tavern, of which quite a few from the wider football community attended. I want to thank those who came along on the day, as well as those who couldn’t attend but made a donation towards the cause.

As most of you are probably aware, Bundaberg Distilling Company donated to the tune of $1500.00. This was not only in support of the Deakin Family, but in support of my full body hair removal by two less than sympathetic ladies waving hot spatulas of wax.

With my ‘pre-waxed’ body resembling a sasquatch, I knew I was in for some pain, and a couple of medicinal drinks prior really didn’t comfort me throughout the process. How women regularly go through this torturous ritual is beyond me, and I felt a tad nervous when I was laying on the waxing bench and my name was being chanted while these women in black hoods removed my winter coat. And for those who are wondering, the most painful areas were the top of my chest at the neck, the inner thigh and small of my back. Oh, and my right under arm.

My chicken skin, the bleeding under my right arm stopping after 18 hours and now the regrowth making my choice of clothing selective (otherwise I endure the ‘Velcro Effect’), as well as the ingrown hairs popping up in some ordinary areas, all contribute to me saying “never again!”. A new challenge next time for fundraising...nothing can be that bad...can it?

Cheers to everyone for their kind words and actions from both myself and The Deakin’s,

Coll Mann
President MPBFC
02/09/10

I’m sure the Football Community would join Across The Waves in wishing Daryl Hodges a speedy recovery after quadruple bypass surgery tomorrow. Daryl suffered a more severe heart attack last Friday than the one he had 10 years ago and has been flown to Brisbane to undergo surgery. Our thoughts and prayers are with him, Vicki and the family.

Rob Asnicar
Secretary - ATWFC
26/08/10

Aussie Aussie Aussie Oi Oi Oi and please beat Germany on Sunday the 13th! Thanks and good luck in the World Cup.

Kind regards,
Ronald Gouwentak
The Netherlands
11/06/10

Oi, Bob. The Meccano Shed cup third round draw is out. How about a segment on who the other divisions are going to have playing in the final 8?

Comment: Will see what I can find out.
Update: Maryborough advise that the are having a round robin to decide the 2 teams going forward on the 3rd July.

Thanks Bob for putting up the points for Spirit Youth, the lads look forward to seeing their write-ups on your website and its a great reward to see their points on the board.

Vince, thanks for mentioning the two young keepers, these boys have trained hard all year and travelled away to every game even when they weren't playing, so it was great they finally got some recognition for their dedication to the team. Your features are much more informative than other publications and at least you don't keep calling them "the babies"!!!.

Gary and Sue Martin
08/06/10

Hi Bob,

Thanks for the great features about our Spirit boys every week, they are doing an outstanding job for the future of Bundaberg Soccer, and the locals should be very proud of them. Can we please have a points table up for them as well? Love the website.

Sue and Gary Martin
01/06/10

Thanks Sue. Vince Habermann does a great job reporting on Spirit games

table

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How much abuse do the referees have too put up with? The abuse that Noel Stitt received from the Villa players and Manager on Sunday showed that Villa has little respect for the games officials

Bundaberg Football has to act and stamp out this abuse.

Lew Rehbein
24/05/10

As President of North Bundaberg Eagles Football Club I would like to express my thanks to all Clubs for their support of our Club at Saturdays March Past. The comments from other club executives, players, coaches and spectators has been very gratifying. Although we did not win we feel that with the response we have received, we can be and are very proud of our achievement.

Thanks you to our Life Members, Players, Coaches, Managers and Parents.

Regards
Ian Clarke
President
North Bundaberg Eagles Football Club
11/04/10

What does North Bundaberg have to do to win a junior March past? Today while out at Bundaberg soccer I watched the Clubs go by. North Bundaberg Eagles had the highest turn out of players, despite not being the biggest club.

All kids where fitted out in very smart looking matching dress shirts, and to top it all off being North Bundaberg’s 40th year nearly all the life members marched out the front of the kids. Yet they still couldn’t manage to win the March past.

When it was announced there was just stunned silence in the grandstands at the total disbelief of the decision. So can somebody please tell me, what more could North Bundaberg Eagles have done to win the day, or are they just destined not to win.

Stunned
10/04/10

Hi there

You want a rant ,well I'll give you one ,two maybe three. I agree re points table ,its not that the points were given back but how and when. You play all season, keep your eye on the points and just when you think your there, BAM it jumps up and smacks you in the face. The uniform rule became a joke, not the fact they were in wrong shirts but other teams were pinged for wrong socks and shorts. I'm passionate about softball and do my best to adhere to rules, but then hey lets give the other team points for a forfeit, RULES yeah a joke.

Now don't play all year and pay your dues because when you come in 4th and it rains ,BANG you're OUT. No chance of proving that you might just have got your act together and victory could be yours.

I realise you cant play under water but the comp should have a week added for just these occasions , play it during the week or a double header. I'm shattered and disillusioned by how this last part of the season has been played out.

Want to promote the sport.... I know I will be a little more subdued about talking people into playing. After all who wants to pay and no play come semi time ... why bother!!!!

Could I have some of Dugs WINE.
DISGRUNTLED
O.S.P
09/03/10

Comment: Same thing happened with cricket semis. Unfortunately with other sports i.e. Cricket, Soccer, League, Netball, Hockey and AFL getting under way, it has to happen this way.

Good to see some former xxxx league Bundaberg Waves players joining the spirit as both players and coaches. It's also good too see some more sponsorship and money become available for the team.

But what is yet too be seen is what is going to happen with the money. Bundy Waves used there money to recruit players with state, national and international experience. Also young players with the same kind of junior experience who would develop into top state league players. They also recruited coaches with top level experience, such as Tony Walmsley, who has gone on to become a member of the CCM a-league coaching panel.

It is unfair too keep pinning the hopes of the town on players like Brett Kitching, Laurie Stevenson and Aaron Bakker. In all fairness, these guys are approaching there 30's and there best football is behind them. There is no doubt that they have the skill level and football brain required to play at the level, but without a good crop of young players around them willing too learn off them and help cover there physical inadequacies, it is just too hard for them to get results in this league. Unfortunately for the Spirit, the young players in there squad (apart from a fit and firing John Brillante) just won't cut it in the Q-League.

I will continue to support the Spirit and watch as many of there games in Brisbane and on the Coast as I can, and I just hope the new president and committee use there money to recruit wisely and help the Spirit become the powerhouse they have the potential to become.

Yours in football,
Nick Martin
10/02/10

I would like to congratulate David Hillier on being appointed/elected to the position of President of Bundaberg Spirit. David is obviously a successful businessman in his own right. If he brings the same degree of commercial acumen and pragmatism to the role as I presume he uses in his own business interests then Bundaberg Spirit will be well served. Another attribute that may result is an entree into the "big end" of town in terms of attracting commercial partnerships with the Spirit. Hopefully the end result is a Football side that is commercially independent of any other identity and is self funding. I do not envy David the task ahead but his involvement is certainly a step ahead in the right direction.

David Timbrell
07/02/10

Where were these guys last year when the Spirit were struggling, seems to me they are just coming because the club is on a better wicket now.

Frank Cook
04/02/10
Comment: You can't blame the players for not wanting to trek to FNQ on a mini bus. Things certainly needed to improve and it seems they have.

Hi Bob, Good to see Laurie, Brett and Lucas sign for the Spirit for this year and good to see the new president David Hillier and coach Richard Mitchell pushing the game forward in Bundy for the good of the clubs and players in the future, and I truly believe Football in Bundaberg will benefit in the long run.

The lads have my full support and lets not forget the likes of young Tom Kimber who has or will sign for the Spirit, he has come along in leaps and bounds since last appearing for the spirit and was our 1st div player of the year for 2009 and young Queensland rep keeper Jason McKewan or Squeak as he is better known - who if he puts his mind to it is destined for higher honours. These guys are the ones to watch as well this year and I am looking forward to it. Bingera’s loss of their services for 2010 is a blow but one we have already covered and we have a couple of keen young lads coming through who are up to it and don’t forget when they want to return we will be getting back players from state league level which will benefit any club not only in playing ability but with different coaching techniques and a higher level of discipline and professionalism.

Spirit will be quite competitive as long as the coach and players have nothing to worry about other than playing good football and it looks like the organization is on the right track to doing just that, so well done Richard Mitchell and Brett Kitching for hanging in there and pushing the cause when all seemed lost.

Good luck to all clubs this season

Hey Bob been a while, just a question about fees. Q&A on justsports interview with Greg said FBI player rego & nomination fees are lower in 2010 than in 2007. My question is why are our fees more expensive this year if the clubs say they make little or no money from players

Johnno
31/01/10

Too much crap going on with the Bundy Soccer. We need a proper committee from all clubs to get it right and cast a vote. Firstly, I believe the Spirit should be cast as a sort of "national team" in a way that if players play for lower clubs and get picked for the side then so be it. Say the player plays in 3rds and gets asked to play for the Spirit, he should be allowed to play for them and still play for his own club because that is where the player is signed. but in saying that, if they want to pull a 1st div player without a 2nd div team they should be allowed as well. and make it a max of 3 players.

Decrease fees as well because there are some good players that can't afford it and really want to play so they resort to other codes because their fees aren't as expensive. I know heaps of people would agree that they are too high, and lets hope the Spirit get off the bottom of the ladder this time round.

Good Morning Bob
As President of the Bundaberg Athletics Club /West Bundaberg Little Athletics Club we wish to congratulate our West Bundy LA's for the great results at the Central Zone Relays, setting many records on the day. Also to our 6 athletes who are off to the National Schools Championships in Sydney And Hobart we wish them all the best.

John Routledge
Bundaberg Athletics Club / West Bundaberg Little Athletics Club
27/11/09

As a Bundaberg Softball Association player for 25 years, I find the new 7 run declaration rule absolutely ridiculous. On Saturday I came up to bat, we had scored six runs, runner on 3rd base. I managed a walk to make runners on 1st and 3rd.Next batter hit infield hit and an overthrow to first base allowed 3rd base runner to score making our seven runs and therefore at the end of the play forcing us to declare. Knowing this from first base in this instance I continued to run three bases to home plate where the game turned into T-Ball (last batter throw home), as the run would have counted as the play had not ended. I was caught at home plate and did not score, but this ridiculous rule takes us back 20 odd years to T-Ball.

Watching my nieces play Under 14 earlier in the day and get a towelling from United, I see where the 7 run rule for juniors could possibly be a positive, as we do not wish to discourage younger players who stand in the hot field for an extra long period of time while they play a superior team. But for the A Grade ladies and probably men (sorry I don’t get to see many mens games) this rule seems unnecessary as I know all teams in the A grade competition, if behind by a considerable margin, are capable of batting through the order and chasing the deficit. Let us use our skills and play the game properly!

Another thing to think about. Grand Final Day, bottom of 7th (last) innings. A team down by 8 runs. Impossible to win? Why play the innings? I am asking the Association to have another think about it! And maybe ask the coaches and teams if this is really how we want to play our game!

Regards
Gemma Bush
South Sluggers A Grade Player
16/11/09

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As a coach of the junior teams, I know how much a game can turn at any time. Teams can have a slow start and then pick up, & the opposition has a good start and a slow finish. For e.g.. first innings we were down 3-0, second inning we put the opposition out at six runs scored, our team came out to bat, and had to retire at 7 runs and only 2 down (and the stronger batters had yet to come up).

We were coming back very strongly, I told the kids we had to retire because we had scored our 7, with the voices of 'not fair' coming from the kids. Who then went out and no longer cared about the game because they felt they then were not allowed to get into a winning situation.

I feel a seven AHEAD rule would make more sense. Kids see it as 'if your behind, you can not win'.

Carolyn
ATW
14/11/09

Adam, these gradings happen to everyone. Not all gradings are correct or fair all the time, but the world is not against ATW. Kev Bailey made 80 runs and took 4 wickets in a game a week or two ago. I've played a fair bit of cricket with Kev over the years so I know very well what he is capable of, I'm not just going by his reputation. This and the other 2 examples of players from ATW who were a touch on the lucky side not to be graded should have highlighted this fact. You seem very eager to say Waves are being hard done by, but not so eager to bother even considering another perspective.

I don't believe that people from an external sport would necessarily be suitable to be grading players for cricket. You need to have people with solid cricket experience who can observe and interpret different circumstances (what class of team they are playing, game conditions etc.). If you bring people in from another sport, they are more than likely not going to understand the game as well and you will get a lot of the pure statistics-only based grading. As we've seen before, there can sometimes be circumstances that make stats look better or worse than they really are. Perhaps we can find some people who are disconnected from Bundaberg Cricket, but still have the cricket experience to be able to do the job (another nearby association?). The problem would be getting these people to do the job in the first place, you would more than likely have to pay these people...especially if they are from another area. But who knows, maybe it has legs. Keep the ideas coming. What did you have in mind for a peer based grading system?

Travis Henke
09/11/09

Obviously you never said it, but all you really did was prove that their are other players even given the names of those player who have performed and not been graded which has confirmed my point that the grading committee have a blind eye for other clubs but not ours, or I'll put it in one word for you again, biased!!!! In regards to Kev Bailey read what I said before, stats and evidence, that's half their problem as well, going off reputation rather than actual statistics, but hey I'm willing to say the same thing you did about D Unwin, Kev has been batting at 6 & 7 facing the lesser bowlers of the teams with a good start by the earlier batters, so he can go out for a hit, and you say that was a depleted Div 1 side, there were only 2 changes to the team that beat your team 4 weeks later.

I have thought of a couple of ideas such as a peer based grading system or an external system where we approach another sport, give them the statistics and ask them to grade, that way people aren't getting graded by reputation or the possibility they could do something and in return we do the same for them. Due to personal 'issues' I can't make the BCA meetings, I have enough trouble getting to out ATW meetings.

Adam Lutz
06/11/09

There is a bit difference between an unfair grading (which can be rectified) and the grading committee being biased. I never said nor proved that they were biased. All clubs have had similar issues with gradings over the time and I still find it funny that you seem to think that ATW is getting singled out here. Another example of the top of my mind is Kevin Bailey player division 2 for ATW. There are lesser players graded division 1 these days, yet you don't want to talk about those sort of cases where Waves are better off.

A score that Norths made last year against a depleted ATW 1's side doesn't change the fact that Norths wouldn't win a a game against a Div 1 team if they had to step up this year. There is a BIG difference between not making the grand final and not winning a game.

If your so upset about the grading system, perhaps you should organise and think up a proposal for a new grading system? You're on the ATW committee and have every right to go to the BCA meetings. Why don't you do something about it as well as complaining?

Travis Henke
05/11/09

Yeah hey I suppose that is a good point, but seeing you helped me prove that the grading committee are biased, i guess I'll have to help you with this as well. I can direct you to a game last year Norths Div 2 scored 5/205 and ATW Div 1 were all out for 147, so it looks like they know how to swim doesn't it, but I suppose if you look at some of the figures from this years Div 1 games that have played such as Country Wests all out for 83 and ATW getting 247 in first innings, but hey the next innings you guys made a decent total of 7/276 declared, I can put the stats up for the ATW Brothers game as well if you like but pretty much the same thing happened to Waves, so every team is allowed to have a bad week, and saying they wouldn't want to play, How long has it been since Country have made it to an end of year Div 1 final, and they're still playing. Maybe the problem is certain people like having power and they get off on people sucking up to them to get what they want

Adam Lutz
04/11/09

Case in point Adam, Saturday's game (31/10/09): ATW (D1) 3-108 def Norths (D2) 102 - AKA Norths got belted, they were way out of their league; pretty sure your ATW boys got the runs quickly too. Doesn't that look like the deep end to you? They still have to be somewhere near the standard if they are to go up a grade, they just don't have a good enough team to compete. It would be great if Norths could attract enough good players to compete in division 1, it would solve a lot of problems to have a fourth team; but most people who want to play Div 1 and are willing to swap already have; to one of the three clubs already in Div 1. What team is going to stay interested if they don't have any real chance to win a game all season?

If you look back to the first comment I sent about this, you should note that I agreed with your point about your U/16 player, just not the way you went about dealing with the situation. Scroll down and have a look for yourself if you don't believe me. Sometimes it takes a bit of tact and politeness to get what you want, but if you can't manage that, that's your problem.

Travis Henke
02/11/09

If the grading system was fair, you would be graded 1's Lutzy. You're the man

Nick Martin
01/11/09

How can you say that, "that's putting them in the deep end", Can you name any other sport where a team can win their division 3 years in a row and not be put up into a higher grade. Given this when people with a good standard of cricket behind them see a club in Div 1 not going so well and they are only playing div 2 for their club, wouldn't it make sense for them to move clubs to have a crack playing in a higher division, because after all shouldn't that be what it's all about. And yes now you agree with my point that grading people prematurely, is well plain stupid and that is what I was whinging about. In the first place, our guys got got graded after 2 weekends of T20 cricket and other clubs have had players making runs previously and nothing had happened to them, and I don't see why I need to write a nice courtesy letter, that's not me, I wrote facts and statistics the way I know how and I refuse to sweeten things up so things go my way, because after all that's just not cricket

Adam Lutz
30/10/09

Hi Adam,

In all fairness to Norths (who I'm assuming are the one's you are referring to that could have been put into division 1), I'm certain they would be getting flogged every week and just aren't up to the standard of division 1 at all. You are not the only one who thinks they could be in Division 1 to even out numbers, but it was the BCA's call. If they were forced into Div 1, I would think they may be in a similar situation as your under 16 player you were referring to; doing well in a lower grade but well out of their depth when they have to go up a grade. Perhaps you should be a little more understanding?

I think you may have misunderstood what I meant with regards to Zac Keune and Chris Duff. I wasn't complaining about them playing division 2, I was pointing out that the grading committee was not singling out ATW like you rashly claimed and this was an example of some decisions of theirs going a little in your favour. Having a crack at some other players in Bundaberg not making themselves available for Rep sides isn't going to get you anywhere. At least some of these people have family, work and other commitments which are always going to supercede Rep duties, perhaps you should ask the people you are referring to. That being said, I make myself available for Rep games as much as I can, so I hope you were trying to have a crack at me.

With regards to our player that you claim made 80 against your Div 1 side (I presume you are referring to Daniel Unwin). He made 82 against your Division 2 side filling in for our division 1 side that was short on numbers that day. He made these runs against the lesser of their bowlers, as both Nathan Sarnadsky and Stan Brown had already bowled their overs out before he went out to bat. Daniel has been in good form of late and has been making some good scores and maybe the grading committee may re-assess his grading; but demanding someone to be graded because they made one good score in a one off game is not reasonable.

I suggest you write a formal, polite letter to the grading committee regarding your under 16 player. A polite and reasonable request is always going to get you further than just having a big whinge.

It's funny that you're trying to say I'm only looking at some of the picture when some of the assertion you have just made are plainly short-sighted and biased. You seem happy to whinge about Norths not being forced into the deep end, but you then whinge that your young player was graded up? Sounds like your being a bit hypocritical Adam. I'm glad your not making these decisions. Maybe you should try and put yourself in the shoes of the BCA?

Travis Henke
30/10/09

Well Travis I have sent an email to the BCA regarding this issue and when I've tried speaking to one of its representative's I can't even get a clear answer wether or not the matter is going to be looked to, instead I get reply's like "don't worry he's not the only player we're looking at", which I'm assuming because my team is going so well in Div 3 that they're looking at grading more players from team, which to be honest doesn't surprise me because we are the stand out team. The Stupid thing about this issue is that the BCA in all its glory at the start of the year when they were looking at revamping the competition should have put our team in Div 2 to start with. However they lacked the testicular fortitude to move the team that had won the Div 2 comp 3 years in a row into Div 1.

Now in regards to Zac, he played a couple of T20 games at the start of the season and then was graded into Div 1 on the 28th September, and Chris is going to be a great cricketer in a couple of years but lets face it if the 'Men' of Bundy cricket would put there hands up for selection and represent the town, Chris would never of made that side, or the Bundy side.

Then as well there is a gentleman playing for your club who made i think it was 80 in a game against our Div 1 side last year who the grading committee last year regraded, not up but down, they let him play div 4 last year???? seriously and even this year making runs in Div 2 and still being allowed to play in Div 3.

One would think if a player is borderline they would go with the lower grading so they can build a better 'cricketing base' rather then throwing them in the deep end and saying good luck. But I suppose its easy to say look at the picture more thoroughly when you've got blinkers on and only looking at a quarter or the picture.

Adam Lutz
30/10/09

Hi Adam, I would just like to respond to your comments regarding the Bundaberg Cricket Grading committee. Having seen the stats regarding your U/16 player being graded division 2, it does seem unfair. There is always going to be some players who are either borderline between grades or sometimes look better on paper than they really are. I disagree with the way you decided to bring it up on justsports.com.au. I would suggest it would be more responsible to write a letter instead to the grading committee asking for this player to be re-graded back down the division 3, rather than venting on this website.

With regards to claiming that the grading committee is biased against your club, I think there are a few other situations that I would like to bring to your attention to put things in perspective. Firstly, an ATW player of yours Chris Duff who was originally graded Division 1 at the start of the season. The grading committee (upon request) re-evaluated his situation 3-4 week's into the season and decided to re-grade him back to division 2. There are some people around who might not agree with this decision due to the fact that Chris made the Open Mens Wide Bay Schaefer Shield team this year (and bowled very well). Personally I think this was a good decision that was probably a bit in Chris' (and ATW's) favour, especially given the different setup of the grades this season. There is also Zac Keune from ATW who had been playing a fair few division 2 games this season, even though he has been consistently making junior QLD representative teams and has made the South QLD Country Cricket Team recently also.

I would suggest that you look at the picture more thoroughly before accusing the grading committee of being biased against your club.

Travis Henke
Vice President
Combined Country Wests Cricket Club
27/10/09

Well traparlinz , what i have written is all fact not fiction, all of the stats I have listed are available on the mycricket website. Unlike you who is just on a rant to try and put down the successful clubs in Bundaberg cricket, I am only writing relevant information. If you can come up with the facts to support what you've said I'll be more than happy to read it, and don't be a cat - leave your real name

Adam Lutz
20/10/09

Hi there Bob in regards to Adam Lutz dummy spit, it is about time ATW and Brothers get what they deserve. For years they have scammed the grading committee and got away with it so they should stop crying about it and suck it up, just remember what comes around goes around boys,

I would like to congratulate the performance of the Bundy Cricket grading committee on what a stand up, and fair job they are doing. Firstly grading a 16 year old in his first season of seniors into div 2, now you might ask why was he's graded, he played T20 cricket for my division 3 side where he made scores of 66, 119, 17 and 81 in the final. The first two scores were against the 2 teams who played off in the Division 5 final last year, that means they were at the bottom of the div 4 comp, fair??? In the final where he made 81, he was dropped 5 times, now since he has been playing in div 2 he has made scores of 1, 5, 0, 0. Now I ask does this seem fair where there are guys making runs such as 80's and 90's in Div 2 for other clubs who are allowed to come down and play div 3 without any sign of being graded, or a gentleman who is playing div 3 currently who has made scores of 67no. and 80 something not out against the teams as at the start of this weekend were placed 1 and 2 in the div 3 comp. With a system like this why would these kids who are the future of our sport want to continue playing in an unfair system that only seems to disadvantage one club????

Adam Lutz
ATW Executive Member
18/10/09

I think that the spirit shouldn’t be kicked out of the QSL. I personally enjoy watching other teams and last year I got team in QSL’s autograph. The spirit have a strong strike force and just can’t seem to click into gear and go on a goal splurge. SO THAT’S WHY THE SPIRIT SHOULDN’T BE KICKED OUT OF THE QSL.

Proud spirit supporter (11 year old)
08/10/09

I think that the Spirit should try and recruit some more players after their lacklustre performance last night 3-0 down at half time Olympic brought on Nzube Okafor a Nigerian striker Olympic ended up winning 8-0 These are the people the Bundaberg need some so come on Bundy recruit someone like Nzube

Bundy supporter!!!!
28/09/09

The Spirit do not have two coins to rub together which is why players bussed to Mareeba. They look like losing a number of senior players for next season,

Dear Bob and others,
I think that the best club in Bundaberg should not be the club with the most teams or trophy wins but the team with the least cards given. Watching a 1st Division game a total of about 4 red cards were given out.

n/a
28/09/09

I think that Bingera were 'Club of 09'. Two of their four grand final wins were the division one Mens and division one Ladies championships which is an outstanding performance. By the way I am not a Bingera supporter.

Congratulations to the North Bundaberg reserve grade team on the fantastic result in the grand final, a hard fought honest result which was well and truly deserved. Oh how the mighty fall !!!!!!!!!!!!

Frankie
21/09/09

Good morning Bob I would like to congratulate all the Grand Final winners from U11 to Archem League. What a great day for football lovers. Greg Bath summed it up when he commented on the U11 game having the atmosphere of a first division grand final.

A huge thank the North Bundaberg team and our supporters for keeping their calm in what was an ugly incident in the 2nd Division Grand Final. Actions like this should never happen and we trust that this is a one off incident. Craig would like to thank the Waves players who came to him after the incident and expressed their concerns and to make sure he was OK. I would like to thank the people who expressed their concern for Craig, I am pleased to say that apart from being battered and bruised he is in good spirit this morning. To be the Grand Final winners and Craig to be player of the match and be able to complete the game was a great achievement.

Thanks to Greg Bath and his medical team for their assistance in keeping Craig on the park. I am very proud to say that our club had 4 teams in the Grand Finals and won all four. Thank you to all our supporters in 2009, we now look forward to 2010.

Ian Clarke
President
North Bundaberg Football Club
20/09/09

Bob. Can I pass on my congratulations to all the teams that will be playing grand finals over the next week. It is wonderful to see 8 different clubs fielding teams in all the senior divisions. This is the first time in many years we have had no monopoly from any particular club.

Well done to everyone I truly look forward to even more great football and very close and exciting games. I am sure they will all be played in true sportsmanship and competitiveness that finals deserve.

May I add that it is extra special to see Aston Villa back in a grand final in 1st division. Hopefully all members of all these clubs past and present will come out and support them on the day, it will be a great weekend including all the junior finals as well. Good luck and Congratulations to everyone involved in football in 2009.

Yours truly
Kim Tominich
FBI Administration Director
14/09/09

Bob, would like to clear up an issue that appears to concern one or two parents whose children have been stopped from Playing 3rd Division by our FBI Rules. We have had recently the situation of a Junior playing into State League for a couple of games whilst playing their normal position in 3rd Division. This young player was an invitational Player for State League, NOT a signed Player. The State does not allow us to keep him from playing where he normally plays in our Competition as he cannot be prejudiced against for playing State League. We are bound to abide by this requirement. Once again this is Junior Player. Signed Players may not play with their normal Club whilst signed as a full time State League Player.

I have read a lot of various opinions about the Spirit side and associated issues as they relate to Bundaberg Football in total and I am wondering if a re-think of the whole situation needs to be undertaken. This is not about criticism of any individuals or identifying personalities but about the cold hard realities. To my mind there are some facts that can't be ignored:

· Bundaberg Spirit, irrespective of their results has got financial issues. I am not sure of the level of sponsorship obtained but it is obviously not enough to ensure players travel to away games (especially Mackay, Townsville and Cairns with the expected level of comfort and allowance for recovery etc. or for players to be paid some meaningful amounts of money. They must be given an even chance by being able to fly to these games and be accommodated for one night (probably after the game) to allow for proper recovery etc. This is before allowance be made for players to be paid or even reimbursed the travel costs of going to and from training and home games.

· A little more than half the squad were prepared to travel to Cairns for the fixture against the Far North Queensland side because they were not prepared to put up with the travelling conditions. Full credit to Craig Clarke and others who travelled in their place and also the regular Spirit players who travelled as well. However, the Spirit side had to go and ask young local FNQ based players to fill in. I am interested to know what QSL's take on that situation is.

· The financial position noted above makes it difficult to recruit players from other areas (not necessarily other countries) to the team. It would seem the Spirit can't afford to pay them as it is not paying its local players. This ignores the situation about finding recruits jobs, accommodation etc. I have heard from a number of ex Spirit players that one of the reasons they did not try out for the Spirit side in 2009 was because they were not being paid for it.

· The local first grade competition is down to 5 teams. The players who have played at this standard will have a view as to the comparable standard of the Premier League compared to 3 years ago (prior to the advent of the Spirit). However, I have heard views that it is not as strong as it was previously.

· Combine these things together and I wonder if this is a desirable situation

I note, from emails on the "Your Say" forum there are people who have the view that the Spirit should be a completely stand alone entity with its own decision making authority and financial imperatives. I must admit I thought this was supposed to be the case. If there is a financial interdependence between Spirit and another organisation I am concerned. How can transparency be achieved financially if the Spirit is not a stand alone organisation. One of the models that has been suggested on your web site is the use of Across the Waves ground for Spirit games thus freeing the way for Martens Oval to be dedicated to Premier League games. I think this idea may have some merit and would be interested to know if ATW Sports Club were canvassed about this. For a start this would achieve transparency in regard to gate takings, allow the Spirit organisation to manage its own destiny in regard to concession income from bar and canteen sales etc. I have seen models work along the lines of the Spirit subleasing the bar and canteen operations back to the ATW club in return for a share of the gross proceeds they achieve. I wonder if this model was looked at and evaluated in cold hard financial terms.

I have the utmost respect for the various players who have played for the Spirit under some pretty trying circumstances and agree they deserve every bit of praise they get. However, it is time to learn from the experiences of the last 2 seasons and identify a financial model that works and provides some positive cash flows going forward so as to make the Spirit a financially viable organisation going forward. When I was at the Sunshine Coast for the Spirit game I spoke to a gentleman who informed me that he ran the company that owned the Sunshine Coast side. I asked him about how much it cost to run the Sunshine Coast side. He was very reticent about giving any detailed information but confirmed the number did run to 6 figures (i.e. over $100,000 per season). This should not surprise anyone. In 2007 when the Spirit side was originally mooted I did some sums and thought the number would be close to $200,000 per year. The numbers are not hard to work out but I have calculated them as follows:

· Payment to players (x 15 players per match) plus coach and manager. Say $250 per person per match = 17 X $250 X 18 matches = $76,500
· Superannuation (@ 9%) = $7,000
· Uniforms (2 strips) including logos and sponsors names (say) $5,000
· Training strips, tracksuits, balls, other training equipment etc = say $5,000
· Airfares for 3 games. 17 people x $700 x 3 games = $35,700
· Accommodation for 3 nights plus meals = say $6,000
· Bus Hire for trips to Brisbane, Sunshine Coast and Rockhampton ( 6 trips) say $6,000
· Rental of ground (let's say $700 per match for 9 home games) = $6,300. I have no idea if this is an accurate weekly rental but a pure guess.
· Nomination fess to QSL $25,000

The above already adds up to $172,500 and maybe a bit light in some areas. I have not included the cost of any advertising or marketing. Nor I have included any recruitment costs such as airfares, accommodation, visa fees etc for players being recruited. I would therefore believe the number of $200,000 is close to the mark.

The reality is that for the Spirit to be competitive in the State League and retain good quality players they need to be in a position where the organisation is financially and operationally independent and can run to a budget of around $200k per annum. The easy part is doing the numbers, the hard part is coming up with solutions as to how to achieve the number. Sponsorship is one avenue but if the past 2 years are anything to go by there is not sufficient interest or commitment from local business or government authorities to come up with an ongoing commitment to $200k per annum to support the Spirit. Other sources of income could include sale of merchandising material and associated promotional gear but I do not think this is a $200k solution. Proceeds from canteen sales, bar sales etc (or a percentage of subleased facilities) will help. Sunshine Coast run affiliated businesses to subsidise their Q League side. These include the running of a soccer academy, private tuition etc. Is there something in this?

The other issue is what is the actual corporate model that is currently being run. I hear references to the committee of the side but is it being run as a voluntary committee as part of a not for profit association (like a lot of the local clubs or is it something different? The basic tenets of Corporate Governance suggest that the committee needs to look at the best model for the organisation going forward. Has the idea of a privately owned business with enough financial resources to deal with a $200k budget been considered. If not, why not? There may be no-one around willing to take it on but surely the question needs to be asked. Has someone sat down with the sponsors and gone through the financial detail with them to see if they have some answers. Dave Hillier at Bundaberg Toyota (the foundation sponsor) is a pragmatic businessman as well as a lover of the game and someone with a lot of business contacts at the right level.. Maybe he has some ideas. Bundaberg Regional Council have a number of people on council with extensive business experience and people at executive level such as Peter Byrne and Alan Shorter who are commercially minded people and are pragmatic. Bundaberg Toyota's involvement has been exceedingly welcome but I wonder how long they will want to be involved while the situation continues as it is?

I know that all people will not agree with my comments but I would love people to tell me where I am wrong in the above comments (especially the numbers) and correct my errors. I would also like to see the Chairperson of the Spirit committee provide their comments. This is not about criticism about what has happened to date but about trying to understand how the situation needs to pan out in the future.

Regards
David Timbrell
06/09/09

Thanks Dave. You have obviously given this a lot of thought. I will seek a response from The Spirit and FBI. Hopefully your thought will generate some comment from the 'punters' as well.

Bob, I have noticed a number of comments in regards to Bundaberg Toyota Spirit, it is great to see people concerned enough to write up an email. Football Bundaberg will refrain from making too much of a comment at this stage until negotiations with the State Body are completed. Something that everyone needs to remember is some of the following points:

· Expressions of interest were called for State League interests by the State Body, they not only came from the steering committee of Spirit but elsewhere within this Zone also. Spirit was picked as the most feasible.

· Quality of travel, clothing etc was ALWAYS dependent on the income budget being met and the expenditure budget being controlled. This was explained at a public meeting that was held in regards to Spirit before it all occurred. Income fell short as many Sponsors were not interested in Sponsoring a Senior Team, they were more interested in development and Juniors.

· Spirit is structured as an NFP, as per guidelines.

· Segregation of the State side of the game from the Community Football side occurred in Bundaberg once before and somewhat failed within the Football Community, it was very divisive i.e. having the State game run at the same time at separate fields and in somewhat competition to the Community game (Archem etc), back then Community Teams and Player numbers were far less than currently registered with Football Bundaberg. I strongly doubt the State would have sanctioned any form of this at all again under current guidelines and Rules.

A State League Team based at Martens Oval has and will greatly improve the round ball code here in Bundaberg, all levels of Football from Squirts to State League is a Sponsors dream and also assists our coaches. The State League Team has to be more competitive in 2010 and does need to win more games, particularly Home games, there is no doubt about that and negotiations that are currently in place will assist in that area.

Will the State League survive in Queensland past 2010 is a question that no one can answer conclusively at this stage, we have just seen 2 Brisbane Clubs pull out due to money and other concerns, once again some of their feelings are “why should we travel to Bundaberg (or other distant Regional areas) to put on a show”? The current State CEO and Board have the foresight to see past this and truly wishes a State Wide Competition, not like it has been in the past, just South East Queensland. I will keep you informed as our submission progresses.

Greg Bath
Chairman
Football Bundaberg Inc.
07/09/09

Hi Bob,

In response to Rob 1/9/09, Thanks mate, that was one question I wanted answered. In response to "Supporter" 1/9/09. Firstly I take my hat off to anyone who plays for their city or town. No need to name names, most people know who is playing down from Spirit into 3rd division. At the age of this particular player should you not be trying to play at the highest level possible. No need to name players to get answers, just need to see a rule.

Secondly, 'some of these players are suffering', if I've caused any suffering because of my comments, I apologize to those players. Nobody said sorry to me when I couldn't play 3rd's.

Thirdly. Is it that they are not good enough for Spirit. Or too good for 3rd's. Please neither of those statements are correct. I think supporter should read CCA Comp rules 16/3/09 Section 5.5 divisional placements subsection 55J 1,2,3. Then it may be a little clearer as to my original comment.

Thanks
Johnno
03/09/09

Rule 55.j states "No First Division or higher league Player may play in Division 3 or 4. This includes if the Player has taken the Field for any time in the previous or current season as a First Division or higher division Player. There is however 3 exemptions to this Rule". (None of the exemptions are applicable)

I'm just wondering if those people who are having "their say" about the Third Division Players playing in Spirit could possibly name these Players, instead of letting everyone play a guessing game. I'm sure if they did, they may get some answers. Some of these Players are suffering as result of this particular topic. Is it that they are not good enough for Spirit? Or is it that they are too good for Third Division?

Supporter
01/09/09

Comment: My concern is that First Div. players can not play in 3rd^'s yet Spirit players (a higher level) can.

In response to Johnno’s comment, the question that should be asked is “How can 3rd division players be picked to play in the State League for Spirit?”

Rob
01/09/09

Hi Bob,

I wonder if one of your readers can help me. I'm at a loss to work out which rule says a Spirit player can come back and play 3rd division?

Johnno
24/08/09

Hi Bob,

Just wanted to say thank you to the supporters who stuck by the Spirit this year through thick and thin, it meant a lot to us in the Spirit to have a supportive home crowd. Unfortunately we could not get that elusive win for them. Special mention must go to the boys who travelled from Hervey Bay and Maryborough for training and games and also to the coach Brett Hambrecht who came in at a difficult time and developed a sense of unity and self belief amongst the team.

Cheers
Matt Doolan
16/08/09

Hey Bob

I'd just like to comment on some of these negative comments about Bundaberg Spirit. I heard one comment when I was in the grandstand at one game and it surprised me that someone who played football would make such a comment. I did not realise that the players sometimes paid their own way to games. Bundaberg Spirit players you guys are amazing to keep your heads up and continue to play. There are people in the community that don't make negative comments about you and are right behind you. I reckon you guys show true Aussie spirit and I'm ashamed of those in the community that make negative comments. Go Spirit!!

I would like to reply to J who I am sure hasn't a clue. Yes playing for the Spirit is a great opportunity ,but the whole organisation needs to be run properly from the top down.

In regards to the trip to Mareeba Last year the team only had to travel as far as Townsville and just the one time, they flew and stayed the night. This year in the space of 4 weeks, they were to travel by bus and might I add only to Townsville on a coach with toilet on board the other 2 times on a mini bus without toilet to Mackay 16 odd hrs and Mareeba 32odd hrs leaving Friday night returning Sunday each time
Apart from the fore mentioned toilet situation they had to sleep 2 nights straight on the bus 2 week ends in a row and then be expected to play 90 mins of football at that level and don't forget these guys do have paid jobs they must turn up for and in the case of the Spirit some are in the senior years of secondary school which is most important. Some of them paid for there own way to fly to Townsville which is a indication of how much they really do love what they do and love playing at this level. I am sure your comments will not embarrass them but will in fact anger them as I really don't think you know what you are talking about.

These guys are often embarrassed by comments from the local community saying they shouldn't be in the comp they aren't good enough but put up with it. I think you should take your opinion to the so called powers that be of the Spirit as I think they should start taking some of the blame actually most of it. Many things need to change with the spirit, many that start at the top. They need to be an entity on there own, away from Football Bundaberg, maybe then they would get more sponsors. They need to look for a more experienced coach with no ties to the team and they need to give players in the area at least something like comfortable travel so that they will travel knowing they will be fit to go back to work after a long trip away and then maybe we could get the best possible team available from the area to be more competitive in the QSL

I am sure that the Bulls and Razorbacks would not even contemplate putting there players on a bus every time they had to travel south on the many trips they have to take during the season. So J would you be happy to take on the last months journey of the Bundaberg Spirit, not many would mate.

Bob, just a quick one. any ideas as to whether the first team players (without legitimate reason) who didn't travel with the Spirit side on the weekend will be starting for them this weekend? Maybe we should call the 'stand in's' from up north? They obviously want to play for us more than our own players. Seems a bit sad really. I hope they feel a bit embarrassed when they read this. I know i would if it were me.

J
29/07/09

Borrowing players from another team is just a joke and a disgrace to the Spirit. There is obviously something wrong with the system if so many local players don't want to play for the Spirit and if the problem isn't rectified then there will be no more Spirit next season.

How are you going Bob, just wanted to know what came of the fight after the First Division match last Saturday between Waves and Aston Villa. After seeing more then five girls get suspended for over six to twelve matches and longer, and one for the intent to strike a player whilst only pushing a player off a team mate who had been hit, as well as Knights loosing six points for the scuffle it would be interesting to find out if, with this precedent being set that these players involved in a Senior Mens First grade match would incur the same penalty or harsher then the girls and clubs of these Second Division ladies competition.

Also in regards to the Spirit I have heard that there are people and businesses who would be willing to get involved if the team was totally separate from Football Bundaberg for various reasons which only they know. Maybe if it was played at a ground similar to the Waves ground where the club could be self sufficient and maybe every fourth home game it could be played at Martens Oval as a feature match. No offense to anyone involved with preparing field one at Martens Oval but, I haven't seen the ground this patchy in all the years I've been playing soccer. Field one has always been in pristine condition with a lot of grass coverage, sometimes to thick. I'm sure clubs would love to have a few more home games to try and make a little more income and come to the aid of our famous field one.

One more thought is what do people think about Second Division Men and Women playing on a Friday night and then First Division Men and Ladies play on a Saturday? This would allow fringe players who are stepping up to sit on a bench for Firsts but still play there game on a Friday night giving them close to 24 Hours rest rather then playing one game then heading straight over for another and that's only if the two don't start at the same time. I think our structure really makes no sense in this day and age. Also the eighteen's competition being played on a Tuesday night hurts clubs who have these young players stepping up to play First or Seconds being unable to train on a Tuesday night at their club. Scrap eighteens have the eighteens play in a revised Second or Third Division competition made up of both older heads and young players then have your social league for guys over thirty five who want to have a bit of fun and not play so serious. Really Bargara and Isis should not be sitting back flogging teams in Thirds but stepping up to play in Seconds, the whole thing seems wrong, but everyone to their own opinion.

Bob,

I which to reply to your article, dated 21 June 2009, of the existence of Bundaberg Spirit in the State League Competition. I replicate your article initially with my reply following.

"21 June 2009 - The Bundaberg Spirit need a helping hand if they are to survive. The obvious saviour is Football Bundaberg however Football Queensland restrictions prevent Football Bundaberg involvement at this stage. The problem seems to be taking funds away from grassroots football to subsidise an elite competition, yet the Queensland Academy of Sport participate. The Hyundai State League provides an avenue for youngsters to progress and Bundaberg has its share of talented youngsters such as Koh Satake and Josh Brillante currently with the Queensland Academy of Sport. Football Bundaberg are the main beneficiaries of the Spirit involvement in the League via gate takings, bar and canteen trade

The League provides an avenue for Bundaberg spectators to see talented players such as 20 year old sensational Nigerian Striker Nzube Okafor and South Korean Hyuk-Su Seo. Tahj Minniecon now playing in the A League with the Gold Coast played in Bundaberg last year.

The Brisbane clubs have the advantage of playing four away games against other Brisbane sides and one against the nearby Sunshine Coast while travel expenses for clubs such as the Spirit whose nine away games provide a massive drain on funds.

It would be disastrous for the local game if Bundaberg were not involved in the State League and all avenues should be explored to ensure their survival. Feel free to express your opinion bobbrisbane@justsports.com.au"

13 July 2009

On 21 June 2009 Bob Brisbane placed an article on this website regarding Bundaberg Spirit and the necessity of the Spirit remaining in the State League and the financial support it needed to do so.

I wish to provide support for Bundaberg Spirit. It appears that seeing no replies were made to this article it would appear that Spirit falls into the category of “Who cares – they haven’t won any games this year!” This is typical of the Bundaberg Sporting Community, first lets kick it in the guts, if it rises up again then we’ll think about supporting it.

As mentioned many times in justsports, all teams from the larger communities and Brisbane have imported A-League players and international players into their 2009 sides to the detriment of the local players. Bundaberg Spirit, Cougars (Rockhampton) & Miners (Mackay) have tried to maintain local players, thus finding each club at the bottom of the ladder. These clubs should be praised for supporting their local players. I believe this is the intent of the Queensland State League Competition but big money Clubs have exploited their financial opportunities and bought overly experienced players.

When Spirit commenced in 2008 there was considerable opposition from some local clubs and club officials. I can only assume from this opposition that some clubs were of the opinion that they were going to be the losers with the Spirit taking all of their more experienced players thus hindering their chances of winning the Archem Premium League.

Firstly, perhaps these certain clubs and officials need to step out of the circle and start seeing the bigger picture, for the good of soccer in Bundaberg. Spirit will provide a higher level of expertise for a handful of local players who will then return to the own club after a year or 2, and each of these clubs will reap the rewards of that expertise.

Already, in 2009 some local clubs have benefited from the return of players from the 2008 Spirit squad and I would like to think that those few players have provided a higher level of experience and leadership to their clubs.

Secondly, the youth of Bundaberg, Maryborough and Hervey Bay now have an opportunity to showcase their talents to the ever-expanding A-League. A prime example of this is young Josh Brillante who used his experience with Spirit to boost himself into the Queensland Academy of Sport State League team and now is knocking on the door of the Gold Coast A-League Side. A rare opportunity for only a handful of Queensland Country Players.

Unfortunately, the local business community snubbed their noses at the Spirit. When I knocked on the doors of many businesses the common excuse was “We would if we were sponsoring Juniors!!!!” Other players and team management personnel encountered like sentiments. Well if they only had a look at the 2009 Spirit team they would find that half of the training squad is under 21 years of age.

Special thanks needs to be mentioned to Bundaberg Toyota for 2008 and also again in 2009 for their continued support. Also, this year additional thanks to Cornetts IGA for their support.

For those interested, in 2008 I spoke with the management of Whitsunday Miners who stated that their sponsorship topped $120,000 and still they stated that they would find it hard to get through the season. In 2008 Bundaberg Spirit did the same on $20,000. Surprisingly some large influential Bundaberg businesses refused to give any assistance at all (business names withheld for obvious reasons). The Spirit travel the east coast of Queensland and each State League Club has expansive advertising in their local areas and any business supporting the Spirit would get plenty of value from their financial assistance.

It should be noted that the Training Squad and Team Management did not receive any personal financial assistance in 2008 or this year. The Players, Coach and Managers contributed to the cost of Training Equipment, Travel Equipment and Travel Clothing (only the Shirt and Kit Bag was provided by the Club). The players from Maryborough and Hervey Bay travelled to Bundaberg at least twice a week for training, a 250 klm round trip each time, at their own expense. No compensation was given for this; their family even had to pay to get into the gate to watch Home Games. Any trial games away from Bundaberg were funded at the players’ expense and in private vehicles.

Bundaberg Spirit has maintained a wholly local content with players from Bundaberg, Maryborough and Hervey Bay. This alone should be praised and supported. I have seen a remarkable improvement in the 2008 players with the most notable being the 2008 juniors, Arian Dubroy, Matt Timbrell, Mitch Hancock and, of course, Josh Brillante. Next year the young 2009 Spirit players will be all the better for the experience of this year and I would expect will grow into competent State League players (maybe even A-League).

Football Bundaberg, and all the local clubs, needs the Bundaberg Spirit to remain in the State League competition. If local players and clubs are to improve in the game, both personally and as a Club, then the Bundaberg Spirit needs to exist and be supported by the local soccer community and the wider business community.

Bundaberg Spirit supporter
Wayne Cameron
13/07/09

Comment: Thanks Wayne, I must admit that i was disappointed in the lack of response to the original item. Bob

What were North Bundy thinking. I'll bet Waves were rubbing their hands together when they saw Norths team. Spirit keeper on the field, fair enough, maybe he wants some field time. Leading goal scorer in goals. Maybe Norths only want to come runners-up in the premiership. Where was the 3rd division keeper. He had a blinder on Friday night. Maybe he was a better option.

Jason
17/06/09

Just wanted to congratulate all the rep teams who travelled to Ipswich on the long weekend for the State Age Netball Championships. All girls played well making their respective coaches happy I'm sure. A special well done to the u15 team who only lost 2 games, not by much either, who came out overall winners for the carnival. Full credit to their coach and manageress for taking good care of our girls, and our girls for their effort and dedication to their team. They all played very hard and their efforts payed off.

Again well done girls lets see how we go when we head off to Nanango in July for our last regional day then off to Country Carnival in Rocky the following week. Heads up girls sure you will do us and your Association proud again.

Thanks Nat.
16/06/09

Just want to give the U/18 Lads a big wrap, some of these lads are playing 2 and 3 games a week as well as training 1 night a week, so to come out on the Monday which would be an extra game again for some of them and thrash it out as they did is fantastic. I would say that with these boys being the next 1st div/Spirit/state league players our game is in good shape locally and I truly support Robyn’s comments on the Tuesday night games.

This poses a huge problem with only 1 nights training per week for them in there own teams as well as trying to get them familiar time in the senior squads, I do not see the sense in Tuesday night games for all teams, maybe the 1.00pm game Saturday on field 1 is an option as was seen on Monday. This used to be the case for Colts age group for a long time with the remaining teams playing Friday night, but in those days it was more about the game and not just another nights trade for the Association, I hope I’m wrong in suggesting so but this seems to be the only feasible explanation for this situation. For the future of our Game someone needs to be put some real thought into this age group as they are being denied the opportunity to play in front of crowds other than those directly involved in U/18’s - to curtain raise so to speak for the senior ranks and gain exposure to the Senior players who do not often experience these games due to training commitments themselves. So Come on Bob you can get the ball rolling and at least do a wrap of the final and put some pressure on the News Mail to put photos in at least to keep these boys in the game.

Congrats to Bingera U/18’s For their fantastic win I am regretful that we could not emulate your feat and well done Alloway for their Battling attitude in a game that could have gone either way.

Thanks Nick also for telling it like it is - A Bingera Waves final is always a spectacle that brings out the crowds.

Thanks
Geoff Kirby
10/06/09

I have just read all the media reports surrounding the Cup Finals which were held on Monday night. Well done to all the winning teams. However, not only do the Under 18's have the ignominy off being pushed to playing fixtures of a Tuesday night they now don't even rate a mention in all the subsequent media reports about the Finals!

Come on! These players deserve better. After all aren't these players the future of football! Congratulations to Alloway and Bingera Under 18's for playing in the finals on Monday for the Crystalgem Cup.

Robyn Metcalf
09/06/09

If Bart Cummings is the Cups King of Racing, then Across the Waves must certainly be the Cups Kings of Football. Not only did they win a 3-peat of finals on Monday, they backed up the results of last years premierships where they also won in all 3 divisions. Its been a pretty dominant display by ATW, and I think it is just reward for the people who have put so much effort in over the last few years to retain the clubs great standard of results.

Congratulations to both teams in the 1st division News-Mail Cup final on Monday too. After a pretty poor start the the premiership season by ATW, the have come out in the last few weeks and once again proved that they are the team to beat this season. Congratulations to Bingera too, who played the game in high spirit and played hard until the final whistle. Its great to see the 2 powerhouse clubs of FBI go head to head in a 1st division final as they are the best 2 teams in the competition, and the matches between them are always played with the highest level of sportsmanship and integrity. Lets hope they meet again in the Grand Final this year.

Yours in Football
Nick Martin.
09/06/09

It was great to see a fantastic rugby league match on Wednesday between two evenly matched teams. No I am not talking about the State Of Origin but about the Development Cup Rugby League Final between Norville SS and St Pats. What a great game. St Pats went to the break leading 14-0 with Lachlan Lanskey at his devastating best and then Norville came back in the second half and scored in the final minute to win 18-14. A great game, played between two top sides and with a fantastic crowd in attendance. Much credit to the organisers of this competition here in Bundy, particularly Jason Shears, Tony Groom and their band of helpers and congratulations to Greg Kruger and Jeff Morley for their dedication to getting Norville to the final and the way they handle the players and the team as a whole. Good luck in the next match.

Norville Supporter
07/06/09

It was fabulous to see the Wide Bay boys compete in the School Boys competition. They all played really well. And it is fabulous to see Arian and Matt go through which would be a good lift to the Spirit. Mitchell has been chosen in the shadow team. But in saying that one of Bundaberg’s other Club players was also selected in the team, that being Jason McEwan who was chosen as goal keeper. Congratulations to all boys – they are certainly a credit to their clubs and teams. To be selected from such a large number of players is a great credit to them. Wishing them all the luck in the National Championships in August in Western Australia.

Bundaberg supporter
23/05/09

The prices of Bundaberg Soccer are to much. 350+ for fees? pull the other 1. where is all the money going to? I don't see the money being injected into helping smaller clubs like Knights, Gin Gin and Isis. I would like 2 know y it is 4 times more expensive to play here then in NSW. I've played in Bundy for 6 years and still am shocked about the prices 2 play a season. u pay 400 to play mens and what do u get. a season of playing. not including the prices for awards night. I played 1 year in NSW and only paid 60 for the season (at my club it was 80 to play mens) and 2 bucks a game for ref fees. a total of 120 to play a season (and you got a ball and jacket and socks to go with it). bring down the fees so more people can enjoy the game.

Josh Hogan
18/05/09

Hi

Football South Burnett has a team in each of the following age groups... Under 9, Under 10, Under 11 and Under 12.We are looking for some carnivals to play in. Is your club running a carnival or do you know of any carnivals that may be around for us to travel to?

Thank you for your help with this.

Leanne Ensor
Football South Burnett
0407 752 772
18/05/09

Just writing to congratulate the Bundy Spirit on there recent results. Despite not winning any games there last few results have improved dramatically and it seems that they are starting to unite as a group and play for each other, which is also credit to the efforts of Richard Mitchell and his staff.

Would also like to add that the local competition seems to have picked up on the last few years, with every game so far being competitive and there doesn't seem to be the "stand out" 2 or 3 teams that there has been in the past. Its great to see the young players coming through and I agree with Geoff that the Spirit is a great asset to Football Bundaberg and gives every young player something to aim for.

Would also just quickly like to congratulate young Josh Brillante on his efforts this year. He has taken the giant step of moving away from his family and friends to further pursue his football career in Brisbane, and in the process has helped the QAS side to some great results this yr in the Q-League. All the best to Josh in his further endeavours and I hope all of Bundaberg get behind him as he strives for further honours.

Yours in Football,
Nick Martin
07/05/09

I would just like to offer condolences to Mario Rejtano's family at this time ...a sad loss to Bundaberg Soccer and sport and fitness for kids in general....RIP friend.

Warren Brough and family
05/05/09

Hey Bobby, just a quick reply to Geoff's comment. It's good to hear positive feedback on the Spirit. as the Manager of the Spirit I see first hand how hard the the guys work. What Geoff says is right re the young guys learning from the old heads, they will continue to improve all the time. It's a pity some people just don't get it. Well said Geoff and thank you.

Cheers
HUB
05/05/09

Hi Bob, what a delight it was to see Peter Bock come off the bench for Bundy Spirit against FNQ on the weekend and as a true admirer of Bockee’s tough tackling style I didn’t have to wait long before one of their strikers was left lying in the box looking around for the train that hit him. I have watched Bockee first hand from the sidelines on many occasions and I have seen him turn a game with his do or die tackling against tough professional teams out of Brisbane in his days with Bundy Waves, it was truly something to behold. My hat goes off to Pete for putting up is hand to help out the Spirit in their hour of need and if he can only play home games I am sure it will be fine with the rest of the players who will definitely learn a thing or two from his stop them at all costs attitude in the backline as this certainly lifts a team.

Well done to Richard Mitchell and his new team as well, as the team is making significant progress against the odds and with the instilment of experienced players from the local leagues. This should inspire top local players and players with state league experience to put there hand up as well, if they too can only play home games for the interim so be it. What is needed right now is home game success even in the smallest amount not necessarily winning but really competing like Saturday’s result against FNQ. This will create interest from a spectator point of view leading to bigger crowds which will then be a bigger - better prospect for local business sponsorship.

We have the talent in Bundaberg Football to compete at this level and I think that all coaches/clubs should get behind the cause to get this team to a reasonable level of competitiveness, I know the clubs don’t want to loose players to the state league after they have spent years developing them, but the motivation behind the development of junior players is surely so they can play at the highest level possible and don’t forget that these players come back to the local leagues vastly more experienced and skilled and have a lot to offer in later years as coaches etc. Ex Bundy Waves players Peter Martin, Tony Roebuck, Paul Fagan, Brett Kitching, Peter Bock, Rob Thatcher, Rob Prendergast and Nick Maas, just to name a few have all benefited from playing state league competition under top class coaches like Tony Walmsley who was a true professional and instilled this discipline in his players, they have all coached and played at the top level locally with success. Numerous others players like, Karl Zimmerlie, Laurie Stephenson, Lucas Read, Rod Cooper, and so many more still play at the top level locally to-day. I for one would like to see this team do well as I believe this will benefit all clubs in the long run.

Thanks
Geoff Kirby.
04/05/09

I see it has been said that it is Bingera's first ever win at the Alloway Country Club over Alloway. This is however incorrect. In 2007 Bingera played their first ever games at Alloway CC against Alloway. In this year when Nog Connelly was coach and before Danny Tucker and co arrived at the club, Bingera with the likes of Brett Kitching, Lucas Read, Karl Zimm, etc won on this day 2-0 in 1st division and 1-0 in 2nd division.

In 2008 Alloway won on the day in both divisions against Bingera. Sorry about this as it will stuff your story up but is correct. I lastly congratulate the committee of Football Bundaberg to allow this fixture to happen and it would be great to see more fixtures for clubs to play at home grounds to help clubs but also to keep the competition between clubs going stale. In fact in Mackay where I have started playing I have so far had the opportunity to play at a different home ground of clubs every week. This has not affected the price of the fees as I only pay around $210 for the year. Money is then put towards referees by charging a gate fee for games.

Cheers
Matt Brown
04/05/09

Local Fan & to all,

you are only looking at a small minor problem and not looking at the big picture. As a previous referee, player and coach of our great game. I have seen a lot of changes in our great game in Bundaberg. There is always going to be hiccups in the big picture. (and my god Bundy has had there fair share). The quality of the fields have been improving since the days where the U/16 TIS ( fondly named the big dust bowl aka field 1) canteen bar facilities have never been better. We have a number of senior competitions that are extremely close and exciting to watch because you never know who is going to win from week to week.

I understand from a spectator point of view not knowing the score, (al least just ask someone for the score) but i am sure that this is being addressed by Bundaberg soccer, maybe it is something as simple giving a can of coke to our youngsters for doing ball boy work / scoreboard like in years past.

Some people don't appreciate what Greg Bath is doing to our local game (and my god i have talked to lot of them and along with my own opinions) to those people why not have a go yourselves step up and put your hand up for the big job (or get into your local club committees) you will gain a lot more respect from people that way then trying to undermine what is happening.

In closing I know peoples frustrations in not knowing the score (as a ref it is a little helpful when finishing your final report), however just asking someone what the score is might be easier for the time being until Bundaberg soccer works out the problem.

ANON
05/04/09

Many thanks to the comments re the Score Boards. All Score-boards were inspected prior to Season opening and all are operational. I have communicated with the Referee Operation Manager to see if he can talk with his Referee’s on this. In regards to the Club names on Fields, this was not used for several years when we had the old signs. It was up to the participating Clubs to change them for each game, this didn’t happen with the majority of Clubs, in fact there was only 2 Clubs from memory that actually changed the signs. It was put to the Board ( all clubs) at a meeting just before the Electronic signs were bought in and decided that we would go with Home & Away. Maintenance of these Home & Away signs does need to go onto the grounds follow-up list, I have notified our Grounds Manager today for regular follow-up on these areas. I agree that it is very frustrating not knowing the scores when you are trying to follow your Team.

Greg Bath
Chairman
Football Bundaberg
14/04/09

top of page

What is the point of the Soccer Score Boards? All the money spent on these 'up to date' electronic wonders and more often than not they don't work! Then the times they do, the refs controlling the match forget the changer or forget to change the score! The old score boards used to display the names of the clubs playing, now all we get is Home and Away. How do we know who is who, oh yeah, those same matching 'Home and Away' signs on the teams benches! The same signs that have been missing from Field 1 for months now.

Come on Bundy Soccer!!

Local Fan.
05/04/09

Just wanted to say thanks for all the time and effort you put into your website. It is the most informative way to find out about our favourite sports and stay up to date. As we are involved in a variety of sports from cricket (Jnr. and Snr.) to league and netball (indoor and outdoor), it's great to be able to go to one place for everything. Also do you have any information on the mini-mods for this season? I noticed senior and junior but nothing for mini. We always seem to be left in the dark, lol. Anything would great.

Thanks again
Natalie Wilson
17/03/09

Earlier this season I reported on the overall condition of our junior cricket grounds at Kendall's Flats and how lucky our kids were compared to other regions. A lot of people agreed with me, however given what I saw on Saturday morning in front of field 7 their are a lot of kids, parents, managers and coaches who just don't give a RATS.

It was disgusting and was made by under 14's, old enough to know better. On Sunday on field 2 an under 12's game was played and although the mess was no where near as bad I ask the question, Why do I have to clean it up? Volunteers are a huge part of any junior sport and most like me do it because we have kids playing and we love the game of cricket. Without the volunteers most junior sports would not exist.
So please kids use the bins, there are plenty, managers and coaches should inspect the areas where their team is seated and the parents have to shoulder some responsibility as well, look after our grounds and surrounding areas so we can all take pride in them.

Geoff Bates
23/02/09

I want to thank Rob Prendergast, John Brillante and the players and staff at Across The Waves for hosting the combined Spirit senior and youth squads in a trial game on Thursday night. The facilities and hospitality were first class and a credit to the club. The willingness of local coaches to support the Spirit by offering to play trials is very much appreciated, and games are also planned against Bingera and Diggers.

The Spirit will also play Clinton from Gladstone at the ATW grounds on Saturday 21 February, and the Cougars in Gladstone on Saturday 28 February..

Lynn Hodgkinson
Bundaberg Toyota Spirit.
13/02/09

Bob, may I through your column wish all clubs and players the very best for a successful 2009. I know that at Football Bundaberg we are striving to assist all areas of the code, from Squirts and Small Sided Football to our Spirit Players.

There have been some changes made to our code and we trust these will benefit Football Bundaberg and our code in general. I look forward to your continued support in 2009. Many thanks
Regards
Ian Clarke
President North Bundaberg Football Club
01/02/09

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