The junior football season comes to a close for most of our WaiBOP region clubs this weekend. With over 10,500 junior players (that’s 4-12 year olds) registered in 2024, we are proud to be growing the sport we love across the region. 

To all our young players – We hope you've had a fantastic season, learning new skills, making friends, and developing your love for the game. We can't wait to see you back on the pitch next year.

To all our club volunteers – coaches, team managers, co-ordinators and administrators – thank you for all the hard mahi. Without your energy, dedication and enthusiasm, we don’t have any football. Thank you. 

Thanks to our WaiBOP competitions team, who schedule around 620 games a week for our juniors – and that’s not including the games of some of our youngest players, who take part in club-run first kicks games.

Thanks to the WaiBOP Football Development team – Ken, Nico, Nat, Akshaay and Scott. They work with clubs and coaches on creating environments where tamariki can learn the fundamentals of football in a fun, enjoyable way.

And last, but certainly not least, To our parents and supporters – thanks for your support. From cheering on the sideline, to the halftime oranges; getting the kids to practice and the early Saturday morning starts - your encouragement means the world to your children.

Article added: Saturday 31 August 2024