Kids and parents turned out in droves, and D’Arcy described the first weekend of sport as having “perfect” weather, along with attendance numbers which were much improved from the same point last year. 

The new players and high numbers were a challenge for the coaching staff, but D’Arcy is sure that things will settle in the weeks to come. 

“Coaches had their hands full with meeting their new team members and handing out uniforms, so unfortunately no match reports for this week,” she said. 

“But [we] will have them published weekly moving forward.”

Once play began, the crowds were impressed by the skill and determination of the young players, and D’Arcy said that she and the rest of the club were extremely pleased to see the depth of talent developing in Braidwood. 

“As a club we were extremely proud of how well our season started,” she said. 

“All teams managed a decent warm up and skill session prior to their games, and we were super impressed with everyone’s enthusiasm (players, coaches and parents alike).”

Over 100 children turned out to try their hands (and feet) at the game, some of whom had never played before. 

D’Arcy has previously said that the competition is a good way for families to come together and strengthen their bonds with the rest of the community in a fun, friendly environment. 

“It’s a family run competition, and it’s frequented with a lot of families … all the kids and mum and dad come along,” D’Arcy said. 

“All the coaches are parents, so they’ve all got children in their teams. The canteen’s run by mums, the dads cook the barbecue, it’s a really good little community thing.”

The weekend would not have gone off as successfully without the support of the locals and their businesses, D’Arcy added. 

She went on to thank the club’s sponsors and those who assisted with the uniforms, food, and the parents for organising and helping out where needed. 

The soccer will continue next weekend, and will begin from 9:00am on Saturday May 12 at the Braidwood Rec Ground.