The Bendigo City FC juniors might have been out of action for the best part of two months, but they've hit the ground running.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
The under-13 and 14 teams were thrilled to be back on the pitch Tuesday night for their first training session since coronavirus restrictions were eased.
"They are loving it. It was such a long break but the kids haven't lost interest in soccer and are all very excited to get back to action," Bendigo City FC president Paul Henderson said.
Even though they are back on the pitch, they must train under strict health and safety guidelines that were set by Football Victoria earlier in the month.
Bendigo City FC Under-14 manager Brett Yates said the club respected the guidelines as the health and safety of players was of the upmost importance.
"A lot of the drills the players undertook at the first session were non-contact and included some fitness stuff such as sprints, laps and also some passing," Yates said.
As excited as the players were to get back to training, they were also eager for when they are able to get back to contact drills, and more than anything, back on the pitch for a game.
"They can't wait to get back to proper contact and drills," Yates said.
As it stands clubs must train in groups of 10, but it is expected in the coming weeks for restrictions to ease which will allow more players on the pitch.
There is the potential that Bendigo City FC, who play in the NPL Victoria junior league, could be back on the pitch for proper competitive matches by late June.
Bendigo City FC is also on the lookout for more under-16 players to fill its ranks for the upcoming season.
"We're really keen to speak to any kids who are interested in coming to play for our under-16 team," Henderson said.
"There are a few spots on the squad and as the season progresses it's always good to have some extra players to rotate around."
The under-16 team train on Wednesday nights at Epsom Huntly Recreation Reserve from 6pm onward.
Henderson said the club was proud to produce top quality junior players.
"We compete against some big clubs down in Melbourne which have plenty of support and large member bases which our kids are able to be competitive against," he said.
"We give the kids the opportunity to test themselves at training and at matches.
"It's a great way to stay fit and healthy and enjoy soccer within a friendly competitive environment."
For more information please contact Bendigo City FC president Paul Henderson on 0428 177 314.
Have you signed up to the Bendigo Advertiser's daily newsletter and breaking news emails? You can register below and make sure you are up to date with everything that's happening in central Victoria.
