From the managers

Under 7 'A'

As the season comes towards an end, all the boys should be extremely proud of their achievements so far. With three games left we are in second place in the league and on 7 May we will be playing in the cup final. Well done to all the boys and thanks, as always, to everyone associated with the team for their help and support.

If anyone would like to come and support us, the cup final is being held at Lichfield Rugby Club; kick-off time to be confirmed.

Graeme

Under 7 'B'

Having nearly finished the season, a time for reflection, what a first season! All the boys have performed magnificently. This year has provided the boys time to 'learn' to play as a team and to improve their skills. We won't be winning any silver wear although we had a good run in the cup competition but what a great team. The boy's enthusiasm to play and train each week has been a credit to the club.

Throughout the summer we will be entering tournaments to keep the momentum going and be ready and waiting for next season. Ending the season with a tour to Great Yarmouth for four days will be the icing on the cake.

Many thanks to all the boys and parents for their continuous support at matches and behind the scenes. The future is looking very bright for a great bunch of lads.

Chris

Under 8

As the season draws to a close, I feel that we have achieved another successful campaign. With five games to go we still have a chance of winning a very competitive league and only just fell short of reaching the cup final.

The boys have continued to improve and at times play some football well above their age group. Special mentions go to Andrew and Alex who never fail to give less than 100%, to Dominic who has played in every position for us this season (including goalkeeper!!) and to Thomas who has a fantastic attitude and is probably our most improved player this season.

Finally I would like to thank the parents for their support and enthusiasm; it is greatly appreciated by Myles and myself.

Scott

Under 9

Both me and Mark are really happy with the effort that all the boys have put in over the winter. I would like to thank all the parents and all the boys for standing by my decision to train outside in the muga all through the winter. This has paid off in my eyes as we went on a ten game unbeaten run which has secured a top of the table finish and in effect what is a semi final in the cup after a very shaky start to the season.

We are now looking forward to next season and moving the boys forward as footballers, and maybe even winning things. Boys well done so far, but keep up the great work in the last month of the season; remember there is a trophy waiting for you if you can finish runners-up. Many thanks to all

Andy

Under 10

Football? What football? It's been a frustrating period since the last newsletter as Washlands has repeatedly succumbed to the cold and wet of the driest winter for years!!!! Having not played for 6 weeks, our position in the league is still one to be proud of as we are currently third and if we ever get there, the climax to the season promises to be an enthralling one with the teams in 2nd, 3rd and 4th separated by only 2 points.

The lads have continued training hard and we did manage a friendly against Belvedere Red who are in the division above us. A good performance by everyone resulted in a close match which we were unfortunate to lose 2-1. Again, being able to play a friendly when league matches were called off is a testament to the facilities that we are fortunate enough to have at Holland Sports Club.

Well done to all the lads and parents and hopefully when we return to playing matches our winning ways will continue.

Dave

Under 11 'Whites'

Having been relegated two years ago, the lads reacted brilliantly by winning Division 2 last season. But the big test was always going to be a return to Division 1 as every game is a hard one. But once again the lads have reacted superbly as I knew they would and we presently stand third in the league.

We have always been one of the best footballing sides in the league, but this season we have also managed to add a bit of an edge to our play which has meant that 1-0 defeats have turned into 1-0 victories.

The attitude of the lads has been absolutely superb and every one of them is a credit not only to Barton Rovers, but also to themselves. I can honestly say it has been a great pleasure to watch them grow from a relegated side to a team capable of beating anyone; which they have done this season.

Paul Simpson has been helping me to coach the side and has turned out to be a great motivator e.g. getting the lads rolling around in the mud prior to kick-off, which certainly seems to give the lads focus, and it certainly works.

Also a big thanks to Geoff and Andy for their 5 a-side on a Wednesday night, and of course, all the parents for their continued support over the last four years. We are still, far and away, the best supported team at our age group in Division 1. But the biggest plus for me is that we have achieved this using local lads.

I hope the lads and parents have enjoyed the last four years as much as I have. Well done lads we are all proud of you.

Dave

Under 11 'Greens'

The season has become a little frustrating given the amount of games that have been cancelled due to the weather. Currently we have over half of our games still to play!! However since the turn of the year the team has really been trying hard, which has meant a 3 game winning streak! The aim is to make sure that in all of our remaining games we make it difficult for teams to walk away with the points.

Hopefully we can get a run of games such that the team can get back into regular football. The passion shown in beating Boley Pak B and coming from one down to beat Belverdere 2-1 has really given the team a lift and the management as well!

In true fashion we continue to get great support from the parents who support their lads every week.

Geoff

Under 12

With the season all but over the lads have performed superbly. Finishing 2nd in the top division, scoring thus far 56 goals with only 13 conceded. I can only say that the results have proven how hard the lads have worked in matches and at training.

I would like to thank each of the boys for making this one of the most enjoyable seasons I have had so far with my involvement with Barton Rovers. This team has gelled together really well and will probably go on to greater achievements next season. I would also like to thank all the parents for all the help and commitment they have given to me and Steve.

Have a relaxing close season and hope to see you all raring to go at the start of next season.

Mick

Under 14

The last two months have seen a real improvement from the U14s with consolidation in the middle of the table. Some nice results with improvements in their personal performances. A handful of games to go to the end of the season, still plenty to play for.

However, a "learning point"; it is quite noticeable that some of the opposition teams seem to be a bit stronger, bigger, more physical and more willing to take a chance on a 50:50 (and somehow seem to get the breaks). This is an important factor and an area for us to concentrate on for the last five games of the season. If we can show the same determination and passion we can get some wins under our belts to cap a good season.

From the "management", an early personal thank you to Rob Walker who has really led the way in coaching the lads in new techniques, skills and fitness over the last couple of months. On top of that Rob has been on the touchline, giving up his Sundays on match days. Thanks Rob

John