3 min read
So that’s all folks – it’s over for another season!
Northfleet Eagles U14 Gold kicked off their first game on 18th September 2022. The Golds were winning 3-0 and very quickly drew 3-3; after great determination, hard work, and two penalties later, they won the game by 7-4.
It was an intense first game, a theme which seemed to continue throughout the season. But it certainly wasn’t going to be a straightforward season; plenty of surprises were on the way.
With new members joining the team and old members leaving to try a new sport, the group slowly gathered momentum by getting to know each other at training each week. This team bonding showed more and more as each game was played.
Coach Andrew Oxtoby and the boys never gave up the fight, they turned up to every training session and game, rain or shine (and there was a lot of rain!) and they always gave 100%. Andrew had help from another player’s parent, Nick Mclaughlin, who helped train and run the line each week. The parents steadfast in their support, always there – sometimes with their umbrellas turning inside out – but always shouting encouragement. Northfleet Eagles U14 Gold has a great team of players, coaches and parents – which is very rare.
With 15 wins from their 22 games, Northfleet Eagles U14 Gold ended the season 4th in the league with 47 points, just missing out on 3rd place by 1 point. This gives the team something to work towards in the next season.
Throughout the season, the team were able to enjoy a fresh new kit and stay warm in new sub coats thanks to sponsorship from Embridge Consulting.
“As a local business, it’s important for us to support local initiatives, whether large or small. And if it means we can promote positive, social and environmental well-being, whilst helping improve the skills, health and fitness for some of our young people in the community, then we’re all in! Having sponsored the team for the 22/23 season, we’re pleased to be taking this forward to the 23/24 season.”
Emma O’Brien, Founder and CEO at Embridge
“A huge thank you to Emma and the Embridge team for their support this season. Having a new kit and some extra sub coats not only gave the team an extra boost at the start of the new season but meant they could stay warm in the great British weather! Being able to partner with another local organisation shows that community is very alive here in North Kent.”
Andrew Oxtoby, Team Coach at Northfleet Eagles U14 Gold