HT Dragons

This season saw the mighty Dragons stepping up to play League games for the very first time. The safety net of Academy football was now well and truly behind us. Together, we entered our first season in the Barclays U7’s Saturday Church League with mixed feelings of excitement and nervousness (coupled with a playing squad and wage bill larger than Man City’s).

Following a pre season tour of America and China(to fulfil sponsorship commitments and drive shirt sales), we arrived back at Hazlemere Rec in August ready for the challenges that lay ahead. I realised that we were in the big time now. Players were turning up in red, pink, and even purple football boots  with yellow stripes (it wasn’t like that in my day) – and Thomas Whitburn was changing his hairstyle more frequently than David Beckham. How would the players cope with the League??..

I can tell you that they all coped brilliantly – every player doing themselves, their parents, and the Club proud. Every match has been played in a great spirit (culminating at the Hazlemere 6’s where both of the Dragons teams were sensational). We’ve won, lost, and drawn matches – and on all occasions both the attitude and aptitude of the players has been superb. There have been wonder goals, moments of pure genius, crunching tackles, last gasp defending, crazy goal celebrations, and great goalkeeping.  Oh, and of course, not to forget the half time penalties at Wycombe Wanderers FC…

For me, the best thing about this season is that we are no longer a group of individuals turning up every Saturday for a kickabout. Every single player has started to really think, act, and play, as a team – something that will serve them well in future seasons and in their lives.

On the training ground it has been apparent that the skill levels of the entire squad have improved (hugely). Indeed, I’ve been amazed at this development and I am very humbled to have been part of the improvements achieved this season.

Special thanks to Graham for helping to keep the training sessions on track all season. Thanks to the parents for their continued support (I think we’ve had the most Supporters at every match this season). And, finally, thanks to the kids for making it another memorable season. I look forward to more of the madness next year.

Danny Oliver