Sport
29 January, 2025
Young Ararat Redbacks shine bright in regional soccer tournament
Twelve Ararat boys showcased their skills in Ballarat in January.
Twelve boys aged eight and under from Ararat showcased their soccer skills in the Major League Junior Soccer Summer 6's Tournament, held at the Ballarat Regional Soccer Facility on January 20-21.
Competing in two separate competitions across two days, the young players faced teams from Ballarat, Colac, Maryborough, and Warrnambool in a 7-8-9 age group category.
Under the guidance of coach Tyler Hamilton, the boys were divided into two teams, yet their camaraderie and mutual support were evident throughout the tournament.
Day one saw both Ararat teams playing four games each, but they missed out on making the finals.
However, day two brought a turnaround, as one Ararat team topped the ladder, winning all four games and earning a place in the grand final.
Despite the extraordinarily hot weather, with temperatures soaring above 34°C, the boys persevered.
To ensure player safety, the games were shortened to six-minute halves.
It was also the boys' first experience playing on a synthetic soccer pitch at Ballarat's Moorhead Park facility.
"The boys played brilliantly," coach Tyler Hamilton said.
"It took them a bit to get used to the warm conditions and the synthetic surface, but they showed plenty of grit and determination. I couldn't be prouder."
Cheered on by a dedicated crowd of parents, siblings, and grandparents, the Ararat Redbacks team 1, with substitutes from the Ararat Redbacks team 2, delivered an impressive performance and finished as runners-up in the tournament.
All players are regular participants in Futsal in Ararat, and their efforts were made possible by Rod Jerram and the Ararat Basketball/Futsal Association's support.
This tournament marked an important milestone for the young players, highlighting their potential and passion for soccer. Their impressive performance promises a bright future for junior soccer in Ararat.