The current hype around the Matildas and the positive momentum that has resulted has been sweeping up all sorts of people who have never really connected with Sport let alone Women’s Soccer. The legacy it will leave for girls’ sport and for our Soccer fraternity at large will be with us for a long time to come. What has been the key to the success here?
The recent Matildas vs France game was an amazing event; I think we can all say that we saw a terrific contest; tough, unrelenting, skilled, pressured, fairly fought with all parties totally committed. However, what I did notice was more evident in the climax of the game – the penalty shoot-out. The response of the two teams was quite different (at least from a spectator point of view). The Matildas (along with the Coach) were together as ONE regardless of the shootout result - positive score or the missed opportunity. On the other hand, the French side appeared to be more ready to express their disappointment at the result when it went against them. It was a very subtle difference, but what I saw has been very apparent in how many winning or losing teams respond in high stakes games.
Our Junior Boys were successful at the Wanderers Cup. They were elated of course, and, in the end, they were the best team. They won the final against a team that had beat them in their first game. In that losing game the boys were critical of one another, commenting negatively when a mistake was made or when the ball was lost. This negative self-talk was an area of play that our coaches immediately addressed. The wisdom of the coaches hit home, and the boys settled into a more positive frame of mind. The results turned around. Hopefully, the team learnt an important life lesson.
In like manner, Thomas Hassall has been working hard in all areas of college life, laying solid foundations for the future. We know the benefits of working together, consistent training, clear instructions, positive encouragement, excellent presentation (uniform) focused and intentional outcomes that are reviewed and adjusted as required with targeted support in the classroom and across the College community. When this support is reinforced at home and among peers then we have a wonderful launch pad to develop a TEAM approach to everything we are doing as a College.
We may not always hit the target, mistakes will happen and we will miss the goal at times, but a great team that is unified will overcome major challenges and eventually find success.
Finally, the French coach made an interesting remark after the loss to the Matildas. France was not just playing the Matildas, but they were combating the enormous support coming from the Australian community. He commended Australia for its’ response. In kind, we will do best when we travel this journey together: Teachers, Students, Staff and Parents. Have a great week and see you all at the South West Festival.