In order for any idea to gain ascendancy, to make an impact and to become a reality, there needs to be the input of community. If not for community, no idea can be fruitful nor impactful. Yes, it can be shared by a group of people, however their belief can only grow from the power of the entire community’s dedication, sacrifice and deliverance. Due to a group of committed locals, who shared in the vision of the benefits of establishing a football club, it came down to the abundance of resources made available by the Kangaroo Valley community. The rest of KV needed to believe as well… and help.
Led by the diligence of Dean Mackechnie (Club President) and Jason Shepherd (Vice President), their vision and passion was conceived back in 2022. This vision became equally shared by a group of invaluable community members, consisting of Jasmin Mawson (Club Secretary), Toni Champion (Registrar), Mark Stanford (Treasurer), Heidi Smart (Equipment Manager), Sam Brewer (Sponsorship Manager), Taisha Wilson (Social Media Manager) and Sara Castillo (Grants Manager). It has been said that the smallest oceans can still bring big waves and this was evident with further support from locals wanting to build this vision, through the roles of field managers, referees, coaches and photographers.
Over the course of two months, prominent businesses of Kangaroo Valley were asked to help. They did. Sponsors were enlisted and coaches were recommended and soon this little Club that could was becoming a reality. Community businesses such as The Friendly Inn, The Friendly Inn Social Group, Raine & Horne Southern Highlands, The Hive KV, NTC Services, Bishops Plants and Animals, KFC Roofing Supplies and many more wanted to contribute. Something was building and it was about to make a huge impact.
On the cool morning of the 13th of April 2024, Kangaroo Valley ushered in a new era of local football. At Osborne Park, the township celebrated together the launch of the Kangaroo Valley Football Club.
The KVFC Open Day was officially opened by local Lorraine Mairinger OAM, who encouraged the club’s young players to respect each other and to remember that they are part of one team. Club Vice President Jason Shepherd spoke of how easy it was to establish the Club due to the conscious effort and energy of the KV community. Club President Dean Mackechnie reflected on how the club was created to give the children opportunities to play football in the Valley, stay healthy and active and have a Club they represented. Mr Mackechnie concluded the ceremony with his final wish: “for everyone to be proud to be a part of a great new football club and community and hopefully KVFC will be a vital part of the community for decades to come; a meeting place where everyone can come and forget about what’s going on in the world, smile and enjoy football for what it can provide”.
On that Saturday morning, Osborne Park was surrounded by the sounds of little boots kicking soccer balls, whistles blowing, families cheering and players celebrating. It is no doubt that KVFC will become a vital part of the community to come. However, it will not solely rest on the shoulders of a few committee members with an ‘idea’, but rather on the love and passion of the wider Kangaroo Valley community.
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There was plenty of action around the park, so here are the match reports from each of the teams’ Coaches and Managers:
First up were the Under 6 teams. To begin with, the Wedge-tailed Eagles team, which included Lucy, Jack, Ellery, Bindi, Raph, Matilda and Zali started the official games off with a bang. The little Wedgies had a cracking first game and came off with a 2-2 draw. Both Zali and Raph scored goals, whilst Lucy was incredible in defence. They played their hearts out and even had the support of a pair of wedge-tailed eagles flying above us during the game.
– Heidi Smart, Manager
The second Under 6’s team, affectionately known as The Kangas, continued the strong effort of their counterparts against Shoalhaven Heads. With seven enthusiastic players including Aleera, August, Raven, Joey, Logan, Molly and Neo, the team was involved in a competitive game from the start. They showed so much potential as a team and we are looking forward to seeing this team develop over the season and learn new skills.
– Ian Szymoniczek, Manager
After an exciting Opening Ceremony, the Under 7’s (Amelia, Matilda, Wilder, Billie, Huey, Arlia and Hugh) were warming up for their first game of 2024. Huey led the offensive with Wilder closely flanking him to push the ball forward towards the goals. Hugh and Arlia put their shins on the line with some great tackles. Amelia and Billie held their positions and displayed increasing confidence when moving the ball. Matilda sat in defence and successfully blocked a couple of shots on goal. Arlia won our Player of the Week for her fearless tackling. With Coach Andy Grant at the helm, this newly-formed team will only improve as the season progresses.
– Tuneil Mackenchine, Manager
The KVFC Under 8’s played their first game ever as a team. The team consisted of Georgia, Holly, Chaz, Maxi, Matilda, Ariea, Stella, Hattie and Iona. They all fought hard for each other as a team and there was plenty of passing amongst each teammate. Matilda scored two great goals, however it was the defending and goalkeeping by all the players which helped us control the match throughout – a fantastic 2-0 win for the Under 8’s in their first game.
– Dean Mackechnie, Coach
It was the fourth season for the members of the Under 9’s team, so it was a pleasure to see them improve on their form from last year. The team of Theo, Luca, Juliet, Callan, Harry, Elliot, and Hunter who were joined by newcomers Hazel, Bailee and Eliza. Theo started the season off positively with the team’s first goal of the season, followed by three goals from Harry and two more from Elliot. Great goalkeeping from both Eliza and Bailee ensured that we would finish with a 6-0 result. Well done, KVFC!
– Paul Bevis, Assistant Coach
The Under 10’s commenced the 2024 season with a great win. It was the third incarnation of this team, with William, Claudia, Artie, Zach, Bruno, Mawson, Daisy, Elijah, Logan and Benjamin. The match highlight came in the form of a penalty goal from Zach who curved the ball around a wall of defenders and into the back of the net. It was a big change for the mindset of the team, as they played more players and on a bigger pitch. Looking forward to more improvements as the season continues – a resounding 6-0 result.
– Aaron Cooke, Manager
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What a way to commence our home-ground advantage with a number of wins and close contests. Congratulations to all of the teams and to their respective Managers and Coaches.
And none of this would be possible without the support of the Kangaroo Valley community, so thank you!
It is shaping up to be an incredible 2024 season.
GO KVFC!
