Women’s Contact 2024 Season Review
Hear what Women’s Contact Head Coach Carl Alexis had to say about the 2024 season…
We decided to focus on 7-a-side football after a concerted effort to recruit enough players for 9-a-side fell short. Despite adding several new team members, we also experienced some losses, making it clear that throwing our rookies into the deep end of 9-a-side would hinder their development and the team’s overall success. Thus, we opted to shelve the 9-a-side plans and concentrate on excelling in 7-a-side. New training times enabled us to bring in coaches from our senior team, fulfilling our promise of enhanced positional coaching. This shift quickly paid off, with players advancing in their positions and overall team proficiency rising. Our lines, led by Karen on offence and Clare on defence, were strengthened by rookies who integrated smoothly and made an immediate impact. Cleo’s leadership at quarterback and the return of skilled wide receiver CC from Norway were significant boosts to our offence.
Whilst, our defence, guided by veterans Tara, Dory, and ‘Iron Woman’ Millsy, were well-positioned to take on our division.
With more rookies across nearly all positions, all of whom contributed significantly throughout the season, our numbers were healthy. The season began strongly with two wins, suggesting we would continue where we left off last year. However, Hertfordshire quickly proved themselves to be formidable opponents. Our first match against them was a wake-up call; they had clearly scouted us and effectively countered our offence and defence. They remained a constant challenge, ultimately completing a hat-trick of victories against us. In spite of this, we continued to dominate our past rivals Norwich and Cardiff.
Despite the ups and downs of the season, team morale remained remarkably high, a testament to the strong sense of support and camaraderie within the group.
Unlike previous years, where losses would dampen spirits, this year’s team showed an unprecedented level of mutual support and resilience, helping each other bounce back from defeats.
Our performances earned us a spot in the 7-a-side playoffs, and although we fell just short of the finals, losing by a narrow 2-point margin to the undefeated Caledonia Chaos, we quickly shifted focus to the 3rd/4th place game against the Cheshire Bears. This was a chance to prove ourselves and showcase our abilities. The team rose to the occasion, securing the victory and finishing in 3rd place.
Looking ahead to next season, we anticipate playing 7-a-side again due to the departure of some key players and the need for new recruits. This presents another opportunity for us to realise our potential and achieve the championship we know we’re capable of. Sadly we also bid farewell to our long-term and highly influential defensive coordinator, Joe Alexis, who is moving on to a new coaching opportunity. Joe’s contributions have been instrumental in building a successful, confident, and proficient defence, leaving it in a strong position for his successor.
