Sport

Wanderers’ kick-off ‘joy’

ABOUT 1,000 Earlwood Wanderers got their first taste of competition at the weekend as all teams – from two to five-year-olds all the way up to all age adults – hit the playing field for what will be a ‘round robin’ format in a 14 to 16-week season this year.

With Covid-safe policies in place, spectators were there to cheer on the Wanderers teams playing in the Canterbury District Soccer Football Association (CDSFA) which comprises over 17,000 players.
Volunteer and assistant coach Theo Fotopoulos said the players were all thrilled to be back.
“It is such a relief as most players thought we wouldn’t be back this year so because of the delays, it’s a different kind of feeling than just the normal start to the season,” he said.
“Most of us haven’t been as active because of the Covid and isolation but it’s been not without trying.
“However all are back training and playing and the joy on the fields was almost palpable.”
With CDFSA being one of the top 10 associations in Australia, membership has almost doubled in the last seven years.
“Earlwood Wanderers are in a great position with all mixed player teams up until 11 years and also featuring a big female program,” Fotopoulos added.
“In addition, we offer a fully subsidised special needs/all abilities player program.
“It’s not too late to register for a team either; just email ask@ewfc.com.au or visit the website.”