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Club Profile: Eilidh Mackay

Eilidh is currently the Girls SAP Technical Director, Boys Under 14’s Coach and Representative Programs Manager at Northern Tigers and a Program Leader for XLR8 Player Development!

How did you first get involved in coaching?

There was an opportunity to join a coach development program when I was at university in Scotland. This provided a variety of opportunities including running after school programs, coaching children with disabilities and being exposed to great learning experiences. I was intrigued by coaching and gained coaching qualifications in various sports, not just football. I didn’t regularly start coaching until 2015 when I decided to stay in Sydney and play for Northern Tigers. It didn’t take long for me to realise this was something I wanted to do with my time.

Do you think professional coaching should be exclusively for the advanced or elite player? Why/why not?

I think professional coaching should be available to all players. I think working with players of all levels help develop you as a coach.

All players in the game should have the opportunity to be exposed to a positive, engaging football environment whether they are dreaming of playing professionally or would like to play in a social competition with friends. Professional coaching assists players/teams/clubs to have a positive, engaging environment as they tend to have more resources and experience behind them.

How important is a coach in a players football experience?

Crucial, it is a big part of my WHY when it comes to coaching. This has stemmed from my experiences as a youth player and what I wish was available to me growing up. A coach plays the same role as a teacher and football can make up a huge part of a child’s life. They are a role model, an influencer who has a direct impact on a young person’s life.

How do you find coaching boys and young men?

Challenging. Rewarding.

I have coached both teenage girls and boys and from my experience, gender stereotypes are off base.

Is there any excuse that female cannot be technically and tactically on the same level as men in regards to football ability?

Absolutely not. However, obstacles that are preventing us currently:

  • Coach quality
  • Training and Game Facilities
  • Depth of participation which impacts team and competition selection
  • Genuine career pathway

When the culture changes to be fully inclusive to females in the game and this is happening. The expectation and standards to everything in the female game will improve and we will see female players be technically and tactically savvy as the guys.

Club Profile: Zach Morris

Men’s First Grade player Zach started out coaching with XLR8 (formerly NSFA Football School), before graduating to become a Northern Tigers & Lions SAP coach and obtaining his FFA C licence.

How did you first become involved in football within NSFA?

I played for Lindfield and Northbridge since Under 6’s. I then in Under 11’s joined  in the Northern Tigers development squad in 2008 and then into the team in 2009 for the under 12’s year. Before then  Ever since playing for Northern Tigers I have loved the passion, support and culture of the club entirely all the way through to first grade and I haven’t looked back.

How did you become involved in coaching?

I became involved in coaching at NSFA Football School (now XLR8) around the years of 2014-2015 and enjoyed it immensely and so joined the representative SAP program as a coach in 2016 with theUnder 9’s Northern Tigers. Since then I have coached the under 11’s through a number of years across both Northern Tigers and Northern Lions. These elite squads were a step up in the enjoyment and challenges I got from coaching. Being one of many players that coach at same club it creates a link between the older players and the youngest members of the club, this is something I see as important for all clubs in creating a community culture.

Can you comment on the ability of players within the SAP program compared to yourself as a 9 – 12 year old?

The ability of these players is much better compared to when I was their age. The overall team and individual ability from the majority of the players is often amazing. But this should be the case considering at their age, the facilities, quality of coaching, the amount of training and the dedication to training has significantly increased and therefore as a result the talent has increased.

What do you see as fundamental to develop in players between the ages 9 – 12 years?

For me there are 3 basic things that need to be developed in SAP football, the first and most obvious is the fundamental technical ability of the individuals. If the standard of this is raised it becomes easier to coach more complex concepts within football and gives more confidence to players. The second is the soft skills that aren’t as easily viewed, this includes decision making, awareness, a football mind. These skills develop a player’s ability to read the game and keep consistency in their play. The last thing, especially at Northern Tigers, is a 100% effort policy, this is essential to create early on because as coaches we need to establish this first and foremost before anything can be achieved at a high intensity.

How important is the NSFA club and Northern Tigers FC connection?

I think it is very important for the clubs to be connected, there needs to be competition and connection because this is the driver for quality. When people become too comfortable they lose the drive for quality. This competition comes from the connection between clubs and therefore pushes players into improving consistently. Without this connection the pool of players to develop becomes limited making the quality standard remain the same. As a player myself if there is an external competition as well as an individual motivation the growth and improvement of a players is far more significant.

Club Profile: Saoirse Cobbe

Saoirse is the current Northern Tigers Girls SAP Under 12’s Coach and also coaches with XLR8. She previously played with Northern Tigers for nine years after progressing from her junior club, Lane Cove FC.

How did you first become involved in playing football?

I used to play with my older brother and father in the backyard when I was very young and I then joined Lane Cove Football Club at aged 5. I played there for 6 years and was fortunate to have a really good coach who encouraged me to go further with my footballing ability. This lead me to being selected for the Northern Tigers Development team when I was 9 years old and then being selected to play for the Northern Tigers U12’s Girls representative team the following year. I played for the Northern Tigers for the last 9 years before I stopped playing this year to focus on coaching the Northern Tigers U12’s Girls SAP squad.

What made you take the step into coaching?

While playing at the Northern Tigers a friend persuaded me to attend a coaching course with her during the school holidays. I found it very interesting and really enjoyed it and was offered a coaching position at the NSFA Football School where I started doing school holiday coaching. It was my first experience of coaching young children which I enjoyed. The Football School then became XLR8 and the expanded program gave me more opportunities to coach and increase my learning and gave me my first coaching role with the Chatswood U14G team. This then led me to coach the Northern Tigers U12 Girls SAP this year.

What characteristics do you think are critical for a coach of young players to possess?

I’m still learning, however I’ve found that some of the important characteristics is patience and having a good connection with the players and being able to have a few laughs with them. I find younger players respond better and play better with positive encouragement but also by challenging them to continually improve, trying new skills and be prepared to work hard. By working and communicating with them and providing feedback as to how well they are doing then they will work better for you.

Can you describe the current coach mentoring role you have with XLR8?

My current coaching role at XLR8 involves assisting parent coaches and working with them to expand their coaching knowledge especially in how they are running sessions so they get the most out of their young players. This has allowed me to approach sessions in a different way including offering advice and helping them understand their aims for the session, identify any issues and what needs to be done to address them.

What would be your message to females across NSFA?

Girls football is going through a big explosion at the moment and it’s a great game for girls to play. I would encourage all girls to focus on the skills and ball control, the more confident they are with the ball then they will enjoy the game more and will be able to play at a higher level. Football gives girls great opportunities to make new friends, keep fit and play to a level they are comfortable at be it either social football or all the way to the Matildas!

Club Profile: Will Foristal

How long have you played for Northern Tigers?

This is my fifth season at Tigers!

Who have been the been the biggest influences in your football career?

The biggest influences in my career so far would be my  Under 15’s coach that decided I wasn’t a striker anymore and threw me at centre back, and also my mum for always getting me to training and games for the 10 years of playing.

Which clubs have you previously played for?

I’ve previously played for Spirit and Blacktown City.

What do you enjoy most about playing for Northern Tigers?

I love the Tigers culture. I love being able to play competitively with my best mates.

What position do you play? Have you always played there?

I’m a centre back now but I was a striker until I was 15.

Do you have a favourite club/player? Who/why?

Favourite club is Manchester United and favourite player would have to be Paul Scholes. I love the way he played: could hit the perfect long ball, big tackles and scored some belters.

What is your best football memory?

My best football memory would be winning the CHS state knockout competition in year 12. It was a great way to finish many years of high school football.

Club Profile: Servet Uzunlar

How long have you played for Northern Tigers?

Roughly 2 years.

Who have been the been the biggest influences in your football career?

My family

Which clubs have you previously played for?

Overseas clubs: Fortuna Hjorring – Denmark Ottawa Fury – CanadaChungbuk Sports Toto – South Korea Pali Blues – US Westfield W-League: Sydney FC and Western Sydney Wanderers

What do you enjoy most about playing for Northern Tigers?

The people

What position do you play? Have you always played there?

Center back. Started as a striker / midfielder and then slowly found my way in the backline.

Do you have a favourite club/player? Who/why?

I loved Ryan Giggs growing up and supported Man United.

What is your best football memory?

Singing the National Anthem in front of my family in my first game at the 2011 Women’s World Cup

Club Profile: Malia Steinmetz

New Zealand international Malia Steinmetz has jumped in the deep end during her first season at the club, regularly starting in the middle of midfield or defence.

Who have been the been the biggest influences in your football career?

Would be the many teammates who have become close friends over the years. They’ve helped me grow and keep loving the game as it gets more competitive!

Which clubs have you previously played for?

In Auckland when I first started I played for Three Kings United and as I got older I moved to Forrest Hill Milford, who are still great supporters of me and my footballing career

What do you enjoy most about playing for Northern Tigers?

I’m really enjoying the culture that you can see instilled in the club throughout the ages and from both the men’s and women’s teams. The girls I’ve also met have been brilliant I couldn’t have asked to be put in with a better bunch of people and coaches!

What position do you play? Have you always played there?

I play holding midfield and only recently kinda figured out that’s my preferred position. I’ve been put attacking mid a lot but just over the years began to find holding is more for me. I’ve also played centre back a few times this year for Tigers and that’s been an interesting learning curve. It’s been good to have more knowledge of the game by actually playing in different positions and seeing the perspectives from that part of the pitch.

Do you have a favourite club/player? Who/why?

I don’t really have any, never watched any of the leagues that go on unless it was the biggest match of the year. I was told to study Aaron Ramsey for a bit in terms of a player and how I want to be so I guess he was a favourite for me for a few weeks.

What is your best football memory?

In ninth grade I scored the winning goal of a match with a lob from halfway – I’ll never forget it!

Club Profile: Rhys Williams

Local junior Rhys Williams has returned to the club this season to bolster our Men’s First Grade squad.

How long have you played for Northern Tigers?

This is my first season back but I previously played 12 seasons with Tigers from the U13’s age group from memory!

Who have been the been the biggest influences in your football career?

Both of my parents have been huge influences. Both still come watch my games, which is incredible and they obviously supported me immensely when I was younger with the commitment that it is. My Dad took me to the park a lot when I was younger and even coached me for a couple of years with club football.

Which clubs have you previously played for?

I played my younger years at West Pymble, then Northern Tigers through youth for 12 years, Manly for 5, and now back at Tigers.

What do you enjoy most about playing for Northern Tigers?

I enjoy that Northern Tigers is known for its work ethic. Hetty has got us playing good football which is what I’m all about, but a favourite saying of mine is “hard work beats talent, when talent fails to work hard”. So I’m happy to be part of a team and club that is known for its work ethic.

What position do you play? Have you always played there?

I play left fullback/winger at the moment. My right hammie tear played a part in that switch. Across all my years in rep football I’ve played everywhere except keeper and central midfield.

Do you have a favourite club/player? Who/why?

I’m a Chelsea fan from a young age, stretching back to the days of Gianfranco Zola (as a player) and Chris Sutton and the sponsor on the front of the shirt was “Autoglass”. Favourite Chelsea players would be Zola and Drogba. Favourite player would be Messi. Best player ever with all his amazing goals and accolades, but more importantly still defends relentlessly and works hard for the team, doesn’t dive and is humble. Amazing role model.

What is your best football memory?

I was with Manly when they won the final for Men’s NPL1, but that was incredibly bittersweet as i was hampered by injury and didn’t play. Best memory would be at Tigers, winning the league in 2012. Amazing group of lads, EOS was a lot of fun that year too!

J-League Elite Clinic – Register Now!

Once again this July coaches from J-League club Yokohama F Marinos will be delivering a holiday clinic for advanced players!

Yokohama F Marinos is currently coached my former Socceroos boss Ange Postecoglu and have a strong history in the J-League.

When: Monday 8th –  Wednesday 10th July, 1pm – 3pm each day

Where: NTRA, 361B Bobbin Head Rd, North Turramurra NSW 2074

Details: Yokohama F Marinos coaches will be conducting the session. This year we will be joined by two YFM coaches, Erabu Mochizuki (Technical Director at YFM Academy) and Mikio Miyashita (Head Coach at YFM Academy).

Registrations are available for two groups, 10 to 12 years old and 13 to 15 years old.

Wet Weather: the field is artificial turf – the clinics will not be cancelled due to wet weather.

Enquiries: Eilidh Mackay – rpm@nsfa.asn.au

Click Here to Register

Club Profile: Maddie Bart

Who have been the biggest influences in your football career?

First and foremost, my parents have played a very significant role in my football journey and I’m very grateful to have had their support over the years.

I’ve been very fortunate to have played for a number of great coaches, particularly Drew Taylor who I had for my last three seasons with the North Shore Mariners. I also really enjoyed being coached by Danny Hurwitz and Larry Bates and learnt a lot during my time with all of these coaches.

Which clubs have you previously played for?

I started playing when I was five with my local club, the Chatswood Rangers. I joined Manly United in the Under 12’s and stayed there for seven seasons before moving across to the North Shore Mariners. I spent a solid six seasons at Northbridge before joining the Tigers this year.

What do you enjoy most about playing for Northern Tigers?

My favourite thing about Tigers is the club culture. I’ve been really impressed by the camaraderie across the club and in particular by the overwhelming support we have received from the mens squad this year.

What position do you play? Have you always played there?

I’ve spent the majority of this season playing on the wing, a position I had never really played until this year. I’ve mostly played in the midfield through the years but don’t mind mixing it up.

Do you have a favourite club/player? Who/why?

To be honest, I mostly followed AFL and the Sydney Swans growing up and didn’t watch too much soccer. However, over the last few years I’ve really started getting behind the Matildas and my favourite player is Sam Kerr.

What is your best football memory?

When I was about 15/16 I was lucky enough to travel to Malaysia for a futsal tournament which was a very special experience.

2019 Female Football Week

Northern Suburbs FA, Northern Tigers FC, XLR8 Player Development and INSPIRE Coach Support Program bring you FEMALE FOOTBALL WEEK 2019.

The state-wide initiative runs from Saturday 25th May – Sunday 2nd June, showcasing females in football and extending inclusion, development and social opportunities to the NSFA community to get involved.

See our full schedule of events for the week below!

Saturday 25th May, 2019

Northern Tigers FC mascot Roary will be visiting NSFA MiniRoobs hubs – keep an eye out!

Northbridge FC Come and Try Day – Bales Park, 1:30pm – Register here

Sunday 26th May, 2019

Free Female Pararoos Development Session

In association with the NSFA Pararoos Development Centre, we would like to invite all female with Cerebral Palsy, Acquired Brain Injury to join us for a training session on Sunday morning.

Where/When: Charles Bean Oval, Lindfield, 9am – 11am

Click here to register!

Northern Tigers FC vs Football NSW Institute

With NSFA club mascots and players in half time small sided games. North Turramurra Recreation Area (NTRA), Bobbin Head Rd, from 1:30pm.

Competitions, Roary chase, BBQ, player signings and shoot outs all afternoon!

Hornsby Heights FC Celebration of Girls Football Day – Montview Oval, all day.

Including competitions, BBQ, XLR8 Skill Corner and matches all day

Berowra FC Female Club Day – Berowra Oval, all day

Monday 27th May, 2019

Coach Education Workshop – Delivered by Eilidh Mackay, Northern Tigers FC Girls SAP Technical Director and Youth Boys Under 14 team.

Blackman Oval, Lane Cove. 6pm – 7:30pm

Click here to register!

Tuesday 28 May, 2019

Northbridge FC Come and Try Day – Northbridge Oval futsal court, 3:45pm – Contact the club for further information.

Wednesday 29 May, 2019

Girls SAP & the Community – Northern Tigers FC Girls SAP will be joined by a number of NSFA girls team for a unique training experience.

Free Women’s Skills Training session

 

Free session for all females at the XLR8 Women’s Skills Training program. North Turramurra Recreation Area (NTRA), 7:30pm – 8:30pm.

Click here to register!

Northbridge FC SOCCERCISE Come and Try – Northbridge Oval, 6:30pm – Register Here

Thursday 30 May, 2019

Northbridge FC Women in Football Talk – Ron Dyer Centre, North Sydney, 7pm – Information and Registration

Friday 31 May, 2019

Female Football Friday

A huge afternoon of football aimed at players Under 6 – Under 14 years old. North Turramurra Recreation Area (NTRA), Bobbin Head Rd.

FREE XLR8 Skills Session

4pm – 5pm – XLR8 Skill Session – Girls Under 6 – Under 9

5pm – 6pm – XLR8 Skill Session – Girls Under 10 – Under 14

Click here to register!

6pm – 8pm – NSFA Diamond League vs Northern Tigers FC Girls SAP matches

Throughout the afternoon and evening there will be lots happening;

  • XLR8 Skills session
  • Football NSW Shooting competition
  • Dartboard Soccer
  • Penalty shoot out – Special guest goalkeeper
  • BBQ

Saturday 1st June, 2019

Northern Tigers FC mascot Roary will be visiting NSFA MiniRoobs hubs – keep an eye out!

Kissing Point FC Pink Day and High Tea – Auluba Oval – See below flyers for information, contact vpwomen@kpfc.asn.au for tickets.

Sunday 2nd June, 2019

Northern Tigers FC vs Macarthur Rams

With NSFA club mascots and players in half time small sided games. North Turramurra Recreation Area (NTRA), Bobbin Head Rd, from 1:30pm.

Competitions, Roary chase, BBQ, player signings and shoot outs all afternoon!

Lane Cove FC Female Celebration Day – Blackman Park, Lane Cove. All Day

Lindfield FC Female Club Day – Charles Bean Oval, Lindfield

Asquith SC & West Pymble FC will also be holding Female Football Celebration days during June to celebrate Female Football Week and the lead up to the Women’s World Cup.

Club Profile: Jamie Craig

How long have you been playing at the Northern Tigers?

This is my sixth season as a Tiger since signing in 2014.

Which clubs have you previously played for?

Prior to the Tigers I spent about ten years at Manly United. One or two years before that were at the famous Belrose-Terrey Hills Raiders and Giffnock FC, a junior club in Scotland.

Who has been the biggest influence in your football career?

The biggest influence on my career would probably be my old man. Obviously a big thank you goes to my mum, without her I wouldn’t have been able to get to training / play games. The easiest thing to do both on and off a football pitch is work hard and I want to thank my parents for instilling this trait in me.

A final mention has to go to Jason Eagar who gave me a go as a teenager back in 2014 and to Mark McCormack who played me higher up the pitch, encouraging me to get into the box more. If it wasn’t for Mark, there is no doubt I would still be without a goal for the club.

What do you enjoy most about playing for the Tigers?

Farinas after 3 points and being in the Kop on a Sunday watching the girls!

On a serious note however there is no doubt the club’s stability and culture are key drivers in its continued success across both the men’s and the women’s teams. There is no politics, people aren’t here for the money, its all about football and working hard for your teammates and coaches. This is the key to the club’s success and ability to continue to make finals year-on-year in all grades.

Ultimately however you play at this level to win games and trophies and it is a slight disappointment that we haven’t capitalised on the numerous finals appearances and strong club championship positions in the past few years.

What position do you play? Have you always played there?

I have always played left back or as far away from the right side as possible. Probably the leagues most un-versatile (not sure if that’s a word) player, I am fortunate that no one ever wants to play left back!

Do you have a favourite club/player? Who/why?

My favourite football club is Ayr United (spelt wrong on my foot) who currently play in the 2nd tier of Scottish football. Glasgow Rangers would be a close second. I have always liked Wayne Rooney despite him being English. Works his socks off, scores goals and loves a challenge.

What is your best football memory?

Winning the grand final with the Northern Tigers in 2015. We had a very good team that year and were far and away the best team in the league. Despite missing out on being promoted that year, it is a season I will never forget. I learnt a lot from the senior lads that year and I hope in both this and future seasons I am able to lead all the excellent youngsters in our squad to success.

Club Profile: Erica Di Sciascio

How long have you been playing for Northern Tigers?

This will be my third season at Northern Tigers.

Who have been the been the biggest influences in your football career?

My biggest influences in my football career have been my parents, always motivating me to do better in the sport and I think their involvement in my football career has really pushed me to do better.

Which clubs have you previously played for?

I’ve played for Football NSW Institute, NWS Koalas and Central Coast.

What do you enjoy most about playing for Northern Tigers?

I really enjoy the club culture and the supporting environment which is always a major benefit in such a competitive sport.

What position do you play? Have you always played there?

I currently play right back, I have been playing there for about 5 years, prior to that I played as a striker.

Do you have a favourite club/player? Who/why?

My favourite player is Sofia Huerta, she plays a similar position to me so watching her play is really enjoyable and I love her style of football, it’s really great to watch, highly recommend watching her play in the current NWSL.

What is your best football memory?

My best football memory is playing against and alongside previous and current W-League players, it really motivates me to do better and I learn a lot from those players, with more experience. When we play along the “big name teams” I really enjoy the opportunity to step up my game.

Annual Club Weekend Wrap-Up!

Our 2019 Annual Club Weekend was a magnificent success across both Saturday and Sunday at North Turramurra Recreation Area.

The weekend showcased the incredible culture within our club and gave members across all areas the opportunity to come together and enjoy some football.

A particular highlight was watching the Men’s First Grade and Girls SAP cheering along the Women’s First Grade together on Sunday afternoon up on the Northern Kop!

Players from across all our SAP and Development Squad programs got the opportunity to walk out onto the field our Men’s First Grade and Under 20’s and our Women’s First Grade and Reserve Grade.

Both First Grade teams were able to engage with plenty of our younger players during their respective poster signing sessions on Saturday and Sunday, giving them a unique experience they can remember for years to come.

With an incredible 32 games in action across the weekend from Under 9’s all the way through to First Grade, the club would like to thank the volunteers who helped set up fields, managed the barbecue and ensured the whole weekend ran smoothly.

It was also fantastic to welcome our local club representatives as well as State MP Alister Henskens and Federal MP Paul Fletcher to both First Grade matches across the weekend; giving them an insight into the Northern Tigers club environment with pre-game and half time comments from team coaches as well as showing our vision for further facilities at NTRA.

With only around a third of the season now completed, there’s still plenty of football left for all our teams and we are excited to see the club spirit that was on show last weekend throughout the remainder of the year!

XLR8 Holiday Clinics – Register Now!

Don’t miss out on our XLR8 April Holiday Clinics!

With FOUR different locations available for clinics for players age from Under 5 to Under 16, we’ve got something for everyone!

Players are grouped together according to age, friends and skill level to ensure all players achieve maximum development and enjoyment.

Full venues list:

  • North Turramurra Recreation Area (Weeks 1 and 2)
  • Charles Bean Oval, Lindfield (Weeks 1 and 2)
  • Montview Oval, Hornsby Heights (Week 1)
  • Thomson Park, Artarmon (Week 2)

Head to our Holiday Clinic Hub for more information and to register!

Club Profile: Daisy Arrowsmith

The 20-year-old striker has continued on from her impressive pre-season, notching up three goals in the opening three weeks of the season for Women’s First Grade!

Who have been the been the biggest influences in your football career?

I’ve been so lucky to have amazing coaches in every team I’ve played with. Particularly, Billy Pappas, who coached me for four years starting in the Under 14’s; Larry Bates, who gave me my first chance in First Grade; and Stephen Peters who, despite only coaching me for one season, has always been a big support.

Which clubs have you previously played for?

I played junior football for Northbridge FC Under 12 C’s and A’s respectively before joining their first representative side two years later. I played at Northbridge FC/ North Shore Mariners for seven years and NWS Koalas for one year before making the move to Northern Tigers.

What do you enjoy most about playing for Northern Tigers?

I was particularly drawn to Northern Tigers as it has a fantastic club culture, where coaches and players alike are friendly and supportive. With First Grade, I believe we have a great combination of experience, youth, team morale and support from the coaches that will see us being pretty successful this year.

What position do you play? Have you always played there?

Previously, I have played as an attacking midfielder and out on the wings, but in the last few years I’ve played as a striker.

Do you have a favourite club/player? Who/why?

To be honest, I don’t follow much football outside of playing! When I do though, it’s hard not to be impressed by the likes of Sam Kerr, who makes it seem effortless to score goals.

What is your best football memory?

My best football memory would have to be scoring in my debut first grade game for Northbridge FC when I was 15 years old!