2016 - the amazing year that was

As 2016 comes to a close, I thought I would pen a few words to review the footballing year. There is no doubt that 2016 has been the most successful year of our 53 year existence. Winning the Chatham cup for the first time was obviously the pinnacle of our success. It took 53 years to get there and have our name forever etched in glory on the most prestigious football trophy in NZ, but we did it. Winning Club of the Year at the North Harbour Sporting Excellence awards back to back after winning it in 2015, was a real highlight given the company we were in with 2016 being an Olympics year. Winning the U17s National age grade tournament also on a back to back basis after winning in 2015, was a fantastic achievement for the youth players at the club. Reaching the final of the Napier U19 tournament after winning it in 2015 and 2015 made us the most successful U19 tournament participants in that competition. Ross Frisby being awarded the QSM in the New Years honours was a fitting and special award for a man who has given and continues to give so much. Coming runners up in the Northern Region Premier League for the 3rd time in 4 years was another highlight. We were very close to winning the league for the first time while also balancing out injuries & player welfare around the Chatham Cup run. For all of the achievements listed above, the coming together of the Red & White Army at the Chatham Cup final and throughout the league season was a special memory for 2016. Everyone who felt connected to the club, not just current players and parents but people who understood what it meant to be part of the Red & White Army came together in unity and the power of that was a factor in us winning the Chatham Cup. Junior parents and kids on a Saturday morning. If there is anything that keeps me doing what I do, it's the positive energy of a Saturday morning. This is what sport and Birkenhead is all about. A community coming together, kids having fun, positive encouragement by parents and fantastic coaches. Magic. Thank you to everyone who made 2016 so special. Thank you for all of your efforts and belief. A big thank you to Kemps Weir Lawyers and Harcourts Cooper & Co as our elite sponsors for their support and understanding of our role in the community. The Birkenhead Licensing Trust and Kaipatiki Local Board have been fantastic community partners yet again. As we look forward to 2017, we will face the challenges of consistency, expectations and a changing and competitive football landscape with enthusiasm. Happy new year everyone. Club President Dave Newick