Sunday saw a hugely successful Robins End of Season Presentation party at the Gas Club in Gypsy Lane. Six different teams from ages 6-11 and their families and friends packed into the Gas Club (well, most of the time, everyone was outside enjoying the glorious weather and watching the children playing on the field) to celebrate the teams' many achievements this season.
In the younger age groups we heard about the development and progress they've made, with the U7s having had a successful first season of League football this season, while the U6s are getting ready for that next season. Meanwhile the seasoned veterans of the U8s have completed a successful second campaign and such is the demand, they are gearing up for entering two teams into the League next season - always a sign of success when players want to join you!
The older age groups are allowed to participate in competitive leagues and both the U10s and U11s competed strongly across a range of competitions. The U10s were unlucky not to seal an impressive cup run with the U10 League Cup, only missing out in the final, but still a great achievement to get to the League Cup final and a great thrill for the boys to play the final at the County Ground. Meanwhile it was another bumper year for silverware for both U11s sides. U11JS followed on from last season's Div 4 title by going one better and winning U11 Div 3 this season - back to back promotions are a massive achievement at any level or age group. Meanwhile the U11A team, not content with winning and being runners up in the League in previous seasons, went for the County Championship this time out, winning the Wilts FA County Cup, only the second team in Robins 20+ year history to do so. Truly a tremendous achievement which they can all be very proud of - we're all very proud of them!
But amidst all that, the core of the club's philosophy remains as it always been to provide young players with the enjoyment of playing good football and to develop each player to their full potential. And that was fully reflected in a fun afternoon, very much enjoyed by all present. Our thanks to the Gas Club for hosting us, as well as our chairman, secretary, treasurer and managers for all their hard work throughout the season to enable so many young players to enjoy their football and of course parents for their tremendous support! But most of all to the players themselves - without their efforts and commitment, there would be no club.
We look forward to another enjoyable and successful season in 2013-14.