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At WASCZ, football is more than just a sport; it is a vibrant and integral part of our school community, fostering teamwork, discipline, and a passion for the game among students of all ages.
A Diverse Range of Teams
Our school boasts an extensive football program that caters to students across different age groups and genders.
In Lower School, we have enthusiastic U12 boys and girls teams, where young talents first discover their love for the sport.
As students progress to Upper School, they may join more competitive teams, including the U15 and U19 boys and girls teams. These teams not only provide a platform for skill development but also instil a sense of pride and camaraderie among the players.
Training and Festivals
Our dedicated teaching team, led by the Head of Football, Mr Ristic, work tirelessly to nurture each student’s potential. Mr Ristic, a former Serbian professional football player, brings a wealth of experience to the role. He has played at the highest level in several countries and has coached elite teams, ensuring that our students receive top-tier training and guidance.
Each week, our teams engage in a training session, focusing on both technical skills and strategic understanding of the game. These sessions are carefully planned to cater to the varying abilities and needs of the players. For instance, a typical football lesson might begin with a warm-up routine to get the players’ muscles ready and their energy levels up. This could involve dynamic stretches, light jogging, and some agility drills.
Next, the players move on to skill-based exercises. For younger teams like the U12s, this might involve dribbling through cones, passing drills to improve accuracy, and shooting practice to boost confidence in front of the goal. As the players advance to the U15 and U19 teams, the training becomes more intense and specialised. They work on more complex passing patterns, defensive tactics, and set-piece routines. Mr Ristic often incorporates small-sided games to simulate match scenarios and encourage quick decision-making.
In addition to regular training, our Lower School recently hosted a football festival, a fantastic event that brought together several teams from different schools. It was a day filled with excitement and friendly competition, with numerous games being played. This not only provided our students with valuable match experience but also allowed them to interact with peers from other institutions, broadening their horizons and fostering a sense of sportsmanship.
Achievements and Recognition
Our football teams have consistently excelled in various tournaments, bringing glory to the school. The U15 boys team has been particularly successful, clinching first place in the SYAC(Suzhou Youth Athletic Conference) and the second place in ISNAC (International Schools’ Nanjing Activities Conference) tournaments. They have also performed admirably in numerous other competitions, showcasing their talent and hard work. The U19 boys team has also made their mark, securing third place in both the SYAC and NESSIC (Network for Enriching Students and Schools in China) tournaments and winning first place in ISNAC. Meanwhile, the U19 girls team has proven to be a formidable force, claiming third place in both the SYAC and ISNAC tournaments.
These achievements are a testament to the dedication of our players and the expert coaching they receive.
A Growing Community
As we look to the future, we are committed to further developing our football program. We aim to continue providing our students with the best possible training, opportunities for competition, and a supportive community that nurtures their growth both on and off the field. With the guidance of experienced coaches like Mr Ristic and the enthusiasm of our students, we are confident that our football teams will continue to flourish and achieve even greater success.
Looking Ahead
As we look to the future, we are committed to further developing our football program. We aim to continue providing our students with the best possible training, opportunities for competition, and a supportive community that nurtures their growth both on and off the field. With the guidance of experienced coaches like Mr Ristic and the enthusiasm of our students, we are confident that our football teams will continue to flourish and achieve even greater success.
In conclusion, football at WASCZ is a dynamic and thriving endeavour that enriches the lives of our students. Through dedicated training, competitive opportunities, and the mentorship of exceptional coaches, we are cultivating not only skilled footballers but also well-rounded individuals who embody the values of teamwork, perseverance, and passion.
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