Eleven teams lined up in the Under 10 Kirk Reynoldson Cup in Wandoan recently including the local teams and teams from Toowoomba, Mudgeeraba, Caboolture and Coolum.
The community of Wandoan was one well supported by the visiting teams with all staying in the town, either camping at the grounds or showgrounds, and all of the local accommodation was booked out.
The whole weekend had a relaxed and friendly atmosphere around the grounds and the town.
It was amazing the talent on show from players so young and the sportsmanship shown by all teams.
As the weekend went on most players were happy to help out other teams when they were short; I don’t think there were too many players who didn’t play for more than just the one team.
There are many benefits from carnivals like these with new friendships made and lasting memories created.
The players also learned new skills on the field by playing different teams from the coast and the coast players learned new skills both on and off the field by visiting a town like Wandoan.
A constant comment throughout the weekend from the tireless working volunteers in the canteen and barbecue was how well mannered all of the players were, which is a direct reflection from their parents and coaching staff.
Even though the players had plenty of game time, I am told the teams camping at the showgrounds were still playing footy into the evening after the games were finished.
You can never give kids enough footy and it is so good to see kids having such fun in the great outdoors.
A big thank you to the clubs from outside the immediate area for attending; the local boys don’t get much footy each year, so with these visitors it supplies the locals with just a bit more footy to enjoy.
Kirk Reynoldson spoke to all the teams during the presentations and was an inspiration to them all, reminding them that he was born in Jandowae and raised in Wandoan so no matter where you are from if you work hard enough you can make your dreams come true.
A big thank you to the Wandoan committee to organise this carnival on short notice. We look forward to the 2021 carnival.
