Last Friday, a team of 21 players from the Penguin District School travelled to Byard Park in Devonport to play in the Girls Football Gala Day. The Gala Day saw PDS competing against schools in the Devonport region.

Although the Gala Day was tailored more so for girls in Years 9 and 10, our school team consisted of girls from all year levels, with a large majority of the girls being made up by Year 8 students.

Out of the four games we played, we split the middle, losing our first two games and winning our last two to finish third in our pool overall. Kaitlin and Maggie led the way with their football IQ and experience through all four games, as well as Taleah's forward pressure in the last two games.

Iluka, although she had trouble converting early, was dangerous in front of the goals as was Kiara. They were matched up on girls who were older than the and competed well when they were in the game.

Some of the schools’ rising stars, Koa, Eva, Harper and Toree  were great contributors in the midfield despite being from the younger two grades.

Some of the best moments came from some of our first-time players. Jaimie , Estella and Pippa all contributed well in the games and who can forget Amelia's goal and celebration in the last game!

Overall, the girls got better with each game, and they learned to play together as a team and follow the game plan.

I want to take this opportunity to thank the Penguin District School for inviting me to participate in the Gala Day and thank you to the support team on the day.

Shaun O’Neill - Go Two Blues!