Shellharbour FC have once again travelled to another Kanga Cup tournament where they have sent an U18’s side to play in the Open Cup. This team has been historically competitive in Canberra, consistently challenging for finals places and have a strong reputation amongst clubs surrounding the Wollongong area.
They returned to the Capital with high hopes of contesting again but have also been happy to take advantage of the trip as an opportunity to bond and grow closer as a cohesive unit.
“We came here last year and the year before where we’ve been previously contenders for the final and the semis but unfortunately this time, we’ve just not got the results we’ve wanted,” said Lucas Corbeski, starting Shellharbour goalkeeper. “But regardless, taking away from the games just spending a week away with your mates definitely helps us for our local league.”
“The whole trip has been pretty good, there’s been a couple unfortunate calls, bad results, but at the end of the day, it’s been a good experience.”
Shellharbour have been unlucky as their first two matches resulted in tight 3-2 defeats at the hands of Marist Canberra and Auburn District. Despite this, the team remain adamant that they have improved and grown closer as a squad, which will be of great benefit for playing matches back in their usual league.
“It’s definitely going to help us play as a team more, it’s really pointed out our flaws and what we’re going to need to work on in the coming year to hopefully bring home the local comp,” expressed Corbeski.
Shellharbour FC operate as a tightknit family club that prioritise a welcoming and loyal environment for all players, coaches and fans.
“It’s very welcoming and a good culture at Shellharbour, we’ve always got a lot of new players coming in with open arms,” Corbeski discussed. “We’ve got a very good youth system, this team here have played from most grades from about 15’s-16’s, everything’s connected all the way up to 1st grade.”
“Personally, I play 18s, but I’ve had call ups to under 20’s and 1’st grade so they really focus on youth development.”
“We’re not just here to play, we’re family and the main takeaway for a tournament like this is just team bonding,” commented Corbeski. “This really helps you and your boys mesh with each other and it’s really good especially for a mid-season thing and it helps us for the second half of the year back at home.”
The club is hopeful that they will continue to build and come back to large tournaments for more memorable life highlights and experiences.
“Hopefully we continue to focus on youth development and keep pushing the younger players through and create a strong foundation for future competitions,” Corbeski stated. “I’m hoping in the future to eventually keep for 1st grade and play for the club throughout my time at university.”
Corbeski’s team will play Marist Canberra and Auburn District again in their last two matches.
Words: William Rumgay
