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Locos Under 18’s completed their Highland League East campaign this week with a big win over Dyce. They end the season in second place, having scored an impressive 79 goals in their 20 games.
Coach Kevin Bonarius was happy with the way the season went. “Reflecting on the season, both I and the coaches see it as a very positive one,” he said. “At the start of the season, we welcomed a large group of new and young players into the squad, and they have worked incredibly hard and bought into everything we’ve been coaching.
Throughout the season, the players have experienced plenty of ups and downs, which are all part of their development as they prepare for senior football. The most pleasing aspect for us as a coaching team has been seeing the players compete, enjoy their football, and put into practice what they are learning.”
Kevin has been pleased with the development of his players and delighted that some have caught the eye of First Team Manager Dean Donaldson. “It has also been encouraging to see a number of Under-18 players gaining opportunities with the Under-21s, as well as training with the first team. This demonstrates that the foundations are in place for a clear pathway into senior football. Hopefully, we can continue to provide Dean and his team with players who are ready to take that next step.”
This progress of the players is key for the coaching team and Kevin is hopeful of continuing this next season, with the bulk of his squad still qualifying for this age group. “As coaches, we take great enjoyment from coaching and working with this group. Over the course of the season, there have been many outstanding team and individual performances as well as disappointments and learnings. A big positive for the group is that the vast majority of the squad will still be eligible for Under-18 football next season and beyond, they will carry the experiences from this year forward.”
He was also keen to recognise the contribution of our Youth Academy sponsor “On behalf of the Under-18s, I would like to thank everyone for their support throughout the season. A special mention also goes to our youth academy sponsor, R Davidson (Banchory), whose continued support helps ensure the squad has the best possible environment to develop.”
Well done to Kevin, his coaches and the squad. Some of these players have big games coming up for their juvenile teams but we look forward to seeing them back in the Fire and Coal next season.
