Development isn’t always reflected on the scoreboard — and our U14 Division 1 boys are learning that lesson in a demanding environment.
This group is competing in one of the toughest divisions at underage level, and it’s important context that most of this squad are first-year players at U14. They are stepping up an age group, adjusting to a faster, more physical game, and doing so at Division 1 standard. That alone tells you a lot about both the challenge and the opportunity in front of them.
The opening game of the season, against St. Bridgets, was a harsh introduction. A heavy defeat away from home underlined just how high the bar is at this level. Results since then have been just as difficult, but the real story has been unfolding beneath the surface.
Last night, they faced St. Bridgets again — and the difference was clear. What had been a wide gap in October was reduced to a competitive game, decided in a much narrower margin. More importantly, the performance showed tangible progress across key areas of the game.
Ball handling was more composed, spacing and off-ball movement were far improved, shot selection showed growing maturity, and communication — particularly defensively — was stronger and more consistent. These are the fundamentals that allow young players to compete properly at Division 1 level, and they don’t develop overnight.
This team is learning how to handle adversity, how to stay connected when things get tough, and how to keep committing to the work when results are hard-earned. For a group made up largely of first-year players, that growth mindset is exactly what we want to see.
Others may be enjoying success and momentum right now — and fair play to them. Our focus remains firmly on development, patience and building players the right way. The foundations being laid by this U14 Division 1 group will stand to them in the seasons ahead.
Progress isn’t always loud. Sometimes it looks like this. 💙
#ThisClubIsMagic
This group is competing in one of the toughest divisions at underage level, and it’s important context that most of this squad are first-year players at U14. They are stepping up an age group, adjusting to a faster, more physical game, and doing so at Division 1 standard. That alone tells you a lot about both the challenge and the opportunity in front of them.
The opening game of the season, against St. Bridgets, was a harsh introduction. A heavy defeat away from home underlined just how high the bar is at this level. Results since then have been just as difficult, but the real story has been unfolding beneath the surface.
Last night, they faced St. Bridgets again — and the difference was clear. What had been a wide gap in October was reduced to a competitive game, decided in a much narrower margin. More importantly, the performance showed tangible progress across key areas of the game.
Ball handling was more composed, spacing and off-ball movement were far improved, shot selection showed growing maturity, and communication — particularly defensively — was stronger and more consistent. These are the fundamentals that allow young players to compete properly at Division 1 level, and they don’t develop overnight.
This team is learning how to handle adversity, how to stay connected when things get tough, and how to keep committing to the work when results are hard-earned. For a group made up largely of first-year players, that growth mindset is exactly what we want to see.
Others may be enjoying success and momentum right now — and fair play to them. Our focus remains firmly on development, patience and building players the right way. The foundations being laid by this U14 Division 1 group will stand to them in the seasons ahead.
Progress isn’t always loud. Sometimes it looks like this. 💙
#ThisClubIsMagic
