By Kirra Livingstone
KINGAROY witnessed the participation of approximately 500 senior men and women players in the annual pre-season carnival hosted by the town’s football club.
This event served as a platform for senior football players to prepare for their upcoming regional competitions.
The BeeGees, featuring a mix of U23 and premier women players, fielded two teams that competed against Maryborough and Toowoomba during the tournament held from February 3-4.
Despite a few setbacks between the local sides, one BeeGees team advanced to the semi-finals but had to withdraw due to injuries.
Coach Amy Higgins said it was great to be part of the yearly carnival.
“It’s a 7-a-side format on small pitches, so it provides lots of fitness, touches on the ball and intensity for the girls,” she said.
“They showed some brilliant passages of play and got plenty of goals in the back of the net.
“It’s a really good opportunity for the girls to bond as a club and not just individual teams.”
Amy commended the girls for their performance, citing the challenges of the hot weather and physical strain.
“The girls did really well. It was hot, and hard on their bodies, but they proved that our pre season fitness has been paying off,” Amy said.
As they gear up for the 2024 Sunshine Coast regional competition, the team’s pre-season training has proven fruitful, focusing on various aspects such as fitness, ball movement along the backline, possession, and quick shots on goal.
Amy stressed the ongoing need for keeping it simple with the basics.
“We still need to keep practicing the basics and learning to play and get familiar with our new players,” she said
Notable additions to the premier women’s team include Caboolture midfielder Helaina Cousins with 15 years of experience and NPL Eastern Suburbs defender Caitlin Grimmett, boasting 20 years of experience.
Re-signed players for the 2024 season include Molly McCaughey and Hayley Magee, the latter entering her second season with the BeeGees.
Coming off a successful 2023 season, where they won the Sunshine Coast women’s football club of the year, and Amy winning coach of the year award, the BeeGees’ premier women’s team is eagerly anticipating their first game on February 23 in the upcoming season.
kirra@gcnews.com.au