Coach Richie Abrams expects some of his history-making Under-18s to step up to first team football in the not-too-distant future.   Under Abrams guidance, Inglewood United topped the Under-18 ladder for the first time this year, securing a talented group of youngsters a unique place in the Club’s history

“It’s a fantastic achievement for all involved to become the first ever Inglewood team to win the Under-18 league,” Abrams said.   “Being a part of such a historical moment for the Club is something I am very proud of, and something every single member of the squad and support staff should be proud of.”

“To win any league you need to have a solid plan that the playing group buys in to and believes in, along with good performances and consistency.   We put together some really good runs, especially away from home in mid-season, which allowed us to make a challenge for top spot on the home straight.”

“The lads this year have been outstanding, sticking together through thick and thin and responding in the very best way possible when they were doubted.   The player group worked hard and were committed to each other and from that stemmed a belief that they would be a success.”

“The leadership group of Ben Docherty, Kieran Paterson and Brandon Clarke played a key part in our attitude and approach to game day.   These three lads led from the front and not only played well themselves, they also had the respect of the group which is crucial.”

“Our training sessions always included the intensity and content required, however, it was the players execution of those sessions that really got us to where we finished.   Week in, week out we always had a positive approach to our sessions and maintaining good numbers throughout the year ensured quality was achieved.”

Abrams, who joined Inglewood two years ago after following a four-season spell with Perth SC, feels that quality will result in several of this year’s Under-18s progressing to regular first team football in the National Premier Leagues within the next few seasons.

“2017 was my fourth year coaching Under-18s and I feel I’ve have been lucky to work with some tremendous players over that time,” he said.   “A few of the players I worked with at Perth are starting to get first team exposure and there are players in this Inglewood group that will follow suit before too long.”

“And some of those lads will, I believe, earn State honours in years to come.   As a coach there is always a special bond with a player once you have won the league, something that lasts a lifetime.   I’m sure this achievement is something the players and I will cherish and remember for many years to come.”