Day 4 - Meet up with the group in Drysedale

A happy breakfast and an early leave for the last clinic of today in the neighborhood. Secondary school Brookside in Caroline Springs. Although in the middle of Down-under winter we started with a beautiful sun, clear blue sky and a mix of Australian kids from all over the world. Enthusiastic, directly after we introduced the sport, explain the meaning of the word korf, we got already 7 girls and 6 boys who challenged the instructors. We are lucky to be able to play Aussie rules fast4: 2 korfs, 1 pitch, 2 teams and one defender per player (equal gender). First team scored directly, so also the other teams were eager to play. Fourtysix students from all over the place, playing together, communicate and bringing the meaning of team play to a higher level!

We combined some techniques with exercises to improve the understanding of the game. Introduced them to a tournament and gave them the opportunity to challenge us individually. What we loved with these kids is the sportsmanship. 

They played rough, and you know when I say rough, its on the limit, probably even over the limit. But players accept it, accept the referee like AFL or in rugby. Would be a challenge to get people in the Netherlands educated like this. Play it hard and fair...In the afternoon we had the second group. Enthusiastic 12-year old kids, trying to show off, but even able to show off. Both groups gave their teachers a chance to join them, teacher who came back to us after the clinic with compliments that even professional AFL or rugby coaches were not able to open the minds of the kids like we did today.

After the game we went to Drysedale to meet up with the rest of the group we said goodbye on Monday when we arrived. Also the Drysedale group is fantastically being treated by their host families. After a diner we relaxed and at 19.00 we played a friendly match. The Drysedale team vs Team Bachus Marsh / Taylors Hill. 

After 7 attacks the score was 4-3, the orange team, including Orange Kangaroo Jess took a small lead at halftime. At the break the Whites, including Portuguese ref Jorge, came back and equalized. The last four attacks the better chances were colored white but the referee stopped after 30 minutes with a well deserved draw. After a drink break the spectators were given a chance to join one of the teams and play korfball for the first tome in their life.

A new experience for many parents of children who are the Australian champions of the future. And we were at their start!