mhsobfc CLUB STATEMENT

Season 2021 has come to an end.

Today the VAFA confirmed our suspicions that the season is now cancelled. What a season it was. Coming off the back of 2020 – the first ‘non-season’ since World War II, I look back grateful that we had the opportunity to play 11 games of AFL football. Three of our four sides qualified to play finals.

Our development squad was re-born with new coaches, new faces and charged home strong into the finals. Our reserves maintained the rage they have shown for the last seven years again putting themselves in a position to taste success. Our thirds gave opportunities for players to develop and grow that the club will no doubt benefit from down the track. Our senior side was very well placed for promotion, and maybe more. Our senior side lost round one by 16 points and had their excuses. They went on to win ten games in a row, and were clearly the highest scoring side in the division.

We have been blessed with an engaged and committed playing group that continue to astound me with their love and empathy for each other. Our success has not been measured in silverware, but rather through their commitment as we chased joy together. I cannot wait to chase some more joy in 2022.

If anyone in the Unicorns family is struggling with the challenges life is throwing at us all right now, firstly know that you’re not alone and we understand what you’re going through. We strongly encourage you to follow the advice provided through our partnership with Tackle Your Feelings to reach out to teammates, coaches, and committee members at the club, as well as family and friends, and consider scheduling an appointment with your local GP to help prepare a Mental Health Care Plan.

Thank you all for everything in season 2021. To our players, coaches, sponsors, committee members, volunteers and supporters - we couldn’t have achieved what we did this year without your invaluable contributions - and look forward to bigger and better things in the near future.

Celebrate, don’t commiserate.

Bernie Pretty
MHSOBFC Senior Coach