Our Under 14 boys this year showed that courage and determination were a great combination for team building and reaping rewards. After winning the penultimate game of the season against Chadstone they had a nervous time sitting on a bye in the last round. However, fate was looking their way and they gained a finals berth. Playing against MCC on home soil in the first semi-final saw a repeat of their last encounter. MCC who had been building steadily in the last games of the season were only down by one after the first bell, however a 5-1 goal burst by Eltham in the second quarter held them in good stead to secure a 16 - 11 goal win. This brought them to a Preliminary Final game against Surrey Park at the Altona Lacrosse Club.
Surrey Park had been building in the second half of the season holding on to 2nd place for six weeks. They were a strong, physically bigger team however our boys gaining momentum on their semi final win approached this game with the same attitude and tenacity. Only playing this team once early in the season, which resulted in an 11 all draw, the team concentrated on their skills and abilities. The game in the first half was a nervous, tense affair for both teams, both throwing six goals; however Eltham came out with renewed spirit as the coaches reminded them of their convincing win the previous week, and once again outscored their opponents 5 - 2 in the third quarter. Surrey Park were able to peg back one goal in the dying moments of the game, but unable to cover the speed and eagerness of Eltham. The defence held firm and lifted their game towards the end, and with some exceptional saving by the goalie secured a 12 - 10 win.
Enthusiasm was riding high at the team prepared for the Grand Final against an undefeated strong and fast Malvern team. The result at the end of the game was not one the boys had hoped for, however they played in the true spirit of this game. Originally called Bagattaway by North American Indians in their 'games' they tested their skills, their growth and development, their commitment to their tribe and its honour - our Under 14 team displayed all these attributes in their final's campaign. They wore the Gold and Black with pride and were worthy representatives of the Eltham Lacrosse Club.
