15/06/2026
Today saw the final game of the rookie season for our under 8 team and what a game it was. Basted in layers of factor 50, the Combe players welcomed Chulmleigh YFC to Holland's Park for a day of fun in the sun.
What ensued was a fitting end to the season for everyone involved. The match was played with broad smiles across the faces of the young lads and lasses of both teams from start to finish. Every single one of them played their heart out today as the game ebbed from end to end. Goals came at either end, saves were made and the footwork, dribbling and teamwork on show reassured us all that their development is progressing just fine.
A fun penalty shootout between the teams ended the day and, as the cheering and applause from the sidelines faded, we were left to reflect on what we had all achieved.
These kids arrived for Saturday morning training just over a year ago, a lot of them having not previously met. The coy smiles hidden under their bowed heads are a distant memory. Now, we have a team of kids who socialise with each other, play dates with a ball in each other's gardens and a genuine eagerness at training. They go to school on Monday mornings with the past weekend's game at the forefront of their playground chatter. It's not just the children either, the parents and families have struck up close friendships too.
It's also thanks to all those that make it happen behind the scenes, the people giving up their time volunteering to keep the club running smoothly, and as the season concludes, their focus now turns to ensuring next season is just as successful. It is a truly heartwarming hub of our local community.
Huge thanks to the coaches, players and supporters of Chulmleigh YFC for coming to visit us. We had a lot of fun and look forward to reacquainting in the new season. Thanks also to Chris Moores for stepping up to referee the match and to the under 10s coach, Andy Humphreyson, for running the kitchen. It was much appreciated.
