Cable Beach Primary School strike Football West award goal

A Broome primary school full of die hard soccer fans has kicked another goal being awarded the Football West’s Regional Celebrating Football in Schools award. Cable Beach Primary School was awarded for its lunchtime soccer program which has been a massive hit with the students who have taken to the soccer field with the fervour of a fully fledged FIFA team. The program was created five years ago when year three teacher Ray Cilia, a passionate soccer follower, initiated a lunchtime competition for a group of year five and six students. Since then the program has taken off among the students with 150 kids participating in the competitive lunchtime soccer games. “The program has grown from one game of soccer to four pitches on the main oval,” Mr Cilia said. “The school soccer competition is supported and celebrated by the whole school, especially by the room 11 class who have played magnificently on the field.” Committed to continuing the program, Mr Cilia said the soccer initiative promotes the benefits of physical activity, teamwork, skill development and a sense of belonging. “At times student’s behaviours can be challenging at Cable Beach Primary School as students come from a wide range of backgrounds, experiences and have varying social abilities,” he said. “The program offers an opportunity for the students to participate in a structured activity, to help develop positive relationships with both their peers and their teachers, burn off some energy and develop some skills. “This has resulted in a reduction of negative behaviour during break time and has assisted in developing relationships.” Cable Beach Primary will be presented with a plaque for their award win by a Football West representative at their assembly in the coming weeks.