Sydney Ready for Soccer on Northern Trident
26 April 2009
Soccer will definitely be the world game during Operation Northern Trident 2009 (NT09) – just ask the Captain and Vice Captain of HMAS Sydney’s soccer team, Leading Seaman Aaron Larnach and Lieutenant Aaron Scott.
“We thought it would be great to try and organise matches, as we will be visiting countries that have a strong soccer history like United Kingdom, Spain and the United States,” said Lieutenant Scott.
“The Royal Navy is sure to have a good side, but I think we could really give them a run for their money.”
“Recently we had members compete in the Inter-Command Challenge and there were a few guys from the ship that really stood out as ‘rising stars’, so we are keen to see them in action again.”
The Sydney team is very excited at the prospect of playing against other Navies and to be able to showcase a bit of Aussie spirit and sportsmanship.
While the team is only able to train on the flight deck or in the gym when at sea, Leading Seaman Larnach believes it will be the team’s attitude that will give them the edge over their competitors. And, of course, there is also the ship’s reputation at stake.
“Sydney was the first ship-based team in 18 years to win the Albatross-Nirimba Cup a few years ago, so we are keen to maintain the ship’s reputation for fielding a good side,” said Leading Seaman Larnach.
“The Navy Football Federation Australia has been extremely supportive and even provided us with a strip to wear during the deployment, so we really will look like a force to be reckoned with!”
“Seriously though, playing soccer with other countries is a great way to meet others and the team always looks forward to catching up with the other side after the match, no matter what the result,” he added.
