MODIFIEDS - UNDER 11

The local Gawler and Barossa mini-league football systems radically changed in 2007. The traditional administering of the primary schools ended and the clubs first began their own school childrens' programs - so even younger kids would be running around in the blue and white hoops. Club footy officially took over from representing a primary school.

With South establishing a minileague and modified side in this anugural season 2007, the enormous success of our Auskick programs in recent years heralded a new wave of player participation, attracting even more families and friends' support, and ultimately nourishing a much needed increase in membership - especially during financially difficult times.

The Lions launched their inaugural Junior Program with a well attended ‘muster day’ at Riggs Reserve on Sunday April 3, 2007. The day was organised by the club's hardworking colts committee who are a major reason behind the success of South Gawler's junior program over the past few years. Central Districts recognised the importance of the day by sending players Daniel Capagreco and Brodie Hudson as their representatives. Brodie - who made his SANFL League debut in 2006, was himself a product of South Gawler and was a member of South Gawler's 2001 Under 15 Premiership team along with 2006 AFL Premiership player Sam Butler of the West Coast Eagles.

With the club taking responsibility for primary school aged football from this season, the club's management structure increased with the inclusion of a Junior Football Manager reflecting the importance of junior football at South Gawler. The inaugural manager was Peter Reichstein, whose role is to oversee the Senior Colt, Junior Colt, Little league and Modifieds programs. Jonathan and Adrian Costa were appointed coaches of the club's first Modified teams in 2007.

Mr Reichstein also announced a major innovation with appointment of three junior ambassadors. in past champions, multiple A Grade Best and Fairest winners and premiership players, Eddie Schwerdt and Graeme Schultz, as well as present player, former League footballer and 3 time winner of the South Gawler's A Grade Best and Fairest trophy Aaron Bevis. They will interface with all junior teams to provide a sense of the culture and history of SGFC, as well as providing specialist coaching to the juniors as required. The appointments are seen as a two way street so the junior players recognise club champions and that the champions' resources and skills are available to the juniors.

The Modifieds program is a participation-only experiential football where there is strictly no competitiveness nor are merit awards such as trophies are presented. This competition is designed to give early primary school age an opportunity to simply have a kick and a catch - to nurture and encourage them to eventually enter organised football.