Celebrating its 16th year, the Hills Grammar Football Club has been making significant strides in its local association. Open to the community, the club encourages participation from athletes of all abilities, demonstrating that there’s more to playing on a team than just winning.
Following a recent change in coordinators, Hills Grammar welcomed back former student Michael O’Neill, Class of 2022, to share his experience with the next generation of stars. “The aim is to create a football community that helps players develop their passion for the game. We want to be a club where players join us from under 6 and continue all the way to under 18s, or just enjoy football in general, whether it’s at our club or another,” said Michael.
Michael reflects on his own time as a player during the early years at Hills Grammar football and is eager to bring those experiences to today’s players. “My fondest memories of playing for the club were definitely the opportunities to play with my friends and be part of the Hills Grammar Football Club community.”
However, Michael shares that some of his favourite memories are more recent. “Some of my fondest memories actually come from coaching at the school. I’ve coached the current U16 team for the past three years, and it has been highly rewarding watching the players grow not only as footballers but also as individuals.”
Coaching has played an integral role in our alumni community. “The school is fortunate to have many alumni return to help with coaching. Currently, we have Michael Sherry, Class of 2020, coaching the under 12s team. In previous years, we had Luke Biasi and Campbell Black, both from the Class of 2022, assisting with coaching.”
Beyond these graduates, the Hills Grammar Football Club boasts a number of students eager to share their high level of expertise with the next generation of football stars. “This season, Jasper and William have helped coach the younger teams. Both students have shown great leadership in guiding our mini-roo players through their development.”
The love of football and the pursuit of dreams have long been the goals for our football club patrons, with many chasing their passions and encouraging their peers along the way.
Former student William has been busy abroad in the football world, pursuing his dreams in Spain. William began his soccer journey at the Hills Grammar Football Club, where he spent years honing his skills before exploring broader opportunities. This journey led to a position in an elite academy team, opening doors to international experiences, including at a prestigious academy in Spain. Although this transition initially posed a significant change for the young athlete, he quickly formed bonds with his teammates, who affectionately nicknamed him the “Kangaroo hopping around Spain.” Having returned to Australia, William is now reconnecting with his roots at Hills Grammar, imparting skills honed during his three years at the academy in Spain.
Reflecting on his role as the new club coordinator, Michael says, “Being able to help a young player learn a new skill, build confidence, or develop a passion for the game is one of the most enjoyable parts of coaching at the school.”
Michael’s passion for the sport extends beyond the club to the school’s HZSA team. “I’ve not only been involved with the club. I’ve also coached the school HZSA representative teams. I had the privilege of coaching a Junior Girls team that went undefeated and won the competition.”
Michael’s philosophy is simple: build something even bigger for the future of football at Hills Grammar. “My main goal is to grow football in the school and build a strong football culture that students are excited to be part of. I want to encourage more students to get involved in the game and provide opportunities for players at all levels to enjoy football in a fun, inclusive, and supportive environment.”
Stay tuned to our socials to see how the Hills Grammar Football Club progresses this season and learn how to join this extraordinary club in 2027.