Mini-Boomerangs gives kids a first kick at soccer

FAMILIES across the shire can give their children a chance to try soccer before joining a team in 2026, with Dungog Soccer Club running its popular Mini-Boomerangs program.

Mini-Boomerangs is a four-week “come and try” program designed especially for children turning 5, 6 or 7 in 2026 who have never played soccer before.

Coach Michael Grant said Mini-Boomerangs is about giving kids a fun, pressure-free first experience of soccer that builds confidence and encourages participation across the whole shire.

The program offers a gentle introduction to club soccer in a relaxed, supportive environment, without the pressure of crowds, noise or full season registration costs.

Open to children from across the shire, Mini-Boomerangs aims to increase participation in soccer more broadly by removing common barriers to entry.

It is ideal for beginners and first-timers and is open to all interested families, even if children plan to play for another club later in the season.

Sessions focus on fun, participation and confidence-building, with activities centred on individual skills, coordination and getting comfortable with the ball.

Each session is led by an experienced MiniRoos coach and includes mini halftime fruit breaks supplied weekly, reinforcing the program’s emphasis on enjoyment rather than competition.

The program will run over four weekly afternoon sessions on Wednesdays from 4–5pm, starting Wednesday, 11 February 2026.

Sessions will be held at Barnes Oval at Dungog High School, with entry via Chichester Dam Road.

A $10 donation will cover the four weeks, with each participant receiving a Mini-Boomerangs shirt, soccer ball and drink bottle.

Dungog, Gresford and Clarence Town soccer clubs all offer welcoming pathways into junior soccer.

Parents and carers can register their interest by emailing dungogsc.secretary@gmail.com or by messaging the Dungog Soccer Club Facebook page.

By Shannon BENTON