HALF-TIME TEAM TALK

There have been a few times now when someone’s referenced the ‘second half of 2025’. I guess six months in, six still to go; fair enough. Plus today, it turns out, is Day 182, which with 183 still to go, means it kind of is the turning point.

Funny. I used to think the first week of the school holidays was halfway - one season ends, the weather goes sultry instead of green, and lazily the focus shifts. Then the wasps buzz around your picnic, and the golden sun hints at Autumn by painting the trees gold, just before it sets. That to me is the fulcrum.

“Only 18 Sundays to Christmas!” declared Sammy excitedly. I couldn’t help think that that actually sounds like quite a lot of Sundays, but I didn’t say anything - she’ll only get more joyful as that number goes down after all.

So, second half of the year then. Is this the point where we all go in for a team talk and a tray of oranges? I’d like that actually - someone patting me on the back and giving me a bit of a pep talk. Not sure I’d like the hairdryer, but at least even that would count as motivational. But just a break from the game, perhaps?

Turns out we have to wait a few weeks for our summer hols, inextricably linked as they are to the school calendar. I think we’re going back to the spa too, which as you know, feels a bit like time has been suspended and we can switch off for a few hours. I’m already kind of exhausted.

I think I’d like the team talk to be calm, clear, honest, inspiring. I want to feel as though I’ve worked hard, even if I’ve made a bunch of mistakes. But then also I want to be pushed forwards to get out there and do my best in the second half - not just for me, but for the team, the manager, and the fans…

Got carried away there. Not sure I have fans, but I do have people who like me, and I’d like to do my best for them - you know to look them in the eye at Christmas and say I did my best out there, in the Autumn.

But that’s six months away. For now, it’s probably time to get on with it. Though, I wouldn’t say no to that tray of oranges.