Young gun Sapsford enjoying his Hakoah FC experience
Having spent a season away from the club, Zac Sapsford has returned to NPL 2 NSW Men’s club Hakoah FC in the best fashion possible netting seven goals in fifteen appearances so far in the 2021 season.
With Stay-at-home orders in effect, we thought we’d catch up with one of the leagues most exciting young talents.
Having spent a year and a half abroad at Chester FC, the Hakoah youth product returned to the club for this season.
“I originally was at the club from 13’s up to the 20’s, then I went overseas for a year and a half but then decided to return and came back to Hakoah for this current season.”
Reflecting on the season so far, Sapsford is delighted to be accumulating first team minutes.
“I’ve played the majority of the season in the first grade and I’m proud of myself for that. Luka our coach has been great to me, and I enjoy working with him, he provided me with an opportunity which I am very grateful for and he helps me learn to play different positions in the final third.”
In terms of a season highlight so far, he singled out their cup game vs Apia.
“One of my highlights this season was the FFA Cup game against APIA, it was a great experience for me and all the other boys to play in a big game like that.”
However then Stay at home orders came about bringing a pause to the season.
Asked what he has been doing in lockdown, he responded.
“There’s not much to do in lockdown other than try and get out the house every day to exercise or do a training session with a friend. The way I try and keep fit is to make sure I follow our clubs training program and I go out to parks and train.”
However thankfully football is a team environment and Sapsford as nothing but praise for the atmosphere at the Eastern Suburbs based club.
“The group we have at Hakoah is amazing from the players, coaching staff, manager, the physio and even our kit man. Everyone at the club plays their role and if it weren’t for the people I’ve mentioned, we as a club wouldn’t be where we are.
“On a personal note, I would be nowhere close to where I am without them. The players have helped me feel comfortable in the group coming up from the Under 20s and the coaching staff have been amazing to me by giving me an opportunity to play in the first team and training me to be a better player each training session and game.”
Looking ahead, Sapsford is looking forward to the resumption of the season.
“There might have been a couple of games we slipped but that happens in football. The competition this season has been very tough, and our team has worked really hard to be in the position we are at the moment.”
-By Justin Smith
