Wednesday January 14, 2009 6:06 pm

Nationals Offer Mckeena Many Options (Vikings)

Logo - Vikings Tasmania An Australian tour to Russia at the end of the year, that’s what Michael McKenna hopes to obtain at the end of this weeks Vikings National Titles.

But McKenna 25, a former Junior Australian representation, rates his personal ambitions, on an even keel with coaching the Tasmanian under 12’s Girls touring squad.

“I’m not sure what the bigger challenge is…” laughs Mike. “12 year olds are a real handful”.

But Michael’s main aim, is for the girls is to enjoy the experience. “It’s all about learning the game & making new friends. The girls have the opportunity to mingle, meet new people and run a muck (with in reason), with other kids from all over the country. So far I am very happy with how they are going both on and off the court.”

Tassie have 6 teams in the inaugural Vikings competition, and Mckenna is at the forefront of their 2009 charge. Mike is goal keeper for the senior Men’s team whom opened their account with a gutsy 6-3 win over rivals Victoria. That was followed up by a resounding 10-0 triumph over Northern NSW.

Word on the street is that the former Sydney Premier League rep, has put his name well a truly up in front of the selectors with some solid early performances.

Mike puts the success of both himself & his side down to being good mates. “The boys we have at these Titles are a real close knit unit. Logistically we have been up against it. Our bus even arrived 30 minutes late for our first game, but it has really pulled us together.”

The Vikings Futsal Tournament has given Mike an unbelievable opportunity. One that by his own admition, he would never get playing the extended, outdoor version of the game.

“With this set up I can coach the girls, witch is something that I love & represent my state at the highest level. I feel like I can really give something back to the sport.”

Mckenna, who had a lay off from the sport for 2 years, has never been far away, with helping establish different organisational aspects of the Vikings charge in Tasmania.

4 venues across Sydney’s western suburbs are hosting the Vikings Nationals, which conclude on Friday. After which the Vikings National Club’s Tournament will be staged across the weekend.