Coach eyes games score

By Rebecca Fraser
ENDEAVOUR Hills soccer coach Carlos Loyola has enjoyed every single moment of the 2006 Commonwealth Games despite his beloved sport not being included in the event program.
Mr Loyola has spent the past week working as a medal ceremonies assistant at the MCG and has enjoyed a great trackside view of many events.
He said the highlight had been watching the fatigued marathon competitors cross the finish line in front of a roaring crowd.
“The highlight for me was the last man (marathon runner) who came in from St Helena.
“He came in one hour after the winner but just to see the ovation from the public was amazing. The stadium was shaking,” he said.
Mr Loyola said he had also felt a real buzz when mother of two Kerryn McCann pounded the pavement to secure a marathon victory for Australia on Sunday.
“It was very emotional and good for her that she won,” he said.
Mr Loyola will complete eight shifts as a Games volunteer and has participated in the presentation of medal ceremonies by assisting with medals and flowers, as well as escorting VIPs and athletes.
The Doveton Special Soccer School coach said there would be 61 medal presentations at the MCG before the end of the Games and he felt very honoured to be assisting with the ceremonies.
He said the medal presentations were carried out with much precision and attention was paid to every small detail.
“You have to make sure everything is right as the public are at home watching on television.
“It is just amazing to see and be part of something so huge. I am very proud,” he said.
Mr Loyola said many of his soccer players would also be pleased to see him take on the role.
He said three team members from the Doveton Special Soccer School were looking forward to travelling to Germany in August to represent Australia at the INAS-FID World Soccer Cup as part of the Paralympics.
Mr Loyola has been the coach of the Australian Paralympic team for the past three years and said he was also excited about the trip.
“It is great to see young athletes doing their best.
“In terms of other nations from Europe, we are behind but we will still give it our best and I am really looking forward to it,” he said.