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Bill Robertson’s Great AdventureFebruary 1, 2015
By Paul Sheirich Originally published February 1, 2008 (Please note that links in this article may not be active)
Looks like one of last year’s stellar central defenders for the Seals is working his way around the world! Bill Robertson joined the Seals in San Francisco last season from his home in Manchester where he had been playing for the Rossendale United. Robertson is now playing for the Canterbury United in Christchurch, New Zealand!
Roberston landed with Canterbury after inquiring into the possibility of playing in New Zealand. “They liked my play, and offered me an excellent package, so here I am,” he said in an interview with the Seals.
The move has played out quite well for Bill. “I’m captain of the 1st team, and also head coach of their Academy Team which competes in the National Youth League.” His appointment to team captain came after the previous captain left for an opportunity in Australia. “They like my organization,” adds Robertson.
Canterbury has struggled a bit this season. “We are half way through the season now, so hopefully I can help turn things around.” Canterbury plays in the New Zealand National Championship, which is the highest level of soccer there. The league consists of 8 teams nationwide on both the North and South Islands. Most of the NZ International players play in the league.
“We play each team 3 times and that makes up the format of the league. We train almost full time, 3 or 4 times a week, with a game on the weekend. No seven hour drives to LA like in the PDL fortunately! We fly to all away games because the distance is so far, so that is a bonus.”
The academy team is comprised of boys aged 16-19 years old. “The team consists of all the best players in the Canterbury region,” says Robertson. “In the squad we have several international players at their respective age groups. I was appointed the head coach in October and have been training them since then. We just played our 1st league game this weekend and won 2-0, against Otago in Dunnedin. The league continues until around March.” As a side note, the Seals U17 team played Otago in the 2006 Milk Cup in Northern Ireland, and also came away victorious.
“It is my intention to utilize my qualifications and experience to contribute to an already growing Canterbury United reputation. Canterbury United, and New Zealand football as a whole are certainly heading in the right direction, and I am grateful to the Club for providing me the opportunity to be a part of that,” said Robertson on his appointment.
Robertson has also attained various qualifications in disciplines such as Speed Agility Quickness (SAQ International) Fundamentals in Sport (Sports Coach UK) and Working with the Disabled (English FA).
Will Bill be back with the Seals in 2008? “I am still not 100% sure what I'm doing for the summer yet. I have a few opportunities to think about both back in England and over here, and I've also contemplated a return to SF if there was a spot on the team for me.”
Maybe Bill can bring his Academy team here for a few matches! Whatever happens, we wish Bill the best in his career, and hope to see him again in the future.
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