The Amateur Footballer 2023 - Week 21

KEW v ST KEVIN’S

Celebration of VAFA Women’s Football

The pinnacle of the VAFA women’s season is upon us with premiership cups for William Buck Premier Women’s and Premier B Women’s, up for grabs this weekend.

VAFA women’s football has seen many highlights in season 2023. We welcomed some new teams into the VAFA, with the introduction of Coburg Football Club to William Buck Premier Women’s and the return of Old Carey’s Women’s team that re-entered the competition in the Division 4 ranks.

Congratulations to everyone associated with both Clubs on their progress. The Lions senior team proved to be competitive, improving to a finish just outside the four, whilst the Lions Reserves team had a strong season and will contest for the Premier Women’s Reserves flag in the curtain raiser at Elsternwick Park on Sunday. Old Carey are to be commended on their season, where they made it through to the grand final in Division 4 in their return season.

The season was punctuated by the return of Big V representative football, it was a proud moment for all concerned to receive their playing guernseys at the Big V lunch in front of 260 guests the day before the game. Then on Saturday 15th July, Captain Bree Doyle led the women onto Elsternwick Park to tackle the Perth Football League.

Being the only community football league in WA, the Perth Football League boasts as large a competition as the VAFA, it was a super impressive performance from our women to come away with a resounding 63 point victory.

Jason ReddickCEO

Guests will also be provided to a Q & A session with Big V Representative coach Paul Groves and senior player Cat O’Bryan, who will relive their Big V experience of 2023.

At 2.30pm, the William Buck Premier Women’s Grand Final will see the return of the 2022 combatants, where the Kew women will be seeking revenge in their contest against St Kevins.

Both teams have proven themselves to be the clear yardsticks this season, this promises to be a wonderful game. Kew have strong depth in their women’s program, as witnessed by their Seniors, Reserves, and Thirds teams all reaching their respective grand finals. Obviously the Bears are reaping the benefits of having the influence of Collingwood AFLW Head of Football, Jess Burger, at their helm. As 2022 VAFA Coach of the year, Jess is well credentialed and experienced to be guiding this Club to success.

The showcase of women extends to the umpiring ranks this weekend

All the players involved in the Big V program represented the VAFA with distinction and I’m sure the experience they had will have them keen to take on Perth in the return bout next year.

Now to focus on this weekend.

The action kicks off on Saturday at the splendid venue at Piranha Park, Coburg, where Old Yarra Cobras have qualified teams in both the Premier B Womens Seniors and Reserves section. The newly amalgamated club will host St Bede’s Mentone/Tigers in the early game.

The senior side will face off against the Monash Blues, these two sides played out a thrilling semi-final just a fortnight ago with the Cobras holding on to win by three points.

Then on Sunday, as a prelude to the senior women’s game, the traditional VAFA Women’s Grand Final Lunch will take place at Elsternwick Park where we will be joined by coaches from the respective teams, Kew and St Kevins, to give us some insights into the battle ahead.

St Kevins are wonderfully led by experienced Premiership coach Tom Purcell and will be keen to deliver an effective three-peat of premierships, having won the previous 2019, 2022 titles (nb. due to COVID, there were no VAFA grand finals played in 2020 and 2021). Add in Big V Captain Bree Doyle leading on field as well as co-captain Margie Gleesoln, and St Kevins lack no depth in their own experienced ranks.

The showcase of women extends to the umpiring ranks this weekend, where boundary umpires Ellen De Vries, Julia Stokes and Rebekah Street, together with goal umpire Katie Gillespie will be officiating the Premier Women’s Grand Final, whilst promising teenager Charli Savi has been appointed as one of the field umpires for the Premier Womens Reserves Grand Final.

Our most experienced VAFA female field umpire Amy Lister will be joined by first year boundary umpire Fik Sukru and her fellow boundary umpire colleague Jess Styan, to officiate the Premier B Women’s Grand Final.

Congratulations to all the above female umpires who have proven themselves worthy of selection for these two Grand Finals. Amongst the ranks of over 500 VAFA umpires, this is a great achievement and an experience that we trust you enjoy and inspires you onto even greater heights.

Congratulations to all participants and enjoy the occasion!

WILLIAM BUCK PREMIER WOMEN’S

Annie Ireland Access Team Lists on GameDay via VAFA.com.au

It’s all a little bit of history repeating

This weekend, we are going to witness a great Grand Final rematch with Kew out for revenge after last year’s defeat.

It all kicks off from 2:30pm at Elsternwick Park and we’ll be hoping for a big turn out to congratulate both teams on their continued dominance this season.

If last year’s Grand Final is anything to go off, it’ll be close until the final siren.

Both teams were sitting equal at the final break in last season’s Grand Final, but it was St Kevin’s experience which saw them soar to a 23-point victory after powering away in the final quarter and keeping Kew scoreless.

Jessica Joyce and Sarah Cameron both had 2 goals apiece, whilst Teah Stepan was best on ground for the first time that season. Only Joyce remains from the dynamic trio that gave St Kevin’s a second consecutive title on that day.

So, how will it all play out on Sunday?

Can Kew continue their dominance over St Kevin’s in the 2023 season; having not lost to them in any of their three encounters this year?

Will Kew avenge last year’s Grand Final demons and claim victory?

Or will St Kevin’s pull off the three-peat?

Keep your eye on Isabelle Harding from Kew who is bringing up her 100th game this Sunday. Likewise the co-captain of St Kevin’s, Bree Doyle. She will raise the bat to bring up the ton.

Fellow co-captain of SKOB Margaret Gleeson will be looking to go out on a high with a third premiership in her final game. Gleeson is an inaugural SKOB Saint and will be sorely missed beyond this year.

The talent on every line of this Grand Final shows the VAFA women’s competition is in strong hands. Six representatives from this year’s Big V Women’s game will take to the field. Nine of last year’s Premiership side will take to the field in St Kevin’s colours. 11 girls from Kew will remember the heartache of 12 months ago.

In the coaches box, Tommy Purcell is gunning for a third straight Premiership with the Saints. Jess Burger, joined the Bears ahead of last season, has guided Kew to their second consecutive Grand Final. This off the back of being awarded the 2022 VAFA Women’s coach of the year.

Both coaches boast stellar winning records. Burger sits at 86% from 36 matches in charge, whilst Purcell is at 81.25% after 64 games.

It’s going to be a must watch game to cap off an excellent 2023 season for the William Buck Premier Women’s competition.

Grand Final Tip

St Kevin’s by 4 points

FINALS ROUND 2 RESULTS

2023

GOALS: St Kevins:

C. Stanton 3, P. Amber 1, A. Byers 1

Old Scotch:

BEST: St Kevins:

C. Stanton, M. Gleeson, B. Doyle, E. Condon, Z. Guss, A. Bloom

Old Scotch:

M. Caffry, G. Fraser-Smith, I. Gray, C. Thorne, J. Wise, K. Hunter-Scott

2023

GOALS: Coburg:

E. Balaburov 3, B. Hackett 1, M. D’Agostino 1, A. Vine 1

West Brunswick AFC:

J. Roberts 1

BEST: Coburg:

C. Perrett, N. Todaro, E. Balaburov, J. Smith, S. Jolly, S. Griffin

West Brunswick AFC:

M. Mullins, B. Hayes, A. Lound, T. Thompson, I. Johanson-Blok, M. Latham

GRAND FINAL TIP

Kew v St Kevin’s

WILLIAM BUCK PREMIER WOMEN’S

KEW FOOTBALL CLUB

Senior Coach: Jess Burger

Assistant Coach:

No.NameGB

5Chelsea Holmes

9Paige Trajkovski

11Issy Harding

12Amelia Dawborn

13Lara Stevens

14Amelie Smith

18Lily Barr

26Chloe Leighton

28Von Avery

30Mickey Harding

36Selina Wilmott

41Ash Bruce

43Amy Kane

45Liv McLennan

47Lucy Aitken

53Grace Osborne

54Rach McDonough

55Olivia Storer

57Lauralee Rinaldi

61Samara Griffin

67Ellie Brown

79Catia Cococcia

80Katie Dorsett

88Ash Melnikas

92Laura Mayne

1st Qtr2nd Qtr3rd Qtr4th Qtr G B

ST KEVIN’S

Senior Coach: Tom Purcell

Assistant Coach: Ollie Stoltz

Other Coaches: Kristen Hay

No.NameGB

1Catherine Stanton

2Bree Doyle (co-captain)

3Charlotte Stoltz

5Isabelle Worth

7Grace Mills

10Jessica Joyce

16Zara Guss

19Abigail Bloom

26Margaret Gleeson (co-captain)

30Molly Simpson

38Ruby Atkin

40Emily Condon

49Elysia Burvill

55Tayla Nichols

58Anne Wallace

61Isabella Hoal

63Sarah Betts

64Maggie McDonough

68Isobel Upfal

85Pamela Amber

88Charity Russell

98Ashleigh Byer

9(EMG) Caroline Straford

42(EMG) Brigette Snell

1st Qtr2nd Qtr3rd Qtr4th Qtr G B

KEW FOOTBALL CLUB

Senior Coach: Emily Avery

COBURG FOOTBALL CLUB

Senior Coach: Ryan Wandel

Assistant Coach: Kurtis Shine

Other Coaches: Louisa Cavanagh & Blake Wadley

13 Natalie Todaro (C) 15 Mia D’Agostino 17 Sally Norman 18 Alana Wenban

21 Emily Balaburov 22 Ruby Taranto 24 Julie McArdle

Ella Menzies

Lily Primerano 32 Jazmine Smith 33 Tara Chetcuti (VC) 35 Soma Griffin

Emergency* 14 Mikayla Kotas

38 Abigail Adams 40 Sarah Piggot

42 Bowen Hacket 48 Chloe Catalano

50 Brittney Gray

56 Malaya Rodenzo

57 Louisa Cavanagh

59 Sarah Jolly

63 Armina Sherifi

66 Analise Vine

68 Chloe Perrett

71 Jenna Smith

Emergency* 16 Jacquiline Bromilow

Emergency* 28 Lisa Halfpenny

2023 WILLIAM BUCK PREMIER WOMEN'S

THE OFFICIAL NON-ALCOHOLIC BEER OF THE VICTORIAN AMATEUR FOOTBALL ASSOCIATION FINALS.

Monash blaze through to the Grand Final

The pressure was on between Aquinas OC and the mighty Monash Blues, in an imperative Preliminary Final.

Meeting on neutral grounds, Aquinas OC put their game faces on, but unfortunately were unable to withhold the force of the Blues, with a 43-point-margin between the final scores.

The Monash Blues put on an absolute masterclass at Trevor Barker Oval on Sunday, sharing plenty of the footy and building on their lead at every change. This will no doubt give them confidence heading into the Big Dance.

Scoring the only goal for Aquinas was Melanie Hogg making her final contribution for the season, while Niamh Sanders put on her best defensive efforts, earning herself best afield.

Ainslee Elliott stepped up for her team scoring two goals, while Molly Mcfarlane, Brook Thompson, Stacey Barbagallo, and Emma Draffin scored one goal each, with Johannah Dallas also kicking a goal, as well as being deemed best player.

Although Aquinas was unable to secure that illustrious spot in the Grand Final, they are a proficient team to look out for next season.

The Monash Blues have been topping the ladder and creating some game changing moments throughout the season, with their efforts earning them a spot in next week›s Grand Final, where they will once again come head-to-head with the Old Yarra Cobras.

Although they finished the home and away season neck-and-neck, the Cobras have been the Blues biggest competition throughout the season, with Monash yet to defeat the Cobras.

Only one team can live out their Grand Final dream. Who will win and who will fall short?

FINALS ROUND 2 RESULTS

2023 PREMIER B WOMEN’S

GOALS: Monash Blues: A. Elliott 2, S. Barbagallo 1, B. Thompson 1, M. McFarlane 1, E. Draffin 1, J. Dallas 1

Aquinas OC: M. Hogg 1

BEST: Monash Blues: J. Dallas, A. Elliott, E. Draffin, B. Thompson, S. Rose, N. Newman

Aquinas OC: N. Sanders, M. Dargan, M. Hogg, H. Spicer, H. McLean, H. Virgona

GOALS: St Bedes/Mentone Tigers: O. Watkins 2, J. Honey 1, G. Barns-Dunne 1

Monash Blues:

BEST: St Bedes/Mentone Tigers: E. Antoniadis, J. Honey, M. Cox, J. Jaensch, M. George, S. Waata

Monash Blues: K. Farmer, S. Oriti, S. Lock, C. Paulet, A. Peddle, K. Ferguson

Joe Pignataro

There’s no tomorrow in the toughest game of the season to win

Preliminary Final weekend, the toughest game of the whole season to win. A spot in the Grand Final awaits the winner. For the loser, the off-season boils down to “how close we got to playing off on the final day of the season.”

For both University Blues and St Kevin’s, Saturday cannot come quickly enough.

Blues couldn’t have gotten any closer to already being in the Grand Final. 20 minutes into the final quarter, a lead of 23 points evaporated in a matter of moments at the hands of Collegians.

They can thank their lucky stars they earned a double chance to have another go this weekend. Seven days to feel the sting, process the loss and focus on this weekend.

St Kevin’s powered over Old Scotch. From the early moments of the game, they set the tone and the margin. The Cardinals came back at different times during the contest, but overall answered every question that was put to them.

The Blues did almost everything right against the Lions. A dream start with a 24 point lead 15 minutes into the game, Sam Grimley with two early goals, Cam O’Shea going head-to-head with Dave Mirra.

Charlie Furphy and Ed Ziebath facing off against Kenny Ong, Sam Hibbins, Viv Michie. And, in the battle of the big men, Ayce Cordy took the early points against Ben Woodfull.

They’ll all need to go to another level this Saturday. Against the likes of Will Coates, Josh Wallis, Cam Hodges, Tom Jok, and the list goes on.

Sam Cozens provided a spark, for a 19 year old playing in his first final, he could be the livewire that gets off the chain in this one.

The Special K’s (Paddy Kerr and Shaun Kennedy) of St Kevin’s have hit form at the right time of the season. 12 goals in the last fortnight between the pair. Gleeson and Cutler will have a task on their hands stopping the dynamic duo of SKOB.

Despite having one less day’s break leading into the match. Physically this team is as professional as they come. It won’t worry Anthony Lynch in the slightest.

Whilst St Kevin’s have been the most dominant side between 2017 and today. One side has proven to be somewhat of a stumbling block for them. University Blues is that side.

Since 2014, these sides have met 17 times. University Blues has a positive head-to-head record against St Kevin’s. 11-6. This will be the fourth final between the two in that time, again Blues boast a 2-1 lead.

The 2019 Grand Final is the most recent finals meeting. A day that went the way of Blues. The final game of Lynch’s playing career. And, for St Kevin’s to not feature in this year’s decider, Blues will have to produce another winning performance.

They’ll take the momentum of recent battles into this one, having won Round 8 by three points, and coming from a 19 point deficit in Round 13 to win by two points.

The conditions this weekend are vastly different from the conditions both sides were confronted with during the home and away side. A day made for the running machine Tom Jok. For the high-flying acrobats of James Paterson. For the quick hands of Cam Hodges and Sam Hodge.

Whichever of these two sides come out on top, they’ll have rightfully earned their place in the big dance.

This weekend is in the minds of many experts, and many coaches, the toughest weekend of football to win on. A spot in the Grand Final is on the line, it will be a spot well earned come 5pm on Saturday.

I can’t wait to watch it all unfold on RSN Xtra2 from 1pm.

Preliminary Final Tip

St Kevin’s by 3 points

FINALS ROUND 1 RESULTS

2023 WILLIAM BUCK PREMIER MEN’S

GOALS: Collegians:

D. Mirra 3, L. Ferguson 3, C. Walker 2, B. Woodfull 1, M. Pinchbeck 1, E. Greene 1, J. Bazzani 1

University Blues:

S. Grimley 4, A. Cordy 2, T. Young 2, S. Cozens 1, J. Paterson 1, F. McIvor 1, M. Akoch 1

BEST: Collegians:

S. Sofronidis, C. Walker, L. Ferguson, B. Woodfull, S. Beilby, W. Pewtress

University Blues:

I. Dykes, E. Ziebarth, T. Young, G. LaCava, C. Furphy, C. O’Shea

GOALS: St Kevins:

P. Edgar 3, S. Kennedy 3, P. Kerr 2, C. Hodges 1, H. Wardlaw 1, J. Holden 1, S. Tucker 1

Old Scotch:

J. Tarrant 2, R. Valentine 2, M. Allen 1, A. Symons 1, H. Bromell 1, C. Harvey 1, J. McCorkell 1

BEST: St Kevins:

L. Winter, S. Critchley, P. Edgar, T. Jok, S. Kennedy, P. Kerr

Old Scotch:

H. Bromell, A. Jelbart, H. Brown, W. Townsend, T. Sellers, J. Tarrant

2023 PREMIER RESERVE MEN’S

GOALS: St Kevins:

J. Darmody 3, V. Stevancevic 1, B. Mansfield 1, L. Mahoney 1, E. Beer 1, J. Jaensch 1

Old Melburnians:

O. Dowd 2, J. Roysmith 2, D. Dowling 1, C. Nairn 1, S. Gibbons 1, J. Regan 1

BEST: St Kevins:

J. Darmody, C. Gleeson, V. Stevancevic, B. Mansfield, C. Woolrich, J. Jaensch

Old Melburnians:

L. Templeton, S. Anderson, H. Watkin, N. Voyage, L. Dalgleish, H. Bede

GOALS: Old Xaverians:

M. Handley 6, E. Delany 1, H. Bell 1, C. Knott 1, E. Kennedy 1, E. Niall 1

Old Scotch:

J. Edwards 3, A. Jones 2, R. Hopkins 1, C. Melville 1, W. Clark 1, F. Morrisby 1

BEST: Old Xaverians:

M. Handley, E. Kennedy, J. Langford, D. Tuddenham, J. Lowe, E. Delany

Old Scotch:

C. Lean, F. Morrisby, C. Schilling, N. Walmsley, L. Dennis, Z. Oliver

Beaumaris record a historic finals victory as St Bernards solidify a grand final spot

Beaumaris have come away with a heart stopping win in extra time against De La Salle in Saturday’s elimination final that saw a final margin of only 5 points. This was always going to be a ding-dong battle and it didn’t disappoint with competition heavyweights Callum Heath, Joel Cusack, Callum Lineham, and Conor Murphy up against the polished all-out attack of De La Salle.

The Sharks, although inaccurate, restricted De La Salle during the first half of play with the game mostly in their control and this was reflected on the score board as the half time margin fell out to 29 points. De La Salle won the third quarter as they kicked four goals to two and wrestled back some of the ascendency in their favour, cutting the margin back to 15 points at the final change.

The final quarter proved to be a classic finals contents with each side having nine scoring shots with the young De La Salle side converting their opportunities into five majors including one nearing the final siren to lock the scores at 84 apiece.

An intense extra time saw willing efforts from both sides, but it was Beaumaris’ Joel Cusack who delivered with a clutch goal a minute into the additional time that not only put the Sharks in front, but ultimately placed them into the Preliminary Final. Remarkably, the match was fought right to the clock with De La Salle’s in possession of the ball as the siren sounded.

For the second year running, Beaumaris will find themselves in a preliminary final, vying to progress up the ranks into Premier and book a spot against St Bernards in the Grand Final. Joal Cusack finished with five goals for the Sharks and was named their best along with their big ruckman Callum Heath. De La Salle’s Trent Shannon showed fight in front of the big sticks with three goals with Lachlan Gawel named their best.

Meanwhile St Bernards booked a spot in this year’s Premier B Grand Final with 39-point win over Fitzroy. The Roys initially led throughout the first quarter as they put up a quick two goals to start the day off well but then it was the Snowdogs who dug deep and kicked five first quarter goals to hold a 23-point lead at the first change.

The second quarter changed complexion slightly with neither team scoring a goal and the contest became more of a scrap heading into half time. The Snowdogs came out guns blazing however in the third quarter with five goals to none and from three quarter time the match was in their full control holding off Fitzroy.

Dominic Sullivan and Luke Di Lizio each finished with three goals while Jordan Farrell relished the finals intensity to be named their best player. Fitzroy finished with five individual goal kickers with Max Ellis showing resilience and dominance around the contest as he was named the Roys best.

With the Snowdogs now into a grand final and aiming to complete the perfect season, only one aspect of their game is holding them back, namely inaccuracy in front of goal. Strange things can happen in September, and it is a game of small margins as we edge towards the end of the season so I dare say that their forwards will be breaking the recommendations of the sports scientists and having as many shots at goal as they can throughout the next two weeks.

How does this week’s preliminary match up? Its set to be a cracking battle with Beaumaris coming into the game with an element of pressure given they lost in straight sets last year. Although different circumstances, these things linger in the back of people’s minds but there is so much on the line. Fitzroy will be hoping to continue the season for Luke Mahoney after he announced he will be stepping down at seasons end.

The Roys also don’t want to be falling out in straight sets and having had a taste last year after losing to Haileybury during week one of the finals, they will be out to right a wrong. There’ll be a buzz around Garvey Oval on Saturday at 2:15pm and whatever happens, a district club will climb the ranks into the VAFA’s topflight.

FINALS ROUND 1 RESULTS

2023 PREMIER B MEN’S

GOALS: Beaumaris:

J. Cusack 5, R. Virtue 1, C. Heath 1, B. Hempel 1, M. Harms 1, T. Spencer 1, R. Mihailovic 1, B. Young 1

De La Salle:

T. Shannon 3, C. Algeri 1, C. Bedford 1, A. Indovino 1, T. Filipovic 1, J. Lloyd 1, M. Hill 1, L. Gawel 1, S. Filipovic 1, P. Bohan 1

BEST: Beaumaris:

J. Cusack, C. Heath, C. Linehan, C. Murphy, T. Owens

De La Salle:

L. Gawel, S. Williams, J. Lloyd, T. Docherty, T. Shannon, P. Bohan

GOALS: St Bernards:

D. Sullivan 3, L. Di Lizio 3, L. Alessio 2, J. Farrell 1, C. Vague 1

Fitzroy:

H. Grace 1, C. Faubel 1, J. Turner 1, D. Toohey 1, A. Lambert 1

BEST: St Bernards:

J. Farrell, L. Di Lizio, D. Sullivan, C. Vague, M. Hughes, B. Huggard

Fitzroy:

M. Ellis, H. Grace, G. Pyers, B. Clayton, D. Megennis, L. Minahan 2023

GOALS: Old Trinity:

L. Scobie 2, O. Stella 1, L. Chiaramonte 1, P. Lindsay 1

Beaumaris:

N. Beveridge 1, S. Gunasekera 1, J. Nowell 1, M. Lovejoy 1, W. Skinner 1

BEST: Old Trinity:

O. Stella, A. Gebert, W. Macafee, H. Taylor, J. Spassopoulos, M. Moran

Beaumaris:

GOALS: St Bernards:

O. Liberatore 3, N. Foley 2, Z. Overman 2, D. Colaco 1, N. Di Lizio 1

Fitzroy:

W. Zaghis 2, M. Nelson 2, C. Lester 1, G. Clark 1, L. Parker 1, H. Staples 1

BEST: St Bernards:

S. O’Keeffe, R. Spicer, X. Smith, O. Liberatore, J. Comito, N. Di Lizio

Fitzroy:

M. Bombardieri, M. Nelson, W. Hodgman, M. Laidlaw, F. Read, G. Clark

Grand Final-bound Old Ivanhoe and dominant Vultures triumph in epic finals

The opening week of the Premier C Men’s competition finals did not disappoint, with both games delivering riveting action that marked a sensational start to the finals series.

In a highly anticipated matchup at Waverley Oval, Old Camberwell hosted Old Ivanhoe. The winner would secure a coveted spot in the 2023 Premier C Men’s Grand Final and enjoy a week off, whilst the losing side would face an elimination final against the victor of the Parkdale Vultures and PEGS clash.

From the first quarter, spectators at Waverley Oval were treated to an intense contest that had everyone on the edge of their seats. Both teams fiercely battled for supremacy, as is expected in a final. Old Ivanhoe closed out the quarter with two goals to their name, just one ahead of Old Camberwell, giving them a slender five-point lead heading into the second quarter.

The second quarter saw Old Ivanhoe taking control, extending their lead by kicking four goals to Old Camberwell’s two. They went into the halftime break with a comfortable 19-point advantage.

However, the third quarter witnessed a dramatic shift in momentum as Old Camberwell mounted a spirited comeback. They scored four unanswered goals, seizing an eight-point lead going into the final quarter.

With the game hanging in the balance, Old Ivanhoe shifted gears and dominated the final quarter, kicking five goals to Old Camberwell’s one, securing a 19-point victory and a well-deserved spot in this year’s Grand Final, along with a week off to prepare.

Luke Scuderi played a pivotal role for Old Ivanhoe with three goals, while Patrick Naish and William Murphy were solid contributors with two goals each. Riley Verbi impressed for Old Camberwell, scoring two goals of his own.

Old Ivanhoe’s journey to the Grand Final is commendable, especially for a team that spent much of the season outside the top two. They displayed unwavering dedication and persistence throughout the year, earning their place in what has been a remarkable season for the club.

In contrast, Old Camberwell will be bitterly disappointed to miss out on this opportunity, having been the dominant team in the competition during the second half of the year. Their path to the premiership now requires two victories against quality opponents, starting with the upcoming elimination final against the Parkdale Vultures.

Speaking of the Parkdale Vultures, they appear unstoppable at the moment, with their only loss since round 10 coming against Old Camberwell, whom they will face in a highly anticipated clash next week.

The elimination final between PEGS and the Parkdale Vultures at Garvey Oval was a tightly contested affair. Parkdale maintained control for most of the day, limiting PEGS to a single goal per quarter for the first three quarters while scoring eight of their own.

Heading into the final quarter with a 29-point lead, the Vultures successfully fended off a late surge from PEGS, ultimately winning by 15 points. Ryan Macdermid and Jarrod Peake were key contributors for the Vultures in their thrilling victory.

For PEGS, a team that led the ladder for much of the year and appeared dominant, their 2023 campaign ended in disappointing fashion. They will seek to recapture their early-season form as they aim for a deeper push for the premiership in the 2024 season.

All eyes are now on Trevor Barker Oval this Sunday as Parkdale and Old Camberwell battle for a coveted Grand Final spot in what promises to be a thrilling contest. Their previous encounter went down to the final siren, and Sunday’s clash is sure to deliver another dose of excitement.

FINALS ROUND 1 RESULTS

2023

GOALS: Old Ivanhoe Grammarians:

L. Scuderi 3, P. Naish 2, W. Murphy 2, T. Rattray-Wood 1, H. Reid 1, J. Powell 1, L. Agrotis 1

Old Camberwell Grammarians:

R. Verbi 2, H. Veitch 1, S. Veitch 1, J. Kennedy-Harris 1, L. Thomas 1, H. Laukens 1, D. McColl 1

BEST: Old Ivanhoe Grammarians:

P. Naish, N. Riddle, W. Murphy, T. Rattray-Wood, L. Scuderi, W. Nagel

Old Camberwell Grammarians:

T. Oliver, H. Veitch, H. McColl, L. Thomas, W. Dalrymple, A. Milham

GOALS: Parkdale Vultures:

R. Macdermid 2, J. Peake 2, J. Vorbach 1, J. Manning 1, M. Phillips 1, L. Bailey 1, J. Elcock 1

PEGS Football Club:

J. Fenner 2, D. Benson 1, B. Hannah 1, T. Saggio 1, Z. Genovesi 1

BEST: Parkdale Vultures:

Y. Hopkins-Gamble, L. Bailey, J. Edwards, J. Peake, J. Elcock, J. Stolp

PEGS Football Club:

O. Bales, R. Macdonald, J. Mckernan, D. Fahey, S. Whillas, C. Livori

2023 PREMIER C RESERVE MEN’S

GOALS: Old Ivanhoe Grammarians:

G. Battistella 4, B. Quick 2, J. Erman 1

Mazenod OC:

P. Ilic 2, B. Riley 1, S. Loiacono 1, F. Palleschi 1

BEST: Old Ivanhoe Grammarians:

J. Bradley, T. Shembrey, G. Battistella, A. Stenta, A. Stenta, C. Goodlet

Mazenod OC:

B. Wales, L. Stewart, S. Deegan, A. Gilmore, J. Little, T. Patterson

GOALS: Marcellin OC:

H. Pertile 3, H. Greenwood 1, M. Andros 1, T. Hancock 1, J. Baxter 1, C. Kemp 1

Parkdale Vultures:

M. Hart 2, N. Farnbach 1, L. Farnbach 1, B. Austin 1, L. Marshall 1, D. Williamson 1

BEST: Marcellin OC:

S. Mills, J. Baxter, P. Bourke, P. Lunn, C. Kemp, H. Pertile

Parkdale Vultures:

M. Meyer, B. Austin, L. Matic, K. Colella, L. Marshall, C. Valcanis

MEN’S PREMIER, PREMIER B, PREMIER C AND RESERVES – PRELIMINARY

Premiership heroes entertain at Finals Luncheon

The VAFA held its annual William Buck Finals Luncheon last Friday at Zinc at Fed Square to celebrate the 2023 VAFA Finals Series. The 200-strong audience were entertained by guest speakers Dale ‘Daisy’ Thomas and Jarryd Roughead, while VAFA Media’s own Joey Pignataro and Josh Heriot spoke about the VAFA Finals. MC Nat Edwads also spoke of her own VAFA experience as a Premiership player with Old Camberwell.

VAFA Board Update

The VAFA is pleased to announce the appointment of Nicole Hall and Paul Newton onto the to fill the two current vacancies. Nicole is a Director of Operations with over 25 years executive leadership experience and is a passionate Australian rules football supporter and administrator, having been involved at the MCC FC. Paul’s passion of the VAFA stems from a combination of his playing days at Collegians, followed by a 12-year term at Old Carey where his children played, with nine years as President. He has previously spent 18 months on the VAFA Board during 2018-2019 before stepping down and serving as the Commercial Manager for the Old Xavierians.

Chopper breaks Xavs games record

Congratulations to Matt ‘Chopper’ Handley on becoming the Old Xavs games record holder last Sunday, going past his Reserves coach Dave Landrigan. Chopper’s kicked his 6th goal for the day to level the scores in the dying moments of their Premier Reserves match against Old Scotch. Xavs went on to win the game, and Chopper will be aiming for his seventh premiership next weekend!

FOR THE LOVE OF THE GAME

Return of the Big V

Representative footy returned in 2023 with the VAFA hosting the Perth Football League at Elsternwick Park. The Big V Senior Women’s side continued their winning ways, accounting for the PFL to the tune of 63 points. After a tight tussle in the opening term, Paul Groves’ ladies were able to take the ascendancy into the second quarter opening up a 35-point lead, keeping WA to one major in the first half.

Coburg Reserves into the Grand Final in first year

The Coburg Women’s Team joined the VAFA at the start of the year and have found success in the Premier Women’s Reserves competition with their team making it all the way through to the Grand Final, where they play Kew on Sunday at Elsternwick Park.

Three Sets of Siblings at West Brunswick

West Brunswick Senior Women’s side is home to 3 sets of siblings!

The club said, “It’s pretty special to have siblings playing in the same side – well how about 3 pairs!” The Stewart, Fithall, and Walsh duos all ran out together in the Senior Women’s side win in Round 3. The club also wish to highlight the other sibling duos at the club: Bill and Herb Fithall in the Men’s Seniors, and Tom and Marni Walsh featuring in the Men’s and Women’s Thirds respectively.

Pictured: Sophie and Madi Stewart, Urs and Aud Fithall, and Bridie and Giivi Walsh.

Female Umpire Academy Season Launch

The VAFA launched the BJS Female Umpire Academy at Elsternwick Park back in April. AFLW/VFL Senior listed Boundary Umpires Kaitlin Barr and Greta Miller were in attendance to chat about female umpire pathways and their experience in reaching the State League. VAFA boundary umpires also received specialist skills coaching from Kaitlin and Greta. Academy members were also presented with the newly designed BJS Female Academy training top to wear throughout the 2023 season.

The BJS Women’s Umpire Academy is a female development and support network. The Academy aims to create an environment that allows female umpires to feel welcome, valued and equal.

SKOB Saints Pride Day

A great celebration of Pride Round at TH King in round 8 with the SKOB Saints and Kew football communities. Such a great celebration of life, with the theme of the day “Inclusive, United and Proud”. All players, officials and spectators were treated to some excellent football in all three matches.

Special tribute to Grace Mills and Steph Augustes for their organisation of the day. Pride Round is the heart of SKOB Saints and it is such a wonderful opportunity for everyone to come together as one to express our love, support and celebrate our LGBTIQA+ community. St Kevin’s thanks Kew and the VAFA for their support in making it such a magical day.

VAFA SUPPORTS BCNA

The VAFA community came together again earlier this year as part of Play4BCNA Round. As such, VAFA clubs were encouraged to support the cause in any way they can, with some holding a Pink Sports Day, others wore some form of pink over the weekend, as the VAFA aimed to raise $30,000 for such an important cause.

Ben Black

Gryphons prevail against the Vultures

What a win it was for the Glen Eira Gryphons on the weekend. They bounced back from a shock loss in the Semi Final, to secure their well-earned position in the Grand Final via the double chance. Whilst Saturday saw the 2023 season come to a close for UHS-VU, the Gryphons have their eyes set firmly on chasing down Grand Final glory next week against the Oakleigh Krushers.

Conditions down at Waverley Oval were not the typical September, with sun showers for really most of the day. It was UHS who won the toss kicking to the Chadstone side of the ground. Sean Bass kicked the Gryphons into action with a classy snap and the first for the day. Early pressure applied by both teams saw the game evenly poised with not many scoring shots but just back and forth providing a great contest. UHS were able to produce a lot of inside fifties for not much reward, only managing 1 goal, 5 behinds. Whilst at the other end, it was Tim Johnston providing a muchneeded goal for Glen Eira from a bullet pass from Bill Alexander. Glen Eira going up 14-11 at quarter time.

In the second term, UHS provided the early ascendancy applying extra pressure to the Glen Eira defenders. Sean Bass’ second major provided a roar for the crowd giving plenty to cheer about. Gryphons were able to flip the script and then give the Vultures the headaches with a late goal from classy player Will Green, then Tim Johnson collected another major late in the second.

The third term saw UHS want to give the fight back to Glen Eira and they did that with cult figure Brandon Jackson slotting a key major within the first 30 seconds. Finn Urie providing plenty of skill kicking two majors within a minute that got UHS back in front. Tim

Johnston showing class kicking another key major the game was well poised with James French from Glen Eira showing his versatility getting plenty of hit outs to his midfielders.

Heading into the last quarter, Glen Eira put the foot down with Alex Ewrin Ross kicking a magnificent major from 45 metres that got the crowd up and about. Lachie Myers found space and time to slot two consecutive majors in less than a minute. The ball hardly left the halfway mark of the last term before the Vultures were about to grab one late one on the siren. The Gryphons though to the Grand Final to take on Oakleigh Krushers.

Well, it’s the big dance next week Krushers vs Gryphons, second v first of the final ladder. Who will get up? It will be down to the key matchups for next week. Who will take Aaron Cloke after he destroyed them with 8 majors last time they met in the Semi Final. Glen Eira has the double chance at glory with their Division 1 Men’s Seniors & Reserves into Grand Finals next weekend. Oakleigh with the week off should be a good chance to secure the Grand Final win, a perfect backbone to lead into Premier C, but hey, anything can happen in finals, so it should be a cracker!

Oakleighv Glen Eira

2023 DIVISION 1 MEN’S

GOALS: Glen Eira:

T. Johnston 3, L. Myers 2, S. Bass 2, A. Erwin-Ross 1, H. Bass 1, D. McDonald 1, W. Van Denderen 1

Uhs-Vu:

F. Urie 3, P. Brookes 2, B. Jackson 2, J. Hunt 1

BEST: Glen Eira:

L. Myers, W. Green, S. Bass, J. Maxfield, A. Carey, L. Pound

Uhs-Vu:

B. Dimattina, F. Urie, J. Fox, J. Dimattina, S. Adams, J. Gilfillan

2023 DIVISION 1 RESERVE MEN’S

GOALS: Kew FC:

Oakleigh:

C. Qumivutia 2, J. Paola 1, C. McLeod 1, A. Aciek 1, H. Atkins 1

BEST: Kew FC:

Oakleigh:

FINALS ROUND 2 RESULTS FINAL TIP

C. Qumivutia, J. Consolmagno, Z. Thiessens, C. Jones, J. Murphy, N. Seel

Christopher Ciampoli

The Cobras ascendancy continues

The surprises keep coming in the Division 2 Men’s competition after a Preliminary Final upset. Cohesion has come very easily for the newly amalgamated Old Yarra Cobras, reaching the Grand Final in their first season as a combined team. Yet, following a highly competitive season, Brunswick have played their final match for 2023 after bowing out in the prelim.

Garvey Oval was the landscape for Sunday’s Preliminary Final where Brunswick came head-tohead with the Old Yarra Cobras. This match up was the third time these two sides met, with one win a piece, heading into the Preliminary Final.

Both sides hit the scoreboard early with 5 goals scored in the first quarter, and it was Brunswick holding a 5-point lead. Jonathon Haddad once again a leading goal kicker for the NOBs, while Thomas O’Farrell stepped up and was best on in a tough loss.

With sharpshooters in the Cobras outfit, there was a momentum shift in the second, the Cobras the more accurate of the two sides in front of the big sticks to take the lead into the main break. David Tokatliyan and Luke Stacker had three majors each for the day to get their side across the line. And once again it was Nick Zappala, a born leader for the Cobras, who was best afield for his side.

They say football matches can be won in the premiership quarter, and this certainly proved to be the case for the mighty Cobras, exerting their dominance to carry a lead through to the end, and kicking three final goals to round out the game. The Cobras victorious over Brunswick by 20 points at the final siren.

The Old Yarra Cobras have almost reached the summit but first they must conquer Goliath. Parkside have had a dream run this season and are arguably the ones to beat. The Cobras are yet to defeat the Devils and there would be no better time than in the Premiership match come Sunday.

After a week off, the Devils should be red hot and ready for battle at Piranha Park as they face the determined Cobras.

Can the merged Old Yarra Cobras make history and win a flag in their first year? Or will Parkside emerge victorious and achieve their own impressive feat of a double ladder climb across three seasons, having come up from Division 3 after last season? There is a lot on the line for both sides, and either way there will be an incredible Premiership story that unfolds.

FINALS ROUND 2 RESULTS

2023 DIVISION 2 MEN’S

GOALS: Old Yarra Cobras:

D. Tokatliyan 3, L. Stacker 3, T. Orchard 1, J. Hall 1, N. Sambevski 1, A. Raso 1, K. Margaritis 1

Brunswick:

J. Haddad 3, T. Wilson 1, S. Kiebert 1, B. Wilson 1, A. Avraam 1, J. Ralston 1

BEST: Old Yarra Cobras:

N. Zappala, L. Marshall, N. Sambevski, L. Stacker, J. Bell, D. Tokatliyan

Brunswick:

T. O’Farrell, A. Ross, J. Hedley, A. Pollock, T. Haddock, J. Ralston

2023 DIVISION 2 RESERVE MEN’S

GOALS: South Melbourne Districts:

B. Bajram 3, T. Seccombe 2, H. Robinson 2, M. Morrison 1, Z. Howson 1

Mhsob:

E. Riddle 1, B. Dowling 1, B. Gunn 1

BEST: South Melbourne Districts:

M. Carter, J. Pearce, J. Eastman, C. Worrell-Smith, D. Winter, A. Stamatelatos

Mhsob:

G. Beet, J. Growse, T. Golz, E. Riddle, W. Kruyt, O. Seeland

Elsternwick bury their finals demons

After bowing out in straight sets last year, Elsternwick went into the preliminary final on Sunday with a point to prove, looking to bury their finals demons. And they did just that, annihilating the competition, the Canterbury Cobras, by a convincing 48 points.

Box Hill City Oval was the backdrop for the Division 3 Men’s preliminary final and would be the fourth encounter between these two sides for the season. Elsternwick the superior of the two on every occasion, but the Cobras were not to be underestimated heading into the prelim, as they were determined to improve on their semi-final finish from the season prior. Both sides hitting the scoreboard right out of the gates to make an early impact. From a combined eight firstquarter goals, it was the Wicks who held a 10-point margin. The clocked ticked down and the goals kept coming; the Wicks extending their lead at every break with the Cobras unable to halt the onslaught.

Sharpshooters, Spencer Hankin and Jamie Mount each kicked a bag (4) for the Wicks to give them a comfortable lead throughout which saw them sail through to the Grand Final. Rhodri Jones-Pritchard had his best game for the year and in timely fashion, earning his first best on ground.

At the opposite end, whilst there were no dual goal kickers, seven of the Cobras hit the scoreboard with a single major. After a strong backend of the season in the seniors, Geordie Daff finished the year best on for his side in the all-important preliminary final.

The Canterbury Cobras have strung together a valiant performance throughout 2023 and remain strong contenders in the Division 3 Men’s competition.

The season is not done just yet for Elsternwick as they are off to the big dance. The Grand Final is shaping up to be a doozy as rivals Hawthorn and Elsternwick do battle for that illustrious Premiership Cup.

The Wicks and the Hawks have a combined 4 out of the top 5 leading goal kickers for the competition in their teams. The stage is set for a high scoring match where the best on show will have their final opportunity in front of the big sticks to get their side over the line for one last time in 2023.

It is typically a close encounter when these two sides face off and we would expect nothing less this Saturday at Box Hill City Oval for the Grand Final.

Will Elsternwick be able to finish off the perfect season or will Hawthorn be able to continue their recent line of form to overcome the minor premiers?

FINALS ROUND 2 RESULTS

2023 DIVISION 3 MEN’S

GOALS: Elsternwick:

S. Hankin 4, D. Poletto 4, P. Sanderson 2, J. Yeatman 2, B. Pantas 2, J. Mount 1, N. Materia 1

Canterbury:

J. Boarotto 1, R. Walmsley 1, J. Dear 1, J. Nicolopoulos 1, C. Marshall 1, M. Szabo 1, G. Daff 1

BEST: Elsternwick:

R. Jones-Pritchard, T. Falco, P. Cassidy, R. Main, M. Harvey, k. Tran

Canterbury:

G. Daff, N. McMahon, T. Giliberto, J. Nicolopoulos, H. Carter, J. Ward

2023 DIVISION 3 RESERVE MEN’S

GOALS: Elsternwick:

Q. De Luca 3, D. Marchese 2, M. Saunders 2, B. Bullard 1

Wattle Park:

S. Barrah 2, C. Xipolitos 1, S. Davis 1, J. Rippon 1

BEST: Elsternwick:

A. De Vries, J. Biviano, D. Marchese , Q. De Luca, B. Wallace, T. Ramsay

Wattle Park:

J. Rippon, M. Lamb, S. Davis, J. Hernan, A. Smith, G. Rollo-Walke

Falcons win big and fly into the Grand Final

Division 4’s Preliminary Final saw Box Hill North take on Albert Park with the winner earning a spot in the Grand Final and the loser having their season end one game shorter than they would’ve wanted. These two sides had met 4 times during the 2023 season and had shared the wins with each side recording 2 wins against the other. This game was truly anyone’s to win and a match that would be truly unpredictable.

The first quarter saw both sides try to get off to the best start possible in a high-intensity display of football, with both sides having their time up forward and finding the big sticks. The first quarter produced a test for both sides as it would be the longest quarter the sides would play that game but as the siren sounded to end the 32-minute quarter, it was the Falcons that held a narrow 1-point lead over the Demons. The second quarter saw the Falcons launch into attack with their hard-running and incredibly attacking brand of football. The Falcons were able to completely catch the Demons off guard with a 4-goal to 0 quarter extending the lead out to 29 points. As the siren sounded, the Falcons led the amount of scoring shots with 16 scoring shots to 7 so if the Demons stood any chance, they needed to attack quickly and efficiently to reduce their 29-point deficit.

After looking back at the season they’ve had, finding their way back into the finals in 2023, the Demons were not going to give up on this match that easily. The Demons came into the third quarter with a point to prove and that they did as they were able to kick 4 goals whilst only allowing a single goal from the Falcons to reduce the lead to 13 points with a quarter of football to play. The final quarter is when all dream of taking over and winning the game for their side. In this contest, it was

the Falcons that were able to take control of the game, holding the majority of possession and having 7 scoring shots to 1 from the Demons. More shots at goal saw the tally of the Falcons go higher as they were able to produce a 3-goal to 1 quarter and take out the game with major celebrations from the Falcons faithful as they ran out winners by 29 points securing their spot in the seniors Grand Final for the first time since 2019.

Hitting the scoreboard for the Demons were Alexander Williams and David Edwards who both kicked 2 goals. Individual goal-kickers for the Demons were Jonathan Tommasoni, Marcus Lorkin, Samuel Roberts and Blake Williams. Jack Lee continued his extraordinary season up forward with 5 goals for the Falcons. Other goalkickers for the Falcons were Ashley Evans (2), Joshua Beets (2) and Christopher Marson (2). In the best for the Demons were Samuel Roberts, Timothy Stanghi and Jerome Tennison. In the best for the Falcons was Felix Metz, Drew Pearman and Sam Lee.

The Demons will now go into the off-season where they will look to build on their existing elite core and make another run at the flag in 2024 as they look to be one of the teams to beat next season. After winning only 1 senior game in 2022, the Demons should be incredibly proud of what they were able to accomplish this season and although there will be some disappointment, look for the Demons to be a dangerous side next season.

Grand Final Prediction

I see this being the game of the season and a truly unpredictable game, whilst the Bulls have shown strength all season remaining undefeated, they have faced a few close scares. The Falcons, on the other hand, have found momentum at the right time of the season winning 4 of their last 5 and 7 of their last 8.

I see this game being a story of two halves. The Bulls have been known to get off to a strong start and I don’t see anything changing in the division’s biggest game of the season. I see them starting strong and taking a 20-30-point lead into half-time. Now, this is where the game can go either way. On the one hand, the Bulls are known to take over the game quite quickly and efficiently with their third quarter often being their most devastating. However, the third quarter is often where the Falcon forwards find their way into the game. I see the Falcons putting the pressure right back onto the Bulls in the final half leading to a contested back and forth final quarter of football. From here, I see North Brunswick running out winners after a back-and-forth final quarter including a lastminute goal from the Bulls in what should be an incredible game of football. This game will be an incredible watch, should be the match of the season for the Division with both sides possessing great talent across the ground.

North Brunswick by 4 points

FINALS ROUND 2 RESULTS

2023 DIVISION 4 MEN’S

GOALS: Albert Park:

J. Lee 5, J. Beets 2, C. Marson 2, A. Evans 2

Box Hill North:

A. Williams 2, D. Edwards 2, J. Tommasoni 1, B. Williams 1, M. Lorkin 1, S. Roberts 1

BEST: Albert Park:

F. Metz, D. Pearman, S. Lee, P. Hutchins, A. Evans, A. Evans

Box Hill North:

S. Roberts, T. Stanghi, J. Tennison, J. Hocking, A. Dullard, M. Lorkin

2023

GOALS: St Johns:

N. De Poilly 2, N. Janzerli 2, J. Coutts 1, C. Reyes 1

Box Hill North:

M. Hoey 3, J. Falzon 2, W. Leaumont 1, J. Williams 1

BEST: St Johns:

A. Taniwal, N. De Poilly, A. Alam, N. Janzerli, M. Babak, S. Husseinkhil

Box Hill North:

T. Inglis, C. Liston, J. Jellyman-Turner, L. Desmond, J. Falzon, A. C

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VAFA congratulates the following players on reaching these incredible milestones. Well done!

Zac

Oliver (Old Scotch)

Congratulations to Zac Oliver on reaching 50 games for Old Scotch Football Club. Zac joined the club in 2019 from Redan Football Netball Club. Zac was an integral member of the 2019 Men’s Under 19 premier section premiership team. Zac has played a mixture of 1st & 2nd XVIII football since then and we wish him all the best on reaching this milestone and for the remainder of the finals series.

Bree

Doyle (St Kevin’s)

Bree Doyle our current co-captain is playing her 100 th game this week for SKOB Saints. Bree would be the first female player to play 100 VAFA games.

Bree Doyle is an inaugural player to the Saints commencing in 2017. Her football career has seen her be part of two Premiership teams, win with three Club bests and fairest, and Captain the state team this year. Bree always leads by example on and off the field. Her game is based around winning the contested football and her competitive nature that never gives up. Her leadership on and off the field is inspiring to everyone at our Club. Bree always puts her teammates and club before herself. A club legend and champion.

Stuart Carey (Glen Eira Gryphons)

Congratulations Stu on playing 100 games for the Glen Eira Gryphons. An absolute superstar since first entering our clubrooms in 2017, the now 3-time B&F winner and Premiership player continues to rack up midfielder numbers from the back pocket. A cracking bloke off the field and terrific clubman, we wish Stu you all the best in his 100 th game in this weekends’ Grand Final and look forward to him performing his outstanding feats at Packer Park for many years to come.

Nathan

Pruscino (Glen Eira Gryphons)

Congratulations ‘Prusk’ on playing 100 VAFA games. A very clever forward with a pinpoint right boot, Prrrrrrusky has been a welcome addition to the Glen Eira family post-pandemic. A solid return of almost a goal a game in 2023 and some stints through the wing show Nathan’s team-first approach that is endearing to his teammates. Enjoy bringing up your 100 th this week in a Grand Final Prusk – good luck mate!

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SKOB coast to a Grand Final berth

St Bedes/Mentone Tigers def by Caulfield Grammarians by 41 points

A fiery affair at Brindisi Street on Saturday saw SBMT’s season come to an end in a premature and sour fashion. After a strong first half they succumbed to Caulfield’s unrelenting pressure and were defeated by 41 points.

Caulfield’s spectacular late season run continues as they soar into a preliminary final against Old Xaverians. Their depth of talent is clicking across every line, primed for a hopeful Grand Final appearance.

St Bedes/Mentone have intimidated opposition sides all year with their aggression, skill and goal kicking but just couldn’t quite get over the line on this occasion. Though Evan Ryder and Tighe Chandler should be commended for their efforts as coaches and recruiters this season. They were tasked with the daunting challenge of rising from Division 1 to Premier with a young and raw list and have irrefutably exceeded external and internal expectations. Numerous U17s from SBMT’s junior program have been given the opportunity to shine at U19 Premier level including Flynn Groves, Adrian Cole, and Sam Buck. A high flying forward line consisting of Jake Harding, Luke Dunn and U19 Premier leading goal kicker Jack Behnk served as a nightmare for opposition backlines all season. The Tigers will be disappointed at the missed opportunity of going ‘back-to-back’, but this season remains full of positives for the Mentone side.

Jack Behnk finished the year in style with 4 majors and aerial dominance across the ground. Max Sullivan, Jake Harding, Jake Ryder, Jack Turner, Finn Chandler & Jay Bolton were judged best afield for the losing side.

The CGs deservingly face the Xavs in a preliminary final this Saturday afternoon. A fantastic season, culminating in a classy late season surge has them primed for a grand final berth in 2023. Their depth of talent has really begun to shine at this critical junction of the season. Archie

Loughnan continued his dazzling individual form slotting 5 against SBMT last weekend. Loughnan is assisted down forward by big Tommy Warner and Dylan Ting, who have been consistent performers this year in their own right. Caulfield is considered the dark horse of U19 Premier and is more than capable of a premiership victory.

The Grammarians booted 12 goals in the second half, making SBMT’s defence look helpless. Archie Loughnan, Zac Fraser, Oliver Ruddock, Noah Sutherland, Tommy Warner & Max Olynyk were all superb in their first final.

St Kevin’s def. Old Xaverians by 30 points

A satisfying victory for St Kevin’s at T H King oval last Saturday. SKOB asserted themselves and proved why they are the top tier of U19 Premier. The Xavs have a second chance but face an inform Caulfield this Saturday. It’s do or die for the red and black mafia this weekend.

St Kevin’s talent across the ground is nothing short of remarkable. After finishing 7th last year, there was great emphasis placed upon training standards and discipline heading into the 2023 preseason. A talented core has enforced these standards and it has evidently paid dividends. Mass recruiting has also played a role in SKOB’s epic rise this year. Zane Greenham kicked 3 in his 5th match for the season in an impressive display. Will Pfeiffer, Liam Gunson, Jack Palmer, Aidan Leiner, Flynn Clark & Jack Romanin were the clear best afield for St Kevin’s.

A disappointing loss for Xavs as they head into a secondchance preliminary final this week. Some lapses in form have been evident over the past two months. They desperately want to go back-to-back this season but face two hurdles across the next fortnight. They have the personnel, now its just a matter of making it click when it counts. Ben Moyle, Sam Noonan, Hugo Wyman, Hamish MacIsaac & Thomas Bourne did all they could to try drag their side across the line.

SKOB will enjoy a weekend off this week as they begin to prepare for the ‘big dance’. The Xavs will face the in-form Caulfield Grammarians.

2023 HOLMESGLEN UNDER 19 PREMIER MEN’S

GOALS: Caulfield Grammarians:

A. Loughnan 5, T. Warner 3, D. Ting 2, N. Madgwick 2, C. Cooke 2, m. Olynyk

1, J. Iverson 1, S. McInerney 1, Z. Fraser 1

St Bedes / Mentone Tigers:

J. Behnk 4, L. Bowles 1, L. Cowell 1, J. Matthews 1, H. Gleeson 1, L. Dunn 1, T. Nash 1, X. Russo 1

BEST: Caulfield Grammarians:

A. Loughnan , Z. Fraser, O. Ruddock, N. Sutherland, T. Warner, m. Olynyk

St Bedes / Mentone Tigers:

M. Sullivan, J. Harding, J. Ryder, J. Behnk, F. Chandler, J. Bolton

GOALS: St Kevins:

Z. Greenham 3, T. Williams 2, B. Bryan 1, P. Carracher 1, W. Pfeiffer 1, S. Duffy 1

Old Xaverians:

W. Stevens 2, L. Moore 1, K. Walford 1, H. Woodhouse 1

BEST: St Kevins:

W. Pfeiffer, L. Gunson, J. Palmer, A. Leiner, F. Clark, J. Romanin

Old Xaverians:

B. Moyle, S. Noonan, H. Wyman, H. MacIsaac, T. Bourne

2023 HOLMESGLEN UNDER 19 DIVISION 1 MEN’S

GOALS: Hampton Rovers:

W. Crawford 3, C. Kilburn 3, J. Delaney 2, W. McPhee 2, J. Hudghton 1, J. Grima 1, C. McSwain 1, L. Nixon-Smith 1, B. Jensen-Muir 1

Old Xaverians:

L. Fares 4, E. Pick 2, W. Troy 1, N. LaFrantz 1, H. Bird 1

BEST: Hampton Rovers:

L. Coughlin, J. Delaney, W. McPhee, L. Teal, B. Wells

Old Xaverians:

T. Egan, J. Peppard, L. Fares, J. Nelson, J. Spiridonos, T. Gorman

GOALS: Beaumaris:

M. Rowe 2, J. Farrow 2, L. Pecer 2, J. Johnson 1, J. Pepper 1, J. Butler 1, N. Dear 1

Old Trinity:

E. Chard 2, J. Heath 2

BEST: Beaumaris:

Old Trinity:

S. Phillips, L. Jackson, S. Barendregt, O. de Stefanis, D. O’Kane, J. Heath

2023 HOLMESGLEN UNDER 19 DIVISION 2 MEN’S

Old McKinnon/Glen Eira AFC

GOALS: Old Camberwell Grammarians:

J. Blew 2, T. Beechey 2, L. Ross 2, H. Kimmitt 2, B. Grlj 1

Old McKinnon/Glen Eira AFC:

H. Vandame 2, T. Isaacs 1, M. Day 1, H. Martino 1, J. Hattingh 1

BEST: Old Camberwell Grammarians:

J. Blew, J. Spalding, L. Ross, M. Horn, H. Kimmitt, S. Woods

Old McKinnon/Glen Eira AFC:

F. Dover, M. Day, T. Williamson, J. Feder, T. Noonan, S. O’Brien

GOALS: Old Haileybury:

M. Walstab 2, B. Yates 2, J. Connell 2, T. Antonis 1, J. Tuffley 1, H. Whitaker 1, L. Riedel 1

Old Carey:

J. Horsey 3, J. Smith 2, F. Park 1, S. Razums 1, L. Neilson 1, I. Ellwood 1, J. Peterson 1

BEST: Old Haileybury:

H. Lynch, M. Walstab, J. Connell, A. Bonwick, L. DiPietrantonio, J. Adams

Old Carey:

I. Ellwood, H. Thomas, J. Horsey, C. Gaiardo, F. Peake, L. Neilson

2023 HOLMESGLEN UNDER 19 DIVISION 3 MEN’S

GOALS: Collegians:

M. Daphne 3, W. Dean 2, H. Edwardss 1, L. Jorgensen 1

Beaumaris FC:

H. Long 1, N. Bodi 1, M. Parkes 1

BEST: Collegians:

J. Carroll, X. Molino, M. Daphne, A. Petracca, W. Dean, C. Tassonee Beaumaris FC:

GOALS: Marcellin OC:

J. Bandiera 4, F. Carman 3, J. Frost 3, G. Megas 1

Old Ivanhoe Grammarians:

W. Buckingham 2, J. Dimoski 2, F. Knight 2, J. Shadbolt 1

BEST: Marcellin OC:

M. Gigliotti, J. Bandiera, G. Megas, J. Corbo, F. Carman, J. Harrowell

Old Ivanhoe Grammarians:

J. Harper, J. Shadbolt, M. Walling, M. Ugle, J. Dimoski, L. Brunton

2023 HOLMESGLEN UNDER 19 DIVISION 4 MEN’S

GOALS: PEGS Football Club:

A. Abada 3, N. Markovski 1, D. Arkinstall 1, B. Murphy 1, D. Scott 1

Brunswick:

L. Scutella 2, B. Marchionna 1, B. Eldridge 1, N. Staniscia 1, D. Marchione 1

BEST: PEGS Football Club:

A. Abada, P. Steward, L. Nimorakiotakis, R. Callanan, J. Kerr, D. Scott

Brunswick:

R. O’Connor, L. Tout, M. Foti, D. Reynolds, D. Marchione, Z. Cocco

GOALS: Oakleigh AFC:

E. Manaras 5, J. Guergues 2, M. Amedeo 1, A. Bernardo 1, J. Rossington 1,

C. Athans 1

Therry Penola AFC:

J. Viola 3, N. Mckay 2, M. D’Agostino 2, J. Campagna 1, B. Rocco 1, C. Bramble 1

BEST: Oakleigh AFC:

E. Manaras, S. Fortune, S. Ison, T. Cuthbertson, M. Amedeo, J. Rossington

Therry Penola AFC:

J. Caligiuri, B. Mastromanno, J. Viola, M. D’Agostino, N. Mckay, J. Lewis

2023 William Buck Premier Men’s

David MirraCollegians40

William PockneeCollegians39

James TarrantOld Scotch37

Edward GreeneCollegians35

2023 Premier Reserve Men’s

Zachary GiniesSt Kevins OB52

Josh EdwardsOld Scotch49

William ClarkOld Scotch38

Matthew HandleyOld Xaverians34

2023 Premier B Men’s

Caleb LewisSt Bedes/Mentone Tigers AFC49

William SmythWilliamstown CYMS40

Brayden O’TooleSt Bedes/Mentone Tigers AFC36

Mickey NichollsOld Geelong31

2023

William ZaghisFitzroy FC41

Darren ColacoSt Bernards39

Luke ScobieOld Trinity Grammarians28

Brad FendykFitzroy FC25

2023

Ryan MacdermidParkdale Vultures51

Luke ScuderiOld Ivanhoe Grammarians38

Jack FennerPEGS Football Club36

Harry LaukensOld Camberwell Grammarians31

2023

Gabriel BattistellaOld Ivanhoe Grammarians33

Tom KellockOld Ivanhoe Grammarians31

Nicholas JacksonHampton Rovers AFC28

Dylan MastosMazenod OC28

2023

Jack BehnkSt Bedes/Mentone Tigers AFC48

Alexander DowsleyUniversity Blues46

William MacisaacOld Xaverians37

Zachary ProvestWilliamstown CYMS35

2023 Premier Thirds Men’s

Joshua WillmottSt Kevins OB21

Lachlan CraigUniversity Blues19

Ben McDonaldFitzroy FC17

Daniel BarkerUniversity Blues17

Aaron ClokeOakleigh AFC72

Timothy JohnstonGlen Eira AFC48

Luke AshenOakleigh AFC46

Edward StandishOakleigh AFC41 2023

Bronson PaechKew FC51

Harrison RitchieGlen Eira AFC47

Julius Waras CarstensenGlen Eira AFC32

Joshua PaolaOakleigh AFC30 2023

Daniel WoodWhitefriars Football Club73

Benjamin RadfordParkside Football Club67

Jamie BrookerSouth Melbourne Districts54

Samuel KiesekerWhitefriars Football Club45 2023

Byron GunnMHSOB39

Liam ChilcottParkside Football Club35

James CusackMHSOB35

Ben DalyBrunswick Football Club26 2023

William MeehanHawthorn AFC70

Justin RaitiHawthorn AFC65

Thomas LowdenCanterbury Football Club60

Julian YeatmanElsternwick AFC45

2023

James ScammellCanterbury Football Club58

Matthew PriceWattle Park AFC51

Andrew FraserRichmond Central AFC39

Anthony SmithWattle Park AFC36

2023

Andrew RamzyNorth Brunswick AFC51

Jack LeeAlbert Park AFC49

Blake WilliamsBox Hill North AFC35

Benjamin AyacheSt Johns OC34

Tyler ShawBox Hill North AFC59

Mathew WatersonNorth Brunswick AFC41

Matthew De PoillySt Johns OC39

Joel ClareBox Hill North AFC35

Premier B Reserve Men’s

Premier C Men’s

Premier C Reserve Men’s

Holmesglen U19 Premier Men’s

SHARPSHOOTERS

Catherine StantonSt Kevins OB27

Lucy MorleyOld Scotch23

Georgia HarrisCollegians21

TOTAL

Iliana ZafiriouOld Yarra Cobras FC33

Laura AmelungSt Bedes/Mentone Tigers AFC27

Molly McFarlaneMonash Blues23

Tahlia LimburgOld Yarra Cobras FC22

TOTAL

Simone MarinelliBeaumaris FC27

Sophie FraserOld Melburnians20

Daisy FlockartOld Brighton Grammarians18

Zoe GlascottMarcellin OC18

TOTAL

Lindi NankinAJAX AFC18

Hannah KonstantyGlen Eira AFC17

Rosie BuretaGlen Eira AFC14

Catherine BartholomewPower House AFC13

2023

Thirds Division 1

Charlie FoxOld Geelong40

Oscar SilkOld Xaverians29

Thirds Division

2

Matthew PerrettOld Xaverians29

Tiernan O’BrienOld Xaverians27

Ben GrayWilliamstown CYMS23

Division

Lachlan WeinlichOld Camberwell Grammarians34

Sam HartmannRichmond Central AFC27

Jack KeyhoeIvanhoe AFC26

Thirds Division 4 Men’s

TOTAL

William TaylorOld Scotch37

Joshua Di NataleOld Paradians23

Justin VogelAJAX AFC20

Thirds

Division 5

Lucas ZitaWhitefriars Football Club41

Johanne SiritungaMazenod OC30

2023

Premier Reserve Women’s

Yolanda VinycombKew FC20

Kayla DingleCollegians16

TOTAL

April JonesOld Yarra Cobras FC21

Genevieve Barns-DunneSt Bedes/Mentone Tigers AFC12

Alicia YianniosMazenod OC10

Jennifer VissenjouxMazenod OC10

TOTAL

Alessia AcquaroWilliamstown CYMS46

Sienna SymonsParkdale Vultures27

Sofi - Kristin GeorgasWilliamstown CYMS24

2023 Division 4 Women’s

TOTAL

Lisa WalsheOld Carey Grammarians29

Paige HillWattle Park AFC21

Ã?ÂIne BennettElsternwick AFC19

2023 Thirds Women’s

TOTAL

Stephanie AugustesSt Kevins OB9

Gabrielle SmithMelbourne Uni Women’s FC5

Jessica PowrieKew FC5

Steph TaylorSt Kevins OB5

2023 Holmesglen U19 Division 1 Men’s TOTAL Charles KilburnHampton Rovers AFC51

Edward ChardOld Trinity Grammarians43

Calsher DearBeaumaris FC41

Seb StewartBeaumaris FC31

2023 Holmesglen U19 Division 2 Men’s TOTAL Mitchell BoyceMazenod OC41

Thomas AughtersonSt Bedes/Mentone Tigers AFC34

Brennan MurrayMonash Blues28

Liam RiedelOld Haileybury24

2023 Holmesglen U19 Division 3 Men’s TOTAL

Finn KnightOld Ivanhoe Grammarians47

Finn CarmanMarcellin OC34

David WaldronOld Ivanhoe Grammarians31

Daniel MartinoBulleen Templestowe AFC27

2023 Holmesglen U19 Division 4 Men’s TOTAL

Jack ViolaTherry Penola AFC39

Benjamin MarchionnaBrunswick Football Club37

Lachlan SharrockMHSOB36

Jonah GuerguesOakleigh AFC36

Mecwacare Masters

TOTAL

Dustin CracknellMarcellin OC12

Andrew MurrayOakleigh AFC11

Anthony PalmerDe La Salle OC8

OrthoSport Victoria

13 surgeons across multiple Melbourne locations highly trained in the diagnosis, treatment and management of all musculoskeletal conditions and injuries.

Surgeons at OrthoSport Victoria specialise in the following areas:

Knee problems

Hip problems

Shoulder problems

Foot & Ankle problems

Sports injuries

Arthritis surgery

Trauma & Limb reconstructions

Hand, wrist & elbow surgery

Fractures & broken bones

Joint replacement surgery

ORTHOSPORT VICTORIA VAFA PREMIERSHIP LADDERS

WILLIAM BUCK PREMIER MEN’S

PREMIER MEN’S RESERVE

PREMIER B MEN’S

PREMIER B MEN’S RESERVE

PREMIER C MEN’S

PREMIER C MEN’S RESERVE

HOLMESGLEN UNDER 19 PREMIER MEN’S

PREMIER THIRDS MEN’S

Sports Injuries

Arthritis

Fractures

ORTHOSPORT VICTORIA VAFA PREMIERSHIP LADDERS

DIVISION 1 MEN’S

DIVISION 1 MEN’S RESERVE

DIVISION 2 MEN’S

DIVISION 2 MEN’S RESERVE

DIVISION 3 MEN’S

DIVISION 4 MEN’S

Sports Injuries Arthritis Fractures

DIVISION 3 MEN’S RESERVE

DIVISION 4 MEN’S

ORTHOSPORT VICTORIA VAFA PREMIERSHIP LADDERS

PREMIER B WOMEN’S

DIVISION 1 WOMEN’S

DIVISION 3 WOMEN’S

THIRDS WOMEN’S

PREMIER B WOMEN’S RESERVE

DIVISION 2 WOMEN’S

DIVISION 4 WOMEN’S

ORTHOSPORT VICTORIA VAFA PREMIERSHIP LADDERS

THIRDS DIVISION 1 MEN’S

HOLMESGLEN UNDER 19 DIVISION 1 MEN’S

HOLMESGLEN UNDER 19

THIRDS DIVISION 2 MEN’S

THIRDS DIVISION 3 MEN’S

HOLMESGLEN UNDER 19 DIVISION 3 MEN’S

HOLMESGLEN UNDER 19 DIVISION

THIRDS DIVISION 4 MEN’S

THIRDS DIVISION 5 MEN’S

MECWACARE MASTERS