This seasons home and away matches started and finished with contests against the old foe Murrumbeena and in between were some of the best junior matches to be seen from a side that rarely trained together and sometimes hit the park with no more than sixteen starters. The old motto of ?walk quietly but carry a big stick? could not have been any truer than for this team.
Our aim of playing as a ?team? unit carried over from last year, and we were well rewarded with back to back premierships, a very rare achieved indeed.
At this stage Guy Martyn must be singled out as one of the greatest players and best leader I have seen for many years. Even when he was injured Guy was always present to encourage the team. In his on-field absence, Mark Deveraux and Danny Hughes stepped up and led by example and word, and showed how deep our quality was when under pressure.
The highlight of the season was our finals campaign and our ultimate grand final victory. A tremendous way for the boys to finish at junior level. The grand final was a tough struggle that did not see us pull away until the final quarter when skill and pressure finally overcame emotion, and we were able to post a five goal win.
The list of best players was twenty four names long, starting at that many Martyn again, and extending right down through the bench. This was a genuine team effort to win, and showed me the faith the boys have in themselves under extreme pressure. In summary – everything cam together at the right time.
End of season highlights were Guy being named the MSJFL U17 Best and Fairest winner, our team Best and Fairest winner and best on the ground in the grand final.
Runner up Mark Deveraux stood tall despite injury and will be a real force again next season.
Danny Corp had a very successful year with the Dragons, and will no doubt be joined by more or our number next season.
Our private school brigade showed real strength of character and got us to the finals despite fatigue. Without their numbers, we would not have been able to field a team.
New players this year slotted straight into the side and took up where departing players left off. Confidence breeds confidence!
Post season analysis and debate was ably led by Andrew West and Nick Lawler. Their closed eyelid approach was an inspiration to all!
Finally, to all the team supporters and workers, thank you for your tireless efforts. It has been a wonderful season, and one we will always remember and treasure. Next years Under 19 team looks to be a potent force.
DALE ROSS,
COACH
TEAM SPONSOR: Piccasos Pizzeria of