The Under 18s had a great Grand Final win on Sunday, winning a thrilling game by 4 points.

We started quite well – after Centrals kicked the first goal we responded with 2 quick ones and then the quarter became an arm wrestle for ten minutes until the Dogs exploded with 4 goals in 7 minutes and they took a 19 point lead into quarter time.

Kicking the first goal of the second quarter was just the start we needed but again Centrals took control and with 3 goals extended their lead to 33 points at the 20 minute mark. Fortunately, the boys responded very well and kicked 2 goals in the last 5 minutes and we took some momentum into half time.

Returning after the long break we kicked into action with a four goal burst in the first 10 minutes to take the lead for the first time in the match. Once again the match became an arm wrestle for another 10 minutes before Centrals took back the lead with a late goal. Scores were eventually locked away at three quarter time.

The last quarter was exciting as we traded early goals before a Logan Hughes snap at the 19 minute mark gave us a 4 point buffer – it was the last score of the match and we were able to hang on for a great win – the ball was camped in Centrals’ Forward 50 for long periods of that last 5 minutes.

It was a tough low possession game for both teams – very contested and it was hard work finding space because of the discipline of both teams’ defensive efforts. We genuinely had every player make a contribution at some point in the game.

Jett Hasting was a very worthy winner of the Alan Stewart medal for best on ground – his contest work, tackling, ball handling and run was very good. Jett was also our captain through our finals and he really led from the front in every game. Rome Burgoyne won the footy well at stoppages and used it very well. Jack Cook was another in our midfield who won plenty of the footy and used it well as did Harry Dodd with his kicking being a feature. Jack Hankins played another good game in defence, Ray Sumner was lively up forward for us creating opportunities and Jack Gray (4 goals), Logan Hughes (3 goals) and Charlie West (2 goals)  were always dangerous up forward for us.

Thanks to all the magnificent coaching staff, medical staff and support staff and all the players who played a game in 2024 – we played 49 players during the season and they all made a contribution to our success. Thanks also to the parents and the players’ families who help them be the best they can be.

And finally thanks to Sam Jacobs, Dave Couzner, Darren Hams and our Board led by President Christine Williams for their support and  leadership of our Club – it is an exciting place to be!

Shane Reardon – U18 Coach