BALMAINDISTRICT JUNIOR RUGBY LEAGUE

99th

ANNUAL REPORT2008

2008 GENERAL MANAGER’S REPORTThis will be remembered as anotherexciting year for the Tigers, being one ofreflection and celebration in ourCentenary. The league continues to takemany small steps forward learning fromthe past and building on the future.

Congratulations to everyone involved andsupporting the Balmain District RugbyLeague in 2008. Membership again rosein our junior ranks, which supplementedour loss in the adult numbers, which is notunusual year by year. Our membership for2008 finished at 1,704 registered players,with many districts experiencing losses in2008.

Our 99th Annual Report highlights a large range of achievements and Iwould like to acknowledge the tremendous work, commitment andachievements that Jennie Webster has achieved with the support from arange of stakeholders. I would also like to thank a key volunteer toBDJRL, Ross Hunter who assisted Jennie in 2008.

TALENT ID PROGRAMThe talent ID program was a success throughout the July schoolholidays. We played games against Wests, Souths and Cronulla in theu/13, u/14, u/15 & u/17 age divisions. We also hosted clubs during theOctober school holidays to finalise the program. Thanks to Eastridge FC,Ballina Seagulls FC, Auckland FCUnder 17 Tour to Northern TerritoryBalmain Tigers 12 v Northern Territory U18s 6Balmain Tigers 32 v Katherine Tigers U18s 16Under 14 Development TourBalmain Tigers 28 v Group 1 12Balmain Tigers 32 v Ballina 6Balmain Tigers 4 v Kawana 12Balmain Tigers 18 v Toowoomba 0Balmain Tigers 32 v Southport 0Balmain Tigers 24 v Helenvale 0

Along the way, the Squad retained the Clae WebbShield and Southport Cup.

This program continues with momentum in providing young playersacross U13, U14, U15 and U17’s the chance to train under experiencedcoaches, access to great resource and the opportunity to playrepresentative football either in the future or to move back intorepresentative football. The program works in with conjunction withconsultation of players though the local club Coaching Coordinator andthe representative program staff with the players staying at their localclub where possible. We played a number of games against local clubs;we played Dubbo, New Zealand, and toured the North Coast in the U14’sand introduced an U17 Tour to Catherine, NT.

The Program continues to develop players and staff for the future and welook forward to reviewing the program in support of future opportunities.

SEASON LAUNCHOur Centenary Season of both the Tigers and the BDJRL commencedwith the season launch that included past greats, current representativeplayers, officials, junior league clubs and Wests Tigers players and staff.Junior Clubs were introduced, and representative players presented theirjerseys by past greats, player signing allowed the community and fans tomeet the new players and admire the greats.

AWARDS NIGHTWe re-launched the Awards Night in 2008 which brought together over300 people from players, to parents, officials, volunteers and supportersto the Balmain Leagues Club. The feedback has been amazing and wewill continue this night with November 7, 2009 as the indicated date.

REFEREE SCHOLARSHIPSIn 2008 the tigers introduced two scholarships in conjunction with thereferees association to allow for the further development of refereesthrough the U14’s, North Coast and U17’s Tour to Catherine, NT

COMMUNITYAll levels of Balmain Tigers participated in many community activities in2008 including:• State Cup side training at each local club ground and the opportunity

to mix with the kids and coaches, • Fan Day at ANZ Stadium in February, • McHappy Day with four stores covered in our area, attendance at a

number of club presentation nights/days and the engagement ofhospitals, schools and sponsors events,

• A number of meet the players’ functions were held at BalmainLeagues Club, as well as open training sessions,

• Club presentations, school visits, sponsor events, community festivalsand alike,

• Game day events supporting charitable groups such as RozelleNeighbourhood Centre, Ronald McDonald House, McGrathFoundation, Men of League Foundation and Camp Quality.

• The provision of over 4,000 junior league NRL passes and 500officials passes to those in local league and school competitions.

• With the support of TOLL IPEC, the donation of 200 t-shirts to threecountries in the Oceania Region as identified with AustralianVolunteers International allowing the exposure of the game and thegreat Tigers brand to fill the hearts of those in need.

REFEREESI would like to acknowledge the hard work of the Balmain RefereesAssociation and thank their members and their Board for their tirelesswork underpinning our great game.

CONCLUSION AND THANKSIn presenting this report I would like thank all those involved with ourprograms, events and partnership, to the Leagues Club Staff who workclosely with the rugby league, the Wests Tigers through outgoing CEOSteve Noyce and his replacement Scott Longmuir and of course WarrenMcDonnell, Tim Sheens and all the staff at Wests Tigers.

Thank you to all the people who make it possible for the boys/girls totrain and play each week. As usual we never seem to be able to thankthem enough. Congratulations to the BDJRL Board, the workingcommittees, the clubs and their parents along with importantly the kidsand our great volunteers.

I would like to thank our sponsors and supporters specifically BalmainTigers Leagues Club, McDonalds Inner West and the Ryde EastwoodLeagues Club along with our partnership with X-Blades. I would also liketo acknowledge and thank the supporters of our local clubs.

2009 will be a year of growth, fun and encouragement with our keytheme “BE A SPORT JUST SUPPORT” and I encourage all thoseinvolved with this great game to ensure that the kids participating in thisgreat game have fun, enjoy the opportunity through our encouragementand understanding. Let’s make this an even better season in 2009.

To our small football operations team my thanks to you for a wonderfulyear and taking ownership of our journey into 2009 the team includes,but is not limited to, John Stapleton, Lyn Phillis, Jennie Webster, DavidKelly, Tracey Aria, Ranya Caloudis.

To our sponsors, the local business community, the Tigers membershipand supporters we look to your support again in the coming years as wecontinue to drive a great football program that underpins the WestsTigers and engages exciting opportunities to the community.

To our sponsors, the local business community, the tigers membershipand supporters we look to your support again in the coming years as wecontinue to drive a great football program that underpins the WestsTigers and engages exciting opportunities to the community.

Mike KeechGeneral Manager – BTFC and BDJRL

Lachlan Camroux

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99th

ANNUAL REPORT

CHAIRMAN’S REPORTThe Season Launch was awonderful occasion on March 13thwhen some of our little leaguerscame together with our SeniorRepresentatives.The Leagues Clubwas full on the night of families,players and supporters.

On 20th April 2008, Balmain RydeEastwood Tigers played WesternSuburbs Magpies in an historic replayof the first ever First Grade RugbyLeague Game at the home of RugbyLeague – Birchgrove Oval. What wasa fantastic way to commence theseason and to commemorate 100

years of Rugby League!

We still have a way to go to educate players, coaches and officials thatjunior rugby league is about juniors participating, having fun and learningthe skills of the game as well as life skills. The players must be able toparticipate, the coaches to coach within the scope and spirit of the rulesand the parents to watch and congratulate all good plays from their ownchildren and those of the opposition teams. This is our mission and wewill continue to work hard to educate in this area.

The 2 day Grand Final Series was an outstanding success and mycongratulations go to all of the teams participating. Junior League Clubsare encouraged to continue to work hard to build the skills of theirplayers to ensure that all games remain of the same high standard. Mycongratulations go to Jennie Webster on her organisation of the entireevent.

It is important to embrace the new but we must also remember andrecognise where we have come from and on November 14th, BalmainRugby Leagues Club hosted a luncheon for the Junior League LifeMembers. What a memorable day where the stalwarts of the league weretreated to lunch and had many hours to reminisce.

To the wonderful band of volunteers involved with Balmain Tigers and theBalmain Junior League, we cannot survive without your assistance; thankyou for your wonderful service.

We continue to grow and must move with the changing face of RugbyLeague. The Board of Directors have many healthy discussions at boardmeetings in an effort to strive to be a stronger, vibrant league and toprovide a good, fair and equitable competition. The loss of Five DockRSL Director, Jon Monroe in October was a very sad occasion. Jon wasa dedicated father, and he will be sorely missed by his family, his cluband the league.

To the District Club, David Trodden, John Stapleton and Steve Laversand the Board, thank you for your ongoing support of the Junior League.

I extend my sincere thanks to Tim Camiller (Balmain CEO), MichaelKeech (General Manager), John Carrington (Assistant Chair) MickManning (Patron), Bob Barnett (Life Member) and David Wilson(Referee's Chair) for your ongoing support throughout the year.

I wish to take this opportunity to congratulate all of the Junior LeagueClubs on their marvellous efforts in 2008. 2009 promises to be evenbigger and better.

Robert HendersonChairmanBalmain District Junior Rugby League

HIGHLIGHT of the Balmain Junior League Centenary celebrationswas the release of a book “From Fraser to Farah:The History ofBalmain Junior League 1908-2008” written by BJL life member andThe Weekly Times Sports Editor Chris Karas.

The book was launched by Wests Tigers’ star hooker and LeichhardtWanderers junior Robbie Farah and Jimmy Fraser – son of Balmainimmortal Charles ‘Chook’ Fraser – at the Balmain Tigers Hall of FameDinner on July 8 at Sydney’s Westin Hotel.

Pictured at the book launch are author Chris Karas (right) with RobbieFarah, Jimmy Fraser and research group assistants John Stanton,Annette Hardwick (representing her father Geoff Large) and former BJLpresident Austin Hoyle holding leather bound copies.

The book is a most comprehensive and detailed record of 100 years ofthe first Junior League association formed in Australia and fully illustratedwith over 260 pages of historical and up to date photographs.

FROM FRASER TO FARAH BOOK LAUNCH

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OFFICE BEARERS 1908-2008SECRETARIESDave Butchart 1908-09-10-11-12-13 Pat Mcquade 1908-09Frank Savage 1914-15-17-18-19-22Robert Savage 1916 Leo Mason 1920-21-23-24-25W L Young 1926-27-28Bill O’Connor 1929-30-31-32 C H ‘Micky’ Roberts 1933-34L Crawley 1934-35J Burnicle 1936-37Sid Jenkins 1938-39-40-41J Griffith 1942-43R Rourke 1944-45-46Harry Addison 1947-48-49-50George Lee 1951-52-53-54-55Danny Clifford 1956-57Bill Ballard 1958-59-60Joe Hayes 1961-62Don Graham 1963-64-65-66-67-68-

69-70-71-72-73-74-75Mick Ko’cass 1976-77-78-79-80

(Resigned)Bill Brown 1980-81-82Bob Carroll 1983-84-85-86-87-88-

89-90-91-92-93-94Paul Egan 1995-96-97-98-99-2000-

01-02-03-04

PRESIDENTSArthur Ballerum 1908-09-10-11-12-13-

14-15-16Frank Savage 1917-18-19James N Walsh 1920-21-22-23-24-25-

26-28-29-40-41J Mccarry 1927-1930-31-32-33J Shaw 1934-35Bill O’Connor 1935A S Cochrane 1936-37-38-39L Crawley 1942-43A Dawes 1944-45-46Bert Hampstead 1947-48-49-50-51-52-

53-54Austin Hoyle 1955-56-57-58Robert Mckinney 1959-60-61Bill Evans 1962-63-64-65-66-67-

68-69-70Bob Waterson 1971-72-73-74-75-76-77John Jackson 1978-79-80-81-82Ted Hellsten 1983-84-85-86-87-88-

89-90-91-92Sid Coghlan 1993Robert Henderson 1994-95-96-97-98-99-

2000Bob Barnett 2001Bill Wise 2002-03-04John Culbert 2005

ASSISTANT SECRETARIESHarold Matthews 1913-14-15-16-17-18

19-20-21-22M Cooney 1927-28

B Curran 1929-30-31-32-33-34J Burnicle (1935)W L Young (1936-37-38-39-40)E Whitford 1941-42-43-44J Burnet 1945-46Harry Chalk 1947Arthur Robinson 1948-49-50-51-52-53-

54-55Bill Ballard 1956-57-58-59-60Arthur Mcilveen 1961-62-63-64-65-66-

67-68-69-70-71-72-73-74-75-76-77

Ron Wilson 1978-79Ray Dalton 1980-81Bob Carroll 1982Chris Kenny 1983-84-85-86Kathleen Hughes 1987Pat Hegarty 1988-89-90 (Retired)Cliff Madgwick 1990-91-92-93-94Graham Simmons 1995-96-97-98-99-2000-

01-02-03Lyn Phillis 2004-05

TREASURERSFrank Savage 1914-15-16-17-18-19-20Harold Matthews 1921-22W L Young 1923-24-25-26M Cooney 1927-28B Curran 1929-30-31D Cooksey 1932L Crawley 1933-34Allan Slarke 1935 J Connor 1936-37-38-39-40-41-

42-43H Mcleod 1944-45J Donovan 1946Harry Chalk 1947-48-49-50-51-52A Harding 1949-50-51Bob Jones 1953-54-55Arthur Robinson 1956-57-58-59-60-61 Ron Pursehouse 1962-63-64-65-66-67-68Reg Patterson 1969-70-71-72-73-74-

75-76Phil Lloyd 1977-78-79Doug Vitnell 1980Myles Kennedy 1981-82-83Tony Newell 1984-85-86Kathy Palmer 1986-87Sid Coghlan 1988-89-90-91Ernie Baldwin 1992-93-94-2002-03Tony Bietola 1995-96-97-98-99-

2000-01Chris Annison 2004-05

JUNIOR LEAGUE ADMINISTRATORSFrank Delaney 1937J Galvin 1937

VICE PRESIDENTTom Prescott 1924Richard Baker 1930-31-32-33

SENIOR VICE PRESIDENTSArthur Mcilveen 1978-79Ted Hellsten 1980-81-82Maurie O’Brien 1983-84-85-86Ken Brownlee 1988-89-90-91Sid Coghlan 1992Bob Barnett 1993-94-95-96-97-98-

99-2000Bill Wise 2001John Culbert 2002-03-04Allen Carling 2005

OPERATIONS MANAGERDarren Mooney 2004-05-06

GENERAL MANAGERBALMAIN RLFC & JUNIOR LEAGUEMichael Keech 2007-08

OPERATIONS Jennie Webster 2007-08

DEVLOPMENT MANAGERDavid Kelly 1997-98-99-2000-01-02

03-04-05-06-07-08

CHAIRMANRobert Henderson 2006-07-08

DIRECTORSJohn Carrington 2006-07-08Debbie Chalmers 2006John Critchley 2006-08Warwick Hilder 2006-07-08Gary Hinchliffe 2006-07Steve Lavers 2006-07Peter Mortimer 2006Mick O’Keefe 2006-07-08Bob Siemsen 2006-07-08Philip Taylor 2006-07-08David Wilson 2006-07-08Chris Raheb 2007-08Chris Annison 2007-08Ian Gibbeson 2007-08Jon Monroe 2007-08 (deceased)Robert Gerrie 2008Frank Dunne 2008John Stapleton 2008Brian Johnston 2008Brett Wheelhouse 2008

PATRONMick Manning 2006-07-08

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99th

ANNUAL REPORT

BALMAIN JUNIOR LEAGUE LIFE MEMBERS

BALMAIN JUNIOR LEAGUE BOARD OF DIRECTORSCHAIRMANBob Henderson

PATRONMick Manning

Balmain PCYC – Mick O’Keefe

Carlingford Cougars – Ian GibbesonConcord Burwood – Chris AnnisonDundas Shamrocks – Bob SiemsenFive Dock RSL – Jon Monroe (deceased)

John CritchleyHoly Cross Rhinos – Brett Wheelhouse

Leichhardt Juniors – Philip TaylorLeichhardt Wanderers – Robert Gerrie /

Frank DunneNorth Ryde Hawks – Warwick Hilder /

Brian JohnstonStrathfield Raiders – Chris Raheb

SUB COMMITTEESFINANCE COMMITTEEWarwick Hilder (Chairman)Michael Keech (General Manager Football)Peter Mortimer

AUDIT COMMITTEENil for 2008

JUDICIARY COMMITTEETony Beger (Chairman)Mick ManningSam Gebreal

LIFE MEMBERS COMMITTEERobert Henderson (Chairman)Mick Manning

John CarringtonJennie Webster (Operations)

COMBINED COMPETITIONSCOMMITTEEJennie Webster (Operations)Peter MortimerMichael Keech

JUNIOR LEAGUE CENTENARY BOOKChris Karas (Author)John Stanton (Chairman)Austin HoyleGeoff LargeBill BrownMichael Keech

NSWRL GOVERNMENT LIAISONCOMMITTEEWarwick Hilder

NATIONAL LEAGUENET COMMITTEEJennie Webster (Operations) representing NSW

RULES COMMITTEEPeter Mortimer (Chairman)Jennie Webster (Operations)David Wilson

COMPETITIONS COMMITTEENil for 2008

DRAW COMMITTEENil for 2008

Jim Acheson, Fred Alexander*, Kathy Annison, Jeff Aplitt, Keith Bailey, Bill Ballard, Allan Barber, Bob Barnett, Ernie Baldwin, Ken Bell*, Ray Barclay, Tony Bietola, Des Booler,George Bowden*, Bill Bradshaw*, Bill Brown, Ken Brownlee, Bill Burke, Harold Chalk*, Alan Carling, John Carrington, Bob Carroll, Sid Coghlan*, Brian Coleman, John Critchley, John Culbert, Charlie Day, Ray Dalton, Phil Dore, John Doyle,Max Davis, John Dunlea, Gary Dickson, Paul Egan, Terry Evans,Bill Evans*, Bill Fender*, G Frederick*, Jim Fitzgibbons, Mal Finnigan*, Gino Fogliati, Dennis Fowler*, Ray Gerrie, Don Graham*, Bert Hampstead*, Harry Hannaford, Pat Hegarty,Ted Hellsten*, Austin Hoyle, Les Heath, Bob Henderson, Peter Hunter, J Hughes*, Wally Houghton*, Keith Jacobs*,

John Jackson*, Steve Leslie, Cliff Madgwick*, Mick Manning,Harold Matthews*, Chris Karas, Myles Kennedy*, Jack King,Mick Ko’cass, Arthur McIlveen*, Tom Middleton*, Leo Neylon*,Tony Newell, Maurie O’Brien, Reg Patterson, Lyn Phillis, Ron Pursehouse, Roy Rawson, Eric Richardson*, Arthur Robinson, George Robinson*, Martin Ritter, Bob Siemsen, Dennis Simmons, Graham Simmons, H Skinner,John Stanton, Jack Tagg*, John Stapleton, Ken Stapleton, Jack Taylor*, Kevin Thatcher*, Colin Thew*, Ian Todd, Doug Vitnell*, Alan Watts, Bob Waterson, A Waterson, Athol Webster, Paul Wheelhouse, Ron Wicks, Billy Wise, Fred Woodbridge*, Stan Woodbridge*.*Deceased

CHRIS KARAS is a long-serving Sports Editor of TheWeekly Times newspaper at Ryde and life member ofthe Balmain Junior League.

The Weekly Times has covered junior league matters in theBalmain district since 1921 with Chris coming on board in1985.

At the age of 47, his ties with the game go back nearly fourdecades.

Chris started his junior football career as an 8 year old withGlebe Police Boys JRLFC in 1969 before capturingpremierships with Leichhardt Juniors (E Grade U/15s in1976) and Balmain Police Boys (D Grade U/18s in 1978) –a team skippered by legendary Tigers’ lock Wayne Pearce.

He ‘retired’ as a player at the age of 21 before making abrief comeback with the Leichhardt Wanderers club in 1984-85 and ’86.

Along the way, Chris represented Balmain as a centre in theHarold Matthews, S.G Ball, Jersey Flegg Cup and U/23competitions as well as Sydney Schoolboys and helped theTigers win the NSWRL Summer Coaching Schools Trophyin 1978.

Chris wrote “From Fraser to Farah – The History of BalmainJunior League 1908-2008” – his second book having earliercompleted “The History of Ryde Eastwood Hawks Football& Leagues Clubs 1963-2004.”

CHRIS KARAS

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OPERATIONS REPORTBalmain Junior League launched itsCentenary Season alongside theBalmain Ryde-Eastwood Tigers at theLeagues Club on March 13th. It wasan exciting night for the youngrepresentatives of our junior clubs tobe part of the celebrations and to mixwith the Senior Footballers andlegends, Wayne Pearce and KeithBarnes. It was important for thejuniors to be part of the launch toenable them and their families tomingle among their heroes andperhaps we can instil in them thedesire to become tomorrow's Tigers. Itwas a wonderful way to kick off ourjunior season.

116 teams were registered in the Junior League and although this was aslightly reduced number of teams from 2007, the big gain was theintroduction of the 13 year Balmain Competition as well as the 13 yearCombined Competition (Balmain / St George Competition). Thiscompetition allowed boys to continue to play rugby league within ourdistrict without the burden of travelling away. We were certainly able tosustain the two separate competitions and are very keen to continue thisgrowth into the 14s in 2009.

The growth of the player base in the District is certainly our strongestfocus and we are continuing to refine the Rules so that they are fair andequitable and become a strong document upon which every Club andplayer has faith in.

In 2008, we undertook the challenge of changing over the playerregistration process from a paper based card system to a plastic cardwhich only contained the only player’s name, photo, age and club. Theprocess took quite some time but together with the inception of a newNational Registration Form for 2009, the registration process for 2010,will become even more simplified for our volunteers.

A number of Forums were held within the Association in an effort tofoster better communication and to build a network of experiencedAdministrators. Workshops held included Ground Managers, a RegistrarsForum and Website Training. We will certainly be continuing theseworkshops in 2009.

As a direct result of the Website Training, Balmain, being one of thesmaller associations in New South Wales, was catapulted into the Top 20New South Wales Junior League Clubs on Website Page Requests.Concord Burwood heeded the advice from the Forum in placing allcommunications onto their website. Concord Burwood came in 3rd as thebest performing Junior League Club in the State in communicating withtheir members and we now throw out the challenge to all other Clubs inthe District to follow in their footsteps. Using a website as the maincommunication tool allows Clubs to receive among other things, instantupdates to Draws from the Junior League and access to all news withinthe NRL.

A highlight of the year was the Grand Finals held over two days atLeichhardt Oval. Balmain hosted 18 Grand Finals at Leichhardt Oval andonce again, the main match on Saturday evening was preceded by aspectacular fireworks display. Work will continue on educating all officials,players and spectators to ensure that matches are played within the spiritof the game and for the enjoyment of all.

Another highlight was the inaugural 2008 Awards Night highlighting ourRepresentative League, Junior League and recognising our Volunteersand Supporters. This is the first time we have brought all branches of theLeague together on the one night with our supporters and volunteers.

The evening was a sell out and an outstanding success.

The Balmain Junior League Board of Directors continues to meetregularly in the interests of the Junior League and in 2008, met on 12occasions. Five Dock Director, Jon Monroe sadly passed away on 20thOctober 2008. Jon was an extremely popular member of his Club, adedicated coach and trainer and most of all proud of the achievements ofhis sons. Jon will certainly be missed but not forgotten.

SEASON HIGHLIGHTS• Balmain PCYC and Concord Burwood United U12s were invited to

play a rugby league re-enactment match at Wentworth Park in whichthey wore clothing from that era. This was a day the players andofficials will long remember.

• Leichhardt Wanderers U8s winning the Junior Foundation Cup atSydney Football Stadium on February 23.

• All Under 8 teams were provided an opportunity to play an exhibitionmatch prior to NRL matches during the season and this was ahighlight in their season.

• Carlingford Cougars and North Ryde U8s won a ballot to play in thepre-match entertainment prior to the State of Origin on May 21, 2008.The excitement on their faces as they ran out on to the field in front ofthat tremendous crowed will long be remembered.

• All Clubs were visited by our State Cup team to offer coaching and/ormini games. At the end of the sessions there was usually anopportunity for autographs and sausage sizzles. These visits areextremely well received and will continue in 2009.

• Strathfield Raiders were Semi Finalists of the Under 13’s Coca ColaChallenge Series – Northern Region.

• North Ryde’s Under 21 team playing A Reserve in the Manly-NorthSydney Competition were runners up.

• Alexandra Siemsen from Dundas Shamrocks winning the GeorgeThompson Memorial Shield for Club Person of the Year. Once againGeorge’s wife, Eileen was on hand to present the Award which made itall the more special. In winning the award, Alexandra became theBalmain District Volunteer of the Year and attended the NSW RugbyLeague Junior League Volunteer of the Year Awards night held on 7thDecember 2008 at the Balmain Leagues Club. We are all proud ofAlexandra’s achievements.

• The Summer Tiger Ball Competition was once again a success and awonderful vehicle to introduce new players to the game.

WEB SITE STATISTICS

The Junior League website hits for 2008 were outstanding with 648,565hits which is 121,565 more hits than 2007. The website is continuallyupdated keeping it current, informative and interesting.

DIVISIONS

In 2008 the following divisions of rugbyleague were offered: 2 divisions of 9s,10s, 11s, 12s and the new BalmainU13s. We continue to grow with 14teams is in U6; 12 teams in U7 and 14teams in U8.

We now have 3 Clubs hosting specialage competitions, Holy Cross – TheBenny Elias Shield for U6-U8s;Leichhardt Wanderers – The RobbieFarah Challenge for U9s; and DundasShamrocks – the Mark O’Neill Shield forU10s. We urge other Clubs to consider Riley Price

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99th

ANNUAL REPORT

2008 REP SECRETARY’S REPORTRecognition must go to the many people who make it possible forthe teams to take the field each week.Thank you to the BalmainTigers District Football Club, the Junior League Board, our majorsponsors Balmain Leagues Club, Ryde Eastwood Leagues Club,DTS, Blades and Essential Man for the outstanding supportprovided during the 2008 Representative season.

HAROLD MATTHEWSAt the start of the season everyone was looking forward to seeing whatthe boys had to offer, as we felt they had not shown their full potentialduring the trials. At times they surprised even their coach, David Brooks,with their on-field skills. I hope that they all learnt from David and his staffduring the season. There were some disappointing results but our job isto develop the players’ skills on and off the field which I think we haveaccomplished.

I would like to thank David Brooks, Ken Stapleton, Wally Carpenter, MattDwyer, Allan Jarvis and Peter Mortimer for their great work in preparingthe team. I would also like to thank Olsen Filipaina for his input duringthe pre season.

It was a pleasure working with you all.

S G BALLIt was a season of ups and downs for the S G Ball. The team played agreat style of football for most of the season and had some great wins(Beat Newcastle in Newcastle & beat the eventual Premiers Roosters)but unfortunately lost momentum at crucial times during the season andnarrowly missed out on the semis.

Thank you to Darren McLean, Chris Brown, Ken Stapleton, Bob Cooper,Danny O’Neill, Robbie Stewart, Les Hobbs and Rob Whyte for thededication and effort shown during the year, you all did a wonderful job,once again and your commitment never waivered.

I hope that all of the players take the knowledge and experience theyhave gained working with the wonderful staff and use it to the best of

their ability in the future to reach their potential as players. If they do itwill stand them in good stead. Congratulations go to all of the Balmainplayers who gained selection in NSW Schoolboy representative teams,NYC with the Wests Tigers, NSW State Cup and the Wests Tigers CUBSat the conclusion of the Junior Rep competititon.

Thank you to all the people who make it possible for the boys to train andplay each week. As usual I never seem to be able to thank them enough.Brian Murtagh, Allan Charters, Eric Goddard, Dave Patman, DaveLidster, Jimmy Farlow, our exceptional Leichhardt Oval voluntary staff(June Maguire, Barry Maguire, Colleen Kelly, Patty Perkins, Helen Bryde,Maureen McKeon, Ruby Parnell, Shane Losurdo and Norma Walters)and our loyal parents and supporters for their encouragement throughoutthe season.

Finally, a special thank you, as always to Michael Keech, David KellyJohn Stapleton for the never ending help, support and guidance they giveme throughout the season.

Lyn PhillisDistrict Rep. Secretary

HAROLD MATTHEWS RESULTSRound 1 v Illawarra lost 30-14; Round 2 v Parramatta lost 26-0; Round 3 v NorthSydney won 24-20; Round 4 v Newcastle lost 36-14; Round 5 v Sydney Roosterswon 24-20; Round 6 v Western Suburbs lost 12-8; Round 7 v Cronulla lost 18-6;Round 8 v Manly lost 24-20; Round 9 Bye; Round 10 v Central Coast lost 22-14;Round 11 v South Sydney lost 44-10

S.G.BALL RESULTSRound 1 v Illawarra won 34-6; Round 2 v Parramatta drew 12-12; Round 3 v North Sydney won 40-6; Round 4 v Newcastle won 20-14; Round 5 v SydneyRoosters won 24-22; Round 6 v Western Suburbs drew 14-14; Round 7 v Cronullawon 34-18; Round 8 v Manly lost 24-16; Round 9 Bye; Round 10 v Central Coastwon 38-18; Round 11 v South Sydney lost 36-26

creating an age competition forU11s, 12s and 13s in the nearfuture.

Congratulations to all of the 2008Premiers. Chris Karas has done anexcellent job on reporting all of theresults later in this Report on allGrand Finals.

In 2007 we reported that GrandFinals over 2 days were becomingthe “norm”. In 2008, we werestretched to the limit with 18 GrandFinals and for 2009, we have placedall Clubs on alert that if our successon field continues to grow, we may

well need to play some Grand Finals at Leichhardt Oval on the Fridayday of the Grand Final Weekend to be able to cover all games!

Congratulations go to Strathfield Raiders on being awarded the JuniorClub of the Year with North Ryde Hawks taking the Senior honours.Congratulations to all players, coaches and officials on this tremendouseffort.

The Referees Association is steadily growing along with the JuniorLeague. This is extremely pleasing as recruiting is one thing but retainingreferees and volunteers is another thing completely. The Referee’s

Association President, David Wilson has done a wonderful job this yearand congratulations also go to Joanne Spagarino on being named theNo 1 Referee in the District and for her work as the Executive Officer. Mysincere thanks go to Sam Gebreal. One of Sam’s roles this year was toappoint referees, ensuring the smooth running of games. Sam is also amember of the Balmain Judiciary Panel.

My personal thanks go to Mr. Bob Henderson (Chairman of the JuniorLeague) and the Board; Mr. David Trodden (Balmain Football ClubChairman), Tim Camiller (Balmain Leagues Club CEO) for theirtremendous support and encouragement. Thanks also go to St GeorgePresident, Mr. Chris Brooks, Secretary, Mrs. Cathy Crowe and DrawsOfficial, Mr. Mitch Sim for their support of the Combined Competition forU13s to A Grade. Of course, I would also like to thank my workcolleagues David Kelly, Clinton Hill, Tyrone Collins and Tracey Aria fortheir friendship.

I would like to take this opportunity to particularly thank the GeneralManager, Mike Keech, for his unwavering support and faith in meperforming this role. Last, but by no means least, my thanks go to Mr.Bob Barnett and Mr. Mick Manning for their wisdom and support. I havethoroughly enjoyed my second year and really look forward to what 2009will bring.

Jennie WebsterOperationsBalmain District Junior Rugby League

Jesse Provan

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2008 BALMAIN HIGH SCHOOLS REPORTThe area contains 36 high schools that include co-ed, boys andgirls schools, public and private (independent, catholic, GPS) andone special education school. Rugby League has competition fromvarious other winter sports – soccer, AFL, netball and Rugby Unionand Teague Tag is in competition with cricket and other summersports.

Having started the role in late February, the following report containsinformation regarding Terms 2, 3 & 4 as by the time I had settled into therole and with conferences, etc little was done in terms of booking inprograms for Term 1. The report will be updated as 2008 draws to aclose.

SCHOOL CONTACTOver the course of the year each school has had the 2008 Informationpack mailed to them. This contained information regarding all theprograms that ARL Development runs in the high schools includingcompetitions, gala days, school clinics and courses. All schools have alsohad the following faxes sent to them:• Arrive Alive Cup (Term 1)• School clinics (Term 2)• Balmain All Schools (Term 2)• Cochrane Cup (Term 2)• Inner West 7s – Year 7 & 8 (Term 2)• Inner West Girls Tackle Gala Day (Term 3)• School Clinics (Term 3)• Free Year 7 Clinic (Term 3 & 4)• School Courses (Term 3)• Inner West Weight/Age Gala Day (Term 3)• Inner West 7s – Year 9 & 10 (Term 3)• School Clinics (Term 4)• Balmain Girls Only Tag Day (Term 4)

All Balmain high schools will additionally be sent out informationregarding courses for early 2009 as well as the 2009 Balmain SchoolsBlitz for next February.

Schools have also had the above faxes sent through to them as emailsdirectly to the teachers where the school Rugby League /sportscoordinator’s contact email address has been known. The schools thatare perceived to be ‘Cold’ (little or no involvement in Rugby League) have

also had phone calls made to them and messages left for call backs.

SCHOOL INVOLVEMENTOut of the 36 schools in the area 21 have had some type of involvementin a program run by ARL Development and/or in conjunction with anotherRugby League body. This has included the following:• 3 - 4 Week School Rugby League Program (League 7s)• State Wide Competitions (Arrive Alive Cup, Cochrane Cup)• Gala Days (All Schools, Captain’s Cup, League 7s, League Tag)• Courses (Referee’s or League Safe)• Free Clinics (Introductory or Coaching Clinic)

Some schools have been highly involved, doing numerous activities thatare run by either ARL Development or the Balmain Tigers while otherschools have involved themselves in only one of the above mentionprograms. A cross section of High School students has been involved inthe programs from Year 7 right through to Year 12 and both girls andboys have been exposed to Rugby League in 2008.

I have been involved with some schools indirectly when I have made theeffort to attend some of the established School Rugby Leaguecompetitions (MCS, MCC, various public school zones, etc) and offeredsupport where needed. However, I have found that most of these run withlittle intervention from ARL Development or the Balmain Tigers.

OTHER INVOLVEMENTThroughout both the April and July School Holidays, programs were runaimed at High School age children. Both programs were held at thehome of the Balmain Tigers – Leichhardt Oval and all participants weregiven T-Shirts on top of the Kids to Kangaroos pack. During the Julyholidays 44 participants attended the annual Mod Camp – designed forplayers who were converting from Mod League to International. In theJuly holidays 12 children attended the first International Camp held forplayers of a young International age (12 - 16 years old). This clinic wasdone in conjunction with a very successful primary aged Kids toKangaroos program run on the same day.

I have also been involved with various Balmain Junior Rugby LeagueClub visits; however some were cancelled due to poor weather. I havealso helped with various functions put on by the Balmain Tigers and theJunior League as well as help organise the participants for the half time

BALMAIN JRL JUDICIARY REPORT 2008 SEASONAnother successful season has ended and congratulations to allthose who participated during the 2008 season.

The Judiciary met on 15 occasions during the 2008 season and heard 34matters broken down as follows:

Tripping, Kicking or Striking – 15 charges; Dangerous Tackling –1 charge; Dangerous Throw – 2 charges; Breaking the Laws of thegame – 2 charges; Offensive or obscene language – 3 charges; Disputedecision of referee or touch judge – 3 charges; Enter the field of playwithout permission – 1 charge; Contrary behaviour – 7 charges

2008 saw an increase in offences against match officials, includingdeliberate physical contact with referees and/or touch judges. Theseoffences received lengthy suspensions up to 2 years in duration.

The safety of all participants in the game of rugby league is paramountand anyone breaking the laws of the game will be dealt with by thematch officials.

Every club member and/or supporter is bound by the ARL Code of

Conduct and failure to comply with the Code will result in harsh penaltiesbeing delivered to any offenders.

My sincere thanks are extended to my fellow judiciary members, MickManning and Sam Gebreal and to reserve members John Carringtonand John Harris. I would also like to thank Sam for again representingBalmain district at the St George Judiciary on those occasions when Iwas unable to attend that Judiciary.

My thanks and appreciation are again extended to the members of theBalmain Junior Rugby League Board for their ongoing support, to theBalmain Referees Association for their professionalism and dedication tothe job at hand, to David Trodden for his support and particularly toJennie Webster and Michael Keech for their dedication to the juniorleague, patience and unwavering support throughout what can be asomewhat difficult season.

I wish everyone a safe and healthy off season and hope everyonereturns in 2009 for another season of footy.

Tony BegerJudiciary Chairman

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entertainment at numerous NRL games. I have also helped the programsrun by ARL Development in the Balmain primary schools, where myschedule has allowed.

CHALLENGESThroughout the year I found the most difficult aspect has been thatteachers do not exactly know what my role entails in terms of what I canoffer the schools. I have worked to rectify this with the schools I have hadcontact with (For Example, Homebush Boys HS have had 4 programsrun at their school after finding out what it is I do) however, some of thegirls schools still believe Rugby League is solely a male sport and do notwant any contact.

I have also found because this is only the second year a ARLDevelopment High School’s position has been operating in the BalmainDistrict, some schools are unwilling to participate even though many ofthe students at the school want to be involved in Rugby League. It is alsodifficult to find the right teacher contact at some schools and once arapport has been developed at the school, if the teacher leaves then allthe hard work that has been done is then lost.

It has also been frustrating that the Balmain high schools have beenoffered the exact same opportunities, and sometimes even more, than Ihave offered the Canterbury high schools, yet they have not taken upsuch opportunities.

FUTURETowards the end of Term 4, 2008 I am looking towards trying to meet

with some teachers at some of the ‘cold’ schools and see what can bedone for these schools. Also, information will be sent out to the schoolsregarding 2009 Courses – mainly Referees but also offering League Safe& MGC for Term 1 so that the students can be assessed throughout therest of 2009. Information for the 2009 Balmain Schools Blitz will also bedelivered to schools and hopefully there will be a good reactionconsidering no high schools in the area have been involved in the past.

The 2009 Gala Days will also be restructured with the Captain’s Cup nolonger being run across the two areas with Canterbury high schools andwill be played on one day with all years (7-10) participating instead of itbeing broken up over two days. This day will also be named after the2009 Captain on the Wests Tigers (E.g. Benji Marshall Cup) and willhopefully have a perpetual trophy used for the competition.

All schools will be sent out the 2009 Information Package tailored to theirschool (girls, boys or co-ed, etc) however, I aim to have some programsbooked in before 2008 finishes.

If you would like any further information regarding anything contained inthis report or would like to discuss anything from the report please to donot hesitate to contact me.

Yours in Rugby League

Tyrone CollinsNational Development Officer ARL Development – Inner WestM: 0407 662 221E: innerwestsecondary@arldevelopment.com.au

2008 BALMAIN PRIMARY SCHOOLS REPORT2008 All Schools ChampionshipsThe winners for the day were • U9’s St Charles• U10a Holy Spirit• U10b North Ryde• U11a Holy Spirit• Open Primary A Denistone East• Open Primary B St Paul of the cross

The winners for the day were• U13’s Holy Cross College• U14’s Holy Cross College• U15’s Holy Cross College• U16’s Strathfield South High School• Opens – Holy Cross College

Arrive Alive Cup – Opens• Holy Cross College

Cochrane Cup – u/14 Challenge• Christian Brothers Burwood

Siro 7s – Primary School • North Ryde Primary PS

PSSA Tiger Tag• Boys – North Ryde PS• Girls – Putney PS

Gala Day – Tag• Santa Sabina Catholic School

School Holiday Camps• Easter K2K Camp – 24 participants • Easter Mod Camp – 15 participants• Easter (Sydney Uni) Multi Sports Camp – 66 participants• July K2K Camp – 152 participants• October K2K Camp – 60 participants

HONOURS FOR JUNIOR LEAGUE QUINTETTHE WEEKLY TIMES Sports Editor Chris Karas was oneof five Balmain Junior League identities to receive lifemembership at last year’s AGM at Balmain LeaguesClub.

He was honoured along with stalwarts John Stanton, RayGerrie, Ken Stapleton and Kathy Annison. All five recipientswere presented with special life membership pins byBalmain Football Club chairman David Trodden.

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100 YEARS OF HISTORY.....

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100 YEARS OF HISTORY.....

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BALMAIN JUNIOR LEAGUE TEAM OF CENTURYFORMER Test captains Charles ‘Chook’ Fraser, Jim Craig and Albert‘Rick’ Johnston were named in a powerful Balmain Junior LeagueTeam of the Century at a Centenary Sports Luncheon held at LeMontage Lilyfield on August 15.

Twenty of the greatest players produced by the Balmain district werehonored and inducted into the Tigers’ Junior League Hall of Fame.Pictured standing l to r are TWT Sports Editor and author of Centenarybook “From Fraser to Farah – History of Balmain Junior League 1908-2008” Chris Karas; Steve Freney (representing prop Bill Schultz); GeoffStarling, Wayne Pearce, Nathan Tyrrell (representing forward Tom Tyrrell);David Robinson, grandson of Jack ‘Junker’ Robinson; Bobby Grant, Fredde Belin jnr representing his father – forward Fred de Belin snr; PaulSironen, Steve Roach, Brian Bourke (representing centre Tom Bourkewho was named captain); David Mayne, grandson of utility half RickJohnston; seated James Raffell, descendant of Rick Johnston; BobbyBoland, Jim Fraser (representing fullback Charles ‘Chook’ Fraser),Connie Latta (representing lock Reg Latta), Benny Elias and BobbyMara.

Other players named were Sid Goodwin, Jim Craig, Tim Brasher and BillMarsh. Coach of the Century was ‘Wee’ George Robinson.

A panel consisting of Balmain Junior League life members Austin Hoyle,

John Stanton and Chris Karas; former Tigers president and NRL Boardchairman John Chalk; former Codocks, Drummoyne and Birchgrovestalwart Geoff Large and Leichhardt Wanderers life member Dick Sherriffhelped select the Junior League Team of the Century and Hall of Fameinductees.

The Balmain Junior League Team of the Century was: Fullback: Charles‘Chook’ Fraser (Balmain Iona); Wingers: Bobby Mara (Glebe Police Boys)and Sid Goodwin (Balmain Shamrocks); Centres: Tom Bourke (St JamesGlebe) captain and Geoff Starling (Rozelle Codocks); Five eighth: JimCraig (Balmain Iona); Half back: Bobby Grant (Glebe Police Boys &Codocks); Lock: Reg Latta (Balmain Fitzroys); Second Rowers: WaynePearce (Balmain Police Boys) and Paul Sironen (Gladesville Sports &North Ryde Juniors); Props: Steve Roach (Balmain Police Boys) and BillSchultz (Balmain Iona); Hooker: Ben Elias (Holy Cross); Interchange:Albert ‘Ricketty’ Johnston (Balmain Iona & Elliott Brothers); Tim Brasher(Burwood United); Bobby Boland (Balmain Shamrocks); Jack ‘Junker’Robinson (Rozelle Fernleigh); Tom Tyrrell (Ryde Juniors); Bill Marsh(Codocks) and Fred de Belin (Balmain Police Boys). Coach: GeorgeRobinson (Balmain Arlines).

Front Cover Photo by Cyndee Chisholm – The Melba Studios.

HALL OF FAME TIGERS

BALMAIN rugby league legends Sid Ryan, Jack Hampstead, BobbyMara, Laurie Fagan, Neil Pringle and John Davidson were inductedinto the Tigers Hall of Fame at the 2008 Centenary Dinner held atSydney's Westin Hotel.

Pictured standing is NRL referee Sean Hampstead (representing hisgrandfather Jack), Neil Pringle and Mick Davidson (representing brother

John); seated Sid Ryan, Harry Bath, Pat Devery, Laurie Fagan and BobMara. Bath and Devery were inaugural Hall of Fame inductees in 2005.

Ryan (Birchgrove Olympics), Hampstead (Rozelle Old Boys), Mara(Glebe Police Boys), Fagan (Drummoyne) and Davidson (Ermington-Rydalmere & Birchgrove Scorpions) are all Balmain junior products.

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BALMAIN JUNIOR LEAGUE SEASON LAUNCHBalmain Junior League launched their 2008 Centenaryseason on March 13 with a joint celebration with Balmain-Ryde Eastwood Tigers at Balmain Leagues Club. Picturedis BJL chairman Bob Henderson, Ryde Eastwood FootballClub president Keith Aggett and Balmain Tigers chairmanDavid Trodden with Tiger cubs Brandon Fisher (CarlingfordCougars), McLean Rowley (Strathfield Raiders), RyanO’Keefe (Balmain Police Boys), Ryan Davoren-Whereat(Dundas Shamrocks), Thomas Gerrie (Wanderers), JackGerrie (Wanderers), Hayden Gerrie (Wanderers), RyanPrice (North Ryde Hawks) and Luke Celona (Concord-Burwood Wolves). Tigers’ legend Keith Barnes is on stagein background.

BALMAIN JUNIOR LEAGUE 100TH BIRTHDAY

BALMAIN Junior League was the first Junior League association formedin Australia and members celebrated its 100th birthday on April 6, 2008at Birchgrove Oval. Former Tigers legends and Junior League stalwartsassembled at the ground to celebrate the milestone with Jim Fraser, sonof Tigers’ all time great Charles ‘Chook’ Fraser, officially kicking off the2008 season. Jim is pictured front with Codocks legend Jim Fitzgibbon(seated) and fellow Balmain junior products Sid Ryan, Geoff Starling,Merv Muggleton, Frank Ragen, Mike Marketo, Peter Duffy, KevinHardwick, John Owens, Garry Mara, Graham Pearce, Bobby Mara, 1969Grand Final stars Keith Outten and John Spencer, Hilton Kidd and John

Stanton. Also pictured are Junior League patron Mick Manning, ex-JuniorLeague secretaries Bob Carroll and Paul Egan; former presidents AustinHoyle, Billy Wise and Bob Henderson; stalwarts Geoff Large, JohnCarrington, Darcy Lawler, Frank Borg, Allan Barber, Ron White, BrianColeman, Kevin Fraser – grandson of ‘Chook’ Fraser; Balmain-RydeEastwood coach Paul Fletcher; Western Suburbs legendary forward andHoly Cross coach Bill Owens; Balmain Football Club chairman DavidTrodden and Tigers’ CEO Tim Camiller with The Weekly Times SportsEditor and Balmain Junior League life member Chris Karas.

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BALMAIN JUNIOR LEAGUE CENTENARY KICKOFF

JIM FRASER – son of Balmain immortal Charles ‘Chook’Fraser – officially kicked off Balmain Junior League’sCentenary season on April 6, 2008 at Birchgrove Oval – thespiritual home of rugby league. He is flanked by former

NSW and Balmain premiership-winning forward Sid Ryanand legendary Tigers’ Test centre Geoff Starling and juniorplayers from Leichhardt Juniors and Concord-BurwoodUnited Wolves.

BALMAIN JUNIOR LEAGUE LIFE MEMBERS REUNIONBALMAIN rugby league stalwartstook a trip down memory lane at theannual Tigers Life Membersluncheon held on November 14 atBalmain Leagues Club.

Pictured standing l to r are BalmainJunior League life members Jeff Aplitt,John Doyle, Paul Wheelhouse, MaurieO’Brien, Lyn Phillis, Bob Carroll, RayGerrie, Bob Barnett, Bob Siemsen,Tony Bietola, Bill Burke, BrianColeman, John Stanton, Martin Ritter;front The Weekly Times Sports EditorChris Karas, Bob Henderson, JimFitzgibbon and Ken Stapleton and BillyWise.

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BALMAIN & SOUTHS CENTENARY LUNCHEON

TIGER GREATS HONOUREDSOME of the biggest names in Balmainrugby league folklore were honoured with lifemembership on March 9 at the 100th FootballClub AGM at Balmain Leagues Club.

Former Balmain internationals Tim Brasher andLarry Corowa and ex-New Zealand Test halfbackGary Freeman were three of 19 Tigers’ identitiesto receive life membership pins for outstandingservice in the Centenary year of rugby league.

Other recipients included Olympic swimminggreat and Board director Dawn Fraser; Tigers’legends Keith Outten, Larry Corowa, NeilPringle, Steve Lavers, Trevor Ryan, JohnDavidson, Kerry Hemsley, John Owens, MarkO’Neill and Darren Senter; long serving headtrainer Les Hobbs; master junior representativecoaches John Stanton and Jim Thomson; formerBalmain Junior League president and FootballClub CEO Austin Hoyle; Balmain Football ClubVice Chairman Dr Leslie Glen and BalmainLeagues Club president Kevin Rooney.

Three of the recipients – Corowa, Pringle andBrasher – were unable to attend the AGM but werepresented with their life membership pins at Centenaryfunctions later in the year.

Balmain greats Benny Elias and Paul Sironen joined theirfellow Football Club director Danny Stapleton in payinghomage to the Tigers’ stalwarts.

BALMAIN Junior League products to receive LifeMembership at the Balmain District Football ClubCentenary AGM were standing l to r: John Davidson,John Owens, Keith Outten, John Stanton, Mark O'Neill;seated Kevin Rooney, Jim Thomson, Austin Hoyle andJohn O'Brien.

BALMAIN Juniors and Souths Juniors officially celebrated theirrespective Centenary milestones with a special luncheon at ErskinevilleBowling Club in April 2008.Pictured with Balmain stalwarts Chris Karas, John Stanton, Austin Hoyle,Geoff Large, Dick Sherriff, Bill Brown, Bob Siemsen, Bill Tulloch, LynPhillis and Paul Wheelhouse are Souths JL life members Keith McCraw,

Rod Gorman, Clem Kennedy, Peter Ramsay, Frank Cookson, RonEllison, Bob Ungaro, Hans Hilderbrandt, Ryan Lane, Henry Morris, KenWilliams, Col McKeogh, Ron Harder, Jack Fanale, John Hurst, PeterEllington, John Viney, John Yates, John Donnelly, Wally Dean, DawnEllison, Dot Lane, Sue Hilderbrandt, Irene Ungaro and Pam Williams.

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HARD working Dundas Shamrocks stalwart AlexandraSiemsen is the eleventh recipient of the GeorgeThompson Memorial Trophy.

She is a worthy winner of the award that recognises themost outstanding contribution by a club official in theBalmain Junior League.

The Award perpetuates the memory of George Thompson,a great Tigers’ administrator, who died of cancer in 1997.

47 year old Siemsen – who has given yeoman service to StPatricks Dundas and Dundas Shamrocks during the past 13years – received her coveted award from George’s widowEileen Thompson at the Tigers Awards Night in November.

Alexandra was also Balmain Junior League’s representativeat the NSWRL Volunteer of the Year Awards Dinner atBalmain Leagues Club.

It was a proud moment for the tireless mum who washonoured along with fellow NSW Junior League volunteersat the Centenary Year function.

Alexandra and husband Bob – the Shamrocks long-servingpresident and a former George Thompson Trophy winner –have devoted many years to fostering rugby league in theBalmain district.

During that time Alexandra has held various roles fromcanteen co-ordinator, assistant secretary, website editor toorganising fund-raising events.

Her association with the Shamrocks began when sons Markand Steven first registered with St Patricks Dundas in theMini League competitions.

Mark went on to represent Balmain as a lock forward in theHarold Matthews and S.G Ball Cup while Steven, apromising hooker, toured with the Tigers U/14 Young Guns.

Another proud moment for Alexandra was receiving aCommonwealth Sport Achievement Award in 2004 for heroutstanding contribution to sport.

TIGER TALES by CHRIS KARAS

GEORGE THOMPSON MEMORIAL TROPHY

BALMAIN Junior League’s hardest working officialswere recognised with the 12th annual Club Volunteerof the Year Awards.

Stalwart John Stapleton presented the 2008 awardeeswith their plaques at the Tigers’ annual Awards Night atBalmain Leagues Club on November 22.

This year’s recipients were: Anthony Bignold (BalmainPCYC); Wendy Siriani (Carlingford Cougars); ScottLester (Concord-Burwood United); Kym Davoren(Dundas Shamrocks); Kerry Jenson (Five Dock RSL);Pat Mitchell, Alan Jarvis & Helen Williams (Holy CrossRhinos); Shaun McCarthy (Leichhardt Juniors); RobertGerrie (Leichhardt Wanderers); Annette Sturtridge(North Ryde Hawks) and Anita Rowley (StrathfieldRaiders).

The award is the brainchild of former Balmain JuniorLeague secretary Paul Egan and wife Kim and salutesthe behind-the-scenes work of industrious clubmembers.

CLUB PERSONS OF YEAR AWARDS

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DON GRAHAM MEMORIAL TROPHYTOUGH tackling North Ryde centre Dylan Theuerjahr isthis year’s winner of the Don Graham Memorial U/19Player of the Year Award.

A soccer convert, Dylan continued his rapid rugby leaguedevelopment during 2008 by helping the Hawks capture theU/19 Division 1 premiership with a 24-12 Grand Final victoryover Kingsgrove Colts at Leichhardt Oval.

Dylan’s rugged defence and sharp running out wide were afeature of the win and earned the youngster his second titlesince joining the Hawks back in 2006.

Club officials recognised the centre’s raw potential bypresenting him with the Bob Booth Memorial Best & Fairesttrophy – a just reward for his sterling performances in thered and white.

The super-fit Theuerjahr (pronounced Toya) made his juniorleague debut for North Ryde as a centre in DarrenMcLean’s Under 18 squad that won the 2006 Division 1premiership.

His sound defence helped the Hawks topple HurstvilleUnited 15-14 in the trophy decider at Leichhardt Oval.

Dylan made the step up to U/19s the following season andpicked up a “Best Back” award before playing a key role inNorth Ryde’s 2008 title triumph with consistent displays.

“Winning the Don Graham Trophy is an unreal feeling,” saidan excited Dylan when learning the news of his award.

“I suppose I’ve been somewhat of a lucky charm for the

Hawks – winning two premierships in my three years at theclub. So many fine players have received this trophy and I’mprivileged to now have my name on it” he added.

Theuerjahr, who grew up in Ryde, played soccer from theage of five with Gladesville Spirit, Ryde City, North Rydeand Leichhardt before taking up rugby at Ryde SecondaryCollege (formerly Malvina High) where he shone in theposition of fullback.

Dylan was selected in the Balmain U/17 Development teamand later pulled out of the S.G Ball squad but according tohis Hawks’ coach Rob Ward is “tailor made” for the rigoursof junior representative football.

In the summer months, Theuerjahr keeps in shape byplaying with the TROY side in the Ryde-Eastwood TouchFootball Association Premier League competition and in hisfull time job as a builder with the company Beecraft.

Dylan joins previous winners Patrick Walsh and PaulMcInerney (Holy Cross), Paul Tutt (Gladesville Sports),David Rose (Wanderers), Ian McCann and Shane Williams(Cricketers Arms), Gordon Rytmeister (North Ryde), MarcWebber (West Ryde-Denistone), Billy Long (Pyrmont Colts),Luke Long (Balmain United), Jason Thompson (Wanderers),Joe Hawach and Paul Owens (Ryde Eastwood), AnthonyGolder (Annandale Waratahs), Dean Hutchison and ClintWoods (Leichhardt Juniors), Shadi Haddad (Five DockRSL), Corey Lee and Hugo Duarte (Leichhardt Juniors),Matthew Olsen (Wanderers)and Ali Musri (North Ryde) onthe U/19s honour roll.

KEVIN O’KEEFE MEMORIAL TROPHYTIGERS CLUB PERSON OF YEARHARD working Balmain Ladies volunteers are winnersof this year’s Kevin O’Keefe Memorial Club Person ofthe Year Award.

Pictured with Balmain Leagues Club CEO Tim Camiller areJune Maguire, Colleen Kelly, Patty Perkins, MaureenMcKeon, Ruby Parnell, Helen Bryde and Norma Walters – adedicated group whose tireless efforts behind the scenescontribute to the success of the Tigers off the field.

The award commemorates the Tigers’ long serving sin binattendant and life member Kevin O’Keefe who died of aheart attack in 2006.

North Ryde Hawks presidentBrian Johnston with U/19 Player

of the Year Dylan Theuerjahr.

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POWERFUL Holy Cross forward Sebastian Vourlos hasearned the Jan Carroll Memorial U/17 Player of the YearTrophy.

Vourlos, 17, is fast-developing into a complete player andshowed his capabilities in the NSWRL S.G Ball Cup seriesand combined Balmain-St George U/19 competition duringthe 2008 season.

The strong-running forward was blooded in the Tigers’ S.GBall U/18 squad and caught the eye with his strength,mobility and skill under the coaching of Darren McLean.

At club level he played two years above his age group forthe Holy Cross Rhinos U/19 team where he turned inwholehearted displays.

The Rhinos missed out on a finals berth but got value plusfrom the promising back rower-cum-prop who impressedofficials with his power and speed and raw courage.

Vourlos began his league career with North Ryde andreceived his first taste of representative football with theBalmain Junior Development squads from the age of 13.

He later linked with Leichhardt Juniors and in 2007 was amember of the Holy Cross team that clinched the U/17Division 1 premiership with a 30-16 victory over Concord-Burwood United.

Playing a year above his age group, Vourlos revelled in the‘Clash of the Titans’ and was one of the best forwards onground – carting the ball up strongly and tackling himself to

a standstill.

Sebastian was set to make his Junior Cup representativedebut in 2006 at the age of 15 but broke his leg in a HaroldMatthews Cup pre-season trial.

It was cruel luck for the powerfully-built forward whoimpressed selectors with his mobility around the field andhigh work rate.

But disappointment turned to ecstacy the following seasonwhen he donned the black and gold jumper in the 2007Matthews Cup competition and helped the Tigers’ reach thequarter finals.

The cubs were eliminated by Parramatta (28-10) withVourlos, hooker Patrick Politoni and Australian Schoolboysprop Aaron Woods turning in mighty games for the Balmainside.

Vourlos capped a memorable season when he collected theGeorge Thompson Scholarship Award for his tireless effortsat club and representative level.

He shapes as a key player in Balmain’s 2009 S.G Ballsquad where he’ll be tutored by Tigers’ forward legendDavid Brooks.

Previous winners of the Jan Carroll Trophy include SolomonHaumono (Concord United), Chad Lee and Rhys Stevenson(Leichhardt Juniors) and Josh Jeffery, Damien Braumannand Richard Ngawini (Wanderers) and Matthew Mizzi (HolyCross).

JAN CARROLL MEMORIAL TROPHY

JOHN STAPLETON TROPHYSTRAPPING North Ryde forward Kelvin Weir is the 19threcipient of the John Stapleton Trophy for the BalmainJunior League A Grade Player of the Year.

The 20 year old New Zealander was a deserved recipientafter his blockbusting displays for the Hawks this season inthe Manly-Warringah A Grade competition.

Weir, who moved to Sydney from the Shakey Isles two yearsago for an opportunity to play sport professionally, linkedwith the Holy Cross club in 2007 and showed his ability byhelping the Rhinos qualify for the U/21 finals series.

He joined the North Ryde Hawks this season and made ahuge impact at club and representative level.

As well as guiding the Hawks into the A3 Division GrandFinal, the power running Weir skippered the Balmainrepresentative team that defeated Eastern Suburbs 46-26 atLeichhardt Oval to clinch the Arthur Beetson Challenge Cup.

The powerfully-built forward led by example with his ruggeddefence, clever passing and bustling runs a feature of theTigers’ crushing win.

Currently trialling with the Cabramatta Jim Beam Cupsquad, there is every chance that Weir could find himself

playing for an NRL club one day down the track.

“That is my sporting goal,” revealed a fit and determinedWeir, who is training the house down in the off-season inpreparation for the 2009 campaign.

“I want to make every post a winner in the NSWRLcompetition and hopefully get a crack at the big time. Ittakes a lot of luck and hard work but I’ll be in there giving itmy best shot” said the Kiwi enforcer.

Former Balmain first grade half back and premiership-winning reserve grade coach Peter Duffy, who plotted theTigers’ Challenge Cup triumph, was full of praise for hisinspirational captain.

“Kelvin was a pleasure to coach – he gives you 100 percent commitment each time he takes the field and has theattitude and skill to go a long way in this game,” said Duffy.

“His work rate is phenomenal and I like the fact that he isstill eager to learn as a senior player.”

As a schoolboy, Weir played rugby at Opunake High andwith Coastal Rugby Club as a fullback and centre beforeswitching to the forwards.

He represented Taranaki and North Island and later jumped

Balmain Football Club GeneralManager Michael Keech with U/17 Player of Year

Sebastian Vourlos.

Balmain stalwart John Stapletonwith A Grade Player of Year

Kelvin Weir.

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JACK KING TROPHY PROMISING utility player Brodie Monroe is the Balmaindistrict’s Under 16 junior rugby league Player of the Yearfor 2008.

The versatile cub was awarded the Jack King Trophy afterstand out performances for Five Dock RSL this year in thecombined Balmain-St George competition and with theBalmain Harold Matthews Cup junior representative team.

Courage and ability are words that best describe 16 yearold Monroe, a raw boned footballer who is regarded one ofthe best prospects in the Tigers’ junior nursery.

Young Brodie rode an emotional rollercoaster during the2008 season – earning representative honours with Balmainand tasting premiership success with the Dockers whilehelping nurse his seriously ill father Jon Monroe, a FiveDock stalwart and leading trainer.

Tragically, Jon passed away on October 20 at the age of 45after a long battle with cancer – just seven weeks afterBrodie spearheaded the Dockers to an U/16 Division 1Grand Final win over Renown United at Leichhardt Oval.

With a brave Jon lending support in his official role as teamtrainer, son Brodie produced a super performance as FiveDock RSL thumped Renown 40-20 to bring home thesilverware.

The talented Balmain Harold Matthews Cup skipper turnedthe match with three second half tries to help the Dockerscapture the Mal Fallon Trophy – their first title as a teamsince 2004.

Monroe was dynamic at five eighth and scored a hat trick oftries in the space of five minutes as Five Dock surged to acommanding 30-4 lead.

The hard running pivot broke Renown’s spirit when hecrossed in the 32nd, 34th and 36th minutes after bumpingoff defenders at will.

He also popped a pass for fullback Lachlan Jenson to scoreafter six minutes and created another for powerful centre

Joel Luani in the 21st minute.

A highlight for Jon was witnessing his gifted son lead theclub to a deserved premiership and take out the officialPlayer of the Match award.

Brodie showed potential at an early age and starred for theDockers as a rampaging forward in Mini and Mod Footballranks – helping the Dockers win back-to-back titles in U/11s(2003) and U/12s (2004).

Playing lock forward, he was judged Player of the Match inthe Dockers’ 32-22 Grand Final loss to Kingsgrove ColtsU/14s in the combined Balmain-St George competition in2006 and turned in a strong performance in Five Dock’sshock 30-16 loss to Holy Cross Rhinos in the U/15 GrandFinal at Leichhardt Oval during the 2007 season.

Brodie, a student at The Kings School at Parramatta, hasrepresented the Tigers since the age of 13 in JuniorDevelopment squads and at NSWRL Junior Cup level.

He toured twice with the triumphant Balmain U/14 YoungGuns in 2005 and ‘06 – helping the cubs win the TweedHeads Cup, Northern Rivers Regional Shield and ClaeWebb Memorial Shield trophies on their northern NSW andQueensland sojourns.

Monroe, who has also represented Eastwood in juniorrugby, showed his potential in Balmain’s Harold MatthewsCup team during 2007-08 and was rewarded with a berth inthe all-conquering Wests Tigers CUBS squad that toured Fijiduring October.

Past winners of the Jack King Trophy include: John Kaho(Burwood United), Grant Benjamin (Leichhardt Juniors), AbeAllamaddine (Leichhardt Juniors), Ben Critchley (Five DockRSL), Josh Jeffery (Wanderers), Willie Tupou (Wanderers),Bronson Harrison (Wanderers), Ewen Cameron(Wanderers), Nick Tice (Leichhardt Juniors), Daniel Casa(Holy Cross), Nathan Plummer (Holy Cross), Tim Bennetts(Carlingford Cougars) and Drew Laing (Holy Cross).

at the chance to move across the Tasman and give thegame of rugby league a try.

Kelvin’s solid performances in the Balmain Junior Leagueranks earned him a spot in the Balmain-Ryde EastwoodState Cup train-on squad – a just reward for the versatileHawk.

Balmain rugby league stalwart John Stapleton presentedWeir with his award recently at Balmain Leagues Club.

Kelvin is currently living with John’s brother Ken – theBalmain Harold Matthews Cup U/16 representative coach –and family at their Lilyfield home and is thoroughly enjoyingthe experience.

“Ken and Sharon are the ideal hosts and the kids are full offun and vitality but I’m just getting used to the extra training

sessions that team Stapleton have implemented” said Kelvin.

No surprise as Ken Stapleton has always been regarded asone of the district’s finest coach/trainers with a swag ofpremierships and well conditioned teams in his 35 years inthe business.

Kelvin joins previous winners Graham Pearce (RydeEastwood), Gary Braams (Sawdust), Grant Thomas(Balmain United), Peter Bingham (West Ryde-Denistone),Jason Banfield (Concord United), Frank Dunne, CraigBarnett, Robert Gerrie (Leichhardt Wanderers), AaronBrown and Nathan Donato (Balmain United), CameronLiddle and James Harradence (West Ryde-Denistone),Jason Tutt (Sawdust Storm), Joel Lacey (West Ryde-Denistone), Paul Wallace and Justin Williams (North Ryde),Damien Braumann (Leichhardt Juniors) and John Kaho(Leichhardt Wanderers) on the A Grade honour roll.

BJL stalwart Jack King with U/16Player of Year Brodie Monroe.

Jon Monroe with son Brodie.

20

TIGERS AWARDS NIGHT

BALMAIN-RYDE Eastwood forward Ryan Tandy took outthe Harry Quinlan Memorial Trophy for the best & fairestTigers player in NSW State Cup at the Tigers’ 2008Awards Night at Balmain Leagues Club.

The Irish World Cup star is pictured second left with fellowtrophy recipients Alan Schirnack (Adam Gardiner MemorialBest Forward); Rhys Hanbury (Best Back and Keith BarnesLeading Points-Scorer 162 pts); coach Paul Fletcher, JarredFarlow (Players’ Player) and David Gower (Coach’s Award).

Rookie utility Brett Peacock, a former Carlingford Cougarsjunior who helped Dundas Shamrocks win an U/19s title in2008, collected the Ryde Eastwood Rising Star Award forhis strong displays in the State Cup.

HARRY QUINLAN MEMORIAL TROPHY

ADAM GARDINER MEMORIAL AWARDSTRONG running Balmain-Ryde Eastwood forward AlanSchirnack is the third recipient of the Adam GardinerMemorial Trophy.The award commemorates the life offormer Tigers’ assistant Jersey Flegg and PremierLeague coach Adam Gardiner who lost a brave battlewith amyloidosis in 2006 at the age of 35.

Schirnack, who was judged the Tigers’ best forward duringthe 2008 NSWRL State Cup series, is pictured with Adam’swife Trish and father Terry Gardiner at the Tigers’ AwardsNight at Balmain Leagues Club. Previous winners includeformer Jersey Flegg half back Marc Russell and prop LukeMcInnes.

GEORGE THOMPSONSCHOLARSHIP AWARD

EMERGING Five Dock RSL cub KyleLovett is this year's recipient of theGeorge Thompson ScholarshipAward. Lovett, a talented 15 year oldcentre, showed his potential as ajunior member of the Balmain HaroldMatthews Cup U/16 representativeteam – picking up the Best Backtrophy. He is pictured receiving hisaward from Eileen Thompson, wife ofthe late Balmain administrator GeorgeThompson.

SENIOR CLUBCHAMPIONSHIP

BJL patron Mick Manningpresents North Ryde Hawkssenior vice president MarkRobinson with the 2008 SeniorClub Championship Trophy. TheJunior Club ChampionshipShield was won by StrathfieldRaiders.

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S.G BALL AWARDS

CENTENARY MEDALS

EIGHT Balmain Junior League stalwartswere honoured this year with NSWRLCentenary Medals for services to rugbyleague.

Pictured with Tigers’ Leagues Club CEO TimCamiller are BJL life members l to r JohnCritchley, Mick Manning, Bob Barnett, PeterHunter, Bill Burke, Bob Henderson and Brian

Coleman who received their medals at theTigers’ Awards Night on November 22 atBalmain Leagues Club. Absent was JohnCarrington (pictured right). Only 50 of thesemedals were presented to long-servingofficials in NSW. All eight were deservedrecipients with their combined years of serviceexceeding 320 years.

MATTHEWS CUP AWARDS

BALMAIN District Football Club director Dr Leslie Glen with Harold Matthews Cupaward winners Joel Brooks (Players' Player); Kyle Lovett (Best Back);

Joel Luani (Best & Fairest); Brodie Monroe (Best Forward) and Adrian Tatola(Coach's Award).

BALMAIN schoolboy international prop Aaron Woods (far right) took out the S.G Ball U/18 Best & Fairest award in 2008. He is pictured with other trophyrecipients Matt Hyland (Best Forward); Matthew Mizzi (Players' Player) and Brett Peacock (Coach's Award). Australian Schoolboys utility Junior Rogica

(Best Back) was absent overseas.

22

UNDER 9 DIV 1 GRAND FINALHOLY Cross Gold U/9 Div 1rugby league whiz kids capped amemorable 2008 season aftertoppling rivals StrathfieldRaiders Black 12-6 at the BJLGrand Finals at Leichhardt Oval.

Pictured are the premiership-winning Rhinos that captured theArthur McIlveen Memorial Trophy –Billy Stapleton, Lachlan Camroux,Scott Brooks, Ethan Higgins,Mateo Tatola, Matthew Taylor, WillBradley, Curtis Wilson, Bennett

Wheelhouse, Luke Jones, Bailey Smith and BaileyCarrington with manager Mick Bradley, coach BrettWheelhouse and trainer Craig Carrington.

Promising centre Bennett Wheelhouse was named Player ofthe Match after producing a super defensive effort andsetting up the winning try for Wilson with a neat pass in thefinal minute of play.

It was a second major trophy for this talented Rhinos sidethat earlier in the year won the Robbie Farah ChallengeShield.

The well drilled Raiders and Rhinos turned in a fine

exhibition of copybook tackling and thrilled the crowd withenterprising play in attack.

Both sides were locked 6-6 at the interval after hookerDorian Yarak (Raiders) and forward Stapleton (Rhinos)posted tries for their respective sides.

Other Rhinos to shine were skipper and playmakerCamroux, the elusive Brooks and strong running Tatola,Stapleton, Wilson and Smith.

Strathfield were best served by halves Roddy Villar andDante Lusio, hooker Yarak, forward Samuel Hai and centreJames Daher.

HOLY CROSS GOLD 12 (B Stapleton, C Wilson tries; L Camroux,B Smith gls) d STRATHFIELD RAIDERS BLACK 6 (D Yarak try; RVillar gl).

HOLY CROSS GOLD – Scott Brooks, Ethan Higgins, BennettWheelhouse, Matthew Taylor, Lachlan Camroux (captain), BaileySmith, Mateo Tatola, Luke Jones, Bailey Carrington, Billy Stapleton,Curtis Wilson, Will Bradley. Coach: Brett Wheelhouse; Manager:Mick Bradley; Trainer: Craig Carrington.

STRATHFIELD RAIDERS BLACK – Jesse Lapid, AnthonySemaan, James Daher, Alex Solimon, Dante Lusio, Rod Villar(captain), Alex Shalala, Dorian Yarak, Jeff Alam, Bill Harisis, SamuelHai, Bobby Nader. Coach: Fady Daher; Manager: Joseph Shalala;Trainer: Nasa Lusio.

UNDER 9 DIV 2 GRAND FINALNORTH Ryde White posted a 40-6 win over North RydeRed to clinch the Mick Manning U/9 Div 2 Trophy.

Strong running back Tom Cross starred for the Whites –using his strength and speed to score two tries and cap abig game for the Whites.

He was supported by Shannon Condon, skipper NathanDavis, Jacob Sinclair, Jason Kerr, Jack Butcher, AnthonyRusso, Dominic Easy, Rhys Hope, Luke Jeffery and Daniel

Markovtzev.

Early tries by Condon (2ndminute), Jaden Baker-Zohs (4thminute) and Davis (8th minute)helped the Whites establish ahandy 16-0 lead at the half timeinterval.

Cross, the official Player of theMatch, proved unstoppable afterthe break – bursting through toscore tries in the 24th and 27thminutes to give his side anunassailable 28-0 lead.

Speedster Alex Thambyah nabbed the Reds lone try in the30th minute before the Whites wrapped up the title with aflurry of points.

Ryan Price, Max Picca-Campbell, Billy Ward, DanielGreenland, Joshua Bass, Victor Casasanta and Thambyahtried hard for the Reds.

NORTH RYDE WHITE 40 (J Baker-Zohs 2, T Cross 2, S Condon, NDavis, J Kerr tries; T Cross, D Markovtzev, D Easy, J Sinclair, SCondon, L Jeffery gls) d NORTH RYDE RED 6 (A Thambyah try; PRubie gl).

NORTH RYDE WHITE – Jacob Sinclair, Jaden Baker-Zohs, DominicEasy, Tom Cross, Jason Kerr, Anthony Russo, Shannon Condon,Daniel Markovtzev, Rhys Hope, Luke Jeffery, Nathan Davis(captain), Jack Butcher, Patrick Ferguson.

Coach: Paul Sinclair; Trainers: Glen Jeffery, Anthony Cross;Manager: Frankie Sinclair.

NORTH RYDE RED – Billy Ward, Will Roser, Peter Rubie, RyanPrice (captain), Alex Thambyah, Joshua Bass, Daniel Greenland,Vic Casasanta, Marcus Scalone, Max Picca-Campbell, Oliver Mills,Alex Bacha, Dylan Lavery, Joel Marcellino. Coach: Rick Thambyah;Manager: Karen Ward; Trainer: Lucky Scalone.

CHRIS KARAS AT THE BALMAINJUNIOR LEAGUE GRAND FINALS

Balmain Football Club chairmanDavid Trodden with

North Ryde White U/9 Div 2captain Nathan Davis.

Wests Tigers’ prop Todd Paytenwith Holy Cross U/9 Div 1 skipper

Lachlan Camroux.

U/9 Div 1 champions Holy Cross Gold

U/9 Div 2 premiers North Ryde White

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ANNUAL REPORT

UNDER 10 DIV 1 GRAND FINALPROMISING forward Jackson Howard produced a supergame to guide Strathfield Raiders to a 28-18 victoryover Holy Cross in the U/10 Division 1 decider.

The strong running Howard stamped his mark as theRaiders staged a stunning revival to clinch the LawrenceBriggs Trophy.

With Howard turning in a Player of the Match performance,the Raiders overcame a 12-4 half time deficit to pile on foursecond half tries and bring home the first of four junior agepremierships for the fledgling club.

Other Raiders to shine were Anthony James Raheb,Lawrence Bingham, Adam Doueihi, Nick Kairouz, AdamRomanous, Jarrod Potaka and Louis Morrison.

Holy Cross skipped to an early 12-0 lead following tries bylynch-pin Justin Story (3rd minute) and gun forward AxelCahlin (9th minute) before the elusive Bingham scored forStrathfield after a passing rush.

The Raiders hit their straps after the interval with thepowerful Howard leading the way up front.

He gained plenty of metres with his bustling runs and set uptries for team-mates Doueihi (22nd minute) and Morrison(27th minute) before crashing through tackles to post theRaiders’ fourth try in the 30th minute.

AJ Raheb gave Strathfield a commanding 28-12 lead in the33rd minute when he scored after a jinking run before theRhinos grabbed a consolation try in the final moments when

Cahlin swerved through thedefence and planted theball over the line.

Holy Cross – who took outthe inaugural Mark O’NeillShield during the preseason – were best servedby Story, Cahlin, JaydenScuglia, Brodie Naughton,centres Andrew Kabourakisand Jarod Sabat, DanielLaguzza and Zac Foreman.

STRATHFIELD RAIDERS 28(L Bingham, A Doueihi, LMorrison, J Howard, AJ Rahebtries; L Morrison, AJ Raheb, JHoward, J Abraham gls) d HOLY CROSS 18 (A Cahlin 2, J Storytries; S Paslis, J Scuglia, A Cahlin gls).

STRATHFIELD RAIDERS – Lawrence Bingham, Richard Ibrahim,Adam Romanous, James Abraham, Adam Doueihi, Nick Kairouz,Louis Morrison, Jarrod Potaka, Jackson Howard, Anthony-JamesRaheb (captain), Imran Bhatti, Michael Ibrahim, George Matta, RodVillar, Jeff Alam. Coach: Martyn Howard; Manager: Chris Raheb;Trainers: Fred Ibrahim, Ray Ibrahim.

HOLY CROSS – Justin Story (captain), Matthew Rudge, AndrewKabourakis, Jarod Sabat, Nick Sawell, Brodie Naughton, JaydenScuglia, Daniel Laguzza, Samuel Paslis, Jack Slater-Phillips, AxelCahlin, Nelson Kanaan, Alex Mato, Zac Foreman, Dylan Hudson.Coach: Alan Jarvis; Manager: Brian Story; Trainers: Rod Farlow,Glenn Smith.

UNDER 10 DIV 2 GRAND FINALLEICHHARDT Wanderers captured the Austin HoyleU/10 Division 2 premiership trophy with a gutsy 22-16win over Carlingford Cougars.

Trailing 16-0 at the break, the Wanderers staged a spiritedcomeback with livewire Yirribi Jaffer (2), Albert Ong and 8year old whiz kid Ben Stevanovic grabbing second half triesto pull off a remarkable win.

The talented trio turned in top games with support fromZade Murphy, Matthew Wilkie, Riley Ferguson and HalTitmarsh.

Carlingford dominated the opening stanza and were poisedfor victory after half back Chris Worsley (13th minute),centre James Sullivan (16th minute) and forward NathanKhalil (20th minute) crossed for first half tries.

Inspired by tricky half Yirribi Jaffer, the Wanderers grew inconfidence and piled on 22 unanswered points to steal thecrown from a shell-shocked Cougars side.

Jaffer, an excitement machine, scored twice in the space ofnine minutes before Ong dashed over for a converted try togive the Wanderers an 18-16 lead.

Stevanovic, an outstanding prospect who led Wanderers toU/7 and U/8 Benny Elias Shield titles and a Foundation Cuptrophy these past two seasons, sealed the premiership forthe red-and-blacks when he fooled the defence with a neatstep and swerve to score in the 36th minute.

Jack Kelly, JamesSullivan, Nathan Khalil,Brandon Fisher andChris Worsley shone forthe Cougars.

LEICHHARDTWANDERERS BLACK 22(Y Jaffer 2, A Ong, BStevanovic tries; T Fisher,N Christian, MNawaqantiawase gls) dCARLINGFORDCOUGARS BLUE 16 (CWorsley, J Sullivan, NKhalil tries; B Fisher, NBarakat gls).

LEICHHARDTWANDERERS BLACK –Bin Jaffer, Matthew Wilkie, Zade Murphy, Riley Ferguson, IsaacJohnston, Albert Ong, Yirribi Jaffer (captain), MarkNawaqantiawase, Hal Titmarsh, Tadgh Fisher, Ben Stevanovic, NickChristian, Nick Cannavo. Coach: Gary Triganza; Manager: MarkTitmarsh; Trainers: Harry Christian, Nick Stevanovic.

CARLINGFORD COUGARS BLUE – Brandon Fisher, NickBarakat, James Sullivan, Anthony Burnet-Smith, BrendanO’Sullivan, Chris Worsley, Alex Raad, Jack Kelly (captain), OscarFord, Nathan Khalil, Nick Lawes. Coach: Richard Kelly; Manager:Maria O’Sullivan; Trainers: William Khalil, David Fisher.

U/10 Div 2 premiers Leichhardt Wanderers

Wanderers’ U/10 Div 2 captainYirribi Jaffer with BJL patrons

John and Mick Manning.

Balmain-Ryde Eastwood stalwartJack King with Strathfield

Raiders' U/10 Div 1 skipperAnthony James Raheb.

U/10 Div 1 champions Strathfield Raiders

24

UNDER 11 DIV 1 GRAND FINALPOWER running forwardPifeliti Junior engineeredStrathfield Raiders’ 24-12 winover Concord-Burwood in theU/11 Division 1 decider.

The Raiders ‘torpedo’ scoredthree tries in a Player of theMatch performance to help histeam secure the Norm WaughTrophy.

A determined Pifeliti opened thescoring after ten minutes whenhe burst through the Wolvesdefence and galloped 20 metresfor the first of his try treble.

Xavier Rego converted to givethe Raiders a 6-0 lead before Concord-Burwood hit backwith a try by five eighth Nathan Farah in the 14th minuteand a Nathan Taweel goal.

Strathfield regained the lead on the stroke of half time whenskipper and key forward Alex Park busted the Wolves’defence and scored out wide before converting.

A try to winger Stanley Ferro in the 27th minute kept

Concord-Burwood in the hunt before a rampaging Pifelititurned the match with two converted tries in the space ofeight minutes.

Strathfield were best served by Pifeliti, second rower Park,Faddoul, five eighth Bernard Kairouz, Xavier Rego and halfback Jean-Louis Jones. The Wolves got value from lockMathew Long, half back Taweel, Farah, Ferro, back rowerNick Vatovec and Kirk-Stephen Tujavii.

STRATHFIELD RAIDERS WHITE 24 (Pifeliti Junior 3, A Park tries;X Rego, A Park, B Kairouz, G Tabikh gls) d CONCORD-BURWOODBLUE 12 (N Farah, S Ferro tries; N Taweel, R Morsello gls).

STRATHFIELD RAIDERS WHITE – Matthew Popovic, Gus Tabikh,Thomas Popovic, Xavier Rego, Bernard Kairouz (vice captain),Jean-Louis Jones, Faddoul Faddoul, Connor Miller, Kyle Proctor,Lucas Kulen, Alex Park (captain), Pifeliti Junior, Anthony Cipolla,McLean Rowley, Jackson Howard, Christian Bingham, Fred Kim.Coach: Richard Kairouz; Manager: Paul Kulen; Trainers: JasonProctor, Martyn Howard.

CONCORD-BURWOOD BLUE – Robert Morsello, James Butcher,Patrick Zibara, Stanley Ferro, Nathan Farah, Nathan Taweel, JosephFadel, Daniel Petralia, Kevin Bouchahine, Matthew Long, NickVatovec, Brandon Boumelhem, Michael Markus, Kirk-StephenTujavii, Joshua Strong. Coach: Mark Woodbury; Manager: MorrisFarah; Trainer: John Fadel.

UNDER 11 DIV 2 GRAND FINAL

STRATHFIELD half back McLean Rowley proved thearchitect of a 24-18 win over Carlingford Cougars in theU/11 Division 2 Grand Final.

The Raiders playmaker set up victory with a brilliant first halfperformance – nabbing two tries and creating another forback rower Brendan Koutantos as Strathfield lifted the DallyMessenger Trophy.

Rowley used his tricky step to score tries in the 13th and17th minutes and help his team secure an 18-0 lead at thehalf time break.

The talented half proved a handful for the Cougars with his

attacking skills and pace out wide and was a deservedrecipient of the Player of the Match award.

Strathfield extended their lead to 24-0 with a try by JohnMouwad after 23 minutes before the Cougars staged asecond half comeback.

Quicksilver winger Tom Cleary, Forrest Johnson-Fischer andskipper James Ramm scored converted tries to finish thematch on a high note.

Other Raiders to impress were five eighth Samuel Khalifeh,Patrick Mouwad, Brenton Holland and Koutantos whileCleary, Ramm, Brant Booby, Cameron Mauro and Johnson-Fischer shone for Carlingford.

STRATHFIELD RAIDERS BLACK 24 (M Rowley 2, B Koutantos, JMouwad tries; J Harambalidis, M Rowley, S Khalifeh, F Kim gls) dCARLNGFORD COUGARS 18 (T Cleary, F Johnson-Fischer, JRamm tries; J Ramm, B Booby, T Cleary gls).

STRATHFIELD RAIDERS BLACK – Daniel Mansour, JeremyHarambalidis, Andrew Ibrahim, Harris Jabbour, Anthony Mancuso,Samuel Khalifeh (captain), McLean Rowley, Patrick Mouwad, JohnMouwad, Fred Kim, Brenton Holland, Brendan Koutantos, RyanTrainor, Chris Kelly, Zac Niass, Anthony James Raheb. Coach: PaulAbraham; Asst Coach: Charlie Khalifeh; Manager: Anita Rowley;Trainer: Tony Rosato.

CARLINGFORD COUGARS – Vincent Caravella, Evans Chen, EdMaxwell, Liam Magee, Tom Cleary, Cameron Mauro, MatthewHarwood, James Ramm (captain), Brant Booby, Adam Dixon,James Harwood, Forrest Johnson-Fischer, Brad Booby, DineshChandradas. Coach: Dan O’Sullivan; Manager: Dave Cleary;Trainer: Anthony Booby.

BJL chairman Bob Hendersonwith Strathfield Raiders U/11

Div 1 skipper Alex Park.

U/11 Div 1 champions Strathfield Raiders

BJL patron Mick Manning withStrathfield Raiders U/11 Div 2

captain Samuel Khalifeh.

U/11 Div 2 premiers Strathfield Raiders

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ANNUAL REPORT

UNDER 12 DIV 1 GRAND FINALHOLY Cross Gold team won a war of attrition with rivalsConcord-Burwood Blue to capture the U/12 Division 1premiership title.

Clever half back Jack Wheelhouse starred for the Rhinoswho showed their champion qualities to eclipse the Wolves14-10 and clinch the Frank Walsh Trophy.

Trailing 10-4 at the interval, the Rhinos surged to victorywith tries by forward Matthew Vatuinaruku and hookerMason Doueihi in the final nine minutes of play.

It was Doueihi who sealed the win with his 36th minute tryafter a darting run down the blindside with fullback JoshuaNohra adding the extras.

Wheelhouse proved the lynch-pin in an absorbing tussleand kept the Rhinos in contention with his rugged defenceand tactical play in attack.

Bayley Sironen opened the scoring for Holy Cross with aneat try in the 7th minute after stepping through defenderson a 20 metre surge to the line.

Concord-Burwood responded in the 13th minute whenhooker Carl Sanzari scored after burrowing over fromdummy half and increased their lead on the stroke of halftime when winger Jordan Dimech pounced on a loose ballafter a kick.

Holy Cross rallied in the second stanza with Wheelhouse,Nohra, Vatuinaruku, Doueihi and forwards Junior Tatola,Shawn Vainga, Edward Omeissah and Jye Jarvis leadingthe way with strong games.

The Wolves were bestserved by fullbackMatthew Thomas,centre Austin Vilarrubi,half back Michael DiLonardo, prop DanielPaul, second rowerJoseph Carbo, StevenWilliams and thetalented Brian Dowling.

HOLY CROSS GOLD 14(B Sironen, M Vatuinaruku,M Doueihi tries; J Nohragl) d CONCORD-BURWOOD BLUE 10 (CSanzari, J Dimech tries; BMarinozzi gl).

HOLY CROSS GOLD - Joshua Nohra, Daniel Moscaritolo, KurtMcIntosh, Aaron Wilkinson, Drew Manley, Bayley Sironen (vicecaptain), Jack Wheelhouse (captain), Junior Tatola, Mason Doueihi,Shawn Vainga, Jye Jarvis, Edan Wright-Ramsay, Zac Simpson, EdOmeissah, Daniel Deeb, Matthew Vatuinaruku. Coach: PaulSironen; Manager: Ursula Simpson; Trainer: Ray Nohra.

CONCORD-BURWOOD BLUE - Matthew Thomas, Jordan Dimech,Austin Vilarrubi, Lawrence Abood, Austin Heesh, Isaac Kassis,Michael Di Lonardo, Jason Ryan, Carl Sanzari, Daniel Paul, SamDessent, Joseph Carbo, Nick Alberga, Ben Marinozzi, BrianDowling, Steven Williams.

Coach: David Thomas; Manager: Diane Thomas; Trainers: DomAlberga, Greg Paul.

UNDER 12 DIV 2 GRAND FINALEMERGING fullback Michael Flynn turned in a Player ofthe Match display to steer Dundas Shamrocks to anU/12 Division 2 premiership with an 18-10 win overLeichhardt Juniors.

The dynamic Flynn sparked a second half revival for theShamrocks with his strength and pace out wide – scoring a28th minute try to set the ball rolling.

Leichhardt led 10-0 at the break after early tries by centreJordan Woodward and winger Joseph Plunkett but couldn’trepel the strong-finishing Shamrocks who posted 18unanswered points to snare the Charles Fraser Trophy.

Flynn was supported by strong running forward MattMeafou, Jake Georgas, Brad Heath, Joseph Ghalloub,centre Onur Tastan and five eighth Tom Collins.

Meafou, the Shamrocks captain, used brute power to scoretries in the 30th and 36th minutes and turn the match.

Leichhardt got value from playmaker John Hogan, fiveeighth Luke Johnston, fullback Alex Robertson, half KayneKirby and hooker Jaden Pardey.

DUNDAS SHAMROCKS 18 (M Meafou 2, M Flynn tries; T Collins,M Meafou, M Flynn gls) d LEICHHARDT JUNIORS 10 (JWoodward, J Plunkett tries; J Hogan gl).

DUNDAS SHAMROCKS - Michael Flynn, Stephen Cole, JacobDeveridge, Onur Tastan, Ryan Buono, Tom Collins, Ben Liversage,

Brad Heath, Luke Sheppard, Jake Georgas, Peter Brown, DenisKocataskin, Matthew Meafou (captain), Joseph Galloub, RyanDavoren-Whereat, Carter Moore, Anthony Garcia, John Borg.Coach: John Collins; Manager: Steve Liversage; Trainers: MattaiMeafou, Harry Ghalloub.

LEICHHARDT JUNIORS - Alex Robertson, Joseph Plunkett,Jordan Woodward, Rhys Corbett, Jack Dobbin, Luke Johnston,Kayne Kirby, John Hogan (captain), Rallis Condos, JamesLuscombe, Jaden Pardey, Heamasi Manitisa, Matthew Whitehouse,Kirrily Laws, Angelo Manitisa. Coach: Brandon McCarthy; Manager:Jaana Hogan.

U/12 Div 2 premiers Dundas Shamrocks

BJL chairman Bob Hendersonwith Dundas Shamrocks U/12 Div 2 captain Matthew Meafou.

U/12 Div 1 champions Holy Cross Gold

BJL stalwart John Stapleton withHoly Cross U/12 Div 1 skipper

Jack Wheelhouse.

26

UNDER 13 (BALMAIN COMPETITION)

TALENTED five eighth Beau Allen starred in NorthRyde’s 38-16 win over Five Dock RSL in the U/13Balmain Division Grand Final.

Allen inspired the Hawks with his skill out wide andproduced an outstanding display to earn the Player of theMatch award.

The Hawks led 14-6 at the interval and used their speedybacks to run amok in the second half and secure the JohnStanton Trophy.

With Allen calling the shots, the Hawks overpowered theirrivals with dashing fullback Jackson Unmack crossing fortries in the 26th, 29th and 36th minutes.

Other Hawks to shine were half back Ben Bury, centre RodZakarija, winger Jamie Sturtridge and forwards StevenSegreto, Nick Bell, Jonathon Boyle, hooker Sam Gliddonand Josh Cosgrove.

North Ryde opened up a 38-6 lead before Five Dockforwards John Feeley and James Madden bustled their wayover for tries to make the scoreline respectable.

Five Dock were best served by fullback Kieran Chatfield,five eighth Glen Weldon, hooker Jarrad Veneziano and hardworking forwards Nick Kapeleris and lock James Madden.

Kapeleris, a strapping youngster with plenty of potential,showed his value to the Dockers by carting the ball upstrongly and tackling himself to a standstill.

NORTH RYDE 38 (J Unmack 3, B Bury, B Allen, S Evans, D Pricetries; B Allen 5 gls) d FIVE DOCK RSL 16 (J Veneziano, J Feeley, JMadden tries; J Veneziano 2 gls).

NORTH RYDE – Jackson Unmack, Max Bielovich, RoderickZakarija, Samuel Evans, Jamie Sturtridge, Beau Allen, Ben Bury(captain), Hayden Johnston, Nick Bell, Dean Price, Josh Cosgrove,Samuel Gliddon, Steven Segreto, Jonathan Boyle, Joshua Stubbs,Luke Michael, Jordan Chaney. Coach: Jason Tutt; Manager: BrianJohnston; Trainers: Ross Allen, Jamie Bell, Matthew Butcherine.

FIVE DOCK RSL – Kieran Chatfield, Brad Zerafa, Jamal Elkout,Clayton Rose, Jacob Poniris, Glen Weldon, Joshua Hodge, JamesMadden, Kale Barton-Bissaker, Nick Kapeleris, Aidan Sussman,Jarrad Veneziano (captain), John Feeley, Oliver Slamer, AdrianCoates, Michael Porteous, Julian Parkinson, Damon Deans, GusPavone. Coach: Peter Feeley; Asst Coach: Shane Porter; Manager:Deborah O’Mara; Trainers: Con Veneziano, Craig Hodge, JimPavone.

BENJAMIN, 7, STANDS TALL AS HOWARD FAMILY CELEBRATE by Chris Karas

IT was a season to remember for theHoward family after tasting success withthe Strathfield Raiders club at the 2008Balmain Junior League Grand Finals.

Martyn Howard – coach of the triumphantRaiders U/10 Division 1 team – is pictured withsons Jackson and Benjamin at LeichhardtOval, savouring a 28-18 premiership win overHoly Cross Rhinos.

10 year old Jackson, a promising forward,turned in a Player of the Match display –

scoring a try and igniting the Raiders’ attack with his bumping runs.

While coach and son had reason to celebrate the real story of the daywas the performance of 7 year old Benjamin Howard, an autisticyoungster, playing his first season in the Raiders’ U/7 Mini Leaguesquad.

Benjamin received the biggest cheer on Grand Finals weekend when heled the Raiders into action during the Mini League exhibition games.

The determined Tiger cub scored a try and kicked goals and had thetime of his life just running around on the hallowed Leichhardt turf.

Participating in junior rugby league has had a positive effect on young

Benjamin, according to his mother Victoria.

“Growing up, Benjamin was a shy boy but has grown in confidence sincehe started playing a team sport like rugby league,” she said.

“The experience has brought him out of his shell. The Balmain JuniorLeague and Raiders have been very supportive – Benjamin was oncloud nine when named captain for the Grand Final exhibition games andjust watching him take the field brought plenty of joy to our family.”

Jackson and Benjamin are the grandsons of the late Western Suburbsstalwart Dudley Beger, a life member of the Magpies who played ten firstgrade matches between 1950-53.

Dudley gave Wests 31 years service which included stints as clubsecretary and a season as first grade coach (1960) as well as coachingthe Magpies’ premiership-winning third grade (1958) and reserve grade(1961) teams.

His widow Mary was at Leichhardt Oval on Grand Final day to cheer onher grandsons during the Saturday morning action.

The Howard brothers’ uncle Tony Beger is a prominent referee with theBalmain Referees Association and the BJL Judiciary Chairman.

Another uncle – Paul Beger – was assistant coach of the Manly teamthat reached the 2008 NSWRL State Cup finals series.

U/13 Balmain Division premiers North Ryde Hawks

BJL Administration & OperationsManager Jennie Webster with

North Ryde U/13 captain Ben Bury.

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UNDER 13 DIV 1 GRAND FINAL

STRAPPING centre Tim Park produced a classy displayto pilot Strathfield to a 20-4 triumph over HurstvilleUnited in the U/13 Division 1 decider at Leichhardt Oval.

Park nabbed two tries and created havoc with his strongrunning out wide as the Raiders clicked into top gear after ascrappy start.

With premiers Holy Cross bowing out of premiershipreckoning during the finals series, the Strathfield teamfirmed as favourites for the Bill Evans Trophy.

The Raiders set up victory with three first half tries to Park(11th minute), centre Daniel Siale (22nd minute) whoregathered a chip-kick to score and talented fullback PeterSemaan on the stroke of half time for a 14-0 lead.

Hurstville hit back after the interval with a try by wingerAbbas Assaf in the 32nd minute but it was all to no avail.

A rampaging Park sealed victory for the Raiders in the 41stminute when he busted the Hurstville defence and scooted30 metres for his second try of the match.

Park was supported by Semaan, Daniel Siale, halves Jean-Paul Boumelhem and Misieli Vaikeli, lock Taniela Siale and

forwards Elvis Pham, Joshua Maree, Tony Abraham andFine Vaivaka.

Fullback Adrian Shortland, halves Julian Hamblyn and RhysKennedy-Holtz, centre Alfred Sefo, lock Luciano Leilua,Zavian Tangiiti-Harbutt and prop Adam Aitoa shone forHurstville.

STRATHFIELD RAIDERS 20 (T Park 2, D Siale, P Semaan tries; DSiale 2 gls) d HURSTVILLE UNITED 4 (A Assaf try).

STRATHFIELD RAIDERS – Peter Semaan, Nathan Casamento,Tim Park, Daniel Siale, Luke Touma, Jean-Paul Boumelhem, MisieliVaikeli, Taniela Siale (captain), Joshua Maree, Tony Abraham, ElvisPham, Michael Guthrie, Junior Langifisi, Luke Tannous, FineVaivaka, Jeff Markus, Dion Aperau. Coach: Sosaia Siale; Manager:Nellie Hage; Trainers: Joe Maree, Tony Tannous.

HURSTVILLE UNITED – Adrian Shortland, Abbas Assaf, AlfredSefo, Andrew Taute, Rowland Kotabalavu, Julian Hamblyn (captain),Rhys Kennedy-Holtz, Luciano Leilua, Ako Tuima, Nicky Rio, MichaelLaubhan, Mustafa Srour, Adam Aitoa, Ali Mawassi, Zavian Tangiti-Harbutt, Jack Worthington, Blake Tonna, Jason Nohra, Homai Ratu,Ali Abbas. Coach: Shane Kennedy; Manager: Ibrahim Abbas;Trainers: Luke Lewis, Joey Sakura.

UNDER 13 DIV 2 GRAND FINALBRIGHTON Seagulls clinched the combined Balmain-StGeorge U/13 Division 2 title with a thrilling 24-22 victoryover Arncliffe Scots at H.V Evatt Park.

Talented Scots’ five eighth Clevelan Toi-Strickland wasjudged Player of the Match for his strong performance in alosing side.

BRIGHTON SEAGULLS 24 (A Poulos 2, N Pappas 2, J Semranytries; M Ayad 2 gls) d ARNCLIFFE SCOTS 22 (T Hassan 2, C Toi-Strickland 2, L Wrathall tries; T Hassan gl).

BRIGHTON SEAGULLS – Mohamed Ayad, John Semrany, FawazElmir, David Brown, Iasonna Gouros, John Kyriakopoulos, Tom

Mullen, Chase Busby, Mitchell Burke, Dylan Jordan, Andrew Poulos,Hayden Warren, Keagan Bergh; Nick Pappas, George Cardassilaris,Jordan McEwan, Boris Edwards, Jake Haddad, George Coulalis;Coach: Marcel Nornhma; Manager: Robert Burke; Trainer: RobertGundry.

ARNCLIFFE SCOTS – Tayleb Hassan, Abdul Reslen, KaymanHansell, Ali Matar, Christian Tilia, Clevelan Toi-Strickland, JordanWilson, Jarrod Berry, Alec Zrieka, LeNapontia Le Paio, Ali Chahine,Aidan Richardson, Abbas Fakhreddine; Leighton Wrathall, AlbanRichardson, Tanoka Marombo, Norman Vaka, Ken Rapaea, Shea TePuia; Coach: John McKnoulty; Manager: Carol Higham; Trainers:Daniel Tilia & James Firbank.

U/13 Div 1 champions Strathfield Raiders

BJL life member Bob Barnett withStrathfield Raiders U/13 Div 1

skipper Taniela Siale.

2828

UNDER 14 DIV 2 GRAND FINALPROMISING fullback ReidTepuke led North Ryde to athumping 58-14 victory overArncliffe Scots in the U/14Division 2 Grand Final atLeichhardt Oval.

Tepuke turned in awholehearted display as theHawks went on a 12-try blitz tocrush their St George rivals in a

lopsided contest and lift the Jim Fitzgibbon Trophy.

He scored a try and booted five goals for a personal tally of14 points and capped a top game by earning the Player ofthe Match award.

A feature of the emphatic win was Tepuke’s determinedrunning and copybook defence.

Centre Nick O’Connor, back rower Billal Darwich and wingerBrandon Rookes each picked up try doubles as the Hawksraced to a commanding 38-4 lead at the half time break.

Other North Ryde players to impress were hooker JacobGraham, lock Ryan McLachlan, centres O’Connor and Paul

Ramondino, winger Rookes and forward David Fangaloka.

Back rowers Rikki Piggott and Dylan Baxter and half backAsipeli Fatai tried hard for the Scots.

NORTH RYDE 58 (N O’Connor 2, B Darwich 2, B Rookes 2, D Fangaloka, J Graham, R McLachlan, J Goch, R Tepuke, P Ramondino tries; R Tepuke 5 gls) d ARNCLIFFE SCOTS 14 (YFadel, R Gomes, D Baxter tries; A Seblani gl).

NORTH RYDE – Reid Tepuke, Brandon Rookes, Nick O’Connor,Paul Ramondino, Evan Tuckwell, Brandon Jack, Zane Westwood,Ryan McLachlan, Bill Darwich, Luke Stone, Daniel Miller, JacobGraham (captain), Samuel Jung, Matthew Furness, Matt Munce,Jermaine Goch, Anthony Robinson, Gareth Linaker, AaronBlacklock, David Fangaloka. Coach: Jehad Elkheir; Manager: LindaMiller; Trainers: Shane Miller, Craig Westwood.

ARNCLIFFE SCOTS – Nick De Gennaro, Tom Devin, ChristianGulabovski, Jarrod Cini, Robert Gomes, Ali El Seblani, Asipeli Fatai(captain), Rikki Piggott, Dylan Baxter, Hohepa Petera, JordanMilgate, Chris Nicholls, Marcel Abel, Abbas El Seblani, AnthonyShoullis, Mahdi Hijazi, Artem Knonivets, Yousseff Fadel, KurtisLyon, Ali Nehmi. Coach: Graham Harris; Manager: Joanna Gomes;Trainer: Eddy Brown.

UNDER 14 DIV 1 GRAND FINALMASON Farrell produced anoutstanding game to helpHoly Cross sink Five DockRSL 24-20 in a top qualityU/14 Division 1 Grand Final atLeichhardt Oval.

The elusive Rhinos fullbackcaught the eye with his sharprunning out wide in a grippingcontest between two evenly-matched sides.

Farrell scored a vital try after adazzling solo run before the halftime break to give the Rhinos an18-4 lead and proved a handful

as Holy Cross brought home the Richard Baker Shield.

Holy Cross drew first blood in the 8th minute with a fine solotry by exciting five eighth Luke Brooks, who duly convertedfor a 6-0 lead.

Five Dock responded with a Jackson Canning try in the 12thminute before Rhinos forward Michael Kuhne posted hisside’s second try five minutes later after a strong run.

Farrell’s brilliant solo try in the 20th minute after steppingthrough defenders gave the Rhinos an edge but theDockers hit back with a try by Michael Mouawad to trail 18-10 at the break.

Dimarco, a NSW State junior touch football representative,gave Holy Cross a 24-10 lead shortly after the interval whenhe scored after a passing rush and Brooks landed a fourthconversion.

Mouawad (33rd minute) and prop Oscar Pryor-Lees (43rdminute) kept the Dockers in the hunt with second half tries.

Talented cubs Brooks and Dimarco showed plenty of zipand along with Farrell looked dangerous whenever theytouched the ball.

Other Rhinos to impress were half back Shae Jarvis andforwards Andrew Kazzi, Luke Georgas, Kuhne and 13 yearold Sio Tatola.

Five Dock got solid contributions from Mouawad, Pryor-Lees, Scott Bunch, Dean Carozzi, Patrick Fowler and backsAlex Vlahos, James Blackwood and Jacob Goss.

HOLY CROSS 24 (L Brooks, M Kuhne, M Farrell, M Dimarco tries;L Brooks 4 gls) d FIVE DOCK RSL 20 (M Mouawad 2, J Canning,O Pryor-Lees tries; F Rocca, M Mouawad gls).

HOLY CROSS – Mason Farrell, Jeremy Wilkinson, Max Dimarco,Jamesray Khoury, Kirk Mitchell, Luke Brooks, Shae Jarvis (captain),Brandon Frison, Jordan Stuart, Chad Rennie, LevanAndronikashvilli, Andrew Kazzi, Luke Georgas, Michael Kuhne,Michael Min, Conrad Peric, Ryan Hezlett, Sio Tatola, Chris Moana,Joshua Khoury. Coach: Mark Campbell; Manager: Sonya Jarvis;Trainers: Nathan Jobson, Simon Farrell.

FIVE DOCK RSL – Alex Zarounas, Farid Barakat, Alex Vlahos,Franco Rocca, James Blackwood, Jacob Goss, David Ryan,Michael Mouawad (captain), Dean Carrozzi, Scott Bunch, MatthewNicholls, Oscar Pryor-Lees, Geordie Gregory, Jordan Tuhetoka,Connor Grealish, Tom Craven, Jackson Canning, Patrick Fowler,Justin Dinopoulos. Coach: Jerry Ryan; Co-Managers: Mimi Rocca,Dominic Rocca; Trainers: David Goss, Gehad Barakat.

U/14 Div 1 champions Holy Cross Rhinos

Balmain Leagues Club CEO TimCamiller with Holy Cross U/14

Div 1 captain Shae Jarvis.

Wests Tigers’ and New ZealandTest forward Dene Halatau withNorth Ryde U/14 Div 2 skipper

Jacob Graham.

U/14 Div 2 premiers North Ryde Hawks

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UNDER 15 DIV 1 GRAND FINALCURTIS Sironen produced a skilful performance on theground that his legendary father Paul carved out anillustrious career with the Tigers – guiding theShamrocks to an U/15 premiership win over HurstvilleUnited at Leichhardt Oval.

Young Sironen stamped his mark in a hard-fought 26-22triumph with support from forwards Ray Bechara, SeanHawken, Jelal Edmonds, Matthew Janes and key backsMichael Nuchanatanon and Daniel Vasek.

The gangling five eighth created opportunities with hisclever passing and hard running to pick up the Player of theMatch award.

It was back-to-back titles for the Shamrocks who dominatedthe competition with consistent displays under mentor ManiEdmonds and manager Glen Hawken.

They showed tenacity and skill to stave off a strong-finishingHurstville and collect the Bill Bradshaw Trophy.

Dundas laid the foundations for victory with a solid first halfeffort – running in four tries to lead 22-6 at the interval.

Lock forward and skipper Jelal Edmonds opened thescoring after five minutes with a converted try beforeHurstville lock Jamie Stanley pounced on a dropped ball byShamrocks fullback Luke Liversage off a bomb kick to levelthe scores in the 9th minute.

Sironen then set up a try for centre Ryan Kelly (15th minute)with a deft pass out wide before scoring himself in the 22ndminute and creating another for Matt Janes on the stroke ofhalf time.

Hurstville zoomed back into calculations after staging asecond half revival with tries by centres Hayden Fepuleai(29th minute) and Ambrose Tabutoa (36th minute) andreplacement Anthony Sefo (41st minute).

Dundas broke a 22-all deadlock in the dying moments whenforward Andrew Kirwan ran into a gap and scored out wideto wrap up the title.

DUNDAS SHAMROCKS 26 (J Edmonds, R Kelly, C Sironen, MJanes, A Kirwan tries; D Vasek 3 gls) d HURSTVILLE UNITED 22(J Stanley, H Fepuleai, A Tabutoa, A Sefo tries; D Hawe-De Thierry3 gls).

DUNDAS SHAMROCKS – Luke Liversage, Nathan Bechara, RyanKelly, Philip Barba, Jack Cadogen, Curtis Sironen, MichaelNuchanatanon, Jelal Edmonds (captain), Fai Ese, Andrew Kirwan,Ray Bechara, Daniel Vasek, Sean Hawken, Matthew Janes, SioneFangia, Jake Waugh, Brendon Pike, Brenton Warren. Coach: ManiEdmonds; Manager: Glen Hawken; Trainers: Ese Uoka, JohnKirwan, Frank Barba.

HURSTVILLE UNITED – Mark Taute, Ahmad Assaf, JordanManners, Hayden Fepuleai, Ambrose Tabutoa, Mark Tanoi, DamianHawe-De Thierry, Tikirahi MacPherson, Jamie Stanley, Noel Baker,Jordan Maana, Taylor Teroi-Fepuleai, James Mirceski, Jet Yates,Spiros Mavronas, Vincent Stowers, Johnny Nohra, Dylan Peene,Anthony Sefo, Dylan Selwyn. Coach: Des McKinnon; Manager:Karla Tatana; Trainers: Kahn Marshall, Wiremu Smith.

UNDER 15 DIV 2 GRAND FINALKINGSGROVE Colts snared the St George Leagues ClubShield with a gutsy 18-14 win over Concord-BurwoodUnited in the U/15 Division 2 Grand Final at H.V EvattPark.

Talented lock Rangi Tagaloa starred for the Colts, who camefrom behind to secure the premiership trophy.

He used his strength and footwork to score two second halftries and led by example to inspire a spirited comeback.

The Wolves led 8-0 at the break following tries by hookerLuke D’Arcangeli (3rd minute) and back rower ViliamiTupoulahi (20th minute) who scored after a sweeping 70metre movement.

Kingsgrove capitalised on the Wolves’ handling errors afterthe interval. A revved up Tagaloa busted the defence andscored a try adjacent to the posts with half back DanielAbihanna adding the extras and grabbed a second try soonafter when he charged onto a pass from 30 metres out.

The Colts led 14-8 when centre Laazar Roach scored wideout before Concord-Burwood levelled it up with a convertedtry by prop George Moussa.

Kingsgrove snatched victory with three minutes left on theclock when centre Aaron Herlihy crossed out wide after adiagonal run.

Tashman, Tupoulahi and John Zibara turned in strongperformances for the Wolves.

KINGSGROVE COLTS 18 (R Tagaloa 2, L Roach, A Herlihy tries; DAbihanna gl) d CONCORD-BURWOOD 14 (L D’Arcangeli, VTupoulahi, G Moussa tries; B Tashman gl).

KINGSGROVE COLTS – Andrew Kikilas, Reese Zantua, LaazarRoach, Aaron Herlihy, Mohamad Nahas, Brendan El-Jalkh, DanielAbihanna, Rangi Tagaloa, Alex Cutajar, Daniel La Manna, StevenCross, Abbas Saleh, Michael Starks, Joe Andrews, Austin Young,Brent Anderson, Dimitri Giakoumelos, Mikaere Clark, AnthonyRahme, Trent Tarbey. Coach: Leba Abihanna; Manager: Sylvana LaManna; Trainer: Daniel Garcia.

CONCORD-BURWOOD – Luke Sattout, Samuel Russo, LindenLingham, Charbel Obeid, Adrian Di Sipio, Frankie Tassone, ViliamiTupoulahi, George Moussa, Luke D’Arcangeli, John Zibara,Bashere Tashman, Rod Rouhana, Norman Chebaia, Joe Ibrihim,Matt Muller, George Chatky, Daniel Arregui, Tom Chylinski; Coach:Del Disipio; Manager: Leb Zibara; Trainers: Sandro D’Arcangeli &Walter Arregui.

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U/15 Div 1 champions Dundas Shamrocks

New Wests Tigers’ CEO ScottLongmuir with Dundas

Shamrocks U/15 Div 1 captainJelal Edmonds.

30

NORTH Ryde half backHayden Gregory engineered a42-6 triumph over LeichhardtJuniors in the U/16 Division 2Grand Final at LeichhardtOval.

The spring-heeled Gregoryturned in an impressive displayaround the scrumbase to helpthe Hawks collect the WaynePearce Trophy.

He combined with lock Jarryd Clarke to create havoc –carving up the Leichhardt side with skilful performances inthe Hawks’ eight try rout.

Gregory, the official Player of the Match, and Clarke weresupported by sharp centre Ryan Kain, hooker ShannonSavidis, fullback Greg Denlow, prop Eden Dally, speedsterAndrew Son and forwards Brett Tyrrell and Mark Bonifacio.

North Ryde led 10-0 at the interval following tries by Kain(13th minute) out wide and Clarke (24th minute) after a pin-point Gregory kick into the in-goal area.

The Hawks flexed their muscles after the interval with aprocession of tries – the first by Gregory in the 34th minuteafter stepping through the Leichhardt defence and followed

by Alex Miteff (37th minute), the hard-running Bonifacio (49thminute), Savidis (51st minute), Son (56th minute) and theversatile Denlow (59th minute) who also booted five goals.

Leichhardt players to impress were five eighth CallumWalker, lock Phil Wilson, forward Carl Robinson-Kennedy,centre Brad Fahlbush, hooker Adam Toutou, prop NathanBrown and half back Luke Wilson.

NORTH RYDE 42 (R Kain, J Clarke, H Gregory, A Miteff, MBonifacio, S Savidis, A Son, G Denlow tries; G Denlow 5 gls) dLEICHHARDT JUNIORS 6 (C Robinson-Kennedy try; D Critchell gl).

NORTH RYDE – Greg Denlow, Luke Coster, Cyrus Sajadi, RyanKain, Leonard Martingano, Chris Bury, Hayden Gregory (captain),Jarryd Clarke, Andrew Son, Chris Agostino, Eden Dally, ShannonSavidis, Brett Tyrrell, Tom Crockart, Jackson Privett, Mark Bonifacio,Alex Miteff, Aries Cordova, Josh Maroun, Oscar Sghabe. Coach:Paul Savidis; Manager: Michael Denlow; Trainers: Bill Kain, WayneGregory, Rob Bury.

LEICHHARDT JUNIORS – Daniel Critchell, Fred Rogers, HamiWihapi, Bradley Fahlbush, Brendan Garrett, Callum Walker (co-captain), Luke Wilson, Phil Wilson, Sergen Isik, Luke Fishwick, NicoPearce, Adam Toutou, Nathan Brown (co-captain), Jack Mohan,Phillip Ta, Dominic Flaherty, Carl Robinson-Kennedy, JackDanielson. Coach: Ricki Gallagher; Manager: Kellie Pearce; AsstManager: Rowena Fishwick; Trainer: Matthew Bywater.

UNDER 16 DIV 2 GRAND FINAL

U/16 Div 2 premiers North Ryde Hawks

Balmain legend David Brookswith North Ryde U/16 Div 2

captain Hayden Gregory.

UNDER 16 DIV 1 GRAND FINALTOP junior Brodie Monroeproduced an outstandingperformance to steer FiveDock RSL to an emphatic 40-20 victory over RenownUnited in the U/16 Division 1Grand Final at LeichhardtOval.

The talented Balmain HaroldMatthews Cup utility turned thematch with three tries after thebreak to help the Dockerscapture the Mal Fallon Trophy –their first title as a team since2004.

Monroe was dynamic at five eighth with support from centreJoel Luani, fullback Lachlan Jenson, half Gerard McCallum,hooker Nathan Carmody, Sam Brock and forwards AlexCarrozzi, Michael Poniris, Jesse Hewitt and Phil Senico.

Five Dock led 14-4 at the interval and looked set for acomprehensive win after Monroe scored a hat trick of triesin the space of five minutes to surge ahead 30-4.

The hard running pivot broke Renown’s spirit when hecrossed in the 32nd, 34th and 36th minutes after bumpingoff defenders at will.

He also popped a pass for custodian Jenson to score aftersix minutes and created another for the strong runningLuani in the 21st minute.

McCallum, a promising half back who represented Balmainin the Harold Matthews Cup during 2008, also shone for theDockers with his organisational skills.

The pint sized playmaker scored the Dockers final try andprovided slick service to his pacy backline.

Renown never stopped probing and were rewarded withtries to fullback Sam Acar (40th minute), David McClelland(55th minute) and James Radcliffe (57th minute).

The famous St George club were best served by AustralianU/15 schoolboy half back Luke Pickerd, lock Josh Peden,Nathan Green and versatile forward Ben Musolino.

On a sad note, the Dockers’ experienced trainer JonMonroe lost his brave battle with cancer on October 20 atthe age of 45.

A highlight for Jon was witnessing his gifted son Brodie leadFive Dock to a deserved premiership and take out thePlayer of the Match award.

FIVE DOCK RSL 40 (B Monroe 3, L Jenson, J Luani, A Carozzi, SKargarian, G McCallum tries; G McCallum 4 gls) d RENOWNUNITED 20 (J Peden, S Acar, D McClelland, J Radcliffe tries; LPickerd, B Musolino gls).

FIVE DOCK RSL – Lachlan Jenson, Sam Lehmann, AndrewBonnici, Joel Luani, Shamim Kargarian, Brodie Monroe (captain),Gerard McCallum, Alex Carrozzi, Michael Poniris, Ben Janson,Simon Kershaw, Nathan Carmody, Adrian Musico, Chris Elias,Jesse Hewitt, Alex Carolan, Sam Brock, Ryan Goss, Tala Semu,Phil Senico. Coach: Danny Khoury; Manager: Paul Jenson; Trainers:Steve Hewitt, Jon Monroe, James Pryde.

RENOWN UNITED – Sam Acar, Andrew Xenofintos, Daniel Tyler,Tauri Dennehy, Vas Gletos, Matt Powell, Luke Pickerd, Josh Peden,Jean-Paul Semrani, Lachlan MacRae, Jamal Doudar, Luke Hindle,Blake Fosse, Scott Hansell, Wade Lawson, David McClelland,James Radcliffe, Tuaono Kapinga, Nathan Green, Ben Musolino.Co-coaches: Jason Grounds & David Hellyer; Manager: KenHansell; Trainers: Andrew Reeves, Chris Anderson, Nathan Hansell.

Long-serving BJL stalwart JackKing with Five Dock RSL U/16

skipper Brodie Monroe.

U/16 Div 1 champions Five Dock RSL

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UNDER 17 GRAND FINALKINGSGROVE Colts edged out Arncliffe Scots 24-22 to win the U/17 premiership at H.V Evatt Park on August 24.

Promising fullback Peter James Garcia turned in anoutstanding display for the Colts to earn the official Player ofthe Match award.

His speed and footwork sparked many an attacking raid andspearheaded the Kingsgrove team to a spirited victory.

KINGSGROVE COLTS 24 (D Kelly 2, P Garcia, E Yildirimtekin, RTourany tries; R Tourany 2 gls) d ARNCLIFFE SCOTS 22 (M Bazzi2, J Rokoqo, S Filihia tries; M Bazzi 3 gls).

KINGSGROVE COLTS – Peter James Garcia, Peter Wong, NgareNooroa, Junior Tailo, Eren Yildirimtekin, Ray Tourany, MatthewCoffey, Kyle Mallyon, Elijah Wilson, Jared Cherrington, RichieSawford, Andrew Sultana, Vinesh Rao; Dion Kelly, Brad Giles, BillNajjarine, Mohamed Alaeddine, Trent Sacilotto, Kosta Cotsonis, TeHohepa, Karl King. Coach: Nathan Karam; Manager: Peter Garcia;Trainers: George Tourany & Brett Wilson.

ARNCLIFFE SCOTS – Selman Ali, Hussan Mrad, Allen Ajaka,Wasim Ali, Mohamed Awad, Mohamed Zahr, Ali Abbas, HassenSalameh, Omar Bakkar, Hussein Dallal, Akram Tehfe, MohamedBazzi, Hassen Dallal; Joseph Rokoqo, Setaieki Filihia, Issa Dib,Joshua Mahara, Ali Issaoui, Mohamed Fawaz, Mitchell Ball, PhilDelfakis, Dion Harris, Jackson Fletcher. Coach: Paul Nakhle;Manager: Danny Prestwidge; Trainers: Mo Ibrahim & George Ilovski.

UNDER 19 DIV 1 GRAND FINALNORTH Ryde Junior Rugby League Club celebrated itsJubilee season in style by collecting five premiershipsat the Balmain Junior League Grand Finals atLeichhardt Oval.

The Hawks capped a memorable 2008 when they lifted theU/9 Div 2, U/13 Balmain, U/14 Div 2, U/16 Div 2 and U/19Div 1 championship trophies to underline their depth oftalent.

Promising lock Ben Harrison and crafty utility DaneGernhoefer inspired North Ryde’s 24-12 victory overKingsgrove Colts in an absorbing U/19 Division 1 decider.

The pair produced outstanding games to help North Rydecapture the Keith Barnes Trophy – with the hard-workingHarrison earning the official Player of the Match award.

Gernhoefer and Harrison notched tries in the opening 14minutes that were converted by winger Michael Carrettbefore Kingsgrove centre Ray Wiki put his side on the boardwith a four pointer before the break.

Harrison put the Hawks in the box seat at 18-4 when hebusted through tackles to score a second try in the 34thminute.

Three minutes later, centre Dom Oppedisano crossed forNorth Ryde’s fourth try when he scooped up the ball from abomb kick. Goalkicker Carrett added the extras to give theHawks a handy 24-4 lead.

Kingsgrove half James Cotsonis capped a strong game byusing fleet footwork and raw speed to score consolationtries in the 40th and 54th minutes.

Other Hawks to impress were centre Dylan Theuerjahr,utility Toby Adams, Tyler Chant and forwards Todd Nosti,John Woods and Ali Musri while Kingsgrove got value fromthe talented Cotsonis, centre Wiki, fullback Josh Mansour,lock James Caffyn, prop Robert Petkoski, hooker Hassan

Alawie and second rower Luke Haberecht.

NORTH RYDE 24 (B Harrison 2, D Gernhoefer, D Oppedisanotries; M Carrett 4 gls) d KINGSGROVE COLTS 12 (J Cotsonis 2, RWiki tries).

NORTH RYDE – Toby Adams, Dom Oppedisano, Dylan Theuerjahr,Michael Carrett, Michael O’Neill, Dane Gernhoefer, David O’Neill,Ben Harrison, Kerry Owens, Todd Nosti, Ali Musri, John Woods,Michael Quinane, Chris Calabro, Ben Calabro, Taukiri Wood, TylerChant, Dean Maguire, Dean Webster. Coach: Robert Ward;Manager: Luisa Maguire; Trainers: Wally Carpenter & Jason Hirst.

KINGSGROVE COLTS – Josh Mansour, Ben Madden, RabehAwada, Ray Wiki, Nour Youssef, Majed Hammoud, James Cotsonis,James Caffyn, Simon Lakis, Luke Haberecht, Robert Petkoski,Hassan Alawie, Patrick McDonald, Hassan Chahine, Ali Mourad,Emmanuel Krimizis, Omar Ahmad. Co-coaches: Chad Ndaira & VicSultana; Manager: Leba Abihanna; Trainer: Steve Madden.

U/19 Div 1 champions North Ryde Hawks

Balmain Education &Development Manager DavidKelly with North Ryde U/19

skipper Ben Harrison.

32

MANLY A3 PLATE GRAND FINAL

CROMER took out the combined Manly-North Sydney AReserve Grade Grand Final after a thrilling 16-12 victoryover North Ryde on August 23 at North Sydney Oval.

A converted try on the bell helped Cromer snatch a last-gasp triumph in a hard fought tussle.

The more fancied Hawks looked set for victory when theyled 12-10 with 60 seconds left on the clock. But in a crueltwist they conceded a late penalty 20 metres out from theirline which gave the Manly club an opportunity to steal the

trophy honors.

Cromer took full advantage with a sweeping movement toscore in the dying moments and secure the title.

North Ryde were best served by skilful half back CameronNicholls, utility Daniel Casa, centre Brent Tedesco, utilityTroy Pearce and power forwards Kelvin Weir, Col Laughton,Eli Palmer and hooker Darren Beesley.

CROMER 16 d NORTH RYDE 12 (K Weir, C Scuglia tries;K Weir 2 gls).

CROMER – Matthew Tomkins, Kapeli Chantung, Lindsay Taria,Ryan Oldfield, Robert Burns, Viliami Teu, Shilou Homa, IanTapa’atoutai, August Vaifale, Robert Glover, Mozart Taione, TamePaki, Sio Matoa; Santana Palmer, Fitti Fotu, Benji Cornelius-Mauu,Peter Shephard, Palei Tangi, Ernest Taefotu, Mitchell Sarkis, FredColina, Silakivai Taungakaua, Ofa Loko, Will Taufa. Coach: WayneWatters; Trainers: Les Anderson, Shane Higginbotham & MarkGlasson.

NORTH RYDE – Chris Scuglia, Kurtis Moody, Brent Tedesco, PaulWallace, Chris Casali, Daniel Casa, Cameron Nicholls, Eli Palmer,Kelvin Weir (captain), Ali Musri, Col Laughton, Darren Beesley,Angelo Lomonte; Brock Moody, Brett Harkins, Ali Dan Dan, KalilDan Dan, Stewart Adams, Quin Witika, Jarrod Mansour, TroyPearce, Ben O’Reilly. Coach: Paul ‘Nobby’ Clarke; Manager: PhilBrady; Trainers: Ron Ryan, Doug Nicholls & Steve Kitchen.

UNDER 19 DIV 2 GRAND FINAL

DUNDAS produced a courageous performance to clinchthe U/19 Division 2 premiership -– toppling ArncliffeScots 28-24 in a thriller at Leichhardt Oval.

Trailing 18-4, the Shamrocks were forced to play the secondhalf with only 12 men after Balmain junior representativeforward Matt Mizzi was sent off for an alleged head butt onan Arncliffe player.

Led by skilful half Daniel Jeffery and hooker Myles Foster,the Shamrocks rallied with tries to centre Danny Vidal (43rdminute), Jeffery (48th minute), Andrew Daoud (53rd minute)and speedy winger Antonio Son in the dying moments topull off a gutsy win and lift the Steve Roach Trophy.

Other Dundas players to shine were five eighth Sam Refaai,Balmain-Ryde Eastwood State Cup utility Brett Peacock,lock Mark Abraham and Vidal.

Peacock – winner of the Tigers’ Rising Star Award – turnedin a powerful performance at fullback with his hard runningand sound defence a feature.

Arncliffe started on a positive note when they posted threeearly tries by wingers Alex Ingram (4th minute) and KostaTzoumas (13th minute) and centre Kevin Piggott (18thminute) to jump to a 14-0 lead.

Foster opened the Shamrocks account when he scoredfrom dummy half in the 22nd minute but it wasn’t until theMizzi sent off that the Dundas team sprung into action.

They snatched victory when Refaai threw a clever cut outpass that found the elusive Son, who scooted over for amatch-winning try.

Arncliffe got value from half back and skipper Jayden Webb,centre Trent Shah, hooker Dylan Stevens, lock JustinSpiroski, winger Ingram, back rower Manoel Everitt andfullback Kass Salemeh.

DUNDAS SHAMROCKS 28 (M Foster, D Vidal, D Jeffery, A Daoud,A Son tries; S Refaai 2, D Vidal 2 gls) d ARNCLIFFE SCOTS 24 (AIngram 2, K Tzoumas, K Piggott, T Shah tries; J Strickland 2 gls).

DUNDAS SHAMROCKS – Brett Peacock, Antonio Son, LarryBasbas, Danny Vidal, Blake Turner, Sam Refaai, Daniel Jeffery(captain), Mark Abraham, James Menassa, Matt Mizzi, CarlosBoustany, Myles Foster, Alex Chaouka, Andrew Daoud, MatthewStewart, Anthony Coorey, Sulaiman Underabi, Brendan Tam, ScottStewart, Mitchell Bergin, Luke Bolsdon. Coach: Michael Frain; AsstCoach: Dean Young; Manager: Steve Jeffery; Asst Manager: BobSiemsen; Trainers: Wayne Piper, Steve Hanson & Mick Blanchard.

ARNCLIFFE SCOTS – Kassem Salemeh, Alex Ingram, Trent Shah,Kevin Piggott, Kosta Tzoumas, Aiden Butterfield, Jayden Webb(captain), Justin Spiroski, Jordan Strickland, Manoel Everitt,Tuitupou Lolohea, Dylan Stevens, Sam Milgate, Aaron Gomes,Wagih Fares, Amjad Saleh, Jade Strickland, Gavin Giordimanina,PJ Mareko, Michael Uzabagga, Jordan Joseph, Luke Behrens. Co-coaches: Dib El Ters & Ben El Ters; Co-managers: Mark Joseph &Carol Higham.

U/19 Div 2 premiers Dundas Shamrocks

Manly A3 Grade runners up North Ryde Hawks

Long serving BJL stalwart MickManning with Dundas ShamrocksU/19 Div 2 skipper Daniel Jeffery.

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ARTHUR BEETSON CUPBALMAIN Juniors celebrated regaining the ArthurBeetson Cup after thumping the Roosters 46-26 in the3rd annual rugby league challenge at Leichhardt Ovalon July 12.

Under the guidance of former Balmain half back andreserve grade winning coach Peter Duffy, the Tiger cubsdominated up front with powerful performances fromforwards Mitchell Bergin, lock and skipper Kelvin Weir,Stuart Bousfield, Jack Burke, Ali Musri, Aaron Brown, DanielCasa, Matthew Mizzi and hooker Darren Beasley.

Mizzi proved a handful for the Roosters with his bullockingruns and capped a top game by scoring three of the Tigers’nine tries.

With skilful halfback Cameron Nicholls calling the shots, theTigers skipped to a handy 24-6 half time lead before theRoosters rallied after the interval.

Talented Balmain centre Brent Tedesco was sharp in attackand created havoc with his jinking runs out wide.

Nicholls, who represented NSW in this year’ss Origin TouchFootball interstate series, engineered many a try with hisclever passing and tricky running.

Bergin was named the Tigers’ best forward while Tedescopicked up the best back award.

North Ryde Hawks supplied ten members of the triumphantBalmain side in Nicholls, Tedesco, Ben O’Reilly, Weir, Casa,Musri, Beasley, Brown, Burke and Chris Casali.

Other team members included fullback Lee Harper, wingerShane Coppell, centre Brett Peacock, five eighth SamReffaai and Larry Tassone with trainers Ken Stapleton andSteve Craig.

BALMAIN 46 (M Mizzi 3, J Burke 2, A Musri, B Tedesco, K Weir, ABrown tries; C Nicholls 4, M Bergin gls) d ROOSTERS 26 (MRansfield 2, T Henderson, A Gorrie, R Paul tries; N Hemopo 3 gls).

Balmain players celebrate their first-ever Beetson Cup win over the Roosters

MARK O’NEILL SHIELDHOLY Cross Rhinos captured the inaugural Mark O’NeillU/10 Shield with a 28-4 victory over Concord-BurwoodWolves in this year’s final at St Patricks Oval Dundas.

Pictured are triumphant Rhinos players Justin Story(captain), Axel Cahlin, Zachary Foreman, Dylan Hudson,Andrew Kabourakis, Nelson Kanaan, Daniel Laguzza, AlexMato, Brodie Naughton, Samuel Paslis, Cooper Powell,Matthew Rudge, Jarod Sabat, Nick Sawell, Jayden Scuglia,Jack Slater-Phillips with coach Alan ‘Joey’ Jarvis, managerBrian Story and trainers Rod Farlow and Glen Smith. Alsopictured are Dundas Shamrocks president Bob Siemsen,vice president Steve Jeffreys, assistant secretary BobCooper, organiser Gavin Tutill and coaching co-ordinatorMichael Frain.

Rhinos forward Axel Cahlin was named Player of the Series.It was a big weekend for Holy Cross who also clinched thesecond Robbie Farah Challenge with a 24-16 win overStrathfield Raiders in the final at Blackmore Oval.

Hats off to Shamrocks and Wanderers officials fororganising two well-run events. O’Neill is a product of the

Dundas Shamrocks (formerly St Patricks) along with boomParramatta utility Feleti Mateo, former Kangaroo JohnMuggleton, ex-Balmain hooker Michael Brown, forwardBernard Carroll, half James Webster and prop Jim Curtis.

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TALENT TO BURN AT BENNY ELIAS SHIELD LEICHHARDT Wanderers, Strathfield Raiders andConcord-Burwood Wolves shared the spoils at the 6thannual Benny Elias Shield Mini League Carnival atFrank Street Oval Ryde.

The proud Wanderers qualified for three finals and capturedthe U/8 title with an emphatic 32-0 victory over the Wolves.

Skipper and playmaker Ben Stevanovic turned inoutstanding displays to earn the Player of the Series awardwith Concord-Burwood’s hard working forward McArthurTupoulah named Player of the Final.

Stevanovic used his pace and tricky sidestep to nab fourtries with talented team-mate Mark Nawaqamitawase alsocollecting four to cap a fine game.

It was a third major trophy for this exciting Wanderers teamthat won the Benny Elias U/7 trophy last season and theJunior Foundation Cup at the Sydney Football Stadium backin February.

Strathfield Raiders took out the U/7 trophy with a convincing20-0 win over Wanderers.

Exciting Raiders prospect Billy Pappas wasnamed Player of the Series – scoring four ofhis team’s five tries in the final with ChrisGeorges notching the other. Wanderers cubBailey Caldwell was named Player of theFinal.

Concord-Burwood captured the U/6 trophywith a thrilling 20-16 win over Wanderers.

Wolves’ star Sam Chalouhe used his power

and speed to score two tries and earn the Player of theSeries award with support from Sion Mapapalangi.Wanderers’ whiz Reilly Large was named Player of the Final

and combined well with pocket dynamoCougar Wheeler – both youngstersdemonstrating their flair and raw speed tograb a try double each.

Holy Cross Rhinos officials and the greatBenny Elias can take a bow for organisingyet another successful event along withTIGERS Leagues Club for its generoussponsorship on the day.

Concord-Burwood cub Sam Chalouhe was named U/6

Player of Series.

U/6 Ben Elias Shield winners Concord-Burwood Wolves

U/8 Ben Elias Shield champions Leichhardt Wanderers

U/7 Ben Elias Shield winners Strathfield Raiders

Exciting Strathfield Raidersprospect Billy Pappas took out

U/7 Player of Series trophy.

Outstanding Wanderers cub Ben Stevanovic was named

U/8 Player of Series.

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TIGERS great Benny Elias was guest speaker atLeichhardt Wanderers Junior Rugby League Club’sannual Sportsmen’s luncheon held at the BlackmoreOval clubhouse in Leichhardt.

The former international hooker was joined by premiership-winning Wests Tigers stars Robbie Farah and Mark O’Neilland ex-Balmain five eighth Mick Campbell who was MC onthe day. They are pictured with Wanderers legends CraigBarnett, Frank Dunne and club patron Richard ‘Chuck’Shaw.

Elias and Farah were both graded from the famousWanderers – the longest established club in the BalmainJunior League which celebrated its Centenary season in2008.

NATIONAL HONORS FOR AARON & JUNIOREMERGING Wests Tigers cubs Aaron Woods and JuniorRogica (pictured) gained selection in the AustralianSchoolboys Open squad that defeated the touringEngland Academy and French national junior teams inQueensland during August.

The 17 year old Holy Cross College Ryde students earnedtheir international spurs after turning in strong displays forNSW Catholic Colleges at the National Schoolboy titles inDarwin.

Woods, a ball playing prop and Rogica, a dynamic utility,helped NSWCC reach the championship final where theywere pipped 18-12 by NSW Combined High Schools.

The talented Woods was named Player of the Match afterNSWCC toppled CHS 14-12 in the opening round and alsomade an impact in victories over Queensland (46-12) andACT (54-0).

Both cubs starred for Australia in junior internationalvictories over the England Academy and French Juniorteams in Townsville and Brisbane.

The Australian Schoolboys defeated England Academy inthe first test – played as a curtain-raiser to the Roosters vNorth Qld NRL clash at Dairy Farmers Stadium before

winning the second test at Kougari Oval in Wynnum.

Australia toppled the French Juniors at Kougari Oval.

Woods and Rogica starred for Balmain in this year’sNSWRL U/18 S.G Ball Cup series and for Holy Cross in theMetropolitan Catholic Schools competition.

Both are products of the Balmain Tigers DevelopmentProgram with Woods a gun forward for Leichhardt Juniorsand Holy Cross Rhinos in the Balmain Junior League andRogica a trump card for Concord-Burwood Wolves.

They are first Holy Cross pair to represent the AustralianSchoolboys since Benny Elias and Brett Gale achieved thefeat back in 1981 – the same year the College capturedtheir one and only Commonwealth Bank Cup title.

Other Holy Cross players to don the green and gold in theOpen schoolboy ranks were: Scott Gale (1982); PaulSironen (1983); Jason Stewart (1989); Jamie Shepherd(1990); Craig Carrington (1993); Troy Perkins (1994) andMark Riddell (1998).

Woods and Rogica were blooded in the Toyota Cup NationalYouth competition and spearheaded the Wests Tigers U/18CUBS on their Pacific Islands tour in October.

LIFE MEMBERSHIP FOR BURWOOD JUNIOR TIM BRASHERFORMER Balmain international fullback Tim Brasherreceived his life membership medal at the annualluncheon for life members of the Tigers’ District FootballClub, Leagues Club and Balmain Junior League atBalmain Leagues Club.

Brasher, a Burwood United junior product, is pictured withTigers’ legends Benny Elias, Steve Roach, Paul Sironen,Hilton Kidd, John Owens, Darren Senter, Mark O’Neill andThe Weekly Times Sports Editor and BJL life member ChrisKaras who presented a slide show and talk on his book“From Fraser to Farah – History of Balmain Junior League1908-2008” during the afternoon event.

LEGENDS AT WANDERERS SPORTS LUNCHEON

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TIGER CUBS WIN SOUTHPORT CUP

BALMAIN U/14 Young Guns completed anothersuccessful rugby league tour of northern NSW andQueensland during October – bringing home the ClaeWebb Shield and Southport Cup trophies.

Outstanding half back prospect Luke Brooks from HolyCross Rhinos was named the Tigers’ best and fairest playeron tour after dashing performances in the number sevenjumper.

Under the astute coaching of Ken Stapleton, the YoungGuns showed skill and tenacity to score 196 points andconcede only 20 from the six matches played in animpressive team effort.

Brooks demonstrated his class as the Tiger cubs whippedGroup One (30-6) and Ballina (44-2) at Kingsford SmithOval to retain the Clae Webb Shield and continued his topform at the Southport Cup Carnival.

Balmain lost a controversial opening match to Kawana (12-4) before trouncing Helensvale (40-0), Highfields (38-0) andSouthport Tigers (40-0) to win the 2008 series.

Other award winners were skipper Alex Vlahos (BestForward); Mason Farrell (Best Back); prop Luke Georgas(Coach’s Award); Billy Moisidis (Most Improved) and centreLolo Funaki (Players’ Player).

Balmain’s triumphant U/14 rep squad that won the SouthportCup was: Alex Vlahos (Five Dock RSL) captain; Andrew Kazzi(Holy Cross) vice captain; Luke Brooks, Mason Farrell, MaxDimarco, Luke Georgas, Sio Tatola (Holy Cross Rhinos); DeanCarozzi, Jackson Canning, Oscar Pryor-Lees, Scott Bunch, MichaelMouawad (Five Dock RSL); Nathan Bechara, Mark Daoud, AlexApps, Mark Vail (Dundas Shamrocks); Billy Moisidis, Tony Bazouni,Lolo Funaki (Concord-Burwood Wolves); Ryan McLachlan and ReidTepuke (North Ryde).

Coach: Ken Stapleton; Manager: David Patman; Trainers: DannyO’Neill, Kelvin Weir; Tour Managers: David Kelly & Peter Mortimer.

MEANWHILE Balmain U/17 representative squad defeatedNorthern Territory (12-6) and Katherine Tigers (38-12) on their two-match tour.

CUBS ROAR IN FIJIWESTS Tigers paraded their emerging young rugby league talent ona successful two match CUBS tour of Fiji during October.

Under the guidance of head coach Andrew Willis and assistants DavidBrooks and Adam Booth, the CUBS recorded wins over Western FijiSchools (28-0) and the Fiji U/19s (30-8) in Suva.

Joel Wiseby, Jason Green, Daniel Ahsin and Limoni Kamuta turned instrong performances in the opening game that was played in balmyconditions against an enthusiastic Fiji Schools side.

Kamuta scored two tries for the Tigers, who led 14-0 at the break, withTim Simona, Matthew Groat and Brodie Monroe also posting fourpointers.

Jay Bonnell booted two goals with John Nicholas and Simona potting agoal each.

Following the match, the CUBS players handed out Wests Tigers’merchandise to the crowd.

The Tigers backed up two days later to defeat the Fijian U/19 side in abruising encounter.

Trailing 4-0 after five minutes, Wests Tigers rallied to lead 20-8 at half-time before asserting their authority after the break.

Jason Green, Faleula Finau, Junior Rogica, Nicholas, Simona andKamuta scored tries for the Tigers with Bonnell, Simona and Nicholasbooting goals.

“Fiji were very tough and some of their players really do have a brightfuture in the game,’’ said CUBS tour manager Tim White.

“The Fijians were very big, strong and fast. They were very well coached.It was a big step up in class from our first game.”

Props Jason Green and Sebastian Vourlos, winger Faleula Finau, back-rower Tim Sloman and centre Junior Rogica were the best players in thewin.

The 2008 Wests Tigers CUBS were all U/17 players, apart from the lateinclusion of Jake Mullaney (U/18) who replaced the injured Luke Turner.

The 20 man Wests Tigers CUBS touring squad was: Daniel Ahsin(Wests); Jay Bonnell (Wests); Faleula Finau (Balmain); Sean Finnerty(Wests); Jason Green (Wests); Matthew Groat (Wests); Limoni Kamuta(Wests); Joel Luani (Balmain); Brodie Monroe (Balmain); Jake Mullaney(Wests); John Nicholas (Balmain); Patrick Politoni (Balmain); JuniorRogica (Balmain); Tim Simona (Balmain); Tim Sloman (Wests); SevaoStowers (Wests); Jesse Sue (Wests); Taniela Vaivaka (Balmain);Sebastian Vourlos (Balmain) and Joel Wiseby (Wests).

Moses Pangai (Balmain), Lance Siataga (Wests), Shaun Spence(Wests), Luke Turner (Wests) and Aaron Woods (Balmain) could notmake the trip due to injury.

Touring staff also included Tony Wignell (Head Trainer, Balmain) and TimWhite (Tour Manager, Balmain).

Former CUBS to play NRL for Wests Tigers include Bryce Gibbs, LiamFulton, Robbie Farah, Bronson Harrison, Isaac De Gois, Dean Collis,Shannon McDonnell, Rocky Trimarchi, Shannon Gallant, StuartFlanagan, Chris Lawrence and Peni Tagive.

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LEICHHARDT Wanderers – the longest established clubin Balmain Junior League – added another trophy totheir cabinet when they won the Junior Foundation Cupat Sydney Football Stadium on February 23.

Pictured with Balmain legend Wayne Pearce are the mightyWanderers’ U/8s who defeated South Sydney club Coogee-Randwick Wombats in a hard-fought Cup final.

Outstanding prospect Ben Stevanovic clinched the title forLeichhardt after winning a 50 metre sprint-off to decide thechampions after a 1-1 scoreline at full time.

Skipper Ben had earlier scored a brilliant try to give theLeichhardt cubs a 1-0 lead.

Wanderers survived two golden point play offs to reach thefinal after registering 0-0 draws with Campbelltown CityKangaroos in the opening round and Clovelly Crocodiles ina semi final.

Dynamic cub Mark Nawaqamitawase scored the winning tryin extra time against the Kangaroos while the speedyStevanovic proved the match-winner against the Crocodiles.

The Wombats advanced to the decider with victories overBondi United and Ingleburn Tigers.

Teams from Balmain, SouthSydney, Eastern Suburbs,Western Suburbs and NorthSydney competed in the 2008series.

The Wanderers were coachedby former Balmain and WesternSuburbs’ utility back NickStevanovic with ex-Tigers’Grand Final prop Steve Edmed,the team trainer.

They also took out the BennyElias U/7 and U/8 Shields in2007-08 and boast an excitingbatch of Mini League talent thatshould help the famousWanderers club return to itsglory days.

Leichhardt Wanderers’ Cup-winning squad was: BenStevanovic (captain), Mark Nawaqamitawase, Griff Taylor,Tane Edmed, Ryan Musillo, Lewis Parfitt, Flynn Ladbrooke-Bower, Aayam Shrestha; Coach: Nick Stevanovic; Trainer:Steve Edmed; Manager: Julie-Ann Stevanovic.

WANDERERS CLINCH FOUNDATION CUP

TRIBUTESGEORGE BOWDENBALMAIN Junior League lost its longest-living lifemember George Bowden (pictured) on September 7,2008 after deteriorating health at the age of 92.

A resident of Leisurely Gardens Epping, Jamieson HouseBeecroft and the McQuoin Park Nursing Home at Waitara inhis final years, the popular stalwart passed away in HornsbyHospital.

Bowden was a proud life member of the Balmain JuniorLeague and pioneer of the North Ryde Juniors Club thatformed in 1958 and for many years served as a LeichhardtOval ground official.

Tireless George was honored in 2005 by Balmain FootballClub for four decades of outstanding service.

He was one of several Tigers’ rugby league identities toreceive 40 year service badges at a special presentation atBalmain Leagues Club.

George enjoyed a 35 year association with Balmain JuniorLeague – serving as a senior vice president and on the

Management Committee while a member of DenistoneFootball Club.

For 15 years he volunteered his services for ground dutiesat the Tigers’ home matches at Leichhardt Oval.

Born in 1916, George grew up in the South Sydney districtand was a rugged hooker with Redfern Waratahs in the1930s before marrying Balmain girl Joyce Drury and movingto Wolga Road Ryde where he lived for over 50 years.

The Ryde RSL digger served in the Army from 1941-45.

His son Rod was a talented fullback with the BalmainJersey Flegg team in 1964. A keen golfer, George once shotscores of 68 and 69 at Massey Park and Bexley GolfCourses at the ripe age of 70.

George was pre-deceased by wife Joyce and is survived byson Rod, daughters Carol and Joy; five grandchildrenNatalie, Julie, Michael, Andrew, Sarah and great granddaughter Chloe.

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TRIBUTESTRIBUTE TO A TRUE ‘CHAMP’BALMAIN Junior League are mourning the death of oneits great servants Jack ‘Champ’Taylor – a respectedfigure who helped nurture some of the best youngrugby league talent in the district.

Jack, a keen football judge, lost a brave battle withleukaemia on June 5, 2008 – one week short of his 89thbirthday.

‘Champ’ Taylor was a life member of St James Glebe andLeichhardt Wanderers Junior Football Clubs as well as theBalmain Junior League and earlier this year was awarded aBalmain Tigers Centenary Medal 1908-2008 for service andloyalty.

A former Clubman of the Year, he joined the Wanderers in1954 and coached the C Grade team for two decades andwas involved in successful Balmain Presidents Cup andJersey Flegg teams as a selector.

Jack nurtured the careers of players such as George Ellis,Harry Penrith, Dennis Tutty, Geoff Connell, Glenn Stanton,Paul Daley and Will Robinson who went on to play firstgrade in the NSWRL Sydney premiership.

‘Champ’ was a leading talent scout who recruited many fineplayers during his 45 years with the Wanderers.

Jack’s three sporting heroes were Don Bradman, KeithBarnes and his old friend from Glebe – tennis legend LewHoad.

His daughter Julie Nebauer has fond memories of the endof year picnics, presentation nights in Leichhardt Town Halland the friendships forged during the years with players andofficials with games being played at Leichhardt Oval andBirchgrove Oval.

“Dad’s commitment to the Balmain Junior League was alarge part of his life,” said Julie.

“His involvement was woven through our family life and overthe years we had frequent visitors for lunch on a Sunday.”

17 year old George Ellis and Harry Penrith among a host ofplayers were two of them. Both were living in one of severalboarding houses in Glebe where the residents had comedown to Sydney from Kinchela Aboriginal Boys Home nearKempsey.

Jack would call at the boarding houses to see if any of theboys would be interested in playing for the Wanderers. Ellisand Penrith did with George, a natural talent, going on toplay first grade with Balmain and South Sydney.

The Taylor family enjoyed a long friendship with Ellis, whodied at the age of 42. Jack is predeceased by wife Normaand survived by brother Henry; daughters Julie and Ashley;grand daughter Trinity; grandson Shane and great grandsonJack.

Jack Taylor (right) presentsAboriginal footballer George Elliswith a gear bag at a Leichhardt

Wanderers Awards Night inLeichhardt Town Hall during the

late 1950s.

JON MONROE

FIVE DOCK RSL Junior Rugby League Club aremourning the death of life member and popular stalwartJon Monroe who lost a brave battle with cancer onOctober 20 at the age of 45.

Monroe – a tireless worker for the Dockers – served nearly15 years as a coach, manager and trainer and was theclub’s representative on the Balmain Junior League Boardof Directors.

He was also a trainer with the Tigers’ Development squadsand dedicated supporter of his talented footballing sons –Liam,18; Brodie,16, and 8 year old Connor who all playedwith the Five Dock RSL Club.

An active official, John also was a long serving canteenmanager and ground manager who figured in severalpremiership-winning Five Dock sides in his role as a trainer.

One of his proudest moments was watching son Brodie – arising Tiger cub – turn in a Player of the Match performancefor Five Dock U/16s in a 40-20 Grand Final win over

Renown at Leichhardt Oval back in August.

When Brodie starred on the Wests Tigers’ CUBS tour of Fijiin October, a courageous Jon was there with family to lendsupport.

Five Dock legend John Critchley described Monroe as a“good family man who devoted many hours to fosteringjunior league talent.”

Jon was a talented touch footballer who representedWestern Suburbs on a regular basis at State Cup Carnivalsat Port Macquarie and was a key player for the PutneyPirates in the local Ryde Eastwood Touch FootballAssociation.

Close friend Wayne Bower, who teamed up with Jon inWestern Suburbs and State representative touch footballsides, said Monroe was “a great bloke with a heart of gold.”

‘He dedicated his life to his children and helping kids reachtheir potential in sport.”

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TRIBUTESTOM TYRRELL – A TRUE TIGER WITH A BIG HEARTBALMAIN rugby league fraternity is mourning the deathof former Kangaroo forward Tom Tyrrell (pictured) whopassed away in Canterbury Hospital on October 29 aftera long illness at the age of 80.

Tyrrell – one of nature’s real gentlemen – was a juniorproduct of Ryde Football Club and Holy Cross College Rydewho developed into a fearless forward with the Balmain cluband Australia.

At the age of 19, Tom attended Presidents Cup trials atBirchgrove Oval that were conducted by Tigers’ great JoeJorgenson and “Watsy” Williams and earned selection withpowerful performances.

He was a key member of that 1948 Balmain Presidents Cupteam that won the trophy and tasted further success thatyear with the Tigers’ winning third grade side.

Tyrrell made his first grade debut for Balmain in 1950against Newtown at the Sydney Cricket Ground and turnedin a Man of the Match performance against forwards of thecalibre of Bumper Farrell.

He went on to play 52 matches for the Tigers andrepresented Sydney and NSW before making his Test debutagainst New Zealand at the SCG in 1952.

Later that year, Tyrrell was named in the Australian squadfor the Kangaroo tour of England and France and played 40matches before sustaining torn medial ligaments inMarseille.

One of his proudest moments came earlier this year when

he attended a Holy Cross Rugby League Centenary Dinnerwith his family and was named in the Holy Cross RydeTeam of the Century.

In August, Tom was thrilled to be honored with selection inthe Balmain Junior League Team of the Century.

I was privileged to interview Tom for my book “From Fraserto Farah – the History of Balmain Junior League 1908-2008”and what a remarkable man he was.

I’ll never forget my last hospital visit when a gravely ill Tomsat up and reminisced about his playing days at junior andsenior level.

Tom revealed he had read my book while convalescing andthat the photos and stories had rekindled pleasantmemories of his youth.

When I congratulated him again on making the Holy Crossand Balmain Junior League Teams of the Century, he had agrin on his face from ear to ear.

“Chris, it is a true honor indeed to be chosen in those teamswith some of the all time greats of the game,” he beamed.

“It makes me a very happy and proud man.”

Tom Tyrrell you were a champion on and off the field and acourageous Tiger with a big heart.

He was pre-deceased by brother John and survived by wifeMary, daughter Alex, sons Tom junior and Anthony, brotherKevin and his many grandchildren.

RYDE Eastwood Football Club lost one of its ‘first ladies’ –Norma King of Gladesville – who died suddenly onDecember 5 of a heart attack at the age of 79.

Norma was the wife of long-serving Hawks Football Cluband Leagues club director Jack King and a devotedsupporter of Balmain Junior League since the 1950s andthe Ryde Eastwood club.

Along with the other wives of club committeemen, shehelped sell raffle tickets at Leichhardt Oval to help financethe Ryde Eastwood club in its lengthy court case to gain aprovisional license.

Norma was born on April 2, 1929 at her Glebe Street Glebehome – the only child of Violet and William Northcott.

At the age of 7 she started her education at Glebe PublicSchool where she sat next to her future husband Jack in thesame kindergarten classroom.

Jack switched to St James Catholic School Forest Lodgewhen he was 10 but the couple – who lived only one streetapart – met up again when they were aged 16.

It was during this stage of her life that Norma started workat the Thomas Heaney Handkerchief Factory on Broadwayand starting dating her sweetheart Jack.

They became engaged at 18 and were married on October1, 1949 in St Johns Church of England at Glebe. In 1952their first daughter Christine was born but tragically died atthe age of nine months.

Jack began a long association with Leichhardt WanderersJunior Rugby League Club in the Balmain Juniors in 1950with Norma serving on the Ladies Committee for six years.

The couple – who celebrated their 59th Weddinganniversary in October – moved into their Tennyson RoadGladesville home back in 1962.

Their daughter Cheryl was born in 1958 and only sonWayne in 1968.

Evergreen Jack – one of the most accomplished officials inNSW Rugby League – was elected on to the Hawks' Boardof Directors in 1963 and for the past 45 years, Norma was apillar of strength in the King household.

NORMA KING – A RYDE EASTWOOD FIRST LADY

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108 - 110 Lilyfield Road LILYFIELD NSW 2040P.O. Box 1213 Rozelle NSW 2039Phone : (02) 9818 1011 Fax: (02) 9818 1182Email : genenquiries@jjrobertson.com.auwww.jjrobertson.com.au

1908 Birchgrove Oval – First game of Rugby League played between Balmain Tigers and Western Suburbs – 20th April 1908

2008 – Birchgrove Oval – Replay of First Game – Balmain Ryde Eastwood Tigers v Western Suburbs Magpies – 20th April 2008

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