With both leagues holding inaugural Youth Girl Competitions this year, it would be interesting to see who would end up on top.
Both sides of girls ran through the specially constructed banner to the loud applause of the crowd estimated at 300 including SWAAFL League President Jemma Still, State Player Una McKay, Umpire John Freeland, St George Coach Gary Slowgrove, St George Dragon players Louise Glasgow, Janine McGlynn, Louise Glasgow and Adeline Yaw. The National Anthem was sung beautifully assisted by the massive speakers.
In the Under 15's Game: It was a tough contest for the first quarter with both sides scoring two goals apiece with ACT scoring 2.214 to 2.0.12 at the quarter time break. From there the ACT put the acid on especially when the wind was blowing south. The ACT goals were eagerly cheered on by their senior side whilst the parents of the NSW players made up for noise adding to the general atmosphere.However there was some huge hits in the game that made the crowd wince including one where the player with the balll (Loranna Child) managed to take out her opponent by dropping her shoulder then spinning around. NSW had their chances with the wind in the final quarter but kicked inaccurately so the end score was ACT 7.2.44 to NSW 4.7.31.
Captain Sophie O'Dea raised the U15's cup for the ACT and Brianna Dalgleish (ACT) was judged Best on Ground.
ACT Goals: Brianna Dalgleish 3, Lara Sweeney, Sarah Lilley, Sophie O'Dea, Victoria King
NSW Goals: Amy Morgan 2, Loranna Child, Belinda Harvey
In the Under 18's Game: NSW jumped out of the blocks using the southerly breeze to pile on the goals to lead at the quarter time break NSW 4.3.27 to ACT 2.0.12. ACT had to reuse some of their U15 players for this game and the skill difference between the U15 and U18 was much more noticeable. The wind died down after quarter time and both sides contested the ball fiercely with many brusies and injuries sustained on both teams. There is no doubt some of these NSW Girls can play immediately at SWAFL level.
The end score was NSW 7.12.54 to ACT 2.2.14.
Captain Holly Thomson raised the U18's cup for NSW and Sinead Bailey (NSW) was judged Best on Ground.
Goals NSW: April Macejowski 3, Stephanie Power, Kassandra Child, Laura Henshaw, Madolyn Ryan.
Goals ACT: Brianna English, Kelly Donnelly
Many thanks to the many sponsors such as the Navy and media partners WIN Television and Illawarra Mercury, hosts Figtree Kangaroos, field umpires and officials.
We hope this becomes an annual event in conjunction with Senior Women's Football.
But most thanks to the Event Coordinator - Dawn Giffin for which the whole league (IYGAFL) let alone the event would not have eventuated.
Photos (Courtesy John Freeland) can be found in the Photo Gallery of this website, pictured is the Under 15's NSW Team and Under 18's NSW Team.
Last Modified on 16/08/2009 19:48