This Saturday the 15th of July, of course coinciding with our Noosa tigers past players day for 2017, will see many faces coming together to celebrate the 20 year anniversary of the Noosa Tigers AFC 1997 Brisbane AFL Division 1 premiership.
The 10 point win over Brisbane giants Aspley broke a twelve year premiership drought at the Tigers and halted bitter rivals Maroochydore from winning an amazing 5th straight flag. Coached by the legendary Alan 'Grumpy' Smith, whose ruthless approach to fitness and a physical stack on the ball and the opposition was a key to the premiership; Noosa were also very cagey prior to the June 30 player clearance cut off.
Names like Batty, Armistead, Gephard, Pitts and Kelly joined the tigers and were key inclusions as the tigers won ten in a row after the cut off period to become celebrated champions of the Brisbane AFL. Names such as Munro, Ford, Jaques and Terlich were synonymous at the Tigers whilst the hardness and competitiveness of Butch Smith, Tindal, Nowlan, Gale, Black and Blair were also instrumental in the success.
The late Richard Gill was a star across half back that year and for the next few years to come. The late Wayne Dover at full back was also a sight to be reckoned with in 97 with his best mate Hugh Stewart so pivotal to the team’s success. Hugh’s brother Nick bagged 3 vital goals in the Grand Final whilst Jason Tabernee always completed the job he was assigned to complete.
There are great memories to be discussed and of course shared this weekend as the Tigers face old enemies Maroochydore in a top of the table clash. It just doesn't get any better! Past players day starts at 2pm. Go Tigers!
Cheers Pittsy
Last Modified on 13/07/2017 11:36