North Coast AFL stars showcase potential at Northern NSW Championships

THREE massive days of AFL football took place at Coffs Harbour from 8-10 July, with North Coast talent showcasing their skills at the Northern NSW Championships.

The tournament attracted more than 750 players representing four regional zones: AFL Hunter/Central Coast,  AFL North West, AFL South Coast and AFL North Coast.

A total of 29 boys and girls teams competed in U13, U15 and U17 age divisions.

After three days of intense competition and 84 matches Hunter Metro emerged victorious overall, claiming the Simon Smyth Cup by virtue of winning the most games across the six divisions, securing 24 wins from their 36 matches.

North Coast Force (NCF) secured a commendable third place overall.

The U17s boys won their division, going through the tournament unbeaten.

The NCF U15s boys and girls teams, and the U13s boys, all won three of their six games.

Twenty-nine members of the Port Macquarie Junior Magpies represented the North Coast, including Sydney Swans Academy stars Ruby and Isaac Luke.

Ruby highlighted the skill development and teamwork opportunities provided by the tournament.

“The close, competitive games were definitely a highlight of the tournament,” said Ruby.

“It was also great playing alongside girls I usually go up against on weekends; they have some awesome skills.”

Brad Greenshields, the Community Football and Competition Manager for AFL Northern NSW, expressed his satisfaction at the success of the carnival, highlighting the growing participation rate and improving skill level of the junior regional players.

“The event was enjoyed by so many,” said Greenshields.

“With over 700 boys and girls playing across the three days, combined with almost 2,000 spectators who attended at various times, it made for a fantastic carnival.

“The continued improvement of the performance of AFL North Coast teams shows that the standard of junior football in our region continues to get better each year.”

By Kim AMBROSE