Port swoop on Under 11 title
The Grand Finals of the AFL North Coast Junior Competition reflected the ongoing rapid growth of the game in the region. A bumper season that has seen record numbers of teams and players had its culmination in front of a record crowd at the spectacular re-developed C.ex Coffs International Stadium.
The Under 11 match between the Port Macquarie stablemates started the day in fantastic fashion. The Swoopers went into the match with an unbeaten record in 2019 but the Flyers looked as though they could spring an upset until midway through the third term after starting in fearless fashion and really taking the game on.
At half time the Swoopers were up by just two points and were facing their biggest test of the season. There were early lead changes in the third quarter before the Swoopers really settled and started to take control of the game. At three quarter time the Swoopers held a 16 point advantage and Flyers needed to be the next to score but their club mates added two more goals to run away with a well deserved win.
Tyler Jess was declared Best on Ground for the Premiers, whilst Mitch White received the same honour for the Flyers.
In the end of season awards, Isaac Luke (Camden Haven Bombers/Manning Valley Mustangs) was named League Best and Fairest whilst Lincoln Chambers (Coffs Breakers) was runner-up. Zane Guthrie (Coffs Breakers) received the Rising Star award as best bottom age player in the Under 11 competition.
Port Macquarie Swoopers 7.11 (53) defeated Port Macquarie Flyers 3.8 (26)
Congratulations to all involved with Junior footy in 2019. We look forward to seeing everyone back for an even bigger season in 2020.