BALMAIN District Junior

Strathfield Raiders U9s Div 1 Premiers L-R: Emre Gundoganli, Matthew Raheb, Richard Yammine, and Jonathan Ibrahim

2013 104th Annual Report Coateshire proud major sponsor of the Balmain District Junior Rugby League

Coateshire became the major sponsor of the hire company with over 120 years experience Balmain District Junior Rugby League in 2010 in industry, supplying a wide variety of markets and once again sponsored for 2013. including Engineering and Building Construction and Maintenance, Mining and Resources, Manu- The sponsorship received is allocated to educa- facturing, Government and Events. tion within our District and affords every volun- teer who is appointed to a role in their Club to With over 200 branches and satellite locations be properly qualified and then accredited as a with our own maintenance and transport ca- Coach, LeagueSafe Trainer, and Sports Trainer. pability, Coateshire is well positioned to satisfy We also encourage our Administrators to attend the equipment hire needs of an ever increasing workshops at no charge and this is also through customer base the generosity of our Coateshire sponsorship. Coateshire NSW are proud to support the Coates Limited is ’s largest equipment Balmain District Junior Rugby League. www.coateshire.com.au 2 GENERAL MANAGER’S REPORT

We were all in raptures with our 2012 efforts but cheering on the boys. A huge vote of thanks to the amount of young men from our Junior League Operations Manager Jennie Webster and the graduating to NRL & NYC in 2013 & the success BDJRL Directors who gave up their time to con- of our SG Ball again made 2013 a year to re- tribute to the success of the day. member for all. Coateshire were again major sponsors of the , & Nathan Brown all Junior League in 2013 and along with Ryde East- made their NRL debuts coincidentally in the wood Leagues Club, Wests Ashfield, Dulux Inspi- same game last year which may be some sort of rations Gladesville & Burwood Heights, record for the Junior League and Jarred Farlow Markets, Tigers Sydney Markets and Tigers Five who has been a wonderful Clubman finally got Dock and Patron Mick Manning your support and his chance in a rare victory over the Panthers. assistance is never taken for granted and from Their Junior League Clubs should be very proud everyone involved with BDJRL a mighty thanks! of this achievement. Our Awards night and Junior League Luncheon were again wonderful highlights on the 2013 calendar both socially and to recognise our major contributors for our Junior Rep and Junior League Programs. To Jennie and her band of vol- unteers who make these events run so smoothly it is appreciated by all Clubs and attendees.

Our thanks to Ryde Eastwood Leagues and All Occasion Cruises for their continued support of these wonderful events. To Australian Power & Balmain PCYC kids Gas & James Myatt your support both financially Another three players Alefosio Tatola, Matthew & personally has been sincerely valued & from all Woods & Rhys Armstrong also graduated to NYC of us we wish you well in future endeavours. football after winning a memorable SG Ball & National U/18 Final. Well done to you all. To the Balmain DJRL Referees Association many thanks for the job you do in sometimes a thank- Our Junior Clubs had mixed results across the less world. Without you we do not have a game. Sydney Combined Competition but were very competitive in a number of age groups and divi- To all the partners/sponsors of all the Clubs, sions. A bit more hard work and a touch of luck you keep the lights turned on at training, put the will see some of the Clubs with premierships in jerseys on the backs of the kids and contribute 2014. towards the trophies our players receive at sea- son’s end. You put a smile on the kids’ faces and Our Junior League Grand Final Day was again get them active in a team sport which can result well attended by family & friends with big crowds in lifetime friendships-THANK YOU

3 GENERAL MANAGER’S REPORT

John Critchley and the Directors of the Junior With my focus a little more on other Rugby League, keep up the great work and to all the League matters in 2013 I want to firstly congratu- executive committees of the respective Junior late Jennie Webster on her historic appointment League Clubs our thanks for your time and dedi- to the Board of the NSW Junior Rugby Leagues cation to our game. Association who are a voting member of the NSWRL. Another valuable role she combines Our precious volunteers who selflessly give up is her role with the Sydney Combined Competi- their time to lend a helping hand Mrs Mac, Barry, tion Committee (SCC) and the contribution she Norma & Renee for all you do at all levels of makes to both BTFC and the BDJRL. It is a credit Tigers Football. Lyn & Stapo for your help when to you to be recognised at all these different lev- Leichhardt is needed for our Junior League els of the game. Congratulations & thanks from events-many thanks. all of us.

In these ever increasing difficult times it is nice to remember….

Black & Gold-We Never Fold!

I wish all best of luck for 2014. Up the Tigers!

Balmain Volunteers

To Vinh Tran and Bree Keighran thank you for your promotion of Rugby League in our Balmain Schools and good luck with your new roles.

Thanks to Mitch Lewis who has now matched the feats of Yvette Downey in “winning” an SG Ball title and coordinating our Junior Development program.

4 OFFICE BEARERS 1908 - 2013

SECRETARIES Bob Barnett 2001 Bill Wise 2002-03-04 Dave Butchart 1908-09-10-11-12-13 John Culbert 2005 (deceased) Pat McQuade 1908-09 Frank Savage 1914-15-18-19-22 Robert Savage 1916-17 ASSISTANT SECRETARIES Leo Mason 1920-21-23-24-25 W L Young 1926-27-28 Harold Matthews 1913-14-15-16-17-18-19-20-21- Bill O’Connor 1929-30-31-32 22 C H ‘Micky’ Roberts 1933-34 M Cooney 1927-28 L Crawley 1934-35 B Curran 1929-30-31-32-33-34 J Burnicle 1936-37 J Burnicle 1935 Sid Jenkins 1938-39-40-41 W L Young 1936-37-38-39-40 J Griffith 1942-43 E Whitford 1941-42-43-44 R Rourke 1944-45-46 J Burnet 1945-46 Harry Addison 1947-48-49-50 Harry Chalk 1947 George Lee 1951-52-53-54-55 Arthur Robinson 1948-49-50-51-52-53-54-55 Danny Clifford 1956-57 Bill Ballard 1956-57-58-59-60 Bill Ballard 1958-59-60 Arthur McIlveen 1961-62-63-64-65-66-67-68-69- Joe Hayes 1961-62 70-71-72-73-74-75-76-77 Don Graham 1963-64-65-66-67-68-69-70-71- Ron Wilson 1978-79 72-73-74-75 Ray Dalton 1980-81 Mick Ko’Cass 1976-77-78-79-80 Bob Carroll 1982 (Resigned) Chris Kenny 1983-84-85-86 Bill Brown 1980-81-82 Kathleen Hughes 1987 Bob Carroll 1983-84-85-86-87-88-89-90-91- Pat Hegarty 1988-89-90 (Retired) 92-93-94 Cliff Madgwick 1990-91-92-93-94 Paul Egan 1995-96-97-98-99-2000-01-02- Graham Simmons 1995-96-97-98-99-2000-01-02-03 03-04 Lyn Phillis 2004-05

PRESIDENTS TREASURERS Arthur Ballerum 1908-09-10-11-12-13-14-15-16 Frank Savage 1914-15-16-17-18-19-20 Frank Savage 1917-18-19 Harold Matthews 1921-22 James N Walsh 1920-21-22-23-24-25-26-28-29- W L Young 1923-24-25-26 40-41 M Cooney 1927-28 J McCarry 1927-1930-31-32-33 B Curran 1929-30-31 J Shaw 1934-35 D Cooksey 1932 Bill O’Connor 1935 L Crawley 1933-34 A S Cochrane 1936-37-38-39 Allan Slarke 1935 L Crawley 1942-43 J Connor 1936-37-38-39-40-41-42-43 A Dawes 1944-45-46 H McLeod 1944-45 Bert Hampstead 1947-48-49-50-51-52-53-54 J Donovan 1946 Austin Hoyle 1955-56-57-58 Harry Chalk 1947-48-49-50-51-52 Robert McKinney 1959-60-61 A Harding 1949-50-51 Bill Evans 1962-63-64-65-66-67-68-69-70 Bob Jones 1953-54-55 Bob Waterson 1971-72-73-74-75-76-77 Arthur Robinson 1956-57-58-59-60-61 John Jackson 1978-79-80-81-82 Ron Pursehouse 1962-63-64-65-66-67-68 Ted Hellsten 1983-84-85-86-87-88-89-90-91- Reg Patterson 1969-70-71-72-73-74-75-76 92 Phil Lloyd 1977-78-79 Sid Coghlan 1993 Doug Vitnell 1980 Robert Henderson 1994-95-96-97-98-99-2000 Myles Kennedy 1981-82-83

5 OFFICE BEARERS 1908 - 2013

Tony Newell 1984-85-86 CHAIRMAN Kathy Palmer 1986-87 Sid Coghlan 1988-89-90-91 Robert Henderson 2006-2010 (resigned) Ernie Baldwin 1992-93-94-2002-03 John Critchley 2011 - Tony Bietola 1995-96-97-98-99-2000-01 Chris Annison 2004-05

DIRECTORS JUNIOR LEAGUE ADMINISTRATORS John Carrington 2006-2010 Frank Delaney 1937 Debbie Chalmers 2006 J Galvin 1937 John Critchley 2006-08-09-10 Warwick Hilder 2006-07-08 Gary Hinchliffe 2006-07 Steve Lavers 2006-07 VICE PRESIDENTS Peter Mortimer 2006 Mick O’Keefe 2006-2012 Tom Prescott 1924 Bob Siemsen 2006-2012 Richard Baker 1930-31-32-33 Philip Taylor 2006-2012 David Wilson 2006-2011 resigned Scott Todd 2011-2012 Chris Raheb 2006-2012 SENIOR VICE PRESIDENTS Charlie Khalifeh 2012- Chris Annison 2007-08-09 Arthur McIlveen 1978-79 Ian Gibbeson 2007-08-09-10 Ted Hellsten 1980-81-82 Jon Monroe 2007-08 (deceased) Maurie O’Brien 1983-84-85-86 Robert Gerrie 2008 Ken Brownlee 1988-89-90-91 John Stapleton 2008-2012 Sid Coghlan 1992 Brian Johnston 2008-2012 Bob Barnett 1993-94-95-96-97-98-99-2000 Chris Woods 2008 Bill Wise 2001 Michael Benson 2011-2012 John Culbert 2002-03-04 (deceased) Brett Wheelhouse 2009 Allen Carling 2005 Frank Dunne 2009-2012 resigned Leoni Barnett 2012 Con Veneziano 2009-2012 resigned OPERATIONS MANAGER Aida Catalano 2010 Paul Jenson 2010 Darren Mooney 2004- 2006 Gabriel Georgy 2010-2011 Jennie Webster 2007 – continuing Richard Jones 2009-2012 Richard Kelly 2011-2012 Joe Bainou 2012 GENERAL MANAGER RLFC & JUNIOR LEAGUE PATRON Michael Keech 2007-2010 (resigned) Mick Manning 1997-continuing Paul Sironen 2010 (Acting) 2011 continuing

DEVELOPMENT MANAGER

David Kelly 1997- 2010 Yvette Downey 2012 - 2013

6 BALMAIN JUNIOR LEAGUE BOARD OF DIRECTORS

CHAIRMAN LIFE MEMBERS COMMITTEE John Critchley John Critchley (Chairman) Jennie Webster (Operations Manager) Mick Manning PATRON John Carrington Mick Manning Balmain PCYC Mick O’Keefe SYDNEY COMBINED COMPETITIONS Carlingford Cougars Richard Kelly Concord Burwood David Durbin COMMITTEE Dundas Shamrocks Bob Siemsen Jennie Webster (Operations Manager) Enfield Federals Joe Bainou Five Dock RSL Nick Speranza Holy Cross Rhinos Richard Jones NATIONAL LEAGUENET COMMITTEE Leichhardt Juniors Philip Taylor Jennie Webster (Operations Manager) Leoni Barnett representing NSW North Ryde Hawks Brian Johnston Strathfield Raiders Charlie Khalifeh Balmain Referees Assn Scott Todd RULES COMMITTEE Peter Mortimer (Chairman) SUB COMMITTEES Jennie Webster (Operations Manager) FINANCE COMMITTEE Paul Sironen (General Manager) Jennie Webster (Operations Manager) BEHAVIOUR MANAGEMENT PANEL Chris Raheb (Chairman) JUDICIARY COMMITTEE Mick Manning Mick O’Keefe Tony Beger (Chairman) Phillip Taylor Mick Manning Bob Siemsen Sam Gebrael

BALMAIN JUNIOR RUGBY LEAGUE LIFE MEMBERS

Jim Acheson, Fred Alexander*, Chris Annison, Kathy An- Cliff Madgwick*, Mick Manning, Peter Mortimer, Harold nison, Jeff Aplitt, Keith Bailey, Bill Ballard, Allan Barber, Matthews*, Chris Karas, David Kelly, Myles Kennedy*, Jack Bob Barnett*, Ernie Baldwin, Ken Bell*, Ray Barclay, Tony King, Mick Ko’Cass, Mick O’Keefe, Arthur McIlveen*, Tom Bietola, Des Booler, George Bowden*, Bill Bradshaw*, Bill Middleton*, Leo Neylon*, Tony Newell, Maurie O’Brien, Reg Brown, Ken Brownlee*, Bill Burke, Harold Chalk*, Alan Patterson, Lyn Phillis, Ron Pursehouse, Roy Rawson, Eric Carling, John Carrington, Bob Carroll, Sid Coghlan*, Brian Richardson*, John Robertson, Arthur Robinson, George Coleman, Bob Cooper, John Critchley, John Culbert*, Robinson*, Martin Ritter, Ron Ryan, Bob Siemsen, Den- Charlie Day, Ray Dalton*, Phil Dore, John Doyle, Max Da- nis Simmons, Graham Simmons, H Skinner, John Stanton, vis, John Dunlea, Gary Dickson, Paul Egan, Terry Evans, Jack Tagg*, John Stapleton, Ken Stapleton, Jack Taylor*, Bill Evans*, Bill Fender*, G Frederick*, Jim Fitzgibbons, Kevin Thatcher*, Colin Thew*, Ian Todd, Doug Vitnell*, Alan Mal Finnigan*, Gino Fogliati, Dennis Fowler*, Sam Ge- Watts, Bob Waterson, A Waterson, Athol Webster, Paul brael, Ray Gerrie, Don Graham*, Bert Hampstead*, Harry Wheelhouse, Ron Wicks, Billy Wise, Fred Woodbridge*, Hannaford*, Pat Hegarty, Ted Hellsten*, Austin Hoyle, Les Stan Woodbridge* Heath, Bob Henderson, Peter Hunter, J Hughes*, Wally *Deceased Houghton*, Keith Jacobs*, John Jackson*, Steve Leslie,

7 CHAIRMAN’S REPORT

As we close off the 2013 season I look back on In mid September I attended our JRL Presenta- some of our achievements with consideration tion night where not only did we acknowledge our to the financial challenges we had to overcome. Junior Rep Squad players, but also our outstand- With 142 teams containing 2,500 players, it ing club volunteers. If it were not for our dedicat- sometimes meant long hours at our club grounds ed volunteers and Board members, our Balmain and canteens for many of our volunteers. JRL would not be as successful as it is. On the night, NRL “” coach – Mick Potter On that note I would like to congratulate Leich- reminded everyone to not only encourage their hardt Wanderers hard working Leoni Barnett who children to play the sport, but more importantly was a finalist in the “ONE COMMUNITY NA- “allow them to enjoy their time on the field”. Good TIONAL VOLUNTEER AWARDS”. Recognition advice. must also be given to our great band of Balmain Referees, because without their dedication and Our Grand-Final day was the highlight of the commitment from week to week, we would not season where we witnessed the kids enjoying the have a game. thrill of playing on . I was person- ally pleased to see the mass of supporters from A special mention to our Operations Manager Enfield Federals offering support and encourage- Jennie Webster and the JRL Board of Directors ment to their U/12 boys late in the evening. who steer our competition from week to week. Jennie has secured a great deal of sponsorship Thanks to Jennie Webster, Mick Manning and our to assist our clubs and their players. Board of Directors for another successful season, hope to see everyone back again in 2014. I would also like to congratulate Mick O’Keefe from Balmain Police Boys who after many years service has decided to hand over the reins as a Director. Mick has gradually grown the club under his leadership over many years and set-up a great band of workers to take it forward.

Behind the scenes are those quiet achievers and John Critchley committed workers such as Yvette Downy, Mitch Chairman Lewis, John Stapleton, Lyn Phillis and our Patron Balmain District Junior Rugby League Mick Manning who put in many hours to support our Balmain Juniors.

8 OPERATION MANAGER’S REPORT

Balmain was the first junior work but the end result is that our Clubs are truly league formed in 1908, some working together to create a wonderful District 106 years ago and passion and with a happy atmosphere. I am very proud of this love of the game is the glue that and even more proud of our Clubs for wanting to keeps our District strong with our create that atmosphere to play in. members wanting to continually strive to be better every year. In 2013 the season commenced with 142 teams comprising 2,500 players and officials compet- We have been very fortunate to have had some ing in the Junior League and the newly named incredible years where everything seems to have Sydney Combined Competition. Again our district fallen into place and all the hard work and plan- growth remains steady and my heartfelt wish is ning by many has been rewarded with on field to see every Club competing in each division of results from our fine young players and coaching every age group. We still have a way to go to ac- staff and off field accolades to our magnificent complish this. clubs and volunteers. Although we had some very competitive senior Paul Sironen’s Report reveals how well our teams who made the final series, we could not Representative players have performed and who quite get over the line to be able to host some would have thought that after a 30 year drought “home” grand finals at Leichhardt Oval and as a in winning the SG Ball that Balmain would go District I am sure our clubs have set their sights back to back winning the U18s SG Ball titles in to achieve this for 2014. 2012 and 2013 and go on to become National Champions both years! The Wests Tigers now has a number of our district young guns in their NRL team and this year Luke Brooks, Joel Luani and Nathan Brown all made their NRL debuts.

John Critchley, the magnificent Junior League Chairman shares in his Report the community feel of our District and recognises our wonder- ful volunteers and the incredible job they do throughout the year. The season is not just the few months of the footy, there is so much pre and 9s with post season planning to do and along with John Critchley I congratulate all of our Clubs for doing Where competition for the sponsorship dollar is such a wonderful job. so strong, we cannot state how much our District appreciates the support from our Major Spon- Personally, the most remarkable aspect of Rugby sor Coateshire 13 15 52. With the funding League in this District is the camaraderie that I received, our District is able to offer every volun- have witnessed growing between the officials and teer the opportunity to become a Coach of young clubs over the years. It has taken a lot of hard players from 4 through to 12 years (Modified 9 Game) or a coach of 13s through to A Grade when they played at Leichhardt Oval. (International Game), or become a League Safe This resulted in a very generous amount paid to Trainer or Sports Trainer. The funding also as- each of the Clubs involved. Wests Ashfield sists with the purchase of uniforms, equipment, Leagues went a step further for 2014 in offering course materials, and sports DVDs for taping. Club Grants to a number of our Clubs. On behalf of our Junior League, we thank Simon Cook The District is also able to offer Coaching Up- and his team for the generosity shown to our Dis- dates to ensure that all coaches are able to con- trict and Clubs by Wests Ashfield Leagues. tinue their development and education. Every year we have the fantastic support of We would not be able to do any of this without McDonald’s. Once again we had an opportu- that support and every member of our District is nity to advertise and promote rugby league in our very grateful for the generosity of Coateshire District through the Tray Mat Program at no cost 13 15 52. throughout the 23 Inner Western Suburbs stores to support our registration period and every year Ryde Eastwood Leagues Club [RELC] we can rely on McDonald’s sending “Ronald” to also became a Sponsor of the Junior League with our Grand Final Day to assist with the presenta- their very generous funding covering the costs tion of our Mini League Trophies. of all insurance premiums for every player from the age of 4 years through to 15 years and this Following is a list of some of the season high- resulted in an incredible saving to our families lights and Clubs. Chris McCarthy and his team at • Luke Brooks, Joel Luani and Nathan Brown the RELC have been wonderful to work with and made their NRL debuts. we hope to continue our relationship for years • Alefosio Tatola, Mat Woods and Rhys Arm- into the future. strong moved into the NYC ranks • Rhys Armstrong and Alefosio Tatola selected Ryde Eastwood Leagues Club have also into the NSW U18 representative team been very generous in allowing the District and • Pifeleti Pifeleti selected into the NSW U16 Clubs to use their meeting rooms and facilities representative team and their venue has been the home of our very • Nellie Hage named Wests Tigers Woman of successful Awards Nights for the past few years. the Year • Balmain Junior League continues to be a force For 2014, the Ryde Eastwood Leagues not just on the footy field but in all aspects of Club become another Major Sponsor by increas- the game. Leoni Barnett from Leichhardt ing our sponsorship grant with their incredibly Wanderers was named a finalist in the cat- generous offer to pay the insurance premiums egory of National Volunteer of the Year for our entire district from age 4 through to A at the NRL National One Community Grade. Our 11 Clubs plus the Balmain Referees Awards Association are all beneficiaries of their generos- • Clubs were very active in supporting the ity and are all so appreciative. McGrath Foundation Pink Footy Socks Day and this has become a big day on the Balmain Wests Ashfield Leagues became a spon- Calendar and we are very proud of all our sorship partner and offered Clubs a share of members for their strong support of such a $1,000 per try scored by Wests Tigers worthy cause. 10 The Sydney Combined Competition (SCC) con- tinues to grow in strength and is a Competition held in high regard by NSWRL. Each year, more Districts are applying to become part of the SCC and I would like to thank Stuart Stanton from the NSWRL Academy who is the Competition Man- ager. Stuart performed an exceptional role and was a main reason for its success. My thanks also go to Cathy Crowe, Chris Books and Mitch- Birchgrove Oval ell Sim from St George, Kevin Shanahan from Canterbury , Julie Luke from Western We are so fortunate to have the full use of Leich- Suburbs and Luke Curry from South Sydney/ hardt Oval on Grand Final Day and it is one of Eastern Suburbs for their hard work and support the days I enjoy most as it is a culmination of a to make the Competition such a success. season’s hard work and the fine spirit and friend- ship between the clubs is absolutely outstanding. There were some very close and exciting games.

A highlight of the day is the Mini League exhibi- tion and I often wonder who might be a “star” in the making. We can never thank Mick Manning enough for his incredible generosity to our Dis- trict in providing and presenting trophies to every “mini” player who participates on the day.

In the centre, Nellie Hage, Wests Tigers Woman of the Year The National Online Database is the system Every year Sydney Markets provide fresh fruit used to register all players, coaches, trainers and to every player which is very gratefully received. volunteers across the country. My congratulations This is a significant contribution and we love the to all of our club volunteers for attending training healthy options! and working hard to be able to use all aspects of the system. Clubs may now register their Along with the generous sponsorship from members online and offer early bird discounts, Coateshire 13 15 52, every player competing merchandise and the convenience to be able in the Grand Finals also receives an “enviro” bag to register at any time of the day or night. The which includes pens, notepads, sunscreen and system is certainly not without its hiccups but I for pencil cases. These bags are very popular and one am a huge fan as I can see how much time are very well received. We then see the “enviro is saved and the system will continue to improve. bags” throughout the next season! The District’s main fundraiser is the Sports- The joint Football Club and Bal- man’s Lunch and what a great day it was. main Junior League Annual Awards Night on Fri- We are blessed to always have such a beautiful day 13th September held at the Ryde Eastwood sunny day on the harbour on the “Bella Vista”. Leagues Club was a wonderful success with the Our grateful thanks to Joe Elias and his team at Junior League and District Club Reps coming All Occasion Cruises as everyone has a wonder- together to celebrate the season. Our thanks go ful time and a lot of money is raised for the junior to Mick Campbell for being the MC this year and league clubs. Mick did a wonderful job. 11 We say it all the time, but it is true….. Volun- teers are the lifeblood of our sport and without them we would be nothing. The thousands of hours given so willingly by our Volunteers is truly appreciated. My special thanks go to June and Barry Maguire, Norma Walters, Renee Simpson and Lyn Phillis who go above and beyond for both the Balmain Tigers and the Balmain Junior League.

There is not enough room in my report to be able to highlight all that our District’s Volunteer of the Year achieved in 2013; Glenn Hillier from North Ryde Hawks. Glenn was instrumental in organising the Inaugural Walk for Cancer held at TG Millner Field which raised over $10,000 for the McGrath Foundation and ’s pet charity – The Children’s Cancer Institute. Glenn has been a real force within his Club, District and

Community this year and extremely deserving Mannings of the George Thompson Volunteer of the Year John Critchley has again been outstanding as Award. Glenn like Leoni Barnett, Tony Bignold Chairman of the BDJRL and he provides wonder- and Peter Mortimer all honoured in the years ful leadership, friendship and wisdom. A man who before him, was invited to the NSWRL Volunteer has time for everyone. My sincere thanks to John of the Year Awards in November and he was ac- for his personal support to me. knowledged for his dedication. The JL Board of Directors continue to work ex- Congratulations to Concord Burwood who tremely hard and the camaraderie and profes- were crowned both Junior Club and Senior Club sionalism show by each and every one of them of the Year. This is a fantastic effort by the Club! is reflected on how well the Clubs work together. Further congratulations to their Club Secretary, On behalf of the BDJRL Board, our thanks go Aida Catalano who was honoured with the to Danny Stapleton, Director of the District Club Ray Stellar Service to Rugby League Award at who attends our Board meetings and contributes the 2013 Medal Awards Night. Aida is so well. Danny continues to coach in the Junior an integral part of her Club along with a wonder- League and is well across all of the issues and ful Committee and this was a very well deserved concerns that junior leagues face from time to honour. time.

Throughout this year’s Annual Report there are My sincere thanks go to past Balmain Tigers many more stories and highlights and I am sure Football Club Chairman David Trodden for his you will enjoy reading them. support and faith in me and to new Chairman, Dr

12 Leslie Glen who has also been very supportive who has been very supportive of our Junior since taking over the role. League and what we are striving to achieve. “Thank you” just does not seem enough when We are fortunate to have a s trong relationship Mick Manning is mentioned. As Patron of our with the Balmain Referee’s Association and my Junior League since 1997, his kindness, passion, grateful thanks to President, Scott Todd and Ref- generosity and incredible support to me and to all eree Manager, Phillip McMahon for their support at the Junior League is absolutely legendary and and enthusiasm throughout the year. I hope that Mick understands how much he is ap- preciated for all that he does. To my colleagues, Vinh Tran and Bree Keighran, thank you for your support, friendship and as- Finally, to General Manager, Paul Sironen, thank sistance throughout the year and for promoting you for your support, and friendship. It has been rugby league throughout the schools system and a very busy but highly successful year and the I wish both of you well with your new ventures in long hours fade away when you enjoy the people 2014. you work with.

Special thanks to Mitch Lewis and Yvette Balmain Junior League has a magnificent history Downey who have both been an absolute pleas- and I so pleased to be just a small part of that ure to work with. Mitch Lewis took over Yvette’s history. role in Development and has done a wonderful job with our coaching coordinators, junior reps and junior player development and Yvette for her support and encouragement with her new role in Community, Welfare and Education. Our junior league is very well looked after in these areas. Jennie Webster I would also like to offer my sincere thanks to Operations Manager Wests Tigers General Manager, Grant Mayer Balmain District Junior Rugby League

2013 DISTRICT REP SECRETARY’S REPORT

As always, recognition must go to the many peo- DTS, Blades, Griffin Air Conditioning for the ple who make it possible for the teams to take outstanding support provided during the 2013 the field every week. Thank you to the Balmain Representative season. Tigers Football Club, the Balmain Junior League Board, our major sponsors Tigers Five Dock and HAROLD MATTHEWS Tigers Sydney Markets, Ryde Eastwood Football This squad unfortunately didn’t meet expecta- and Leagues Club, Australian Power & Gas, tions. Even though they showed some glimpses

13 of what they were capable of when they stuck to Western Sydney Academy won 44-16; Qualifying the game plans etc., they unfortunately fell short Final vs Cronulla won 32-18; Semi Final vs South only winning three from nine rounds. Sydney won 26-24; Preliminary Final vs Par- ramatta won 24-16; Grand Final vs Penrith win 14-6; National Championship vs Redcliff Dolphins I would like to extend my sincere thanks to Todd won 24-12. McKeown, Peter Mortimer, Mark De Gioia, Mitch Lewis, Glen Jeffery, Tom Livsey and David Pat- I would personally like to thank the all the boys man for the dedication, commitment and effort from Harold Matthews and S G Ball, for the way you all showed during the year. they conducted themselves throughout the sea- son, it was an absolute pleasure. I would also like Results: to thank the ballboys for their assistance each and every week. It was a pleasure to get to know Round 1 vs St George won 28-10; Round 2 vs you all. Penrith lost 28-6; Round 3 vs Newcastle lost 30-4; Round 4 vs Western Suburbs lost 28-24; I hope that all of the players take the knowledge Round 5 vs South Sydney lost 50-0; Round 6 vs and experience they have gained working with SWSAS won 34-6; Round 7 vs lost 32- such experienced staff and use it in the future 12; Round 8 vs lost 38-10; Round 9 to reach their full potential as players and young vs Western Sydney Academy won 22-16. men. Congratulations to all of the Balmain players SG BALL who gained selection in NSWRL Representative Teams, Schoolboy Representative teams, Wests At the start of the season this squad was an Tigers NYC train-on, and the Wests Tigers CUBS unknown quantity, most players improving each at the conclusion of the Junior Rep. competition. week which is what we hoped for and also grow- ing closer as a group. What we didn’t expect was Thank you to all the people who make it pos- for them to take out the S G Ball Premiership sible for the boys to train and play every week, and the National Title for the second consecutive I really don’t know how to thank you all enough. year. Brian Murtagh, Paul Fletcher, Dilhan our Physio who kept the boys on the field each week, our wonderful Leichhardt Oval voluntary staff (Barry Thank you to Mat Head, Pat Gibson, Liam Maguire, June Maguire, Maureen McKeon, Roach, Bob Cooper, Wally Carpenter, Bruce Norma Walters and Renee Simpson) and our Hammond and David Patman for the unending loyal parents and supporters for their incredible dedication and effort shown during the year. You encouragement throughout the season. all did a wonderful job and your commitment never waivered. I would also like to thank Todd I would also like to extend my condolences to McKeown for helping out on the side-line each those who have lost loved ones during the year. week. Finally, a special thank you, as always to Paul Sironen, Yvette Downey, John Stapleton and Mitch Lewis for the never ending help, support Results: and guidance they give at all times. Round 1 vs St George won 38-18; Round 2 vs Penrith Lost 32-12; Round 3 vs Newcastle won Another unbelieveable season for our 24-12; Round 4 vs Western Suburbs won 18-10; wonderful Club! Round 5 vs South Syd ney lost 46-12; Round 6 vs West Coast won 48-6; Round 7 lost 38-14; Lyn Phillis Round 8 vs Parramatta won 24-21; Round 9 vs District Rep. Secretary

14 NRL GAME DEVELOPMENT 2013 REPORT

Vinh Tran – Balmain High Schools NSW All Schools. The 13s Holy Cross team were 2013 proved to be another solid year of Rugby fantastic and progressed to the final but gallantly went League activity in the Balmain region. down.

2013 Community Carnival 2013 High School clinics and activity To start the year we ran one of our biggest ever cam- Schools from across the Balmain area continued their paign of school visits. NRL Game Development staff affinity for rugby league activity. With a multitude of took the Wests Tigers players to nearly 40 primary single sex and co-educational schools and secondary schools across the Balmain area. The participating in Coles NRL Backyard League pro- visits were part of the NRL grams, Introductory NRL clinics, training sessions and One Community Carnivals and the message the play- coach and referee education programs. As part of ers delivered was “ Bullying” and how to deal these programs hundreds of Steedens were distribut- with this issue. They also talked about their junior ed to students as well information on how to join their league experiences and promoted all the local BDJRL local BDJRL club. St Patricks Marist Dundas, Dom clubs. Over 8000 students were part of this year’s Remy College, Fort St HS, Santa Sabina College, community carnival. Epping Boys HS, Strathfield South HS and Hunters Hill HS were just some of the schools involved in the 2013 Balmain All Schools above mentioned activities. Another great Balmain All Schools Gala Day was held in 2013. High School teams from across the region There was also the continuation of regular, week-to- gathered to St Luke’s Park and Goddard Park for a week rugby league competitions that saw a number massive day of competitive rugby league. The win- of schools from the area continue the traditions of ners from this year’s carnival were: these competitions. Schools including, Holy Cross 13s – Holy Cross College, Ryde College, De La Salle Ashfield, St Patricks Marist Dun- 14s – Holy Cross College, Ryde das, Marist College Eastwood, Marsden HS, Ryde 15s – Strathfield South HS Secondary College, Sydney Secondary College and 16s – Homebush Boys HS Concord HS were amongst those that were involved in MCC, MCS, CHS, Buckley Shield, University Shield These schools went on to represent the region at the and GIO Cup and Trophy competitions.

15 JUNIOR LEAGUE STALWARTS HONOURED

THREE of Balmain Junior League’s most re- Final at the SCG. spected figures – Ron Ryan, Mick O’Keefe and referee coach Sam Gebrael – have been hon- Ryan went on to play 30 first -grade matches for oured with life membership. Balmain and Eastern Suburbs from 1983-87 as well as a short stint with English club Halifax. The trio are pictured at Leichhardt Oval – just days after receiving their life membership pins at He was a member of the Tigers’ 1984 reserve the Junior League AGM at the ground’s Centuri- grade premiership side and since retiring as a ons Room. player has devoted many hours to the North Ryan, 48, of Tennyson Point has proved a fine Ryde Hawks as a club patron and executive. ambassador for Balmain rugby league, both as a player and administrator with North Ryde Hawks. Ron has poured his energies into grassroots rugby league and is highly regarded in sporting The former Tigers’ utility back has given yeoman circles for his generosity and business acumen. service to the district over the past 40 years. MICK O’KEEFE is a name synonymous with the A crafty half back with North Ryde and Balmain Balmain Police Citizens Youth RLFC. junior representative teams, Ryan skippered the Tigers to a Jersey Flegg premiership triumph in The long serving police officer helped re-form the 1982. famous ‘Coppers’ in 2004 after many years in the Junior League wilderness and has played a That same year, Ron captained the City, NSW major role in the club’s growth. and Australian U/18 teams to victories over Country, and the touring Great Brit- From one U/7 side, the club now fields eight ain Colts before helping Balmain reserve grade teams in the BJL competitions – thanks to the side defeat Eastern Suburbs in the ’82 Grand tireless efforts of O’Keefe and Tony Bignold. 16 Mick, a skilful prop with Newtown in the NSW Sam was encouraged by former referee Graeme Police Rugby League series from 1982-89, has West to get his ticket and after completing his coached the Coppers’ Mini and Mod League course was graded as a BJL referee. sides these past nine seasons and has served as a BJL director since 2005. After a short apprenticeship, Sam worked his way up to the senior ranks and controlled the 1995 SAM GEBRAEL achieved a unique milestone U/21 title decider - the first of four Grand Final when he became the first referee to be bestowed appearances. with life membership of the BJL. Sam received life membership of the Balmain Evergreen Sam stumbled into refereeing at the Referees after 10 years service and has held the age of 36 and has given sterling service to the position of Director of Referees and Referees Balmain Referees Association since 1986. Manager since 2000.

He caught the refereeing bug while playing touch Sam enjoys his mentoring role with the BJL refer- football on Sunday mornings with friends at Blair ees and watched with pride as 18-year-old grand- Park Croydon. son Robert Bechara achieved his Level 2 and controlled the U/12 Div 1 Grand Final between The matches would become heated, so players premiers Leichhardt Wanderers Red and Dundas took turns at refereeing with Sam relishing the Shamrocks at Leichhardt Oval in 2012. opportunity to control proceedings.

CHRIS KARAS

CHRIS KARAS is an ac- up over 40 years experience in the Balmain Jun- complished Sydney sporting ior League as both a player and writer. journalist and author who is entering his 30th year as Chris is the author of the book “From Fraser to Sports Editor of the award- Farah: The History of Balmain Junior League winning suburban newspa- 1908-2008” that was published during the rugby per The Weekly Times. league Centenary season. In 2011, he wrote the book “Friends for Life – The He is the Balmain Tigers rugby league historian Leichhardt Wanderers Story” – a detailed history and a life member of both the Balmain Junior of one of Australia’s longest-established sporting League and Leichhardt Wanderers Junior Rugby clubs. League Football Club. Chris has also written the “History of Ryde East- At the age of 52, Chris has had a lifetime involve- wood Hawks 1963-2013” – a proud club that ment with the game – representing the Balmain recently celebrated its 50th anniversary. Tigers where he still has strong ties and chalking

17 SALUTE TO FIVE DOCK LEAGUE LEGENDS

FIVE Dock RSL Junior Rugby League Club sa- ‘Legends’on the night while stalwart Ted Collins luted their lone international at received the Steve Malcolm Memorial Club Spirit its 50th anniversary function on August 2 at Club Trophy. Five Dock. Harrison, the former Wests Tigers’ NRL premier- ship-winning forward and current St George-Illa- warra star, played his early junior football with the Dockers before linking with Leichhardt Wander- ers. The impact forward went on to help the Tigers capture the 2005 title and experience World Cup glory with the New Zealand Test team. FIVE Dock RSL junior products Lindsay Delpech, John Owens, Bronson Harrison, Steve Blyth and Harrison is pictured extreme left with Five Dock Gary Lonnon (pictured) at the Dockers’ 50th an- JRLFC life member and event co-ordinator Chan- niversary Reunion Night. All five went on to play telle Garrett; City of Canada Bay Mayor Angelo first grade in either the NSWRL or NRL premier- Tsirekas; Five Dock RSL Football Club secre- ship. tary Penny Chalk; Five Dock RSL Football Club president Joe Dougall; Reid MP John Murphy; Five Dock RSL JRLFC life member and assistant treasurer Helen Gregory; Balmain Junior League chairman and Five Dock RSL legend John Critch- ley and Five Dock RSL stalwart and Balmain Junior League director Nick Speranza. Six stalwarts - Walter Zatz, John Robertson, John Slattery, Terry Dickson, Steve Malcolm and John Critchley - were inducted as Five Dock

18 TIGER CUBS ROAR TO S.G BALL CHAMPIONSHIP

BALMAIN U/18 rugby league cubs etched their names in the record books after clinching back to back S.G Ball Cup premierships on May 4.

Mathew Head’s stout-hearted Tiger cubs were the toast of the district after upstaging much vaunted Penrith 14-6 in the NSWRL Junior Cup Grand Finals at St Mary’s Stadium.

Led by talented forwards Fosio Tatola, Matthew Woods and Peter Ta’auso the tenacious Tigers produced one of the most courageous perfor- mances in their proud history to lift the U/18 trophy for a second consecutive season.

It was the first time that Balmain had won back- to-back S.G Ball titles and the club’s third overall since the competition’s inception back in 1965.

Parramatta were the last club to achieve the feat Inspirational co-captains Fosio Tatola and Matthew Woods proudly hold aloft the S.G Ball Cup trophy after Balmain’s back in 1987-88.posts for a 6-0 lead. memorable 14-6 Grand Final victory over Penrith at St Mary’s Stadium.

Marshall-King booted a penalty goal after the It was a case of deja vu for the Tigers’ talented interval for an 8-0 lead and created his team’s trio of Tatola, Woods and Armstrong who were second try in the 57th minute with a clever kick also stand outs in Balmain’s 2012 premiership- for winger Jayden Wheelhouse, who leaped high winning side. to grab the ball and cross in the corner. Bustling defence, raw courage, high set comple- Penrith - led by giant forwards Peter Tiatia, Jor- tion and basic fundamentals were the recipe for dan Muna, Myles Taueli and hooker Sione Utia- another Balmain Grand Final triumph. Katoa - hit back three minutes later when skipper Katoa pounced on a loose ball to keep his side in Emerging lock Ta’auso - a tireless campaigner the hunt. for the Tigers in 2013 - turned in yet another non-stop performance and was supported by Co-skipper Tatola was named Player of the Woods, hooker Jack Wheelhouse, halves Rhys Grand Final after turning in a powerhouse display Armstrong and Jeremy Marshall-King, forwards against the Panthers, who were installed as red- Junior Tatola and Tyler Cassel and fullback Cam- hot favourites before the match. den Sutton.

Tatola inspired team mates with his bullocking For coach Mathew Head, the trophy win capped runs, clever off-loads and bone-jarring defence a dream debut coaching stint with the reigning as the Tigers showed their champion qualities. premiers.

19 After indifferent form in the preliminary rounds, minutes when the hard-running Ta’auso busted the Tiger cubs hit their straps in the finals series through tackles to score under the The Tigers to eliminate Cronulla, South Sydney and Par- weathered a late onslaught before Marshall-King ramatta before claiming their biggest scalp in the sealed victory with a 68th minute penalty goal. Cup decider. BALMAIN 14 (P Ta’auso, Jayden Wheelhouse Balmain kept the rampaging Penrith side at bay tries; J Marshall-King 3 gls) d PENRITH 6 (S with rugged defence and drew first blood after 19 Utia-Katoa try; T May gl).

TIGER CUBS CROWNED - NATIONAL U/18 CHAMPS

BALMAIN S.G Ball rugby league team covered them- their Queensland counterparts. selves in glory at on May 12 after capturing back-to-back National U/18 Club Champi- Emerging Balmain five eighth Rhys Armstrong was onship titles. named the official Player of the Match after scoring two tries and creating havoc with his strong running, There was no stopping the rampant Tiger cubs, who clever passing and robust defence. overpowered the 24-12 to retain their mantle as the top U/18 outfit in Australia. It was a proud moment for the versatile Armstrong, who figured in the Tigers’ 2012 premiership-winning Eight days after lifting the club’s third S.G Ball Cup side as a back rower before representing NSW U/17s trophy, the Balmain young guns extended their cel- against the touring England Academy team. ebrations with a Mothers Day special. Showing the spirit and tenacity that has lifted the side Other cubs to shine were sibling forwards Fosio to great heights, the Tiger cubs rebounded from a Tatola and Junior Tatola, lock Peter Ta’auso, prop Pio 12-4 half time deficit to carve out a gutsy victory over Sokobalava, wingers John Tohi and Jayden Wheel 20 house, centre Josh Camroux and dashing fullback Balmain grabbed a 14-12 lead when the lanky Jayden Camden Sutton. Wheelhouse showed flashy footwork and fine balance Redcliffe opened the scoring after 14 minutes when to score in the corner after combining with Sutton and strapping forward Richie Skelton crashed over out Marshall-King. wide with hooker Jack Alley adding the extras. Balmain hit back in the 27th minute when the strong Moments later, Wheelhouse pulled off a crunching running Sokobalava scored after smart lead up work tackle on talented Redcliffe custodian Josh Beehag from Armstrong to put the NSW champions on the that turned the match. board. The dynamic Armstrong came into his own in the final In a savage blow, the Tigers lost key hooker Jack 15 minutes and used his strength and pace to notch a Wheelhouse (wrist) and co-skipper Matthew Woods vital try double and seal the trophy. (shoulder) with serious injuries before the break as Redcliffe were best served by forwards Skelton, Alley, Redcliffe mounted pressure through their powerful Andrew McArthy, Tyson Cleal, fullback Beehag and forward pack. half Mitch Wilson.

The U/18 Cup winners extended their With four players - Jack Wheelhouse, Junior Tatola, lead on the stroke of half time when pivot Alex Albert Jaleel Seve-Derbas and Sokobalava - eligible for the strolled over for the Dolphins’ second try. 2014 S.G Ball series plus the inclusion of boom cubs Balmain coach Mathew Head revved up his troops and Pifeleti Pifeleti, the Tigers again during the break and the cubs responded with a stir- shape as genuine title contenders. ring second half performance. Several of the triumphant 2013 squad are bound for With halves Armstrong and Jeremy Marshall-King the Holden Cup – boosting the Wests Tigers’ U/20 calling the shots, the Tigers clicked into top gear with stocks. the elusive Sutton slicing through a gap to score after BALMAIN 24 (R Armstrong 2, P Sokobalava, C Sut- 49 minutes. ton, Jayden Wheelhouse tries; J Marshall-King 2 gls) Marshall-King’s conversion bridged the gap to two d REDCLIFFE 12 (R Skelton, A Albert tries; J Alley, D points and spurred the cubs into action. Fletcher gls). 21 TIGER CUBS LEAVE THEIR MARK FOR NSW

LIFE couldn’t be better for emerging Balmain rugby league colts Rhys Armstrong, Fosio Tatola and Pifeleti Pifeleti.

Helping NSW conquer the Maroons in an U/18 Junior Interstate Challenge in front of a massive crowd at Suncorp Stadium sits high on a list of notable achievements for the talented Armstrong and Tatola. Rhys Armstrong, Wests Tigers Coach Mick Potter, Alefosio Tatola and Pifeleti Pifeleti Armstrong - a strong running utility who has signed with Manly for 2014 - and forward warrior Ball premiership and National U/18 title success. Tatola produced strong performances in the Jun- Armstrong and Tatola were blooded in the Tigers’ ior Blues’ crushing 56-6 victory over Queensland U/20 ranks following the victory over Queensland last month in a curtain raiser to Origin 2. U/18 champions Redcliffe.

It was a season to savour for the Holy Cross Holy Cross Ryde schoolboy Pifeleti enhanced Rhinos’ junior products who made every post a his reputation with a strong performance for the winner after linking with ’s powerful NSW U/16s side that defeated Queensland in a Holden Cup U/20 squad. curtain raiser to State of Origin 1 on June 5.

Tatola and Armstrong were rewarded for their A dynamic prop with mobility and ball skills, stand out displays with Balmain’s triumphant Pifeleti gained selection after tireless performanc- U/18 side that clinched back-to-back S.G Ball es for Balmain in the U/16 Cup and National U/18 Club Championship tro- competition. phies back in May.

Last year, the emerging forward took out the Jack Promising forward Mathew Woods, who co- King Trophy as the top U/16 player in the Bal- captained the Tigers with the rampaging Tatola, main Junior League and was named in the Aus- was a strong contender for a Blues jumper before tralian U/15 Schoolboys Merit team after helping undergoing shoulder surgery. NSW Catholic Schools clinch the national title.

All three were trump cards in a courageous Bal- Pifeleti hopes to follow in the steps of Wests main outfit that rolled Penrith in this year’s S.G Tigers’ young guns , Luke Brooks Ball Grand Final and Redcliffe Dolphins in the and – three former Holy Cross National U/18 Championship final at North Syd- trump cards that graduated to the senior ranks ney Oval. after earning Australian Schoolboys caps.

It was a proud moment for the Tigers’ trio who also figured prominently in Balmain’s 2012 S.G

22 HAWKS LEGENDS HONOURED IN TEAM OF HALF CENTURY

Hawks legends honoured in Team of Half Century Former Eastern Suburbs three quarter Ken Wells and LEGENDARY Balmain and New Zealand five eighth the quick-stepping Brad Wilson were named as Ryde- Olsen Filipaina was named captain of the Ryde East- Eastwood’s best-ever centre pairing. wood Team of the Half Century at the Football Club’s 50th Anniversary Reunion on October 19 at Ryde They gave the Hawks plenty of strike power out wide Eastwood Leagues Club. with former St George back Wilson stamping himself Filipaina was one of 17 players chosen in the Hawks’ one of the club’s most prolific scorers. greatest-ever team from the past five decades with Ken Wilson named coach. Brad, the younger brother of Coach of the Half Cen- The Kiwi powerhouse led Ryde Eastwood to an inau- tury Ken Wilson, held the Hawks’ club points-scoring gural Metro Cup premiership title in 1990 and is one record until it was eclipsed by superboot Marc Web- of five internationals in an All Star lineup. ber, who played a record 195 matches.

Former Australian hooker Jeff Masterman, Kangaroos Friend, a scheming Kiwi half back, established himself prop , Kiwi half and with North Sydney from 1986-89 before teaming up Samoan forward also were honoured with with Filipaina at Ryde-Eastwood and figuring in the selection in the Hawks’ best-ever squad. Hawks’ 1990 Metro Cup triumph. Goalkicking fullback Dave Barsley was named in the He played 24 test matches for New Zealand and also custodian role. has stints with Carlisle and Whitehaven. Barsley scored 51 tries and booted 199 goals and three field goals during a distinguished first grade Judges named a punishing forward pack that included career with Western Suburbs (1959 to 1968) and tough-tackling lock John Barrett, experienced back Newtown (1969-1971). rowers John Owens and John King, teak tough props He joined Ryde Eastwood in 1972 and starred in Gordon Fraser and Brian Sullivan and the wily Mas- Laurie Fagan’s first grade team that won a maiden terman. NSWRL Second Division premiership. Barrett gave the Hawks yeoman service after arriving from Eastern Suburbs while Owens (Balmain) and Barsley, a former NSW representative, finished the King (Penrith) were forward warriors who turned in top points-scorer in the competition on 226 points with lion-hearted performances. 20 tries and 83 goals. Former Country Firsts prop Sullivan and ex-South Sydney enforcer Fraser were also honoured along Steve Broughton and speed machine John Vanden- with former Kurri Kurri and Eastern Suburbs Test rake berg were selected as wingers along with prolific try- Masterman. scoring centres Ken Wells and Brad Wilson. Broughton was a classy back for Ryde Eastwood The four reserves were current South Sydney and during the club’s halcyon days in the 1970s before Samoan World Cup forward Jeff Lima, Wests Tigers’ earning his first grade spurs with Western Suburbs Kangaroo prop Keith Galloway, ex-Balmain and New- and Parramatta. town star Frank McGarry and journeyman utility Bill He scored 43 tries in 75 appearances for the Magpies Tonkin, who shone for the Hawks after stints with Bal- main, Western Suburbs, South Sydney and Penrith. from 1978-84 before finishing his career with the Eels. Newtown legend Ken Wilson - who guided Ryde Vandenberg was one of the code’s fastest wingers Eastwood to Metro Cup premiership honours in 1990 during his heyday with Manly and North Sydney and - pipped current Wests Tigers’ NSW Cup mentor Paul nabbed many a try in the Hawks’ premiership-winning Fletcher for the Coach of the Half Century tag. A Grade sides during the 1980s. 23 Inaugural coach and stalwart director Keith Aggett HAWKS’ PIONEERS CELEBRATE said the Jubilee celebrations were a resounding suc- cess.

The original 1963 Ryde Eastwood Hawks competed in the inaugural Inter District first grade competi- tion and in 1964 were part of the re-named NSWRL Second Division competition that also included Wen- tworthville, Penrith, Cronulla-Caringbah, Kingsford, Guildford, Sydney University, Bankstown, Arncliffe Scots and Liverpool.

MEMBERS of Ryde-Eastwood’s inaugural 1963 first Other internationals to play for the club include Bron- grade rugby league team attended the Club’s 50th son Harrison, , Matt Utai; Kiwi utility Anniversary Dinner and Reunion luncheon at Ryde Lewis Brown; Ireland prop ; England half Eastwood Leagues Club during October. and forward and Wests Tigers and Kangaroos hooker Robbie Farah. TIGERS LIFE MEMBERS NSW Origin skipper Farah played with Balmain-Ryde Eastwood in 2005 before cementing a spot in Tim REUNION LUNCH Sheens’ premiership-winning line up.

Two former Ryde coaches Laurie Fagan who guided the Hawks to their first ever Second Division premier- ship in 1972 - and Barry Harris both represented NSW while Ron Raper captained Queensland in 1973. Stalwarts Dave Barsley and Brian Sullivan gained City and Country Firsts honors while a multitude of top grade players in the NSWRL and NRL have worn BALMAIN Tigers Rugby League Football Club held its the Hawks’ colours at various stages of their careers. annual Life Members luncheon at TIGERS Five Dock on November 8. Under the guidance of long serving coach Paul Fletcher, Balmain-Ryde Eastwood have made an Pictured are Balmain Junior League life members impact in the NSW Cup competition - making Grand Brian Coleman, Bill Burke, Mick O’Keefe, Ron Ryan, Final appearances in 2009 and 2012. Sam Gebrael and Mick Manning with District Club life members Danny Stapleton and Patti Perkins and Balmain Junior League Operations Manager Jennie Webster.

Other life members in attendance included , Laurie Fagan, Jack King, Keith Aggett, John Stanton, Bill Brown, John Doyle, David Kelly, Austin Hoyle, Bob Siemsen, Martin Ritter, John Critchley, Tony Bietola, Bob Henderson, Steve Lavers, Maurie O’Brien, Bob Carroll, Steve Leslie, Paul Wheelhouse,

Ryde Eastwood Football Club chairman Malcolm Chapple Kevin Rooney, John Pearson, Brian Murtagh, Jeff with Hawks’ Team of the Half Century honorees John Bar- Aplitt and TWT Sports Editor and Tigers’ historian rett, coach Ken Wilson, Steve Broughton, Brad Wilson and Gordon Fraser at the Reunion luncheon. Chris Karas. 24 GREATER VOICE FOR JUNIOR LEAGUE

MEMBERS from Junior Leagues across NSW have the future,” he added. signed an historic document around the formation of the first combined Junior League Association in the The finalising of the document was completed at the game’s history. annual Junior League Administrators Conference in Gerringong which took place across three days. Due to recent changes in the NSWRL’s constitution, During the conference administrators had presenta- the newly formed NSW Junior Rugby Leagues Asso- tions from NRL Chief Executive, David Smith; NSWRL ciation Inc - will gain full membership of the NSWRL General Manager - Strategy and Community Affairs, and have voting power at Annual General Meetings. Dirk Melton, on the NSWRL’s strategic plan and lec- The association has formed a Board and will unify the tures on NRL education programs and inclusive rugby delivery of the game across the NSW footprint. league. “This is an historic day for rugby league in NSW,” NSWRL Chief Executive, David Trodden said. Directors will include Yvonne Purtell (Penrith), Jen- nie Webster (Balmain), Greg Florimo (North Sydney), “The formation of the association gives Junior League Julie Luke (Western Suburbs) and Chris Brooks (St clubs a greater voice with their membership to the George). NSWRL and we hope this increases the communi- cation channels we have with the Junior Leagues because we value their input highly.

“The work they do in developing our game’s future talent is something the League is extremely thankful for because without their hard work, we wouldn’t be in the strong position which we are in today.

“I would like to congratulate everyone involved on all the hard work they have put into the formation of the PICTURED are directors Greg Florimo (North Sydney), association and I look forward to working with them in Jennie Webster (Balmain), Julie Luke (Western Suburbs), Yvonne Purtell (Penrith) and Chris Books (St George).

DREAM DEBUT FOR TIGER CUB BROOKS

BOOM Wests Tigers’ half back Luke Brooks was the burst onto the first grade scene with such fervour. cub on everyone’s lips after his spectacular NRL top grade debut against St George-Illawarra on the hal- In a magic moment, legendary Western Suburbs and lowed turf last season. Kangaroos half back Arthur Summons presented Brooks with his first grade jumper - a gesture that left Brooks produced a crafty display to engineer the Ti- the Tigers’ rookie beaming with pride. gers’ 34-18 victory over the Saints – nabbing a try and creating two others in a memorable debut that augurs Cool hand Luke described playing alongside one of well for the future. his childhood heroes in Benji Marshall as a “dream come true.” Not since Tigers’ all time greats Benny Elias and Paul Sironen were carving up rivals has a Ryde native He also struck up a fine combination with his former 25 Holy Cross College halves partner Curtis Sironen - a Brooks is now entrenched in the Tigers’ number partnership that coach Mick Potter could implement in seven first grade jumper and will spearhead one of 2014. the most exciting young back divisions in the 2014 NRL competition. How did the quietly-spoken Brooks prepare for his top grade debut on the eve of the SCG clash? The teenager turned up to Morrison Park Putney to give some coaching tips to the Holy Cross U/12 Div 1 side that was chasing a Balmain Junior League premiership at Leichhardt Oval.

Luke put the young Rhinos through their paces - much to the delight of the players and coaching panel of Allan ‘AJ’ Jarvis, Rod Farlow and Glen Smith.

It’s hard to believe that only seven years ago a fresh faced Luke led Holy Cross to an U/12s premiership triumph at the Tigers’ spiritual home. Luke Brooks

NORTH RYDE HAWKS LUNCHEON

NSW Origin coach and Penrith legend were special guests at this year’s North Ryde Hawks’ Sportsmen’s Luncheon at Ryde Eastwood Leagues Club.

The luncheon doubled as a 30 year reunion for North Ryde’s champion 1983 B Grade team that lifted the trophy with a Grand Final triumph over Cricketers Arms at Leichhardt Oval.

Daley and Simmons are pictured with North Ryde patron Ron Ryan, president Glenn Hillier and 1983 premiership-winning skipper Paul Duncan.

AARON CELEBRATES WITH HIS JUNIORS MENTORS

BALMAIN Junior League patron Mick Manning and twin brother John with Wests Tigers’ and NSW Origin prop . The Manning twins discovered the skilful representative forward when he was run- ning around in the Leichhardt Juniors ranks.

26 of the Year Awards.

Widely respected Balmain Junior League patron Mick Manning presented the 2013 awardees with their plaques at the Tigers’ Annual Awards Night at Ryde Eastwood Leagues Club.

This year’s recipients were: Troy Zammit (Balmain PCYC); Warren Brooks (Carlingford Cougars); Aida Catalano (Concord-Burwood United); Colin Field (Dundas Shamrocks); Margaret Matos (Enfield Feder- CLUB PERSONS als); Rose Elias (Five Dock RSL); Ron Whyte (Holy OF THE YEAR AWARD Cross Rhinos); Tina Marsters (Leichhardt Juniors); Monique Coleman (Leichhardt Wanderers); Glenn BALMAIN Junior League’s hardest working officials Hillier (North Ryde Hawks) accepted by wife Sarah were recognised with the 17th annual Club Volunteer and Michelle Meadham (Strathfield Raiders).

GEORGE THOMPSON MEMORIAL TROPHY - VOLUNTEER OF THE YEAR

TIRELESS North Ryde Hawks’ president Glenn Hillier is the 16th recipient of the George Thompson Memo- rial Volunteer of the Year Trophy.

Hard working Glenn is a deserved winner of this pres- tigious award that perpetuates the memory of George Sarah Hillier accepts the George Thompson Volunteer of the Year trophy on behalf of her husband Glenn from Eileen Thompson, a great Tigers’ administrator, who lost a Thompson. brave battle with cancer in 1997. “Glenn campaigns heavily on behalf of each player The popular Hawks’ official was unable to attend within the Hawks community and invests an inordi- the Tigers’ Awards ceremony in September at Ryde nate amount of effort making sure every sibling and Eastwood Leagues Club – due to commitments with parent is welcome and feels a key part of the success the North Ryde U/15s on their annual trip to Murwil- of our club,” said Hawks’ assistant secretary Collette lumbah to contest the Sugar Cane Cup. Ryan.

Glenn’s wife Sarah accepted the award on his behalf “His commitment, enthusiasm, humour, pragmatism from George Thompson’s widow Eileen Thompson. and genuine love of the kids is evident in everything The North Ryde supremo, who joined the Club five he does and community leaders like him are few and years ago when son Harry registered in the Under far between,” she said. 11s, is devoted to re-building the Hawks into a major force. “The vitality that Glenn has injected into the Hawks bubbled over into the North Ryde community this year Since taking over the reigns from BJL director and with the inaugural Walk for Cancer held at TG Mill- former president Brian Johnston in 2011, Glenn has ner Field which raised over $10,000 for the McGrath championed the family-friendly spirit that exists within Foundation and Benji Marshall’s pet charity – The the club today. Children’s Cancer Institute.”

27 He plays a key role in co- When he finishes this, he does it all again for the ordinating the game day Hawks’ joint venture teams in the and wrap ups, Mini League . exhibition games, Wests And when either of these teams play at home, Glenn Tigers training day, Mums v will be on the sideline commentating the game - much Dads touch football, Tug-of- to the amusement of all who attend. war, Kids Relay Races, raf- fles, apparel sales and the A former right back with Ermington United Soccer Back to Hawks Luncheon Club in the Granville-Parramatta Association, Glenn and Red & White Dinner. later coached Macquarie Dragons Sports Club for seven years. This is on top of all the general club administration He was also a talented all rounder with Woolwich that is required including securing team, club and Pier, Hunters Hill and Sawdust clubs in the Glades- major sponsors. ville Cricket Association competition.

WOLVES CROWNED CLUB CHAMPIONS

CONCORD-Burwood United underlined their depth of talent in 2013 by capturing both the Balmain Junior and Senior Club Championship titles.

Balmain Junior League chairman John Critchley presented the respective trophies to Wolves’ vice president Terry Roeder and tireless secretary Aida Catalano at the Tigers’ Awards Night. It was a double celebration for Aida, who earlier received the NSWRL Ray Stellar Service to Rugby League Award for her outstanding contribution to the game. TWT on-the- spot PHOTO.

AIDA HONOURED WITH RAY STELLAR SERVICE TO RUGBY LEAGUE AWARD

CONCORD-Burwood United’s energetic secretary Stellar Service to Rugby League Award. Aida Catalano was officially recognised for her con- tribution to the game at the 2013 Brad Fittler Medal Regarded as one of the hardest working officials in Awards Night at Le Montage in Lilyfield during Sep- Balmain Junior League, the popular administrator tember. completed her sixth successive term as club secretary in 2013 - overseeing the Wolves’ Senior and Junior Aida (pictured with Balmain Junior League Operations Club Championship success. Manager Jennie Webster) was honoured to receive the prestigious NSWRL ’s Score Ray Aida’s passion for the game is evident as she busily

28 co-ordinates the Wolves’ campaign through the au- tumn and winter months on a daily basis.

Since taking over as club secretary in 2008, the popu- lar official has helped rebuild the club to 16 teams from Under 6s through to A Grade; raise funds for the McGrath Foundation during the Women in League round and introduce pathways for junior talent in the area.

When the Wolves joined forces with North Ryde Hawks to enter a senior team in the NSWRL Bunda- berg Red Cup, Aida played a key role in the day-to- day operations.

Her tireless work behind the scenes has helped the Concord-Burwood juniors and Burwood North Ryde team remain a competitive force.

NSWRL Chief Executive David Trodden - the former Balmain and Wests Tigers chairman - believes the Brad Fittler Medal is a great way of honouring the contributions of everyone involved in rugby league throughout the entire state of NSW. Aida Catalano and Jennie Webster

JACK KING TROPHY UNDER 16 PLAYER OF THE YEAR

PROMISING Dundas Shamrocks centre Bradley Cin- cotta is the recipient of the Jack King Trophy for the Balmain Junior League U/16 Player of the Year.

The talented cub is pictured receiving his award from stalwart Jack King at the Tigers Awards Night at Ryde Eastwood Leagues Club.

Cincotta was a model of consistency for the Sham- rocks in the NSWRL Combined Inner City U/16 Div 2 competition during 2013 – guiding the club to the mi- nor premiership and turning in powerful performances at centre and five eighth.

While Dundas dominated the preliminary rounds, they bowed out of the finals with losses to Renown United and eventual premiers Botany Rams.

The crafty Cincotta showed his skills to help the 29 Hawks capture U/12, U/14, U/16 (twice) and U/20 A St Patricks College Dundas student, Bradley is also State titles and represented NSW at the National All a gifted touch football player and has featured in five Schools U/15 Championships. NSW Junior State Cup championship victories with Bradley is part of the Tigers’ 17 years Development Ryde-Eastwood Touch Football Association. squad and complements his training program with regular games of golf, touch football and basketball. Past winners of the Jack King Trophy include: John “I really enjoy the touch football as it has helped de- Kaho (Burwood United); Grant Benjamin (Leichhardt velop my ball skills in rugby league,” he said. Juniors); Abe Allamaddine (Leichhardt Juniors); Ben It was a disappointing end to a busy campaign for Critchley (Five Dock RSL); Josh Jeffery (Leichhardt Bradley, who represented Balmain in this year’s Wanderers); Willie Tupou (Wanderers); Bronson Har- NSWRL Harold Matthews Cup U/16 junior represent- rison (Wanderers); Ewen Cameron (Wanderers); Nick ative series. Tice (Leichhardt Juniors); Daniel Casa (Holy Cross); Nathan Plummer (Holy Cross); Tim Bennetts (Carling- Cincotta began his career with the Shamrocks as an 8 ford Cougars); Drew Laing (Holy Cross); Brodie Mon- year old and guided the club to an undefeated U/13s roe (Five Dock RSL); Curtis Sironen (Dundas Sham- premiership in 2010 – downing Strathfield Raiders 22- rocks); Andrew Kazzi (Wanderers); Peter Semaan 20 in the Grand Final at Leichhardt Oval. (Enfield Federals) and Pifeleti Pifeleti (Holy Cross).

HARRY QUINLAN MEMORIAL TROPHY

Club chairman Dr Leslie Glenn at the Tigers’ Awards Night at Ryde Eastwood Leagues Club.

Ta’Auso helped the Tigers capture the S.G Ball and National U/18 Club Championship double this season with stand out performances at junior representative level. The native made a huge impact in his debut season with Balmain and proved the cornerstone of a dominant forward pack that laid the foundations for AS a youngster growing up in New Zealand, Peter back to back championships. Ta’Auso idolised Wests Tigers’ excitement machine Benji Marshall. A punishing defender and strong running back rower, Watching the Kiwi superstar engineer a Tigers’ NRL Ta’Auso moved to Australia with his family as a 16 premiership triumph in 2005 inspired the promising year old and was discovered by talent scouts in the 10 year old Auckland junior who dreamed of one day Canterbury-Bankstown Junior League where he emulating the deeds of his hero. shone for and East Hills. Growing up in Auckland, Peter began his league Turn the clock forward eight years and the industrious career as an 8 year old with the Waitmatta Seagulls Ta’auso is on the right path to an NRL career after before spending three seasons with the Glenore club. powerhouse displays for the champion Balmain S.G Ball team in 2013. Officials earmarked Ta’Auso for higher honours when The former Auckland junior representative lock is this they selected the promising forward in the Auckland year’s recipient of the Harry Quinlan Memorial Trophy U/14 and U/15 representative sides. as the Tigers’ Best & Fairest U/18 player. Since moving to Sydney, Ta’Auso has made every post a winner and will be blooded in the Wests Tigers’ Tough-tackling T’Auso is pictured displaying his award Under 20s squad for the 2014 National Youth compe- with loyal sponsor Joe Syme and Balmain Football tition. 30 JAN CARROLL MEMORIAL TROPHY - U/17 PLAYER OF YEAR

THEY don’t breed them tougher than Holy Cross and He switched to hooker at the age of 13 and after tast- Balmain junior representative hooker Jack Wheel- ing Grand Final success with the Rhinos was selected house – winner of the Jan Carroll Memorial Trophy for in the Tigers’ Junior Development squads. the district’s Under 17 Player of the Year. Jack made an impact for Balmain in the U/16 NSWRL Living up to his potential, the crafty S.G Ball rake Harold Matthews Cup series in 2012 - helping the turned in wholehearted performances at club and team reach the semi finals before experiencing S.G Junior Cup level to catch the eye of senior Tigers’ of- Ball premiership glory during a memorable 2013 cam- ficials. paign.

Jack played a key role in Balmain capturing back-to- The talented number nine is backing up for a second back S.G Ball and National U/18 Club Championship stint in the U/18 Junior Cup competition in 2014 and titles before helping the Rhinos reach the NSWRL shapes as a key player in Balmain’s quest for an S.G Combined Inner City U/17 Div 1 Grand Final against Ball trifecta. South Eastern at . Previous winners of the Jan Carroll Trophy include He is pictured receiving the trophy from Wests Tigers’ Solomon Haumono (Concord United), Chad Lee and CEO Grant Mayer at the Tigers’ Awards Night at Ryde Rhys Stevenson (Leichhardt Juniors); Josh Jeffery, Eastwood Leagues Club. Damien Braumann and Richard Ngawini (Wanderers), Matthew Mizzi and Sebastian Vourlos (Holy Cross), Teak-tough Jack hails from good rugby league stock (Leichhardt Juniors), Daniel Vasek (Dun- and a family widely respected in footballing circles. das Shamrocks); Alex Zarounas (Wanderers) and Richard Coorey (Enfield Federals). His grandfather Paul Wheelhouse - a former punish- ing South Sydney back rower - is a life member of the Balmain Junior League and long time junior repre- sentative selector.

Jack’s father Brett and uncle Grant Wheelhouse were prominent Balmain junior reps who went on to play first grade with Eastern Suburbs.

Now Jack is carving his own niche in the sport with non-stop performances in a Tigers or Holy Cross jumper.

He showed typical courage to complete the 2013 sea- son after busting a shoulder but continued to impress with his stamina, copybook defence and creativity from dummy half.

A fierce competitor, Jack started his career with Holy Cross as a 4 year old and spent his formative years playing half back.

31 JOHN STAPLETON TROPHY A GRADE PLAYER OF THE YEAR

LOYALTY is an important word in the vocabulary of Leichhardt Wanderers’ experienced half back Michael Zappia. At the ripe age of 28, the wily playmaker is regarded as one of the young ‘veterans’ of the Balmain Junior League, having chalked up 22 years service with the famous Wanderers club.

“Rugby league is in my blood”, says the capable number seven who is the 24th recipient of the John Stapleton Trophy for the district’s A Grade Player of the Year. Like a good wine, Zappia gets better with age and his clever performances for the red and blacks as captain-coach were a highlight of the team’s 2013 campaign. jumper at the age of 14 when he toured northern NSW and Queensland with the Tigers’ Young Guns The crafty half was instrumental in Wanderers reach- alongside talented cubs Sammy Wara, Dean Cald- ing the finals of the NSWRL Combined Inner City A well, Jarrod Farlow and Luke Fahy. Reserve Grade competition, where they bowed out af- Michael then turned his hand to coaching and tasted ter a 38-20 loss to eventual premiers Liverpool Titans. Grand Final success with the Wanderers’ U/11 and U/12 junior sides. Michael was also appointed captain-coach of the “I still enjoy playing at the club and helping out with Balmain open age representative team for the annual junior coaching – it’s important to put something back Cup challenge against Eastern Sub- into the game at grassroots level,” says Michael. urbs at Leichhardt Oval. The Tigers led 20-18 before the Roosters stormed Balmain stalwart John Stapleton presented Michael home to regain the trophy with a strong second half with his trophy at the Tigers’ Presentation Night at performance. Ryde-Eastwood Leagues Club.

Zappia was joined by Wanderers’ team mates Lee Other Balmain A Grade Player of the Year recipients Johnson, Jon Kempys. Jay Cho, and John Stevens include Graham Pearce (Ryde Eastwood), Gary and showed his organisational skills in senior com- Braams (Sawdust), Grant Thomas (Balmain United), pany. Peter Bingham (West Ryde-Denistone), Jason Ban- Michael is the son of former Balmain Junior League field (Concord United), Frank Dunne, Craig Barnett, Coaching Director and leading mentor Bernie Zappia Robert Gerrie (Leichhardt Wanderers), Aaron Brown and while growing up received a sound rugby league and Nathan Donato (Balmain United), Cameron Lid- education from his father. dle and James Harradence (West Ryde-Denistone), Jason Tutt (Sawdust Storm), Joel Lacey (West Ryde- He pulled on his first boots at the age of five and Denistone), Paul Wallace and Justin Williams (North figured in Wanderers’ Mini and Mod Ryde), Damien Braumann (Leichhardt Juniors), John before winning premierships in the U/17 and U/18 Kaho (Leichhardt Wanderers), Kelvin Weir (North Combined Balmain/St George competitions. Ryde), Michael Basan (Dundas Shamrocks), Steve Pont (Concord Burwood/North Ryde) and Abdul Mo- The promising half earned his first representative hamad (Burwood/North Ryde).

32 KEVIN O’KEEFE MEMORIAL TROPHY - TIGERS CLUB PERSON OF THE YEAR

TIRELESS Balmain junior representative official Bob Cooper is this year’s recipient of the Kevin O’Keefe Memorial Club Person of the Year Trophy.

Bob, a Dundas Shamrocks stalwart, is pictured with Maureen McKeon – partner of the late Kevin O’Keefe, the Tigers’ long serving sin bin attendant who died in 2007 – and Larry Cargill after receiving his award at the Tigers’ Awards Night at Ryde Eastwood Leagues Club.

The award has capped a memorable two seasons for Whether its encouraging the Mini or Mod League Cooper, who managed the triumphant 2012 and 2013 cubs in the Tigers nursery or supporting Balmain’s Balmain S.G Ball premiership-winning teams that an- elite junior talent, Bob has proved an outstanding nexed the National U/18 Club Championship trophies. ambassador for the game of rugby league.

JOHN KELLY MEMORIAL QUIET ACHIEVER AWARD

JAYDEN and Jack Wheelhouse shared the John Kelly Memorial Quiet Achievers Award after helping Bal- main capture the S.G Ball and National U/18 Cham- pionship titles in 2013. They are pictured with former Coaching & Development Manager David Kelly.

BALMAIN JUNIOR LEAGUE – ACCREDITED EVENTS TENACIOUS WOLVES CLINCH ROBBIE FARAH CHALLENGE

CONCORD-Burwood United Silver captured the 2013 and Joe D’arrigo that defeated Strathfield Raiders 5 Robbie Farah Challenge Shield for U/9 juniors at tries to 4 in the Shield decider. Blackmore Oval on March 17. Luca Mancuso showed his attacking skills in the Pictured are the all conquering Wolves squad mem- Grand Final – scoring two tries and igniting the bers Zac Bruce, Adam Chami, Levi Conti, Zac Chalak, Concord-Burwood attack with his turn of speed. Louis D’arrigo, Pat Kosmas, Luca Mancuso, Jacob Matta, Harry Samaha, Carlos Succar, Kaidyn Wright He was supported by Zac Bruce, Adam Chami, Levi and John Paul Catalano with coach Glenn Bruce, Conti, Patrick Kosmas and 8 year old John Paul manager John Kosmas and trainers Noel Mancuso Catalano. 33 A feature was the Wolves’ scrambling defence that Promising Wanderers’ cub Kyle Leaver was named kept the Raiders at bay and set up a 3-0 lead at the Player of the Series and received his award from break. leading junior coach and former Balmain prop Steve Edmed. Strathfield were best served by talented backs Jor- dan Itaoui and Jonathan Ibrahim and strong-running forwards Tony Sukkar and Jared Talanoa.

In the quarter finals, Concord-Burwood defeated Holy Cross Gold (3-1); Strathfield Raiders downed Leichhardt Wanderers Black (10-0); Wanderers Red eliminated North Ryde (6-2) while Leichhardt Juniors toppled Dundas Shamrocks (4-1).

The Wolves tipped out Wanderers Red (3-1) in a hard- fought semi final while the Raiders had too many big guns for Leichhardt Juniors in a 7-2 triumph.

AARON WOODS CUP 2013

Strathfield Raiders and Leichhardt Wanderers were crowned joint winners of the Aaron Woods Cup for 2013.

On a wonderful day and in a thrilling grand final against competition favourites Leichhardt Wanderers Red, Strathfield led 24-4 with 15 minutes remaining but could not hold on as Wanderers finished strongly to draw 24 all.

34 MARK O’NEILL SHIELD

CONCORD-Burwood Silver added the U/10 Mark O’Neill Shield to their trophy cabinet after a 7 tries to 4 victory over Leichhardt Wanderers at this year’s Gala Day event hosted by Dundas Shamrocks JRLFC.

The Wolves - winners of the Robbie Farah U/9 Chal- lenge seven days earlier - had plenty to cheer about after the Silver team produced skilful displays to earn the title. Wanderers and Strathfield Raiders were declared Promising Wolves’ junior Christian Emelio was named joint winners of the Aaron Woods U/12 Cup - hosted Player of the Final with top Shamrocks prospect Jax- by Leichhardt Juniors JRLFC - after finishing 24-all in son Rahme snaring the Player of the Carnival award. the final.

BENNY ELIAS SHIELD

STRATHFIELD Raiders, Concord-Burwood Wolves and Holy Cross Rhinos shared the spoils at the an- nual Benny Elias Shield Mini League Gala Day at Frank Street Oval Ryde.

The Rhinos U/8s made it back to back titles when they edged out Concord-Burwood by 4 tries to 3 in a hard-fought final.

Impact forward Keenan Lawandos and strong run- ning Patrick Young – son of former Wallaby forward U6 winners – Strathfield Raiders Bill Young – proved the architects for Holy Cross with strong games.

Lawandos was named Player of the Series with tal- ented Wolves’ prospect Jean Paul Catalano earning the Player of the Final award for his hat-trick of tries and tricky running.

Elusive back Angus Gray also impressed for Con- cord-Burwood with his sharp running and copybook defence.

In a quality final, Daniel Azzuri and Matt Losurdo U7 winners – Concord Burwood scored early tries for the Rhinos before the fleet-foot- ed Catalano left his mark. But fullback Henry Ryan proved the hero for the Rhi- The powerful Lawandos gave Holy Cross the edge nos when he pulled off a brilliant try-saving tackle on when he burst through to score in the dying moments. Catalano with only seconds left on the clock.

35 CONCORD-Burwood clinched the U/7s title with a 5 Taylor was later named Player of the Series while tries to 2 victory over Holy Cross. Papas picked up the Player of the Final award for his four-try effort in the final. Young gun Alex Conti capped an outstanding game for the Wolves, nabbing two tries in the final to claim the Player of the Series award.

Mark Tannous, John Vilia and Levi Moon also scored tries for the Wolves while Player of the Final Hamish Gordon grabbed a try double for the Rhinos.

Earlier, Strathfield Raiders collected the U/6 trophy with an emphatic 5 tries to 2 victory over Concord- Burwood. U8 winners- Holy Cross Rhinos Jack Taylor and Michael Papas starred for the Raid- ers with classy displays throughout the Carnival.

CHRIS KARAS AT THE BALMAIN JUNIOR LEAGUE GRAND FINALS

UNDER 9 DIV 1 GRAND FINAL

STRATHFIELD Raiders White lifted the U/9 Div 1 Ar- try in the 13th minute. thur McIlveen Trophy with a gutsy 22-18 victory over Concord-Burwood Silver at Leichhardt Oval. Concord-Burwood extended their lead to 18-4 shortly after the interval when Chalak notched his second try Promising forward Matthew Rehab orchestrated the but they couldn’t halt a spirited Raiders revival. Raiders’ triumph over the Wolves, turning in a power- ful display to earn the Player of the Match award. With a determined Raheb and Sukkar leading the way, Strathfield piled on three tries in the space of It was the first leg of a Strathfield premiership double eight minutes to finish strongly and bring home a with the club’s U/12 Div 1 side also claiming honours deserved title. on the day. The Wolves were best served by Zac Bruce, Luca Other Raiders to impress were forwards Tony Sukkar, Mancuso, Kaidyn Wright, John Paul Catalano, Jacob Jackson Campton, Matt Jerkovic, Jared Talanoa, Matta and Zac Chalak. Emre Gundoganli, five eighth Jon Ibrahim and full- back Jordan Itaoui. STRATHFIELD RAIDERS WHITE 22 (T Sukkar 2, E Gundoganli, M Raheb tries; M Raheb, J Itaoui, T The Wolves jumped to a 12-0 lead after nine minutes Sukkar gls) d CONCORD-BURWOOD SILVER 18 (Z with converted tries by Adam Chami and Zac Chalak Chalak 2, A Chami tries; H Samaha, K Wright, L Conti before Gundoganli crossed for Strathfield’s opening gls).

36 STRATHFIELD RAIDERS WHITE – Jordan Itaoui, Kosmas, Harry Samaha; Coach: Glenn Bruce; Man- John Chalhoub, Joseph Pirri, Richard Yammine, ager: John Kosmas; Trainers: Noel Mancuso & Joe Samuel Sattout, Jonathan Ibrahim, Daniel Daher, D’Arrigo. Matthew Jerkovic, Emre Gundoganli, Matthew Ra- heb, Tony Sukkar (captain), Jackson Campton, Jared Talanoa; Hasan Khalil, Julian Martins, Sitiveni Tamani; Coach: Luke Campton; Trainers: Andrew Sattout & Danny Daher.

CONCORD-BURWOOD SILVER – Louis D’Arrigo, Levi Conti, Zachary Bruce (captain), John Paul Catalano, Jacob Matta, Kaidyn Wright, Adam Chami, BJL chairman John Critchley BJL chairman John Critch- and director Richard Jones ley with U/9 Div 1 Player of Carlos Succar, Zac Chalak, Luca Mancuso, Patrick with Raiders’ U/9 Div 1 cap- Match Matt Raheb (Strath- tain Tony Sukkar. field).

U/9 Div 1 champions Strathfield Raiders

UNDER 9 DIV 2 GRAND FINAL

DUNDAS Shamrocks collected the U/9 Div 2 Mick after two minutes when he crashed through defend- Manning Trophy with a resounding 38-6 victory over ers with half back and skipper Ryan Field adding the Leichhardt Wanderers Black. extras. Hard working forward Cooper Rennie starred for the Shamrocks with a non-stop performance to earn the Wanderers hit back almost immediately when forward official Player of the Grand Final award. Jamie Miletic crossed for a converted try after a pow- erful surge out wide. The strong running Rennie opened the try scoring 37 Shortly before the interval, Dundas forward Conor DUNDAS SHAMROCKS 38 (J Chahin 3, C Rennie, Chisholm gave his side an edge when he strolled C Chisholm, B Rowlands, P Cleary tries; R Field, Z over for his team’s second try for a 10-6 lead. Watson, K Williams, J Chahin, C Rennie gls) d WAN- DERERS BLACK 6 (J Miletic try; H Appleby gl). There was no stopping the Shamrocks after the break with talented fullback Justin Chahin using his speed DUNDAS SHAMROCKS – Justin Chahin, Mark and flair to bag a hat-trick of tries and forward Bryan Wahbe, Patrick Cleary, Joel Hallitt, Kane Vinton, Ryan Rowlands and centre Patrick Cleary notching four Field (captain), Conor Chisholm, Thomas Lewis, Bry- pointers in a second half blitz. an Rowlands, Cooper Rennie, Kingi Williams, Zane Watson, Nathan Rizk. Coach: Ray Watson; Manager: Other Shamrocks players to shine were backs Cha- Brendan Cleary; Trainers: Ray Hallitt & Colin Field. hin, Field, Cleary, Mark Wahbe, Joel Hallitt and for- wards Chisholm, Rowlands,, Kingi Williams and Zane WANDERERS BLACK – Samuel Cropper, Harry Watson. Appleby, Patrick Banno, Xavier Hassey, Sam Wad- dington, Joseph Schmitzer (captain), Darcy Gillies, Wanderers were best served by halves Joseph Lucas Toskas, Jamie Miletic, Ryan Jackson, Rafael Schmitzer and Darcy Gillies, elusive backs Harry Iovannella, Angus Fraser, Ben Fletcher, Patrick Tobin, Appleby and Sam Waddington and forwards Miletic, Ashton McGuinness, Viliami Holakeituai. Coach: Ben Patrick Tobin, Rafael Iovannella and Ashton McGuin- Gillies; Manager: Michael Hassey; Trainers: Stephen ness. Appleby & Simon Jackson.

Wests Tigers’ star Aaron Woods with U/9 Div 2 Player of Match Cooper Rennie (Shamrocks). U/9 Div 2 champions Dundas Shamrocks

UNDER 9 DIV 3 GRAND FINAL

ENFIELD Federals White playmaker Daniel Settineri Federals stormed to victory with a fine second half produced a slick performance to orchestrate a re- showing. sounding 26-6 win over Strathfield Raiders Black in the Under 9 Div 3 trophy decider. Settineri scored the first of his three tries on the stroke of half time to give Enfield an 8-6 lead - then turned The promising five eighth was the best player on on the style after the break with his crisp passing, ground, creating havoc with his sharp running as the tricky footwork and turn of speed a feature.

38 Half back John Latouf and forwards Tarek Tabbah, Blood, Daniel Settineri (captain), Joseph Mallouhi, Dante Lanzafame and Dylan Hayek tried hard for the Jayme Gonnella, Michael Sukkar, Mohammad Raiders. Shalak, Jacob Sleiman, Robert Hasse, George Greg- ory, Daniel O’Neill. Coach: Robert Hasse; Manager: Crafty number nine Robert Hasse capped a strong Alfonso Gonnella; Trainers: Tony Sleiman & Mounir game for the Federals with a try double while backs Mallouhi. Andrew Nassar, Conroy Blood, Noah Sleiman, Jo- seph Mallouhi and forwards George Gregory, Moham- STRATHFIELD RAIDERS BLACK - Benedett Zappia, mad Shalak and Michael Sukkar also impressed. Jack Dib, Zac Elsayed, Tom Mackie, Tony Saade, Settineri and Hasse broke the Raiders’ spirit after the interval with a flurry of tries and darting runs to help John Latouf (captain), Dante Lanzafame, Sam Ma- secure the Peter Provan Trophy. kary, Malik Tabbah, Adam Segui, Afram Saliba, Tarek Tabbah, Ahmed Allam, Jacob Harb, Dylan Hayek. It was the first of a premiership treble for the Feder- Coaches: Anthony Latouf, Nick Hayek (Assistant als, who also brought home titles in the Under 10 Div Coach); Manager: Simone Mackie; Trainers: Sam 3 and Under 12 Div 2 divisions - the first trophies the Saliba & Nazih Elsayed. famous club has won since reforming in 2010.

Half back John Latouf and forwards Tarek Tabbah, Dante Lanzafame and Dylan Hayek tried hard for the Raiders.

ENFIELD FEDERALS 26 (D Settineri 3, R Hasse 2, M Sukkar tries; A Nassar gl) d STRATHFIELD RAIDERS BLACK 6 (D Hayek try; S Makary gl).

ENFIELD FEDERALS WHITE – Andrew Nassar, BJL chairman John Critchley with Enfield skipper and U/9 Pierre Souied, Calvin Wong, Noah Sleiman, Conroy Div 3 Player of the Match Daniel Settineri.

U/9 Div 3 premiers Enfield Federals

39 UNDER 10 DIV 1 GRAND FINAL

CONCORD-Burwood United are the new power base The final try was a 40 metre gem with the fleet-footed of Balmain Junior League after collecting both the MacGillicuddy cracking the Rhinos defence before Senior and Junior Club Championship trophies. passing inside to Santos, who skirted the defence The Wolves enjoyed a bumper 2013 season – pro- before planting the ball under the posts. ducing consistent displays in both the junior school- boy and senior competitions to reach seven Grand Holy Cross were valiant in defeat and put in a whole- Finals and underline their depth of talent. hearted effort. They were best served by Bailey Mur- phy, Jordan Bilic, Joey Nohra, Brody Howard, Matt But the club could only bring home one premiership Simmons and Mason Wheelhouse. trophy after the Silver U/10 Div 1 side toppled Holy CONCORD-BURWOOD SILVER 18 (A Brooks, R Cross Gold 18-0 to secure back-to-back titles at Fitzroy, J Santos tries; J Sarkis, J MacGillicuddy, J Leichhardt Oval. Isaac gls) d HOLY CROSS GOLD 0. Talented Wolves centre Adam Brooks engineered the victory with a powerful display to earn the Player of CONCORD-BURWOOD SILVER – Jack MacGil- the Match award. licuddy (captain), Leroi Kelly, Matthew Lesic, Adam Brooks, Charlie Bruton, Phoreal Mapapalangi, Jayden He was supported by skipper and fullbck Jack Santos, Riley Fitzroy, Christian Emelio, Joseph Isaac, MacGillicuddy, five eighth Charlie Bruton and for- John Melia, Jamie Sarkis, Anthony Carbo, Sebastian wards John Melia, Anthony Carbo, Jayden Santos Boustani; Coach: Tim Kelly; Manager: Paul Brooks; and Riley Fitzroy. Trainers: Romeo Isaac & Colin MacGillicuddy. The skilful Brooks scored the only try of the first half in spectacular fashion in the 15th minute. HOLY CROSS GOLD - Finn Hurst, Jonah George Tuilata, Bailey Murphy (captain), Daniel Amato, Joey After busting the defence, Brooks chip-kicked and Nohra, Brody Howard, Matthew Simmons, Mason regathered before scooting 30 metres to score and Wheelhouse, Jack Karakasis, Jordan Bilic, Joel draw first blood. Merchant, Keisuke Clark, Evan Ryper, Aaron Vasalo, Concord-Burwood sealed victory with two converted Malakai Latilevu, Cooper Wheelhouse. Coach: Rob tries in the final eight minutes through the hard-run- Bilic; Manager: Framo Tuilata; Trainers: Ray Moujalli ning Fitzroy and ever-alert Santos. & Grant Wheelhouse.

Wests Tigers’ young gun Cur- tis Sironen with Wolves’ U/10 Div 1 skipper Jack MacGil- licuddy.

Wests Tigers’ star Curtis Sironen with U/10 Div 1 U/10 Div 1 champions Concord-Burwood Wolves Player of the Match Adam Brooks (Concord-Burwood). 40 UNDER 10 DIV 2 GRAND FINAL

LEICHHARDT Wanderers captured the Austin Hoyle fullback Bailey Gilbert and the power running Harry U/10 Div 2 premiership trophy with an 18-12 triumph Coyne, Charlie Kelso and Hanisinoa Jenson. over Balmain PCYC.

Industrious Wanderers’ forward Jack Casimir turned WANDERERS BLACK 18 (L Clarke, I Chafei, J in a wholehearted performance to collect the official Casimir tries; S Foster, I Chafei, W Wright gls) d BAL- Player of the Grand Final award. MAIN PCYC WHITE 12 (T Williams, C Malacco tries; C Kelso, T Williams gls). He was ably supported by half back Sebastian Foster, fullback Isaac Chafei, five eighth Toby Phillips, centre LEICHHARDT WANDERERS BLACK – Isaac Chafei, George Bekos and forwards Luke Clarke, Joshua Jack Duckworth, Angus Smith, George Bekos, Toby Anderson, Will Wright and Tom Buvac. Phillips, Sebastian Foster (captain), Jack Casimir, Joshua Anderson, Nick Margoulas, Luke Clarke, Clarke and Chafei showed their strength and mobility Blake Murray, Tom Buvac, Will Wright, Samuel Men- to nab first half tries and give the Wanderers a 12-0 zie. Coaches: Dave Buvac; Assistant Coach: David lead at the interval. Foster; Manager: Tammie Phillips; Trainer: Martin Chafei. When the strong running Casimir burst through to score from 40 metres immediately after the break, the BALMAIN PCYC WHITE – Bailey Gilbert, Oliver Leichhardt cubs had opened up a commanding lead. Gajda, Sebastian Higgins, Will Hopper, Harry Coyne, Klaudio Lizarralde-Giftopoulos, Christian Malacco, The tenacious Coppers set the scene for a gripping Turoa Williams (captain), Nathan Gooley, Hanisinoa finish when skipper Turoa Williams and half Christian Ladas-Jenson, Charlie Kelso, Luke Emmington, Villi Malacco posted tries in the 33rd and 35th minutes. Pikula, Ryan Zauner, Joe Reynolds. Coaches: Antho- ny Khoury & Steven Emmington; Manager: Claudette PCYC players to impress were Williams, Malacco, Gajda; Trainers: Troy Zammit & Tony Bignold.

BJL stalwart Austin Hoyle with Wanderers’ U/10 Div 2 skipper Sebastian Foster.

U/10 Div 2 champions Leichhardt Wanderers BJL life member Austin Hoyle with U/10 Div 2 Player of Match Jack Casimir (Wan- derers).

41 UNDER 10 DIV 3 GRAND FINAL

STRONG running forward Adam Elgammal piloted ENFIELD FEDERALS 28 (M Sukkar 2, R Ryan, B Enfield Federals to a 28-6 victory over Concord-Bur- Moussa, J Areiji tries; J Areiji, R Ryan, M Sukkar, B wood in the U/10 Div 3 premiership decider. Moussa gls) d CONCORD-BURWOOD WHITE 6 (J The determined back rower proved a handful for the Merhi try; A Boutros gl). Wolves with his tackle-busting runs and punishing defence as Enfield overpowered their rivals to secure ENFIELD FEDERALS WHITE – Rhys Ryan, Bradley the Peter Duffy Trophy. Moussa, Joseph Sleiman, Jordan Koovousis, Ja- Both sides were locked 6-all at the break before the son Areiji (captain), Michael Haddad, Karim Raad, rejuvenated Federals ran amok in the second half Adam Elgammal, Bill Kastelloriou, George Kosmas, with a four try blitz. Stephen Daliardos, Michael Sukkar. Coach: George The Wolves’ number nine Jayden Merhi opened the Koovousis; Manager: Jihan Haddad; Trainers: Minas scoring after seven minutes with a neat try that was Kastelloriou & Jim Daliardos. converted by Anthony Boutros. CONCORD-BURWOOD WHITE - Noah Mardoquio, Enfield hit back in the space of 60 seconds when full- Jack Busuttil, Adam Paterson, Jerad Jang, Andrew back Rhys Ryan sliced through the Wolves defence to Romeo, Greg Manu, Dominic Hanna, Luke Darcy, score with Jason Areiji adding the two points. Alec Katsiavos, Anthony Boutros, Jayden Merhi, Tom It was one-way traffic after the interval with forwards Battah, Lachlan McDonnell, Tom Allsopp, Isikeli Vula. Michael Sukkar (2), centre Bradley Moussa and will Coach: Grant Allsopp; Manager: Tony McDonnell; o’the wisp Areiji all crossing for four pointers in a Trainer: Charbel Boutros. dominant display.

Enfield were best served by Elgammal, skipper Areiji, Sukkar, Ryan, Moussa, sharp backs Joseph Sleiman and Jordan Koovousis and forwards George Kosmas and Vasilis Kastelloriou. The Wolves got value from the capable Merhi, cen- tres Adam Paterson and Jerad Jang, forwards Tom Wests Tigers and NSW Wests Tigers’ international Battah, Alec Katsiavos, Dom Hanna and Anthony Origin skipper Robbie Farah hooker Robbie Farah with Boutros. with Enfield U/10 Div 3 cap- U/10 Div 3 Player of Match tain Jason Areiji. Adam Elgammal (Federals).

U/10 Div 3 premiers Enfield Federals 42 UNDER 11 DIV 1 GRAND FINAL

CARLINGFORD Cougars U/11 Div 1 side brought score the Cup-winning try with 45 seconds left on the home silverware with an 18-12 triumph over Concord- clock. Burwood in extra time. Sayhoun, five eighth Tonpi, centre Adrian Bechara, forwards Sione Mapapalangi and Robert Catalano Promising fullback Connor Rose, playmaker Dominic and custodian Krystian Mapapalangi tried hard for the Micallef and forwards Liam MaCallum, Rylee Hazell, courageous Wolves. Matt Dezius, Nathan Bainy and Mitchell Haigh pro- duced top games to help the Cougars lift the Norm CARLINGFORD COUGARS 18 (L MaCallum 2, C Waugh Trophy. Rose tries; C Rose, M Haigh, L MaCallum gls) d CONCORD-BURWOOD PINK 12 (J Sayhoun 2 tries; Clever Wolves’ half back Michael Tannous was M Tannous, L Tonpi gls). judged Player of the Match and kept his side in con- tention for honours with a superb game in the number CARLINGFORD COUGARS – Connor Rose, Dominic seven jumper. Belgrove, Ben Kirkman, Samuel Horner, Christian The Wolves opened the scoring after 11 minutes with Habkouk, Dominic Micallef (captain), Daniel Hall, a converted long range try by quicksilver back Jacob Mitchell Haigh, Nathan Bainy, Rylee Hazell, Liam Ma- Sayhoun. Callum, Matthew Dezius, Laurence Sheehan, Jacob Cini. Coach: Andrew Dezius; Manager: Marissa Shee- Carlingford hit back with a try in the corner from han; Trainers: Peter Corliss & Ross Mignacca. rampaging forward MaCallum as both sides went to lemons at 6-all. CONCORD-BURWOOD PINK – Krystian Mapapalan- gi, Jacob Sayhoun, Joseph Rahme, Adrian Bechara, Rose broke the deadlock with a fine solo try after 27 Jake Harrison, Liam Tonpi, Michael Tannous (cap- minutes before Sayhoun grabbed another four pointer tain), John Soueid, Luke Haralambidis, Zayn Sluvin- from a Liam Tonpi pass to take the match into an sky-Wilkins, Tom Younan, Robert ‘Junior’ Catalano, extra phase. Sione Mapapalangi. Coach: John Tannous; Manager: After a scoreless first period, the Cougars struck the Aida Catalano; Trainers: Jeff Sayhoun & Ian Harrison. jackpot when the powerful MaCallum crashed over to

Balmain Football Club stalwart John Stapleton with Cougars’ U/11 Div 1 skipper Dominic Micallef.

Former Balmain Football Club U/11 Div 1 champions Carlingford Cougars president John Stapleton with U/11 Div 1 Player of Match Mi- chael Tannous (Wolves). 43 UNDER 11 DIV 2 GRAND FINAL

BALMAIN PCYC clinched the Dally Messenger U/11 The tough tackling Janson was another hero for the Div 2 Trophy with a rousing 28-12 triumph over Leich- sky blue and whites – gaining valuable metres with hardt Juniors. the ball and keeping Juniors at bay with bustling defence. Promising forward Dean Efthimiou led the way with a super performance to earn the Player of the Match Other Coppers’ players to shine were forwards Ross award. Del Buono, Matt Tuhetoka, Daniel Romeo, Ezekiel Herbert and half Turoa Williams. The strapping cub underlined his potential as the Clever half Jake Jorgensen, centre Harrison Henson, revved up Coppers staged a second half revival to Rory Plummer, Dylan Cowin and Malachi Matoe tried claim the premiership title. hard for Leichhardt.

Efthimiou inspired team-mates with his bullocking BALMAIN PCYC 28 (D Efthimiou 2, E Herbert, H runs, jarring defence and skilful off-loads to earn the Janson, H Sulkin tries; D Romeo, H Longbottom, H official Player of the Grand Final award. Sulkin, R Del Buono gls) d LEICHHARDT JUNIORS 12 (H Henson 2 tries; H Henson, A Campbell gls). But Leichhardt dominated first half proceedings BALMAIN PCYC – Alessio Atriano, Jacob Hogan, through the dashing efforts of two-try centre Harrison Harrison Sulkin, Luis Quagliero, Harrison Longbot- Henson. tom, Jesse Macri, Turoa Williams, Harry Janson, Dean Efthimiou (captain), Kosta Vaxevanis, Daniel Trailing 12-4 at the break, the PCYC colts capitalised Romeo, Matthew Tuhetoka, Ross Del Buono, Ezekiel on a momentum swing as they stepped up a gear in Herbert. Coaches: Tony Bignold; Assistant Coach: the second stanza to blitz their rivals. Bon Tuhetoka; Manager: Lucy Patronaggio; Trainers: Mark Janson & Troy Zammit. A rampaging Efthimiou proved a handful for the Leich- hardt defence with his diesel-powered runs on the LEICHHARDT JUNIORS – , Tom Dob- edge. bin, Rory Plummer, Harrison Henson, Remy Scalone, Mischa Browne, Jake Jorgensen (captain), Malachi He scored his second try of the match in the 25th Matoe, Mark Henderson, Jordan Marsden, Dylan minute which was followed by converted tries by Eze- Cowin, Tristan Ghraiche, Sharbel Nadal, Hwan In- kiel Herbert (31st minute), Harry Janson (37th minute) verso, Alex Campbell, Marcus McNulty. Coach: Peter and Harrison Sulkin (40th minute) as the Coppers Jorgensen; Manager: Frank Inverso; Trainer: Warren registered a memorable win. Henson.

Balmain and North Ryde Hawks legend Ron Ryan with PCYC U/11 Div 2 skipper and Player of U/11 Div 2 premiers Balmain PCYC Match Dean Efthimiou. 44 UNDER 11 DIV 3 GRAND FINAL LEICHHARDT Wanderers Black showed courage and Wolves never stopped probing and added a consola- commitment to edge out Concord-Burwood Silver 24- tion try in the dying moments when Lavaki dived over 22 and clinch the U/11 Div 3 premiership. for a double.

In a gripping encounter, the Wanderers staved off a Concord-Burwood were best served by Cassaniti, La- challenge from the gallant Wolves to lift the inaugural vaki, fullback Daniel Azzone, centre Ethan Orlich and John Robertson Trophy. skipper Jaiden Najdovski. The red-and-blacks led all the way with big games from five eighth Flynn Leaver, fullback Jacob Tauia WANDERERS BLACK 24 (H Merrick, P Musillo, J and forwards Braydyn Honeysett, Hunter Merrick, Tauia, N Kennedy tries; C Garcia, O Matos, M Ge- Joseph Lavaki and Daire Filitonga. oghegan, B Honeysett gls) d CONCORD-BURWOOD SILVER 22 (E Lavaki 2, P Vecchio, J Cassaniti tries; In a frenetic start to the game, three tries were posted G Conti, L Iacona, P Vecchio gls). in the opening nine minutes. LEICHHARDT WANDERERS BLACK – Jacob Tauia, Wanderers put first points on the board when Merrick Callan Oeding, Cameron Garcia, Nick Kennedy, Jack burrowed over from dummy half before the Wolves Logan, Flynn Leaver (captain), Patrick Musillo, Bray- struck back with an Epeli Lavaki four-pointer. dyn Honeysett, Max Geoghegan, Daire Filitonga, Oskar Matos, Hunter Merrick, Joseph Lavaki. Coach: A converted try by half back Patrick Musillo gave Peter Leaver; Manager: Noella Merrick; Trainer: Chris Wanderers a 12-4 lead but Wolves’ five eighth Phil Matos. Vecchio bridged the gap when he crossed before the break. CONCORD-BURWOOD SILVER – Daniel Azzone, An intercept try by Tauia in the 23rd minute was con- Hassan Omar, Anthony Kertebani, Ethan Orlich, verted by Max Geoghegan for an 18-10 lead before Phillip Vecchio, Luke Iacona, Jaiden Najdovski (cap- Jordan Cassaniti kept the Wolves in the hunt with a tain), Jordan Cassaniti, Epeli Lavaki, Guy-Luca Conti, valuable four pointer. Brooklyn Najdovski, Sofele ‘Junior’ Langi, Loris Trima- rchi. Coach: Haisam Jamal; Manager: David Kerte- Wanderers’ centre Nick Kennedy crashed over out bani; Trainers: Joe Conti & Frank Vecchio. wide for his side’s fourth try in the 27th minute but the

BJL life member and long time sponsor John Robertson of J & J Robertson & Sons Transport with Wanderers’ U/11 Div 3 skip- per Flynn Leaver.

Wests Tigers’ utility Curtis Sironen with U/11 Div 3 Player of U/11 Div 3 premiers Leichhardt Wanderers Match Braydn Honeysett (Wan- derers).

45 UNDER 12 DIV 1 GRAND FINAL

STRATHFIELD Raiders produced a superb team per- with a 6-0 lead. formance to down favourites Holy Cross 18-0 in the U/12 Div 1 decider - with dynamic centre Billy Papas After the interval, Papas stamped his mark – creating the best player on ground. further tries for Berbari and Declan Bitar to complete a whitewash. The mercurial Papas made an impact out wide as the Raiders overpowered the lacklustre Rhinos with sheer Not even a training session with Wests Tigers’ boom strength and determination. half back and former Rhinos’ junior product Luke Brooks could lift Holy Cross, who were best served by He was supported by halves Zac Bitar and Declan Bi- promising fullback Jason Smyth, prop Charles We- tar, Roger Berbari and forwards Jimmy Kaufusi, Shadi hbe, centre Zane Camroux, hooker Jake Kusto and Jamal and Chris Georges. half Jae Frison.

With the more fancied Leichhardt Wanderers and STRATHFIELD RAIDERS 18 (R Berbari 2, D Bitar Holy Cross tipped for championship honours, the well tries; D Bitar, M Habib, Z Bitar gls) d HOLY CROSS 0. drilled Raiders flew under the radar despite impres- sive displays throughout 2013. STRATHFIELD RAIDERS – Matthew Habib, Joseph Ibrahim, Billy Papas, Daniel Quinn, Roger Berbari, Relishing the underdog tag, Michael Daher’s Strath- Zac Bitar, Declan Bitar, Jimmy Kaufusi, Emmanual field cubs showed skill and passion and a strong Saad, Jallal Rahman, Chris Georges (captain), Peter belief during the finals – culminating in a memorable Katsiavos, Shadi Jamal, Peter Kayrouz, Dylan Mc- performance on Grand Final day. Donald, Humza Rahman. Coach: Michael Daher; Manager: Mark Saad; Trainers: John Tannous & Nick The Raiders dominated from the outset and kept Holy Katsiavos. Cross on the back foot with bustling defence and sweeping movements in attack. HOLY CROSS GOLD – Jason Smyth (captain), Tyran A third minute passing rush resulted in a try for the Rotondo, Jordan Hill, Zane Camroux, Zac Stanton, strongly-built Berbari with half Declan Bitar adding the Jesse Provan, Jae Frison, Ben Wood, Tom Skelly, extras. Blake Hopper, Charles Wehbe, Jake Kusto, Max Guanta, Joseph Georges, Isaac Acheampong. Papas created havoc with his power running but de Coach: Allan Jarvis; Manager: Sally Frison; Trainers: spite their dominance the Raiders went to the break Rod Farlow & Glen Smith.

Wests Tigers’ boom half back Luke Brooks with Strathfield U/12 Div 1 skipper Chris Georges.

U/12 Div 1 champions Strathfield Raiders Wests Tigers’ playmaker Luke Brooks with U/12 Div 1 Player of Match Billy Papas.

46 UNDER 12 DIV 2 GRAND FINAL

ENFIELD Federals captured the Charles Fraser U/12 ENFIELD FEDERALS 18 (A Alabadla, M Fettayleh, S Div 2 Trophy after a thrilling 18-16 victory over North Anjoul, G Kosmas tries; T Tiberti gl) d NORTH RYDE Ryde in extra time. 16 (O Arcus 2, S Saba, N Marquis tries). Strong running centre Anthony Ageras capped a memorable day by picking up the official Player of the ENFIELD FEDERALS WHITE – Michael Areiji, Nick Match award. Kosmas, Anthony Ageras, Beau Henderson, Tom Tib- Ageras was a stand out for the Federals in attack and erti, Jamal Fettayleh, George Kosmas, Lachlan Farah ignited the back division with his powerful running and (captain), Adam Alabadla, Will Bonnacorso, Chris lethal fend. Psarros, Jesse Khoury, Andre Michael, Mohamed Enfield dominated field position and led 8-0 at the Fettayleh, Tollie Tsekouras, Ross Daliardos, George half time break courtesy of tries by forwards Adam Georgellis, Samuel Anjoul. Alabadla (5th minute) and Mohamed Fettayleh (19th Coaches: Wayne Mackie; Assistant Coach: Dominic minute) from dummy half. Alberga; Managers: Mehrez Farah & Jamel Farah; Samuel Anjoul posted the Federals third try in the Trainers: Stephen Petsalis & Chris Kosmas. 24th minute before the Hawks staged a courageous comeback. NORTH RYDE – Ronnie Ryan, Daniel Ianni, Juan Nippy half back Oliver Arcus and forward Steven Amaya, Jonathan Crecca, Jack Cobmeadow, Oliver Saba nabbed quick tries in the space of four minutes Arcus (captain), Tom Edwards-Moro, Nick Marquis, to keep North Ryde in contention. Jakob Saville, Ryan Acheson, Steve Saba, Raven The Hawks were poised for a dramatic victory when Daniel, James Bragg, Jack Smith-Touzel, James Wil- back rower Nick Marquis burst through to score under son, Sahil Mukhija, Daniel Wilson, Lachlan Marquis. the posts and level the scores at 12-all inside the final Coach: Dennis Fenton; Manager: Christine Saville; minute. Trainers: Rob Saba & Rob Cobmeadow. But in a cruel twist, Marquis missed the easy conver- sion attempt to send the match into extra time.

North Ryde led 16-12 when Arcus notched a second try in the 41st minute. But Enfield stormed to vic- tory when half George Kosmas darted across for the match-winning try to break the Hawks’ hearts. Skipper and fullback Michael Areiji, prop Chris Psar- ros, Andre Michael, forward Will Bonnacorso and Wests Tigers’ young gun Wests Tigers’ half Luke Kosmas also played strongly for Enfield while Arcus, Luke Brooks with Federals Brooks with U/12 Div 2 Play- Saba, Marquis, centre Jon Crecca and forward Ryan U/12 Div 2 captain Lachlan er of Match Anthony Ageras Farah – nephew of Tigers’ (Federals). Acheson tried hard for the Hawks. international Robbie Farah.

U/12 Div 2 premiers Enfield Federals 47 UNDER 13 DIV 3 GRAND FINAL

THERE was no joy for Balmain clubs in the Sydney RENOWN UNITED – Chris Trajkovski, Blake Ryan, Combined competition Grand Finals with Renown Jazz Robredillo, Turk Omerhan, Alex Margetson, toppling the Wolves 26-4 in U/13 Div 3 at Leichhardt Lewis Mallard, Ashley Totten (captain), Tyson Martin, Oval; Penshurst RSL downing North Ryde 44-8 in Rangi Noble, Tim Lisson, Keegan Host, Gletos Stal- U/13 Div 2 at Kogarah Oval; Bankstown Sports rolling ios, Odin Te Paiho-Murray, Jordan Brickwood, Tai- the Wolves 28-22 in U/15 Div 3 at Belmore Sports waaka Noble. Coach: James Martin; Manager: Henry Ground and South Eastern defeating Holy Cross 32-4 Murray; Trainer; Cathy Host. at Redfern Oval. CONCORD-BURWOOD – Patrick Thomas, Patrick RENOWN United took home the Sydney Combined Mouawad, Seth Quinn, Jarred Lindblom, Andrew U/13 Div 3 premiership trophy after a resounding 26-4 Salameh, Jake De La Motte, Ben Gosby, Peter Agrio- victory over Concord-Burwood at Leichhardt Oval. giannis, Jayden Williams, Matt Craparotta, Billy Vassi- lakis, Toufic Succar, Matt Raad, Patrick Rea, Andrew Promising lock Tyson Martin turned in a strong perfor- Dickinson, Marc Anthony Checchia, Samuel Younan, mance for the green and whites to earn the Player of Isaac Ibrahim. Coach: David Durbin; Manager: Julie the Match award. Gosby; Trainers: Jimmy Mouawad, Bill Ibrahim, Trent Dickinson. Renown jumped to an early 8-0 lead through tries by winger Alex Margetson and forward Rangi Noble.

Wolves’ fullback Patrick Thomas sliced through to score before the break to keep his side in the hunt. It was all Renown after the interval as the St George club posted another three tries – with the powerful Martin leading the charge.

RENOWN UNITED 26 (A Margetson, R Noble, L Mal- lard, O Paiho-Murray, T Martin tries; T Martin 2, R No- Triumphant Renown captain Ashley Totten (right) and Play- er of Match Tyson Martin hold aloft the premiership trophy. ble gls) d CONCORD-BURWOOD 4 (P Thomas try).

U/13 Div 3 premiers Renown United

48 KEITH BARNES LEADING POINT SCORER AWARD

WESTS Tigers’ State Cup coach Paul Fletcher pre- sents goalkicking Balmain centre Tom Satterthwaite with the Keith Barnes Leading Points Scorer Award for 2013.

Satterthwaite, who bagged 92 points from 13 tries and 20 goals, was instrumental in the Tigers capturing back-to-back S.G Ball Cup premierships and National U/18 Club Championship titles.

SCOTT GALE LEADING TRY SCORER AWARD

AUSTRALIAN Power & Gas CEO James Myatt pre- sents the Scott Gale Memorial Leading Try Scorer Award to Balmain centre Tom Satterthwaite for his 13 tries in the 2013 S.G Ball Cup U/18 competition.

RYDE EASTWOOD DEVELOPMENT RISING STAR AWARDS PROMISING cubs Angelo Panambalana, Laurence Zarounas and Ben Stevanovic were presented with Ryde Eastwood Development Squad Rising Star awards at the Tigers’ 2013 Awards Night at Ryde Eastwood Leagues Club.

Panambalana (Dundas Shamrocks U/15s), Zarounas (Leichhardt Juniors U/14s) and Stevanovic (Leich- hardt Wanderers U/13s) starred in Balmain’s Junior Development squads this season. They are pictured with Ryde-Eastwood Football Club stalwart Jim Mc- Clymont.

49 FITTING HONOUR FOR LEGENDARY REF CLIFF BROWN

BALMAIN Rugby League Referees’ Association paid In 1956 he controlled the NSW v New Zealand match tribute to legendary Cliff Brown at this year’s Balmain and further honours came his way when he was cho- Junior League Grand Finals at Leichhardt Oval. sen to control the NSW v Great Britain fixture at the SCG. To celebrate the remarkable career of Brown, a long time Ryde resident, the Referees Room at the Tigers’ On retirement, Cliff immediately took to administrative spiritual home was named after the famous whistle duties and became the delegate of the NSW Refer- blower. ees’ Association on the General Committee of the NSWRL. Cliff’s wife Gloria was in attendance to celebrate the honour bestowed on her late husband along with fam- He was later elected to the Management/Executive ily members, Referees’ Association Chairman Scott Committee, the forerunner to the Board of Directors, Todd and current and past Balmain referees. where he served for ten years.

Brown joined the Balmain Rugby League Referees’ Cliff was also a member of the examination board and Association in 1944 and in his first year created some served as Chairman. type of record by being appointed to referee the A, B and C Grade Grand Finals. When the NSWRL decided to appoint a Director of Referees with the sole control of all appointments, From this platform, Cliff created such an impression Cliff was the obvious choice. that he was appointed to referee the Presidents Cup Final in 1946 before entering the third grade ranks. He filled the role with distinction until his retirement. During this time his interest in the Balmain Rugby Cliff quickly progressed to first grade in the NSWRL League Referees’ Association didn’t wane and at vari- Sydney premiership, a position he held until his retire- ous times he held the positions of President (1958- ment from active duties in 1962 - refereeing well over 1961), Treasurer (1946-1947) and on a number of 100 first grade matches. committees.

During his career Cliff refereed many grade Grand Cliff was a life member of both the Balmain District Finals, culminating in his appointment to interstate Rugby League Referees’ Association and the NSW fixtures (the predecessor to State of Origin) at both Rugby League Referees’ Association. and the Sydney Cricket Ground.

Gloria Brown at the Official Opening of the Cliff Brown Ref- Gloria Brown with some of Balmain Junior Referees Asso- erees Room ciation’s promising young Refs

50 ADAM GARDINER graduating to the Wests Tigers’ U/20 Holden Cup squad. MEMORIAL TROPHY Tatola is pictured with Adam’s wife Trish Gardiner and BALMAIN forward warrior Fosio Tatola is the eighth prominent referee-trainer Steve Wilson at the Tigers’ recipient of the Adam Gardiner Memorial Best For- Awards Night. Previous winners include former Jersey ward Trophy. Flegg half back Marc Russell and State Cup forwards The award commemorates the life of former Tigers’ Luke McInnes, Alan Schirnack, Jarred Farlow, David assistant Jersey Flegg and Premier League coach Gower, Junior Moors and . Adam Gardiner who lost a brave battle with amyloido- sis in 2006 at the age of 35. A fierce competitor, Tatola led Balmain to back-to- back S.G Ball premierships and National U/18 Club Championship titles with powerhouse displays in the NSWRL Junior Cup arena.

He also produced a strong performance for NSW in their 56-6 drubbing of Queensland in an U/18 Junior- Interstate Challenge at Suncorp Stadium before

DON GRAHAM MEMORIAL TROPHY - U/19 PLAYER OF YEAR

COUNTRY raised fullback Harry Groves is this year’s Groves joins previous winners Patrick Walsh and recipient of the Don Graham Memorial U/19 Player of Paul McInerney (Holy Cross), Paul Tutt (Gladesville the Year Award. Sports), David Rose (Wanderers), Ian McCann and Shane Williams (Cricketers Arms), Gordon Rytmeister The dashing custodian – who hails from the Riverina (North Ryde), Marc Webber (West Ryde-Denistone), town of Tumut - was a deserved winner after guiding Billy Long (Pyrmont Colts), Luke Long (Balmain the Holy Cross Rhinos to the finals of the NSWRL United), Jason Thompson (Wanderers), Joe Hawach Combined Inner City U/19 Div 1 competition. and Paul Owens (Ryde Eastwood), Anthony Golder An excited Groves is pictured receiving his award (Annandale Waratahs), Dean Hutchison and Clint from current Wests Tigers CEO Grant Mayer at the Ti- Woods (Leichhardt Juniors), Shadi Haddad (Five gers Awards Night at Ryde Eastwood Leagues Club. Dock RSL), Corey Lee and Hugo Duarte (Leich- The strong running fullback was identified by talent hardt Juniors), Matthew Olsen (Wanderers), Ali Musri scouts in Tumut and drafted into the Wests Tigers and Dylan Theuerjahr (North Ryde), Ajay Vaivaka Under 20s program. (Concord-Burwood), Marcel Ferris (Holy Cross) and Brendan Pike and Shae Jarvis (Dundas Shamrocks) He completed his education at St Gregory’s College on the U/19s honour roll. Campbelltown but struggled to force his way into the Tigers’ powerful Holden Cup squad – playing sec- ond fiddle to young guns and Delouise Hoeter. Groves left his mark in the Tigers’ U/19 Development matches and also with the Rhinos during the club’s finals charge.

He proved a revelation at Holy Cross under the guid- ance of Liam Roach – the Tigers’ assistant S.G Ball premiership-winning mentor – with his sure-catching under pressure, kick-returns and fine support play a feature.

51 TRIBUTES PAUL JARVIS PUTNEY district is mourn- ing the death of one of its TOHI LEHA best rugby league products in multi premiership-win- A BENEFIT night was ning half back Paul Jarvis staged on September 27 (pictured) at the age of 44. for the late Balmain jun- Jarvis, a talented Balmain ior representative rugby junior who was recently ap- league forward Tohi Leha pointed coach of the Camp- at Gladstone Park Bowling belltown City Kangaroos, Club Balmain. suffered a fatal heart attack on Australia Day while water-skiing with his family on Leha passed away in September after a battle with Metastatic Ewing Sar- the Hawkesbury River. coma (stomach cancer) at the age of 24. He was a popular member of the sporting Jarvis fam- ily from Putney that have a long association with the The talented utility forward represented Balmain in Holy Cross Rhinos Junior Rugby League Club. the Harold Matthews Cup and S.G Ball Cup competi- tions from 2004 to 2008. Paul carved his niche as an elusive half back in the Balmain Junior League with Holy Cross, Gladesville Leha won premierships with Leichhardt Wander- Bowling & Sports, Ryde-Eastwood, West Ryde-Den- ers from the ages of 14 to 18 in the Balmain Junior istone and Leichhardt Wanderers clubs before retir- League and Combined Inner City competitions and ing as a player after a season in the Campbelltown helped Endeavour Sports High clinch the National Masters competition. Schoolboys Arrive Alive Cup trophy. In recent years, Paul has served the Campbelltown Collegians JRLFC with distinction as a trainer and He later played with Cronulla in the Toyota Cup Na- coach in the Western Suburbs Junior League - joining tional Youth U/20s competition. the club back in 2008. A father of four, Tohi also played country football with He took on a coaching role in 2009 and guided the Lithgow and Gundagai. Collegians to the U/17 finals before engineering an U/18s premiership the following season. Two of his closest mates - former North Ryde, Bal- main and Parramatta utility and former The Collegians defeated Eagle Vale/St Andrews in Wanderers’ and Tigers’ half back Marc Russell - or- the 2010 NSWRL Combined Inner City Grand Final at ganised the fundraiser to assist Leha’s young family. Leichhardt Oval - an achievement that earned him the club’s Coach of the Year award. A former recipient of the George Piper Memorial Tro- phy for the Balmain Junior League’s U/21 Player of RONNIE MORRIS the Year, Paul showed his versatility in 1988 when he BALMAIN PCYC Junior Rugby League Club is starred at centre in the Tigers’ Jersey Flegg champi- mourning the death of stalwart official Ronnie Morris, onship-winning team. who lost a brave battle with cancer on May 23 at the The Tiger cubs toppled Newcastle 20-12 in the Grand age of 73. Final at Shark Park with the nippy Jarvis producing a classy performance in the title decider. A prominent manager and selector during the 1970s Paul collected premiership medals with Gladesville, and ‘80s, Morris gave the Coppers yeoman service. West Ryde-Denistone and Ryde Eastwood and repre- Ronnie is survived by wife Gaye, daughter Cindy and sented Balmain in the NSWRL Harold Matthews Cup, son Kelly. S.G Ball, Jersey Flegg and U/21 competitions. He was one of the best players on ground when the all-conquering Ryde Eastwood Hawks captured the BJL U/21 premiership at Leichhardt Oval before forc- ing his way into the top grade. 52 GLEN HAWKEN long-serving Balmain Junior League executive mem- ber and life member, gave sterling service over four DUNDAS Shamrocks are decades. mourning the death of premiership-winning man- The Barnett family - loyal Leichhardt aficionados - are ager and keen statistician widely respected in junior rugby league circles for Glen Hawken, who lost a their magnificent contribution to the Wanderers cause brave battle with pancreatic over a 40 year period. cancer at the age of 58. In 2009, quiet achiever Melinda Barnett received life Renowned throughout the membership at the club’s AGM. district for his statistical Melinda was the first woman to achieve the feat with skills, the popular Hawken the Wanderers club and joined her father Bob and brother Craig on a distinguished honour roll. managed the club’s champion Under 14, Under 15 and Under 16 sides that featured Wests Tigers star It is also the first time that three members of a family Curtis Sironen to successive premierships in 2007-08 have received life membership of the famous Leich- and 2009. hardt-based club that has Junior League ties dating back to 1910. Glen joined the Shamrocks in 2004 with sons Shane and Sean and helped form an Under 11s side that Craig and wife Leoni continue to give the Wanderers’ struggled for numbers. yeoman service as club president and secretary.

This team would later develop into the pride of the Bob is survived by his loving wife Lois, five children Shamrocks and dominate their age group over a four and eight grandchildren. year period.

A former student at Holy Cross College Ryde, Glen listed being a part of the College’s first Metropolitan BOB MARA Catholic Schools winning side in 1975 as one of his BALMAIN rugby league proudest sporting moments. fraternity are mourning the death of one of the club’s Glen was farewelled with a signed Dundas jumper greatest wingers Bobby from his beloved players and his signature Akubra Mara, who lost a brave bat- Shamrocks hat. tle with dementia on Janu- ary 22 at the age of 73.

BOB BARNETT A Tigers’ Hall of Fame BALMAIN Junior League inductee, Mara enjoyed a lost one of its finest serv- successful career with both ants last Easter with the Balmain and Penrith from death of former president 1959 to 1969 and was rated one of the finest players and popular Leichhardt not to earn a representative jumper. Wanderers’ stalwart Bob Barnett. A dynamic winger, Mara played 148 games with the Tigers – scoring 70 tries - and helped the club reach The former Concord the 1964 and 1966 Grand Finals against St George. resident, who had retired to Fingal Bay at Port Ste- phens, passed away on Good Friday from ailing He finished his career at Penrith with a band of former health at the age of 76. Tigers and held his own against the finest backs in the game. Bob, a former Wanderers secretary-president and 53 Regarded as one of the best junior footballers to emerge from the Glebe Police Boys nursery, Mara’s 1956 D Grade premiership-winning team were arguably one of the best junior outfits to compete in the Balmain Junior League.

He was a member of Balmain’s third grade side that reached the 1958 final and figured in the Tigers’ 1967 reserve grade premiership team before winning a Wills Cup pre-season competition with the Panthers in 1968.

Mara later coached the Pyrmont Colts to a junior premiership and was a long-time trainer with the Balmain junior representative teams including the 1980 -winning side.

Tragedy struck the Mara family in August 2012 when Bob’s 50 year old son Garry - a former Balmain and Par- ramatta utility back - was killed in a road accident at Santa Monica while holidaying in the United States.

Ten weeks later, Bob’s beloved wife Janice lost a brave battle with cancer at the age of 71.

At the 2008 Balmain Centenary Dinner at Sydney’s Westin Hotel, Mara was inducted into the Tigers Hall of Fame and later named in the Balmain Junior League Team of the Century.

DES BONNER

BALMAIN rugby league fraternity are mourning the death of forward stal- wart Des Bonner, who lost a brave battle with cancer on March 18, 2014 on the Central Coast aged 60.

Bonner played 211 career matches with the Tigers from 1971-82 and was a member of three premiership teams - the Balmain U/23s in 1973 and winning Tigers’ reserve grade sides in 1978 and 1982.

A fearless forward with a huge work rate, Bonner played 18 first grade matches for Balmain before retiring in 1982 with a reserve grade premier- ship winner’s medal.

In 2009, Des achieved his proudest honour when awarded life member- ship of the Balmain District Rugby League Football Club.

BALMAIN Tigers Hall of Fame induct- Des was a Balmain junior product and played his early football with Glebe ee Laurie Fagan (left) with Des Bonner Youth JRLFC – winning premierships with the undefeated G Grade (U/13) in 2009 after they were bestowed with life memberships of Balmain and E Grade (U/15) teams in 1966 and 1968 and the talented F Grade DRLFC. (U/14) side in 1967.

The powerful forward later played with Balmain Police Boys before earning a call up to Balmain’s third grade squad in 1971.

In 1973, Des figured in Balmain’s premiership winning U/23 side that defeated Newtown 10-7 in the Grand Final at the SCG and played a key role in the Tigers’ reserve grade-winning teams in 1978 and ‘82.

Bonner later trained and coached premiership teams at both Leichhardt Juniors and Leichhardt Wanderers with sons Dayle and Matthew and helped mentor the Tigers’ Junior Development squads.

54