2012 103Rd Annual Report COATESHIRE PROUD MAJOR SPONSOR of the BALMAIN DISTRICT JUNIOR RUGBY LEAGUE

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BALMAIN District Junior Rugby League

L-R: North Ryde U6’s - Brandon Thomas, Brock Robinson, Elijah Chahine, Isaac Biondi, Lachlan Rutherford, Patrick Toms and Levi Locantro

2012 103rd Annual Report COATESHIRE PROUD MAJOR SPONSOR OF THE BALMAIN DISTRICT JUNIOR RUGBY LEAGUE

Coateshire became the major sponsor of the With over 200 branches and satellite locations Balmain District Junior Rugby League in 2010 with our own maintenance and transport ca- and have once against sponsored for 2013. pability, Coateshire is well positioned to satisfy the equipment hire needs of an ever increasing Coates Limited is Australia’s largest equipment customer base. hire company with over 120 years experience in industry, supplying a wide variety of markets Coateshire NSW are proud to support the including Engineering and Building Construction Balmain District Junior Rugby League. and Maintenance, Mining and Resources, Manu- facturing, Government and Events.

www.coateshire.com.au

2 General Manager’s Report

2012 was a great season on many levels for Balmain Tigers Football. Our best partners who come along, have a great time and support the day. Junior Representative Season in 30 years saw many local juniors step up and take out the SG Ball Premiership and finish one game short in the Harold Matthews Balmain Referees Association - To Scott Todd, the Executive Committee and competition. to all of our Referees, thanks for playing your part in season 2012.

Our senior side, the Balmain Ryde Eastwood Tigers came from eighth position to To our wonderful Partners of the Junior League, Coateshire, Balmain Tigers, Man- nearly take out the NSW VB State Cup competition, unlucky to lose the Grand Final. nings, McDonalds Inner West Stores, Ryde Eastwood Leagues & Football Clubs, Congratulations to all involved in this momentous effort. Australian Power & Gas, Griffin Air and Dulux Inspirations Stores Gladesville & Burwood Heights, a huge thank you. Our Junior Club sides were very competitive in the ICCC and although falling short in various age groups we showed that the Balmain Tigers will be competitive in years I would like to acknowledge John Critchley and the Board of the Junior League and to come. all Junior Clubs Committees and Volunteers - without you we would have no game for the kids.

To our newest Balmain Junior League NRL Graduates - Pat Politoni and Curtis Sironen, well done and we hope you have long and successful careers.

Congratulations to Mitchell Moses and Luke Brooks for outstanding seasons result- ing in Australian Schoolboy selection along with Paul Simona. Manaia Cherrington and Mitchell Moses represented NSW U/18s during the year. Bayley Sironen was selected in the NSW U/16’s. To all of our boys, may you achieve your dream of wearing the Tigers jersey in First Grade one day.

To the Leichhardt Oval crew John Stapleton and Lyn Phillis, thanks for all you do including assisting with Junior League Finals and Grand Finals. Benny Elias Shield Winners – Holy Cross U8 Division To the best team of volunteers led by Bazza and Mrs. Mac (Barry and June Maguire), Maureen McKeon, Les and Norma Walters, Renee Simpson, thanks for all you do for Tigers Juniors & Seniors! We can’t thank all of you enough. Well done to Holy Cross U13s coached by Danny Stapleton who came so close to taking out the Club Challenge. Junior League Grand Final day at Leichhardt Oval was another great success with some wonderful footy played by all teams on the day. Well done to all involved on the day and to Jennie Webster and the Junior League Board who worked tirelessly to ensure the day ran smoothly.

My personal thanks to Coateshire for their support again in 2012 – it’s comforting to know an organisation like yours is behind our junior competition and its players. Sydney Markets were again extremely generous with donations of fresh fruit to keep our motto gong for Grand Final Day – “eat more fresh fruit and veggies!”

Renee Simpson, Jennie, Norma Walters and “Mrs Mac”

Thanks to Vinh Tran and Duncan De Celis for your efforts in 2012 in promoting our game in and around the District and Schools.

Welcome back to Yvette Downey who has been a great asset to the Tigers team and by no coincidence, she assures us we had our best season in decades! Carlingford Cougars with Tiger Tim, the Hamburglar and Richard Kelly on Grand Final Day Lastly but by no means least to Jennie Webster who is the glue that holds all the Without our volunteers and parents at all Clubs we couldn’t continue to grow and Junior League pieces together. We all flourish so from everyone we thank you wholeheartedly. appreciate your commitment and dedication not only to the Balmain Junior League BRET and BDJRL Awards Night - A packed auditorium at Ryde Eastwood but the great help you have been to BTFC Leagues Club celebrated the great season that was 2012. The crowd was treated to and to me personally. a fantastic DVD compilation that celebrated the many milestones during the season and all who contributed to our Club from top to bottom. Your efforts in assisting the NSW ICCC and other NSW Executive Committees Many thanks to Jennie and her team of Vicki Elsley, Gary Reader and Brett Rennie are recognised at a higher level and a big and to Ryde Eastwood Leagues Club and Football Club who support the night ensur- congratulations to you. ing it runs smoothly and is enjoyed by all. I have been so fortunate to be involved The Australian Power & Gas Balmain DJRL Sportsman’s Lunch - We with the great season that was 2012 and were again blessed with a magical day on the harbour cruising and being entertained I wish you all great success in season by the Robertson Bros! It was a simple theme celebrating 30 years from SG Ball 2013. Up the Tigers! successes. The annual event is supported by the Clubs and my thanks to Jennie and Yvette who ensured the day ran well and to All Occasion Cruises for their continued support of the day. To James Myatt and our naming partners Australian Power & Gas Paul Sironen your support is greatly appreciated. My personal thanks to all of our corporate General Manager - BTRLFC & BDJRL

3 Office Bearers 1908 - 2012

Secretaries Ray Dalton 1980-81 General Manager RLFC & Bob Carroll 1982 Dave Butchart 1908-09-10-11-12-13 Junior League Chris Kenny 1983-84-85-86 Pat McQuade 1908-09 Michael Keech 2007-2010 (resigned) Kathleen Hughes 1987 Frank Savage 1914-15-18-19-22 Paul Sironen 2010 (Acting) 2011 Pat Hegarty 1988-89-90 (Retired) Robert Savage 1916-17 continuing Cliff Madgwick 1990-91-92-93-94 Leo Mason 1920-21-23-24-25 1995-96-97-98-99-2000-01- W L Young 1926-27-28 Graham Simmons 02-03 Bill O’Connor 1929-30-31-32 Lyn Phillis 2004-05 Development Manager C H ‘Micky’ Roberts 1933-34 David Kelly 1997- 2010 L Crawley 1934-35 Yvette Downey 2012 - J Burnicle 1936-37 Sid Jenkins 1938-39-40-41 Treasurers J Griffith 1942-43 Frank Savage 1914-15-16-17-18-19-20 R Rourke 1944-45-46 Harold Matthews 1921-22 Chairman Harry Addison 1947-48-49-50 W L Young 1923-24-25-26 Robert Henderson 2006-2010 (resigned) George Lee 1951-52-53-54-55 M Cooney 1927-28 John Critchley 2011 - Danny Clifford 1956-57 B Curran 1929-30-31 Bill Ballard 1958-59-60 D Cooksey 1932 Joe Hayes 1961-62 L Crawley 1933-34 Directors Allan Slarke 1935 Don Graham 1963-64-65-66-67-68-69-70- John Carrington 2006-2010 J Connor 1936-37-38-39-40-41-42-43 71-72-73-74-75 Debbie Chalmers 2006 H McLeod 1944-45 Mick Ko’Cass 1976-77-78-79-80 John Critchley 2006-08-09-10 J Donovan 1946 (Resigned) Warwick Hilder 2006-07-08 Harry Chalk 1947-48-49-50-51-52 Bill Brown 1980-81-82 Gary Hinchliffe 2006-07 A Harding 1949-50-51 Bob Carroll 1983-84-85-86-87-88-89-90- Steve Lavers 2006-07 Bob Jones 1953-54-55 91-92-93-94 Peter Mortimer 2006 Arthur Robinson 1956-57-58-59-60-61 Paul Egan 1995-96-97-98-99-2000-01- Mick O’Keefe 2006-2012 Ron Pursehouse 1962-63-64-65-66-67-68 02-03-04 Bob Siemsen 2006-2012 Reg Patterson 1969-70-71-72-73-74-75-76 Philip Taylor 2006-2012 Phil Lloyd 1977-78-79 David Wilson 2006-2011 resigned Doug Vitnell 1980 Presidents Scott Todd 2011-2012 Myles Kennedy 1981-82-83 Arthur Ballerum 1908-09-10-11-12-13-14-15-16 Chris Raheb 2006-2012 Tony Newell 1984-85-86 1917-18-19 Charlie Khalifeh 2012- Kathy Palmer 1986-87 Frank Savage 1920-21-22-23-24-25-26- 28- Chris Annison 2007-08-09 Sid Coghlan 1988-89-90-91 James N Walsh 29-40-41 Ian Gibbeson 2007-08-09-10 Ernie Baldwin 1992-93-94-2002-03 1927-1930-31-32-33 Jon Monroe 2007-08 (deceased) Tony Bietola 1995-96-97-98-99-2000-01 J McCarry 1934-35 Robert Gerrie 2008 Chris Annison 2004-05 J Shaw 1935 John Stapleton 2008-2012 Bill O’Connor 1936-37-38-39 Brian Johnston 2008-2012 A S Cochrane 1942-43 Chris Woods 2008 L Crawley 1944-45-46 Junior League Administrators Michael Benson 2011-2012 A Dawes 1947-48-49-50-51-52-53-54 Frank Delaney 1937 Brett Wheelhouse 2009 Bert Hampstead 1955-56-57-58 J Galvin 1937 Frank Dunne 2009-2012 resigned Austin Hoyle 1959-60-61 Con Veneziano 2009-2012 resigned Robert McKinney 1962-63-64-65-66-67-68-69-70 Aida Catalano 2010 Bill Evans 1971-72-73-74-75-76-77 Vice Presidents Paul Jenson 2010 Bob Waterson 1978-79-80-81-82 Gabriel Georgy 2010-2011 John Jackson 1983-84-85-86-87-88-89-90- Tom Prescott 1924 Richard Jones 2009-2012 Ted Hellsten 91-92 Richard Baker 1930-31-32-33 Richard Kelly 2011-2012 Sid Coghlan 1993 Joe Bainou 2012 Robert Henderson 1994-95-96-97-98-99-2000 Bob Barnett 2001 Senior Vice Presidents Bill Wise 2002-03-04 Patron Arthur McIlveen 1978-79 John Culbert 2005 (deceased) Mick Manning 1997-2012 Ted Hellsten 1980-81-82 Maurie O’Brien 1983-84-85-86 Assistant Secretaries Ken Brownlee 1988-89-90-91 Sid Coghlan 1992 Harold Matthews 1913-14-15-16-17-18-19-20- Bob Barnett 1993-94-95-96-97-98-99-2000 21-22 Bill 2001 M Cooney 1927-28 John Culbert 2002-03-04 (deceased) B Curran 1929-30-31-32-33-34 Allen Carling 2005 J Burnicle 1935 W L Young 1936-37-38-39-40 E Whitford 1941-42-43-44 Operations Manager J Burnet 1945-46 Harry Chalk Arthur 1947 Darren Mooney 2004- 2006 Robinson 1948-49-50-51-52-53-54-55 Jennie Webster 2007 – continuing Bill Ballard 1956-57-58-59-60 Arthur McIlveen 1961-62-63-64-65-66-67-68-69- 70-71-72-73-74-75-76-77 Ron Wilson 1978-79

4 BALMAIN JUNIOR League Board of Directors

Chairman Judiciary Committee Rules Committee John Critchley Tony Beger (Chairman) Peter Mortimer (Chairman) Mick Manning Jennie Webster (Operations Manager) Patron Sam Gebrael Behaviour Management Panel Mick Manning Life Members Committee Chris Raheb (Chairman) Balmain PCYC Mick O’Keefe John Critchley (Chairman) Mick Manning Carlingford Cougars Richard Kelly Jennie Webster (Operations Manager) Mick O’Keefe Concord Burwood Michael Benson Mick Manning Phillip Taylor Dundas Shamrocks Bob Siemsen John Carrington Bob Siemsen Enfield Federals Joe Bainou Five Dock RSL Con Veneziano NSW Combined Competitions Holy Cross Rhinos Richard Jones Committee Leichhardt Juniors Philip Taylor Jennie Webster (Operations Manager) Leichhardt Wanderers Frank Dunne North Ryde Hawks Brian Johnston National LeagueNet Committee Strathfield Raiders Chris Raheb Jennie Webster (Operations Manager) Balmain Referees Assn Scott Todd representing NSW Sub Committees Finance Committee Paul Sironen (General Manager) Jennie Webster (Operations Manager)

Balmain Junior League Life Members

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

Chairman’s Report although we are well aware of the financial challenges ahead. I would like to take this opportunity and congratulate all of the Junior League Clubs on their outstanding efforts throughout 2012. I also assure you that I aim to com- The 2012 season has come and gone and once again it was very successful. All the mence 2013 with the same enthusiasm to continue our success. planning and preparation was well underway in the off season and I must say that we hit the ground running. John Critchley Chairman The boys in our Rep squads trained through the summer heat before being culled Balmain District Junior Rugby League for the season ahead. All clubs held their AGM’s, sorted out their canteens and playing gear, prepared flyers and chased sponsors.

This was followed by the school blitz; trial games and eventually pre-season knock-outs. Negotiations were done with Councils to secure grounds for the months ahead.

Regular monthly meetings were held with all club Directors as they were kept in touch with rule changes by our dedicated Operations Manager – Jennie Webster. Once again our partnership with the Balmain Referees Association was further strengthened – many thanks to Scott Todd. Strong representation from the Senior club also continued throughout the season.

Our season was capped off on Grand Final day where we witnessed some outstanding junior football from a variety of clubs. The event went off without a hitch thanks to Jennie Webster, Patron Mick Manning, all Directors and the large band of volunteers who continually step up to the mark.

Our aim is to continue growing our Junior League and improve our performance

5 Once again our Clubs were very active in supporting the McGrath Foundation Pink Operations Report Footy Socks Day and this has become a big day on the Balmain calendar and we are very proud of all our members for their strong support of such a worthy cause.

After such a strong year in 2011 I did not think it would In 2012, Western Suburbs Junior Rugby League joined the NSW Inner City be possible to top those accomplishments in 2012 but it Combined Competition entering teams in the U19s and A Grade competitions. seems that we have! The competition administrators were given strong support by Geoff Carr of the The 2012 season commenced with 145 teams playing NSWRL in stating that the NSW ICC Competition is highly regarded and is used as in the Junior League and NSW Inner City Combined a template for other districts to follow. It is becoming more apparent that Districts Competitions. The growth of the District is very steady do need to work together in an effort to provide appropriate competition for players giving us the ability to host up to 3 divisions in some of from 13 years through to A Grade. I would like to thank Stuart Stanton from NSWRL our junior ranks. Academy, Cathy Crowe and Mitchell Sim from St George, Kevin Shanahan from Our senior ranks and those of many other districts do Canterbury Bankstown, Julie Luke from Western Suburbs and Tom Larkin from suffer a drop in players and this is for many and South Sydney/Eastern Suburbs for their hard work and support to make the competi- varied reasons none greater than the ever increasing tion a success. cost of insurance. It is pleasing to note that the NSW Insurance Committee is working hard with the NSWRL to attempt to secure a much All of our Junior League Clubs have been extremely supportive of the National better deal for insurance in an attempt to keep the costs to a minimum. Sportingpulse Online Database and it is amazing how far the national database has come over the past few years with so much being available online for our Clubs. It Coateshire has been a magnificent sponsor of the Balmain Junior League. Coatesh- is possible to communicate to all club members via SMS or email on any important ire sponsor every member in the District who would like to become accredited as events, players may now re-register online and there is also the facility to purchase a Coach, LeagueSafe Trainer or First Aid Officer. Courses, course materials and merchandise. All the time, there are enhancements to the system and although with clothing can be expensive and we have been so fortunate to have them sponsor our every new system there are teething problems, the security for clubs to know that all Balmain Education Programs. Accreditation is essential as it means that every vol- of their information is in one place, backed up and safe is very satisfying. unteer working with our players in any of the above roles is properly trained and has the knowledge necessary to perform the role. NSWRL Academy advised us that the We have been blessed over the past few years with good weather on grand final day Balmain Junior League was the first Junior League to have every coach accredited. at Leichhardt Oval. Once again, the games were played with wonderful sportsman- ship and there were some extremely close and exciting games. My thanks to all of I can’t speak more highly of the support received from the McDonalds franchises. the Junior League Clubs for their support and of course to our hard working Board of Once again we had a fantastic opportunity to advertise and promote rugby league Directors who are so active within our junior league. in our District through the Tray Mat Program at no cost throughout the 22 Inner Western Suburbs stores to support our registration period. Every child in the League The Mini League exhibition is always a highlight for the young kids who loved also received McDonalds Encouragement Vouchers and of course, a McDonalds receiving their trophy from Patron, Mick Manning and “The Hamburglar”. We can character appeared at our grand finals; this year being “The Hamburglar” who was never thank Mick Manning enough for his incredible generosity to our District in very popular with our young players and families. providing trophies to every “mini” child in the District.

Following is a list of some of the season highlights: • Pat Politoni and Curtis Sironen made their NRL debuts. A wonderful accomplish- ment for these two Balmain Junior League players • Mitch Moses and Luke Brooks on their Australian Schoolboy selection • Paul Simona, Manaia Cherrington and Mitch Moses selected into the NSW U18 representative team • Bayley Sironen selected into the NSW U16 representative team • Holy Cross U13s coached by Danny Stapleton were Runners Up in the Club Challenge. Although the team did not win, they were magnificent in reaching the finals • Kay McNamara named Wests Tigers Woman of the Year. This was all the more special being a posthumous award. Kay was a staunch Balmain supporter. • Once again, no off field incidents with all Clubs working hard to make footy Thanks to Mannings for our LeagueSafe Vests enjoyable for all through the “Be A Sport – Just Support Program” • Balmain Junior League continues to be a force not just on the footy field but Tigers Sydney Markets provided fresh fruit to every player which was very in all aspects of the game. Balmain members were named finalists in four of gratefully received. the five major categories of the NRL One Community Awards and this truly an outstanding result for our smaller District and we congratulate all of the finalists: Coateshire the Junior League’s major sponsor provided every participant compet- • Harvey Norman Women in League Achievement Award – Lyn ing in the grand finals an “enviro” bag which included pens, notepads and sunscreen. Phillis was named as a finalist only to lose to one of our own members who The bags and goodies inside were very well received. had relocated to Melbourne, Maria Edwards! • Telstra One Community Grass Roots Club of the Year – Holy The Annual Awards Night on Friday 2nd November was a wonderful success with the Cross Rhinos were named the Grass Roots Club of the Year – an out- Junior League and District Club Reps all coming together to celebrate the season. standing effort and read further in the Annual Report a story on Holy Cross The night was special due to the fantastic results of the Harold Matts team (placed and what this wonderful club accomplished to win the award. 3rd), SG Ball Team Champions for the first time in 30 years and then went on to • Service to Refereeing – Barry Beveridge from the Balmain Refer- become National Champions and our Balmain Ryde Eastwood Tigers State Cup ees Association was named a finalist Team who came from 8th place to force their way into the grand final only to fall just • Toyota National Volunteer of the Year - Tony Bignold from Bal- short on the day! This was a magnificent effort by all the players and coaching staff main PCYC was a finalist to this very prestigious award. throughout the season.

Wanderers boys showing off their NRL packs Richard Kelly with Cougars on Grand Final Day 6 Leoni Barnett from Leichhardt Wanderers was in his leadership of the Junior League and Board. The Board Members have con- named the George Thompson Volunteer of the Year tinued to strive to make the junior league stronger and more successful and I thank and she was presented with her award from George them sincerely for their support. Thompson’s wife, Eileen. Leoni had done a wonderful job in 2012 holding a number of positions. She I thank David Trodden, Balmain Tigers Football Club Chairman, for his support, was then invited to the NSWRL Volunteer of the Year encouragement and faith in me to perform my role. David is always available to lend Awards in November and was acknowledged for her an ear or advice when required. hard work and dedication to her Club and District. To the Referee’s Association President, Scott Todd, Referee’s Allocator, Sam Congratulations to Leichhardt Wanderers named Gebrael and Judiciary Chairman Tony Beger, I thank all of them for their hard work Junior Club of the Year and to Dundas Shamrocks throughout the season and for their continuing work with our Clubs. being named Senior Club of the Year. To my colleagues, Vin Tranh and Duncan De Celis I thank them for their support, friendship and assistance throughout the year and promoting rugby league throughout the schools system.

I would like to make special mention of Yvette Downey. Yvette has been an absolute pleasure to work with, extremely hard working and I thank her sincerely for her friendship and support throughout the year.

My grateful thanks go to Mr. Mick Manning, Patron, for his kindness, generosity and incredible support to me and to the Junior League. Mick’s generosity and passion for the Balmain Junior League is legendary.

Finally, to General Manager, Paul Sironen, thank you for your support, and friendship. It has been a very busy but highly successful year and the long hours fade away when you enjoy the people you work with and know they support you.

Leichhardt Juniors

Throughout the Annual Report there are stories on many of the above highlights and I am sure you will read them with pleasure and pride.

Without our volunteers – we have nothing; so to all of the Volunteers within our Dis- trict, my heartfelt thanks for all you do for your Club, for me and the District. Jennie Webster My thanks to Junior League Chairman and Life Member, Mr. John Critchley, on an Operations Manager outstanding job as Chairman and for his support of me. John has been outstanding Balmain District Junior Rugby League

GRASSROOTS CLUB OF YEAR

HOLY Cross Junior Rugby League Club took out the Telstra One National Commu- More than 350 guests, including NRL club officials and players, award nominees, nity Grassroots Club of the Year Award, announced in September at Rugby League’s sponsors and prominent politicians, attended the inspiring ceremony to acknowledge 2012 One Community Awards at Sydney’s Town Hall - sharing the spotlight with and celebrate Rugby League’s unsung heroes. NRL superstar Johnathan Thurston who was awarded the coveted Ken Stephen Medal. The award - which is presented to a rugby league grassroots club that has fostered participation and enjoyment at all levels of the sport, has shown innovation in administration and has become an integral part of its community - was one of nine announced at the function.

Celebrating more than 50 years as a club in the Balmain Junior League, Holy Cross has been committed to multiple community initiatives including organising a major fundrais- ing event for breast cancer in conjunction with the ‘Pull On Your Socks’ campaign during the NRL Women in League Round, raising in excess of $8,500 for the McGrath Foundation.

The club annually hosts the Benny Elias Shield; contributes to the charity initiatives of other clubs in the district; gets involved in the Men of League Gold Boot Lace fundraisers and conducts boots and jersey drives for children in Papua New Guinea. Pictured is Rhinos’ president Peter Boyle and club stalwarts Richard Jones and As part of the award, Telstra provided two Telstra Assistance Packs (valued at Patrick Walsh with Thurston and retiring Parramatta legend Nathan Hindmarsh. $2,000 each) plus $2,000 to the club.

The One Community Awards launched a spectacular week of Grand Final celebra- Holy Cross beat Rockhampton Brothers JRLC (Rockhampton, Qld) and Kimberley tions for a 2012 season that saw NRL players and ambassadors devote over 29,000 Rugby League Association (Kimberley, WA) for the top prize. hours to community work and the NRL and its clubs raise more than $1.2million for charity.

7 waivered. I would also like to thank Rob Whyte for his assistance when the Ball was 2012 District Rep. short staffed.

Secretary’s Report Results: Round 1 vs Western Sydney won 44-12; Round 2 vs Roosters won 44-16; Round As always, recognition must go to the many people who make it possible for the 3 vs Central Coast won 58-18; Round 4 vs W A Reds lost 52-10; Round 5 vs Mel- teams to take the field every week. Thank you to the Balmain Tigers Football Club, bourne won 30-28; Round 6 vs St George lost 52-10; Round 7 vs North Sydney won the Junior League Board, our major sponsors Tigers Five Dock and Sydney Mar- 38-12; Round 8 vs Cronulla won 24-10; Round 9 vs Manly won 36-16; Qualifying kets, Ryde EastwoodFootball and Leagues Club, Austalian Power & Gas, Sydney Final vs Canberra lost 40-8; Semi Final vs Penrith won 28-24; Preliminary Final vs Markets, DTS, Blades, Griffin Air Conditioning for the outstanding support provided South Sydney won 34-26; Grand Final vs Canberra won 42-20; National Champion- during the 2012 Representative season. ship vs Townsville Stingers won 38-18.

What a great season with two wonderful squads of young men! I would personally like to thank the all boys, Harold Matthews and S G Ball, for the way they conducted themselves throughout the season, it was an absolute pleasure. HAROLD MATTHEWS I would also like to thank the ballboys for their assistance each and every week. It This squad far exeeded everyone’s expectations, coming together very quickly and was a pleasure to get to know you all. playing some wonderful football. The main thing that stood out about these boys was I hope that all of the players take the knowledge and experience they have gained their ‘never give-up’ attitude. Thank you to all of you. working with such an experienced staff and use it in the future to reach their full I would like to extend my sincere thanks to Todd McKeown, Roger Betts, Peter potential as players and young men. Mortimer, Rob Elcham, Bruce Hammond, Rob Whyte, Shawn Stevens, and David Congratulations to all of the Balmain players who gained selection in NSWRL Repre- Patman for the unwavering dedication, commitment and effort you all showed during sentative Teams, Schoolboy representative teams, Wests Tigers NYC train-on, and the year. the Wests Tigers CUBS at the conclusion of the Junior Rep. competition. Thank you to all the people who make it possible for the boys to train and play every Results: week, I really don’t know how to thank you all enough. Brian Murtagh, Paul Fletcher, Round 1 vs Western Sydney won 34-20; Round 2 vs Roosters won 60-0; Round 3 John Dunlea, Charlie Nelson and all the NSW Cup staff, our wonderful Leichhardt Central Coast won 12-8; Round 4 bye; Round 5 vs South West Acedemy won 36-10; Oval voluntary staff (Barry Maguire, June Maguire, Maureen McKeon, Norma and Round 6 vs St George lost 16-10; Round 7 vs North Sydney won 22-8; Round 8 vs Les Walters) and our loyal parents and supporters for their incredible encouragement Cronulla won 48-18; Round 9 vs Manly won 20-16; Qualifying Final vs Penrith won throughout the season. 17-16; Preliminary Final vs Newcastle lost 34-16. I would also like to extend my condolences to those who have lost loved ones during the year. SG BALL Finally, a special thank you, as always to Paul Sironen, Yvette Downey, John Sta- We all knew that this group of group of boys had the potential to go all the way but pleton and and David Kelly prior to him moving to cricket for the never ending help, who could have imagined just how the season would unfold. For the first time in 30 support and guidance they give at all times. years the S G Ball took-out the Premiership and also the National Title. What a brilliant season for our wonderful club! Thank you to Andrew Webster, Craig McLeod, Bob Cooper, Wally Carpenter, Marty Hyde, Bruce Hammond, Warren Hall for the unending dedication and effort shown Lyn Phillis during the year. You all did a wonderful job, once again and your commitment never District Rep. Secretary

2012 S.G Ball Cup Champions Balmain

after starting his rugby league career with the Parramatta Junior Eels Club in the Life membership for Parramatta Junior League.

Before moving to the Central Coast in 2011, Chris utilised his winter weekends as an Wolves’ stalwart active referee with the Balmain Referees Association.

CONCORD-Burwood United stalwart Chris Annison has been recognised for his yeo- And rugby league is a family affair in the Annison household with wife Kathy, another man service as an official with life membership of the Balmain Junior League. Wolves’ stalwart, receiving life membership of the Balmain Junior League in 2007.

Annison is pictured receiving his life membership from Jack King - the Junior League’s oldest living life member - and BJL Operations Manager Jennie Webster and Tigers’ Football Club chairman David Trodden.

Hard-working Chris was a worthy recipient after devoting more than 17 years on the BJL management committee and Board of Directors including stints as treasurer and running the canteen at Birchgrove Oval.

Annison has a long association with the Wolves where he served as a player, coach, secretary, president, committeeman, first aid officer, trainer as well as juggling his BJL administrative duties. He was an elusive winger with Concord United A Grade teams during the 1980s 8 CODOCKS WINNING ‘CLASS of 1962’

ROZELLE Codocks JRLFC - the power base of the Balmain Junior League during the 1960s - organised a reunion for the club’s ‘Class of 1962’ on September 15 at Tigers Five Dock.

Pictured with club legend Jim Fitzgibbon are members of the Codocks’ A, C, D, F and G Grade squads that won premierships during the 1962 season: Geoff Large, Col Piper, Neil Bevan, Bob Dyer, Keith De Cressac, Tommy Higham, George Spencer, Brian Endycott, Robert Foster, Peter Spackman, Ray Gerrie, Ken West, Mick Manning, Ray Cologon, Michael Leo, Billy Coskerie, Ken Young, Ray McGuckin, Bruce Battin, John Taylor, Bob Taylor, John Hawthorne, Warren Wilson, Paul Johansson, Wally Beneke and former Tigers’ five eighth Mick Campbell - representing his late father Jimmy Campbell, a former South Sydney half back and captain coach of Codocks’ premiership-winning 1959 A Grade side that defeated Leichhardt Wanderers 8-2 in the Grand Final.

Balmain District JRL Judiciary 2012 season

Another successful season has ended and congratulations to all those who partici- The safety of all participants in the game of rugby league is continues to be para- pated during the 2012 season. mount and anyone breaking the laws of the game will be dealt with by the match officials. The Judiciary met on 10 occasions during the 2012 season and heard 19 matters broken down as follows: Every club member and/or supporter is bound by the ARL Code of Conduct and failure to comply with the Code will result in harsh penalties being delivered to any Kicking 2 charges offenders. Striking 6 charges Kneeing 2 charges My sincere thanks are extended to my fellow judiciary members, Mick Manning and Offensive or obscene language 3 charges Sam Gebreal and to reserve members Peter Mortimer and Paul Parnaby. Dispute decision of referee or touch judge 3 charges Contrary behaviour 3 charges My thanks and appreciation are again extended to the members of the Balmain Junior Rugby League Board for their ongoing support, to the Balmain Referees 2011 saw the introduction of the Tough Love in League program which was aimed Association for their professionalism and dedication to the job at hand, to David at eliminating striking from the game and targeted U13 to U17. In 2012 this program Trodden for his support and particularly to Jennie Webster and Paul Sironen for their was extended to include U19. dedication to the junior league, patience and unwavering support throughout what can be a somewhat difficult season. This program was very effective in Balmain district as the number of striking offences reduced from 15 (in prior seasons) to 6 in 2011 season however it remained stable I wish everyone a safe and healthy off season and hope everyone returns in 2013 for at that number. Despite the education regarding the Tuff Love program, players still another season of footy. feel that is appropriate to strike another player, even if it is argued that they were merely retaliating. Tony Beger Judiciary Chairman Overall there was a reduction in all listed offences from prior years, which is pleasing in respect of the management of the game and the conduct of the players within our competition.

Balmain Primary Schools Report- 2012

2012 was a very rewarding year in the Primary School programs, especially with teachers and students and many are eagerly awaiting the opportunity to participate the roll out of our specialist early childhood league program which enabled many again in 2013. This 3 week introduction to League incorporates literacy and ball in children to have a positive, and often first, hands on experience with the greatest hand activities to assist children in the basics of Rugby League. game of all. Twenty four schools also took part in the 2012 Community Carnival, where Wests SCHOOL PROGRAMS Tigers players and NRL Development promoted playing Junior League, as well as This year saw NRL Game Development deliver over 420 clinics to nearly 10 000 the importance of literacy as part of 2012 The Year of Reading. I would especially students as part of our Backyard League and Early Childhood Primary School pro- like to acknowledge the support of the Wests Tigers players and management in grams. The Years 3-6 Backyard League Program enabled students to participate in committing to this event despite a tragic, unforeseen event. modified games based activities at all levels of skills and experience – from the first timer to the Wests Tigers stars of the future. Participants in this program also walked COMPETITIONS away with a complimentary football courtesy of our program sponsor Coles. The Legends Shield was another popular event with 40 teams competing in this 7-a- side competition across 4 divisions. This year saw the introduction of a Year 3/4 Our ‘1,2,3….Rugby League’ Early Childhood program was warmly received by both

9 girls division (non contact ‘grab’) which attracted 5 teams and was a great way to Game Development Officer so rewarding. Huge thanks must also go to the Balmain introduce the girls to contact forms of the game. Tigers, Wests Tigers, NSWRL and NRL for their support, as well as the support staff and volunteers who have assisted throughout the year. This year the finals for the Legends Shield were conducted prior to aTigers Friday night game at Leichhardt Oval, which was a wonderful experience for the players Duncan De Celis involved. Congratulations to Abbotsford Public School which defended its 2011 title NRL Game Development Officer by taking out the Paul Sironen Shield (Years 5/6 Boys). Congratulations also go to Holy Spirit North Ryde which took out the Wayne Pearce Shield (Years 3/4 Boys) and Putney Public School which was successful in the Steve Roach Shield (Years 5/6 Girls). A huge thank you to our legends Paul Sironen and Wayne Pearce for their presence on the night; unfortunately Steve Roach was unable to attend due to State of Origin commitments.

Tiger Tag Gala Days again proved extremely popular in 2012. On October 25, ninety six teams competed at Morrison Bay Park. It was fantastic to see a sea of children (approximately 1 200) playing league across 14 fields. Another successful day was also held at Bark Huts Reserve, Belfield, where 40 teams and over 400 students competed.

My thanks go out to the schools, students and teachers who make the role of a NRL

2012 Balmain High Schools Annual Report

2012 was another fantastic year for Rugby League in the Balmain district. We were School Clinics and Programs able to get a large number of schools and participants involved in our programs this A number of schools once again took part in the NRL flagship 5 week development year. program “Coles Backyard League.” We ran our “Coles Backyard League” program with great success across a number of schools across the Balmain Ryde region. Some of the highlights of 2012 include: Thanks to the support of Coles each of the participants received a Steeden rugby league football. The 2012 Balmain Secondary All Schools carnival was a rip roaring success with schools from all over the district converging onto the sacred Tigers stomping School that participated in Backyard League were: ground of Leichhardt Oval and surrounding venues to compete to be district champions. Leichhardt Oval is synonymous with legendary names such as Sironen, Elias, St Patricks College – Dundas, Riverside Girls HS, Domremy College, Santa Sabina Pearce, Roach, Farah and Benji. On June 6th2012 school players and coaches College – Strathfield, Arden Anglican School – Epping were able to experience the thrill of playing at the hallowed venue and were clearly inspired by being able to follow in the footsteps of their Balmain and Wests Tigers Regular High School Competitions heroes. The rugby league on display by all teams truly reflected the quality of the As well as gala day events, knock out competitions and in school clinics many high surrounds. We had 20 teams from 8 schools contest the event this year. schools are involved in regular, weekly competitions. Schools have teams from 13-16s playing in the Metropolitan Catholic Schools, Metropolitan Catholic Colleges, The winners from the day were: Northern Suburbs CHS Zone competitions and Christian Brothers Sports Associa- 13 Years – Holy Cross College, Ryde tion. 14 Years – Strathfield South HS 15 Years – Holy Cross College, Ryde Schools involved in these weekly competitions are: 16 Years – Strathfield South HS Holy Cross College – Ryde, St Patricks Marist - Dundas, Marist College Eastwood, Other participating schools: Hunters Hill HS, Sydney Secondary College, Ryde Sec- De La Salle College – Ashfield, Marsden HS, Hunters Hill HS, Ryde Secondary Col- ondary College, Homebush HS, Dulwich Hill HS, Ashfield Boys HS. lege, Rosebank College.

The winners of each division went on to proudly represent the Balmain area at the All of our programs are focused on giving kids in the area a fun, positive rugby NSWRL All Schools Carnival. league experience. With every student we see we also encourage them to continue to be involved in rugby league beyond the school experience. One of our key fo- At the NSWRL All Schools Carnival which is Australia’s biggest junior Rugby cuses is to encourage them to join their local junior league club and hopefully some League event of the year, saw around 4000 children from over 200 schools descend of the clubs have been able to have some new players take the field because of this. on the game’s heartland of Western Sydney for the 68th NSWRL Integral Energy All Schools Carnival. Holy Cross College Ryde continued their strong traditions in this We would like to say a big thank you to all the junior clubs, their staff and volunteers event and played some terrific football and to become 15 years champions in an all who have helped us this year. Thank you for the use of your fields and equipment. Wests Tigers final against Eagle Vale HS. Thanks for taking time out to open up canteens and dressing sheds for us. Your work and generosity has greatly contributed to the success of rugby league events in the GIO Schoolboy Cup and Trophy area. Holy Cross College Ryde were once again our region’s representative in the prestigious national GIO Schoolboy Cup competition. In a wonderful year the school made Hopefully in 2013, together we can continue to grow rugby league in the area and through to the semi finals and travelled to Queensland were they came up against a have a successful year. red-hot Patrician Brothers Blacktown and went down to the eventual GIO Schoolboy Cup winners. In more positive news, Holy Cross had 3 students selected as Austral- Vinh Tran ian Schoolboys which is a tremendous achievement. NRL Game Development Officer Email: [email protected] Sydney Secondary College – Blackwattle Bay was the Balmain representative at the GIO Schoolboy Trophy.

10 Test jumpers for Balmain cubs

BALMAIN super cubs Mitchell Moses and Luke Brooks capped a stellar 2012 season But the gifted playmaker never realised his dream of helping Holy Cross win an ARL with selection in the Australian Schoolboys rugby league team that defeated the tour- Schoolboys title after fracturing his leg in a training mishap. ing England Academy squad in a two Test series during August. In a savage blow, Moses was ruled out for six weeks and missed Ryde’s semi final The gifted halves were rewarded with green and gold caps after spearheading the all loss to rivals Blacktown Patrician Bros last Sunday in the GIO Schoolboys Cup in conquering NSW Combined Catholic Colleges side to a national schoolboys champi- Ipswich. onship title in Port Macquarie. The NSW Catholic Colleges team was coached by Holy Cross mentor Tim White and Both played starring roles as the young Aussies outclassed the Poms 41-10 and 40- also included promising Ryde forwards Rhys Armstrong and Fosio Tatola and centre 14 in schoolboy internationals in Canberra and Brisbane. Nathan Milone.

In the first ‘test’ at Canberra Stadium, Moses - the nephew of Tigers’ legendary Under the tutelage of White the NSW CCC outfit defeated Queensland 32-0, NSW hooker Benny Elias - bagged three tries and booted a field goal to continue his CHS 22-18 and ACT 34-16 in preliminary matches before toppling CHS in the final. meteoric rise. It has been a courageous effort by the skilful Brooks who has overcome two broken They were joined in the Australian squad by Holy Cross Ryde colleague Bradley ankles and a busted thumb over the past two seasons to get back on the field and Deitz and Balmain S.G Ball team mate Paul Simona. demonstrate his tricks-of-the-trade.

At the National Schoolboy Championships, boom five eighth Moses was named Player of the Carnival.

Classy half back Brooks produced an outstanding display to guide NSW CCC to an emphatic 30-10 victory over NSW Combined High Schools and earn the Player of the Final award.

Moses and Brooks have formed a crack combination at schoolboy and junior representative level these past two seasons and are two of the hottest prospects in the Tigers den.

Both were instrumental in helping Balmain capture this year’s S.G Ball premiership and National U/18 Championship trophy.

Moses, who finished the Carnival with 42 points from four tries and 13 goals, turned the clock back over 30 years to duplicate the deeds of his famous uncle - the legendary Benny Elias - who burst onto the league scene as a schoolboy prodigy.

Benny toured England and France with the undefeated 1979-80 Australian School- Holy Cross College can also be proud of gun forward Pifeleti Pifeleti and centre Jus- boys as a 15 year old before starring for the Junior Kangaroos through to 1981 - the tin Aboumelhem who were named in the Australian U/15 Schoolboys Merit team after same year he led Holy Cross to a maiden Commonwealth Bank Cup title. helping NSW CCC clinch the National Schoolboys Championship in Darwin.

Mitchell also represented NSW U/18s in the annual interstate challenge against Brooks and Moses will be blooded in the Wests Tigers’ NSW Cup and U/20s in 2013 Queensland and is a member of the Wests Tigers’ U/19 Development squad. after a taste of pre-season training with Mick Potter’s first grade squad.

NSW U17 Reps Balmain Junior League Life Members Reunion OUTSTANDING cubs Rhys Armstrong (left) and Salesi Funaki represented the NSW U/17 Development team against the touring England Academy U/19 squad at Nar- rabeen Sports Academy in July. BALMAIN diehards took a trip down memory lane at the annual Tigers’ Foundation Members & Life Members luncheon held recently at TIGERS Five Dock. Armstrong, a talented utility, and forward powerhouse Funaki earned selection after strong performances for the Balmain S.G Ball-winning team. Pictured are Tigers’ legendary half Peter Duffy, former Balmain chairman and ARL president John Chalk, Ryde Eastwood Leagues Club president Keith Aggett, former The English youngsters staved off a determined challenge from the NSW young club secretary Austin Hoyle, Geoff Large, Ray Gerrie, BJL and Ryde Eastwood stal- guns to post a 28-18 victory. wart Jack King with 1969 Grand Final heroes Gary Leo and Keith Outten.

11 Winning cubs reminisce Webster’s round world journey to Cup success BALMAIN’S all conquering 1982 S.G Ball and Jersey Flegg Cup premiership teams relived those glory days at the annual Balmain Junior League Sportman’s Luncheon hosted by Joe Elias’ All Occasion Cruises. By CHRIS KARAS

Pictured are ‘82 Jersey Flegg cubs Paul Sironen, Ron Ryan (holding trophy aloft), FROM the State of Connecticut in north-east USA to the English city of Hull and Patrick Walsh, Peter Camroux, Paul Beavan, Frank Dunne and Paul McInerney with return trip to Sydney - that is the amazing rugby league journey of championship- former S.G Ball stars Paul Daley, Simon Farrell, Nick Stevanovic and Craig Barnett. winning Balmain coach Andrew Webster. They are pictured with Flegg Cup-winning coach John Stanton and manager John Chalk, the former ARL and current NSWRL president. Touted as a gifted five eighth during his playing days in the Balmain Junior League, Webster has found his niche in the coaching ranks after a six year ‘apprenticeship’ in The luncheon cruise doubled as a 30 year reunion for the mighty ‘Class of 1982’ and the English Super League. celebration of Andrew Webster’s talented Balmain S.G Ball squad that clinched the 2012 premiership and National U/18 Championship titles earlier this year. Andrew enjoyed a successful stint as an assistant first grade coach at Hull Kingston Rovers before returning home to Sydney last September to take over the reins of the Media personality Joel Caine of Radio 2GB and The Game Plan fame excelled as Balmain U/18 S.G Ball Cup squad. MC - interviewing triumphant coaches Stanton and Webster and a modest Ron Ryan, who entertained diners with his amusing tales from yesteryear. In what proved a memorable debut season, the astute Webster guided the Tigers to an S.G Ball premiership and National U/18 Championship title in the space of seven days to realise a childhood dream.

As a reward, Webster was appointed coach of the Wests Tigers’ U/19 Develop- ment squad - preparing the elite talent from both the Balmain and Western Suburbs districts for challenge matches each month.

Andrew also assisted Wests Tigers’ premiership-winning U/20s mentor Todd Payten before accepting a plum role on the Parramatta coaching staff.

The astute Webster will coach the Eels U/20s for the next two seasons after making an agonising decision to leave the Balmain club.

Webster played his junior football with St Gerards Carlingford, Dundas Shamrocks and Five Dock RSL before spending four seasons with the Balmain S.G Ball and Jersey Flegg junior representative teams.

A skilful five eighth or lock with exceptional talent, Andrew spent a season with Par- ADAM GARDINER MEMORIAL ramatta before turning out for Ryde-Eastwood in the Jim Beam Cup.

TROPHY He spent a season with Eastwood Rugby Club in 2004 before heading overseas to the United States to participate in the American National Rugby League competition. Andrew was captain-coach and playmaker for the Connecticut Wildcats and guided STRAPPING Balmain-Ryde Eastwood forward Ava Seumanufagai is the seventh the team to a Grand Final, where they were beaten by the Aston Bulls in Philadel- recipient of the Adam Gardiner Memorial Best Forward Trophy. phia.

The award commemorates the life of former Tigers’ assistant Jersey Flegg and While visiting elder brother James, a former Balmain and Parramatta half back-cum- Premier League coach Adam Gardiner who lost a brave battle with amyloidosis in hooker playing with Hull Kingston Rovers in the English Super League, Andrew’s 2006 at the age of 35. coaching plans were formulated.

Ava made an impact in Paul Fletcher’s talented Tigers’ outfit that were pipped by He was offered an assistant coaching role by Rovers’ mentor Justin Morgan which Newtown in the 2012 NSW Cup Grand Final. He is pictured with Adam’s father Terry included preparing the club’s U/18 and U/21 juniors and jumped at the chance. Gardiner, mother Wendy Gardiner and wife Trish Gardiner at the Tigers’ Awards A chance meeting with Balmain legend and Football Club general manager Paul Night. Previous winners include former Jersey Flegg half back Marc Russell and Sironen led to Webster taking on a coaching role with the Tigers’ U/18s. State Cup forwards Luke McInnes, Alan Schirnack, Jarred Farlow, David Gower and Junior Moors. “When Andrew came home from England, there were no higher roles for him at Bal- main but to his credit, he was happy to start at the SG Ball level, said Sironen. “Andrew had no pre-conceived ideas about any players and came in with a clean slate. The culture he has built has been wonderful.

“We were blessed with some good depth in all positions. It was a wonderful feat by Andrew and credit goes to him and his staff.”

Sironen said the Tigers could be delighted with their junior representative achieve- ments this year.

Balmain also made the semi finals of the Harold Matthews (U/16) competition. “We were the only club to have two teams in the last four of the finals. It was a wonderful season all round for the Balmain Tigers,’’ Sironen said.

“What makes me happy is to see people like Lyn Phillis, the Balmain Junior Rep secretary who has been in the role for 15 years, celebrate the SG Ball win. To see her emotion and that of the volunteers connected with the Junior League program is great.”

12 Champion U/18 cubs are nation’s best

By CHRIS KARAS both performed with distinction throughout the series.

MEET the Balmain young guns that captured the imagination of the rugby league “Our depth in several positions and self belief were ingredients for a successful public this season by bringing home a unique championship double. campaign,” revealed Webster, who was later appointed coach of the Parramatta U/20 squad. Andrew Webster’s courageous Tiger cubs stamped themselves the best U/18 league side in the country after capturing an elusive S.G Ball Cup premiership and National “The boys were a close knit group and really stepped up to the challenge in the big championship title in the space of seven days. end of season matches - they bled for each other and wore the Tigers’ jumper with pride.” It was a NSWRL Junior Cup campaign to savour for this talented crop of youngsters that delivered Balmain’s second S.G Ball trophy since the competition’s inception The promising Farrell grew in stature as the season unfolded with dashing perfor- back in 1965. mances in the number one jumper.

When the Tiger cubs recorded a 42-20 victory over Canberra in the Grand Final at Farrell played a key role with super displays against South Sydney in the qualifying Western Weekender Stadium at St Mary’s on May 5, they duplicated the deeds of final and in the title decider against Canberra with his jinking runs, bustling defence Graham Simmons’ mighty 1982 cubs that lifted Balmain’s maiden S.G Ball title as 16 and accurate goalkicking a feature. year olds. The quicksilver custodian then showed his versatility and leadership qualities by Ryde native Simmons - now based on the Central Coast - guided Balmain to an stepping into the five eighth role and helping the depleted Tigers clinch the National historic 25-16 triumph over Newtown at the old Sydney Sports Ground and was full U/18 championship with a 38-18 victory over Townsville Stingers in Brisbane. of praise for Webster’s whiz kids that impressed league pundits with their enterprise and verve. Webster had quality outside backs in Max Dimarco, Levi Li, Nathan Milone, Paul Simona, Maile Li and Chris Moana and impact forwards in Rakvin, Armstrong, Salesi The Tigers’ paraded outstanding prospects in classy Australian Schoolboy halves Funaki, Andrew Kazzi, Leki Taumalolo, Fosio Tatola, Matthew Woods, Josh Siddle, Mitchell Moses and Luke Brooks, crafty hooker Manaia Cherrington, dynamic Lolo Funaki, Jason Vikilani and Daniel Gianesi. fullback Mason Farrell, utility Rhys Armstrong and boom second rower Daniel Rakvin during the 2012 Cup series. Woods and Armstrong made smooth transitions from centre to the back row and at 17 years of age will spearhead the Tigers’ 2013 squad. Five eighth and skipper Moses led by example throughout the series and finished the competition’s second leading points-scorer with 146 points from 15 tries and 43 Nucleus of the side were later named in a strong Wests Tigers U/19 Development goals. squad that was coached by Webster.

Brooks was sidelined for the finals series with a broken thumb but in talented halves PICTURED is Balmain’s champion S.G Ball and National U/18 winning squad during Mark Daoud and Alex Zarounas, coach Webster had ready-made replacements and their lap of honour at Leichhardt Oval before the Wests Tigers v Warriors NRL clash.

13 Wanderers & Shamrocks DON GRAHAM MEMORIAL crowned Club Champions TROPHY Under 19 Player of the Year BALMAIN Junior League chairman John Critchley presents the 2012 Junior Club Championship trophy to Wanderers’ president Craig Barnett (left) and Senior Club Championship trophy to Dundas Shamrocks president Bob Siemsen (right) at the Tigers’ Awards Night.

CRAFTY Dundas Shamrocks half back Shae Jarvis is this year’s recipient of the Don Club Person of Year Graham Memorial U/19 Player of the Year Award.

Awards The fleet-footed playmaker was a deserved winner after spearheading the Sham- rocks’ finals charge in the NSWRL Combined Inner City U/19 Div 1 competition.

A proud Jarvis is pictured receiving his award from ex-Balmain and NSW forward BALMAIN Junior League’s hardest working officials were recognised with the 16th and current Wests Tigers’ board member Steve Lavers. annual Club Volunteer of the Year Awards.

Shae’s clever displays at half back and hooker kept the Shamrocks in finals conten- Widely respected Balmain Junior League patron Mick Manning presented the 2012 tion and earned him the club’s Best & Fairest Player award. awardees with their plaques at the Tigers’ Annual Awards Night at Ryde Eastwood A change of scenery has proved the right tonic for 18 year old Jarvis, who linked with Leagues Club. the Shamrocks back in 2010 after tasting premiership success with the powerful Holy Cross club. This year’s recipients were: Caroline Arve (Balmain PCYC); Richard Kelly (Car- lingford Cougars); Julie Gosby (Concord-Burwood United); Rachael Prior (Dundas Shae is a Rhinos’ junior product who played alongside boom Wests Tigers and Aus- Shamrocks); Nellie Hage (Enfield Federals); Penny Chalk (Five Dock RSL); Richard tralian Schoolboys half back Luke Brooks in six Balmain Junior League champion- Jones (Holy Cross Rhinos); Pania Brown (Leichhardt Juniors); Leoni Barnett (Leich- ship sides. hardt Wanderers); Narelle Randell (North Ryde Hawks) and Fred Ibrahim (Strathfield Raiders). Jarvis began his career as a 4 year old and spent 12 fruitful seasons with the Rhinos before the team disbanded, prompting a move to Dundas for the nippy utility half. Shae’s talent was recognised by representative selectors when named in the Balmain U/13, U/14 and U/15 Development squads before pulling on a Shamrocks jumper.

He’s proved an asset for the Dundas club these past three seasons in the U/16, U/17 and U/19 competitions with his skilful passing and darting runs a feature.

Shae’s following in the steps of his father Steve, a former Balmain junior representative half and uncle Paul Jarvis, a talented utility half and former BJL U/21 Player of the Year, who tasted Jersey Flegg Cup success with the Tigers in 1988.

Jarvis joins previous winners Patrick Walsh and Paul McInerney (Holy Cross), Paul Tutt (Gladesville Sports), David Rose (Wanderers), Ian McCann and Shane Williams (Cricketers Arms), Gordon Rytmeister (North Ryde), Marc Webber (West Ryde-Den- istone), Billy Long (Pyrmont Colts), Luke Long (Balmain United), Jason Thompson (Wanderers), Joe Hawach and Paul Owens (Ryde Eastwood), Anthony Golder (Annandale Waratahs), Dean Hutchison and Clint Woods (Leichhardt Juniors), Shadi Haddad (Five Dock RSL), Corey Lee and Hugo Duarte (Leichhardt Juniors), Matthew Olsen (Wanderers), Ali Musri and Dylan Theuerjahr (North Ryde), Ajay Vaivaka (Concord-Burwood), Marcel Ferris (Holy Cross) and Brendan Pike (Dundas Shamrocks) on the U/19s honour roll.

14 GEORGE THOMPSON MEMORIAL TROPHY - VOLUNTEER OF THE YEAR

LEICHHARDT Wanderers’ tireless secretary Leoni Barnett is the 15th recipient of the George Thompson Memorial Volunteer of the Year Trophy.

Hard working Leoni is a deserved winner of this prestigious award that perpetuates the memory of George Thompson, a great Tigers’ administrator, who lost a brave battle with cancer in 1997.

She is pictured receiving her award from George Thompson’s widow Eileen Thomp- son at this year’s Tigers’ Awards Night.

As secretary of the Wanderers – a proud club founded in 1911 - Leoni’s workload is phenomenal.

With over 20 years active service, she is one of the true stalwarts of the club along with her decorated husband - Wanderers’ experienced president Craig Barnett.

BJL Operations Manager Jennie Webster described Leoni as a “truly extraordinary woman who out of necessity for all she does must be incredibly organised to perform a multitude of roles.”

“These include being Ground Manager at Blackmore Oval, an extremely efficient Club secretary/registrar, Public Officer, gear steward for 370 players and 100 officials and managing her son Max’s U/11 team,” said Jennie.

“She loves being a mum and spectator of her 6 year old daughter Ellie when she plays her Mini League games and in addition to her elected roles is actively involved in organising functions and raising funds for both the club and community.” LOCAL SPONSORS During July this year, Leoni organised the inaugural Ladies fund raising function for the friends and families of Leichhardt Wanderers. RECOGNISED

The function raised $5,000 which was donated to the General Pediatrics Division of BALMAIN chairman David Trodden acknowledged the tremendous support of loyal The Children’s Hospital at Westmead to purchase specialist equipment. sponsors and partners at the Tigers annual Awards Night. “Leoni is extremely well liked and respected by her peers in her club and district and Paul Griffin of Griffin Air Conditioning and Ryde Eastwood Leagues Club president is an outstanding role model for all in the Balmain Junior League,” Jennie added. Keith Aggett (pictured) were presented with framed Balmain-Ryde Eastwood Grand Final jumpers.

MATTHEWS CUP AWARDS

NEW Wests Tigers’ coach Mick Potter with U/16 Balmain Harold Matthews Cup award recipients Junior Tatola (Players’ Player); Bayley Sironen (Best Back); Jaleel Seve-Derbas (Best Forward); Pifeleti Pifeleti (Best & Fairest) and Robert Dox (Coach’s Award).

15 JACK KING TROPHY Under 16 Player of the Year

HOLY Cross forward powerhouse Pifeleti Pifeleti is the Balmain Junior League U/16 Player of the Year for 2012.

The strong running prop made a huge impact on the club and junior representative scene this season with dynamic performances for the Rhinos, Balmain Harold Mat- thews Cup and NSW Combined Catholic College teams.

Pifeleti – last year’s George Thompson Scholarship Award recipient – showed courage and skill to spearhead the injury-riddled Rhinos during the NSWRL Combined Inner City U/16 finals series.

A depleted Holy Cross side bowed out in the preliminary final against Kingsgrove Colts with the teak-tough Pifeleti completing the match despite nursing a fractured jaw.

Damian Kennedy’s young Rhinos were a force to be reckoned with and boasting the likes of rising forwards Pifeleti and Junior Tatola and NSW U/16 five eighth Bayley Harry Quinlan Trophy Sironen were able to chalk up a win over eventual premiers South Eastern when their big guns were available. TALENTED Balmain-Ryde Eastwood lock Jarred Farlow took out the Harry Quinlan Tigers’ officials have earmarked the New Zealand-born forward for higher honours Memorial Best & Fairest Trophy at the Tigers Awards Night on November 2 at Ryde- and one of the cubs to watch in 2013. Eastwood Leagues Club.

Playing a year above his age group, Pifeleti led by example as Balmain roared into Farlow, who guided the Tigers to a NSW Cup Grand Final appearance against New- the U/16 Harold Matthews Cup semi finals before guiding NSW Catholic Colleges town, is pictured left with Hawks’ Football Club chairman Malcolm Chapple, Tigers’ to a national championship title at the Australian Schoolboy U/15 Championships in coach Paul Fletcher and other NSW Cup award recipients Sean Meaney (Boys on Darwin during July. Hill Award); Nathan Waters (Best Back); Josh Davis (Coach’s Award) and Ava Seu- manufagai (Adam Gardiner Memorial Best Forward). Junior Moors, who has joined The powerfully-built cub and fellow Holy Cross College student Justin Boumelhem Melbourne Storm, collected the Players’ Player trophy. later gained selection in the Australian U/15 Merit squad – a just reward for their strong performances at the 2012 Carnival.

Pifeleti played his early junior football with Concord-Burwood and Strathfield Raiders before starring in Leichhardt Wanderers’ premiership-winning U/12 and U/13 sides in 2009.

He linked with Holy Cross the following season and helped the club capture the U/14s title before inspiring the Rhinos’ during their NSWRL Combined Inner City U/15 and U/16 Div 1 campaigns.

Past winners of the Jack King Trophy include: John Kaho (Burwood United); Grant Benjamin (Leichhardt Juniors); Abe Allamaddine (Leichhardt Juniors); Ben Critchley (Five Dock RSL); Josh Jeffery (Leichhardt Wanderers); Willie Tupou (Wanderers); Bronson Harrison (Wanderers); Ewen Cameron (Wanderers); Nick Tice (Leichhardt Juniors); Daniel Casa (Holy Cross); Nathan Plummer (Holy Cross); Tim Bennetts (Carlingford Cougars); Drew Laing (Holy Cross); Brodie Monroe (Five Dock RSL); Curtis Sironen (Dundas Shamrocks), Andrew Kazzi (Wanderers) and Peter Semaan (Enfield Federals).

JOHN KELLY QUIET ACHIEVER AWARD

JAKE Clarke is the winner of the John Kelly Memorial Quiet Achiever Award for 2012.

The quicksilver centre turned in sharp displays and worked like a trojan to help Balmain-Ryde Eastwood reach this year’s NSW Cup Grand Final against Newtown. Clarke is pictured receiving his trophy from ex-Balmain Coaching & Development Manager David Kelly – son of the late John Kelly, a popular Tigers official, who died in 2003. 16 JAN CARROLL MEMORIAL TROPHY Under 17 Player of the Year

ENFIELD Federals’ hard-working forward Richard Coorey has capped a rewarding season by clinching the Jan Carroll Memorial U/17 Player of the Year trophy.

The strapping prop earned the award for his non stop performances for Enfield in the NSWRL Combined Inner City U/17 Div 1 competition.

He is pictured receiving the trophy from former Balmain Junior League secretary Bob Carroll at the Tigers’ Awards Night.

A punishing forward with a ‘big motor’, Coorey came under the scrutiny of representative selectors after consistent displays in the top division.

Richard was one of eight Federals’ players named in the Balmain Ryde Eastwood Junior Development Program’s U/17 squad that lined up against Parramatta, Western Suburbs and South Sydney in challenge matches during the winter.

Coorey impressed Tigers’ coach Marty Hyde and officials with strong performances against the Junior Eels, Magpies and Rabbitohs before forcing his way into the Balmain S.G Ball U/18 train on squad.

Previous winners of the Jan Carroll Trophy include Solomon Haumono (Concord United), Chad Lee and Rhys Stevenson (Leichhardt Juniors); Josh Jeffery, Damien Braumann and Richard Ngawini (Wanderers), Matthew Mizzi and Sebastian Vourlos (Holy Cross), Kyle Lovett (Leichhardt Juniors), Daniel Vasek (Dundas Shamrocks) and Alex Zarounas (Wanderers).

JOHN STAPLETON TROPHY A Grade Player of the Year

BURWOOD-North Ryde’s busy hooker-forward Abdul Mohamad is the 23rd recipient Barnett, Robert Gerrie (Leichhardt Wanderers), Aaron Brown and Nathan Donato of the John Stapleton Trophy for the Balmain Junior League A Grade Player of the (Balmain United), Cameron Liddle and James Harradence (West Ryde-Denistone), Year. Jason Tutt (Sawdust Storm), Joel Lacey (West Ryde-Denistone), Paul Wallace and Justin Williams (North Ryde), Damien Braumann (Leichhardt Juniors), John Kaho The former St George junior product proved a revelation for his new club in the (Leichhardt Wanderers), Kelvin Weir (North Ryde), Michael Basan (Dundas Sham- NSWRL Combined Inner City A Grade competition during 2012 – helping the rocks) and Steve Pont (Concord Burwood/North Ryde). combined Wolves and Hawks claim the minor premiership title.

Abdul was a key figure for Burwood-North Ryde with his punishing defence, strong running from dummy half and support play a feature of the club’s finals’ charge.

But the team crashed out of title reckoning following losses to Hurstville and St George Dragons in the big end-of-season matches.

“He is from the old school of hookers – a tough durable type that gives you 100 per cent commitment,” said Burwood-North Ryde mentor Aaron Zammit, who coached Mohamad in this year’s NSWRL Jim Beam Cup competition.

Due to a crippling injury toll, Burwood-North Ryde were forced to use 50 players during the campaign which included Abdul and several of his A Grade team mates.

Mohamed was called up to play in five Jim Beam Cup matches and made the most of his opportunity with strong performances in the number nine jumper.

It was a season to savour for 21 year old Abdul, who linked with Burwood-North Ryde after three seasons with Brighton Seagulls in the St George Junior League.

Balmain stalwart John Stapleton presented Abdul with his trophy at the Tigers’ Presentation Night at Ryde-Eastwood Leagues Club.

Other Balmain A Grade Player of the Year recipients include Graham Pearce (Ryde Eastwood), Gary Braams (Sawdust), Grant Thomas (Balmain United), Peter Bing- ham (West Ryde-Denistone), Jason Banfield (Concord United), Frank Dunne, Craig

17 He has chalked up nearly 70 years involvement with rugby league as a player, coach Keith Aggett honoured and administrator and was an active 16ft skiff sailing hand with Drummoyne Sail- ing Club - representing NSW as a crew member in ‘Daring’ at the Australian Skiffs with NSWRL Life Championships in 1958.

In 2010, Keith was honoured with life membership of Balmain Football Club for his Membership sterling service - one of a long list of personal milestones.

Keith was foundation coach, committeeman and RELC director in 1963 and served RYDE Eastwood Football Club stalwart Keith Aggett has been bestowed with life as Football Club secretary for four decades. membership of the NSW Rugby League. He is also a former Tom Bellew Award winner (1996) and received an Australian Aggett, the current president of Ryde Eastwood Leagues Club and football secretary, Sports Medal; Commonwealth Seniors Recognition Award for services to sport in was recognised for 67 years of sterling service to the game of rugby league. Bennelong electorate and Centenary Medal for contributions to Australian society.

He is pictured displaying the commemorative first grade medallion he received at this year’s Balmain Life Members luncheon at TIGERS Five Dock.

The medallion was one of hundreds issued to Balmain first grade players following the League Centenary celebrations in 2008.

Keith was a former top grade hooker with both Balmain and Parramatta before coaching the inaugural Ryde Eastwood team in 1963.

A foundation member of the Ryde Eastwood Leagues and Football Club boards, he played with Balmain Police Boys, Graham’s and Drummoyne in the Balmain Junior League and figured in Balmain’s champion 1952 Presidents Cup team that won the trophy.

Aggett was graded by Parramatta in 1953 and made 38 first grade appearances during his three year stint with the Eels before returning to play for Balmain in 1956. Keith’s career was cut short by injury and he turned his hand to coaching - guiding West Ryde-Dundas and North Ryde to premierships before pouring his energies into club administration.

In 2010, Keith was named Coach of the Half Century during North Ryde Hawks’ Jubilee season. He was elected president of RELC in 2002.

Keith’s latest honour comes two years after he was made a Life Member of the Balmain District Football Club.

Keith has given yeoman service to Ryde Eastwood Football Club and Leagues Club over the years and is one of the most respected officials in the NSW Club movement and rugby league scene.

Kevin O’Keefe Memorial Trophy Tigers Club Person of the Year

HIGHLY respected Balmain Tigers chairman and NRL power broker David Trod- den is this year’s recipient of the Kevin O’Keefe Memorial Club Person of the Year Trophy.

David is pictured with Tigers’ legend Paul Sironen, Maureen McKeon – partner of the late Kevin O’Keefe, the Tigers’ long serving sin bin attendant who died in 2007 – and Kevin’s brother Freddie O’Keefe after receiving his award at the recent Tigers’ Awards Night at Ryde Eastwood Leagues Club. David, who recently stepped down from his rotating annual role as Wests Tigers chairman, has given yeoman service to the Tigers over the past decade.

He has played an integral role in the establishment of the NRL Clubs Council and has represented all NRL Clubs with great distinction in key strategic discussions with the Australian Rugby League Commission.

David is pictured with Tigers’ legend Paul Sironen, Maureen McKeon – partner of the late Kevin O’Keefe, the Tigers’ long serving sin bin attendant who died in 2007 – and Kevin’s brother Freddie O’Keefe after receiving his award at the recent Tigers’ Awards Night at Ryde Eastwood Leagues Club. David has given yeoman service to the Tigers. 18 SCOTT GALE LEADING TRY SCORER AWARD

BALMAIN Football Club Sub Committee chairman Danny Stapleton presents the Scott Gale Memorial Leading Try Scorer Award to Tigers’ centre Josh Davis (left) for his 24 tries in the 2012 NSW Cup competition.

KEITH BARNES LEADING POINT SCORER AWARD

TIGERS sponsor Paul Griffin of Griffin Air Conditioning (right) presents inspirational Balmain-Ryde Eastwood skipper Sean Meaney with the Keith Barnes Leading Points Scorer Award for a third consecutive season.

Meaney, who notched up 198 points, was instrumental in the Tigers reaching their second NSW Cup Grand Final in four years with strong performances at fullback and centre.

RYDE EASTWOOD 15s DEVELOPMENT SQUAD RISING STAR AWARD

PROMISING Dundas Shamrocks forward Cameron Dow has collected the Tigers’ The tireless forward has proved a model of consistency for Dundas these past two Rising Star Award for 2012. seasons in the NSWRL Combined Inner City competition.

The rangy back rower is pictured receiving his trophy from Ryde Eastwood Football Club stalwart Jim McClymont at this year’s Tigers’ Awards Night.

Dow, a tireless forward, is following in the steps of boom Wests Tigers cub Curtis Sironen who starred with the Shamrocks after commencing his Junior League career with the North Ryde Hawks.

Just like the emerging Sironen, young Cameron has developed into a mature footballer with the Shamrocks and Balmain Junior Development teams with a strong work ethic and willingness to learn.

The talented forward was the outstanding player on the Tigers’ annual U/15s Devel- opment Tour of northern NSW and Queensland, turning in non stop performances and leading by example.

So impressive was the tall and powerful cub that officials have earmarked him for a leadership role with Balmain’s U/16 Harold Matthews Cup team for the 2013 series.

Dow tasted premiership success with North Ryde’s Mini and Mod League teams before joining Dundas and helping the club win the U/13 John Stanton Trophy.

Cameron earned the Player of the Match award in his side’s 22-20 Grand Final victory over Strathfield Raiders at Leichhardt Oval, scoring a try and tackling himself to a standstill as the Shamrocks preserved their unbeaten status. 19 S.G Ball Tribute

SIMON and Mason Farrell created history in 2012 when they became the first father- son combination to play in a premiership-winning Balmain S.G Ball outfit – 30 years apart. Rising fullback Mason (holding trophy) played a key role in the Tigers’ U/18 Grand Final victory over Canberra this season to duplicate the deeds of his father Simon, a quicksilver centre, who helped Balmain win their first-ever S.G Ball trophy back in 1982. They are pictured with Tigers’ S.G Ball manager Bob Cooper, triumphant coach Andrew Webster and former 1982 Ball Cup-winning cubs Craig Barnett, Paul Daley and Nick Stevanovic.

SG Ball Awards

NEW Wests Tigers head coach Mick Potter presented trophies to some of the outstanding prospects in Balmain’s champion S.G Ball-winning squad at this year’s Tigers’ Awards Night at Ryde Eastwood Leagues Club. Roaring to another He is pictured with young guns Mitchell Moses (Best & Fairest); Manaia Cherrington (Best Forward); Mason Farrell (Best Back); Daniel Rakvin (Coach’s Award), Rhys premiership Armstrong (Players’ Player), sponsor Joe Syme and triumphant coach Andrew Webster. MITCHELL MOSES is a Tiger cub earmarked for bigger things - the skilful five eighth is the nephew of Balmain all time great Benny Elias and a fine playmaker in his own right. Photo by Liam Brundle.

MANAIA CHERRINGTON prepares to off-load during the Tigers’ memorable Grand Final triumph over Canberra. Cherrington stamped himself one of the best young hookers in the country with skilful displays throughout the U/18 series.

Tigers U/18 skipper Mitchell Moses proudly lifts the S.G Ball Cup after Balmain’s Grand Final win over Canberra

BALMAIN young gun Mason Farrell holds aloft the National U/18 Champi- onship trophy after leading the Tigers to a 38-18 victory over Queensland age champions Townsville Stingers in POWERFUL Balmain forward the Challenge final at Langlands Park, Daniel Rakvin shrugs off Brisbane. Rabbitohs centre Tyrone. Phillips on his way to the Farrell, an emerging fullback, starred at tryline during a torrid S.G RHYS ARMSTRONG was five eighth for a Balmain side ravaged by Ball finals clash. instrumental in the Tigers’ S.G Ball success with strong injuries and missing nine of its S.G Ball performances in the back Grand Final heroes. row. The talented cub teamed with Player of BALMAIN young gun Ma- the Match - half back Alex Zarounas - to son Farrell holds aloft the overpower the Stingers in a spirited team National U/18 Championship performance. Trophy 20 Farrell produced his best game in a Balmain jumper - igniting the backline with his Super cubs clinch sharp running, booting seven goals and rescuing the Tigers at crucial stages with last-ditch tackles. S.G Ball title It was a memorable moment for young Mason, who created history by joining his father Simon as the only father-son duo to capture S.G Ball titles with the Balmain club. By CHRIS KARAS Moses created the opening try for centre Nathan Milone after three minutes with a WESTS Tigers rugby league stocks look healthy after Balmain S.G Ball team were clever pass before boom Canberra half Anthony Milford used flashy footwork to fool crowned NSWRL U/18 champions on May 5 at Western Weekender Stadium St the defence and set up four pointers for winger Rourke O’Sullivan and forward Scott Mary’s. Doyle. Andrew Webster’s super cubs became only the second Tigers’ outfit to lift the S.G The skilful Milford - a top prospect from Queensland - is one out of the box. Ball Cup trophy since the competition’s inception in 1965 after rolling Canberra 42-20 He looked dangerous whenever he touched the ball but was starved of opportunities in a spiteful Grand Final. after the interval. The 2012 cubs emulated the deeds of Glenn Stanton’s history-making 1982 Balmain Centre Leva Li and second rower Armstrong burst through to score tries in the space side that defeated Newtown 25-16 at the old Sydney Sports Ground to clinch the S.G of five minutes as the Tigers established a 16-10 lead. Ball title for the first time. Outstanding halves Mitchell Moses and Luke Brooks, fullback Mason Farrell, back Balmain asserted their authority with two quick tries by Rakvin and Malone after the rower Daniel Rakvin, hooker Manaia Cherrington and utility Rhys Armstrong have break that involved crisp passing and fine support play before the quicksilver Milford come under close scrutiny from senior officials and are tipped to graduate into the darted 30 metres to score and keep the Raiders in the hunt. Wests Tigers’ powerful U/20 Toyota Cup squad. Rakvin and replacement half Alex Zarounas ensured a Tigers’ victory when they Five eighth Moses showed glimpses of his class in the Tigers’ rousing Cup Final finished off some enterprising lead up work from the likes of Moses, Cherrington and victory over the junior Raiders to earn the official Player of the Match award - but it Farrell that broke Canberra’s spirit. was the skill, courage and power of custodian Farrell, hooker Cherrington and impact forwards Rakvin and Armstrong that proved instrumental in Balmain’s deserved Unsung heroes for the Tigers were centres Milone and Li, winger Paul Simona, half triumph. back Mark Daoud, lock Andrew Kazzi, back rower Salesi Funaki and utility Matthew Rakvin was a tower of strength for the Tigers in the number 12 jumper - busting Can- Woods who all turned in strong performances. berra’s defensive line with diesel-powered runs and tackling himself to a standstill Canberra were best served by Milford, lock Patrick Mago and hooker Trent Schu- - despite breaking a hand early in the match. bach.

The strong running forward capped a mighty performance by scoring two second half BALMAIN 42 (N Milone 2, D Rakvin 2, L Li, R Armstrong, A Zarounas tries; M Farrell tries as the Tigers jumped to a 34-14 lead after 53 minutes. 7 gls) d CANBERRA 20 (R O’Sullivan 2, S Doyle, A Milford tries; A Milford 2 gls).

Jubilant Balmain U/18 cubs celebrate their S.G Ball Cup premiership win over Canberra at Western Weekender Stadium. PHOTO by Liam Brundle.

Clever half Zarounas nabbed three tries and created several others to earn the official Player of the Match award. U/18 Tigers crowned It was a stout hearted effort by Andrew Webster’s Tiger cubs, who were ravaged by a National champions crippling injury toll in the lead up to the match. The versatile Farrell, who was named team captain for the match, continued where he left off seven days prior - sparking the attack with his jinking runs and smart sup- By CHRIS KARAS port play. Farrell produced brilliant displays at fullback during the Tigers’ premiership charge BALMAIN S.G Ball rugby league team capped a memorable 2012 campaign by and revelled in his leadership role at five eighth against the Stingers, nabbing a capturing the National U/18 Challenge title in Brisbane on May 12. crucial try before the break to give Balmain a 12-6 lead.

A depleted Tigers outfit - minus eight of their premiership-winning heroes - showed Minus big guns Mitchell Moses, Luke Brooks, Mark Daoud in the halves; boom spirit and courage to sink Townsville 38-18 at Langlands Park and stamp themselves second rower Daniel Rakvin; wily hooker Manaia Cherrington; rugged prop Leki the best U/18s side in the country. Taumalolo and centre Leva Li, the Tigers showed their depth of talent with a whole- hearted effort. Makeshift halves Alex Zarounas and Mason Farrell shared the limelight - turning in superb performances to guide the Tigers to a rousing victory over the Queensland Balmain blitzed the Stingers in a ten minute period to open up a 28-10 lead at the U/18 age champions. 50th minute mark before Townsville responded with tries to wingers Vall Holmes and The talented duo made the most of their opportunities in the number six and seven Rainer Power. jumpers to help the Tigers clinch their second trophy in as many weeks. Tigers’ manager Bob Cooper praised the efforts of his squad and the coaching of 21 rookie Webster and predecessor Balin Cupples for instilling a self belief among the players. Majority of the champion Balmain outfit were blooded in the Wests Tigers U/19 and U/17 CUBS squads. BALMAIN 38 (A Zarounas 3, M Dimarco, M Farrell, N Milone, M Li tries; M Farrell 5 gls) d TOWNSVILLE STINGERS 18 (R Power, H Crowley, V Holmes, D Clarke tries; C Jensen gl)

Outstanding fullback prospect Mason Farrell and former centre Simon Farrell created history when they became the first father-son duo to win an S.G Ball Cup premiership with Balmain. Mason capped a memorable Junior Cup campaign by captaining the depleted Ti- gers to a National U/18 championship title in Brisbane. Photo by Liam Brundle. Toyota Cup Champions New Tigers breed bring home U/20s premiership

WESTS Tigers salvaged some lost pride after capturing the 2012 Toyota Cup U/20 the elusive Nofoaluma pounced on a high Mulcahy kick to score and give the Tigers premiership at ANZ Stadium. a 12-6 lead. The Tigers paraded their emerging talent in a record-breaking 46-6 victory over Canberra to become the first Sydney-based club to lift the U/20s trophy. The Toyota Cup victory replicated the Tigers’ S.G Ball U/18 premiership triumph over It was a fairytale premiership title for Tigers’ mentor and 2005 Grand Final hero Todd Canberra earlier in the season. Payten in his first year of coaching. WESTS TIGERS 46 (K Rowe 2, M Koroibete 2, M Mulcahy 2, D Nofoaluma, M Fotuiaka tries; J Miller 7 gls) d CANBERRA 6 (M Cornish try; A Milford gl). The winning margin of 40 points was also the highest ever in the competition’s five year history. Rookie Tigers’ five eighth Matt Mulcahy produced a classy performance in the eight try rout to collect the Jack Gibson Medal for the Player of the Grand Final. Mulcahy scored two tries and proved an ideal link as the Tigers found their groove after a nervous start. Canberra failed to contain a rampaging Tigers’ forward pack led by Mosese Fotuaika, Kyle Lovett, Sauaso Sue, hooker Ben Saunders, Joel Luani, Inno Inosesio, Soni Paasi and Brendan Santi who quickly gained the upper hand with their powerful running and bustling defence.

The unsung Mulcahy combined effectively with half back Jacob Miller who created opportunities for sharp backs Kurtis Rowe, David Nofoaluma, Brodie Monroe, Asipeli Fine and boom winger Marika Koroibete. Rowe, a former Australian Schoolboys fullback, capped a strong game for the Tigers – nabbing two tries and proving an elusive customer in attack.

Fijian flyer Koroibete showed blistering pace to cross for the Tigers’ third try on the stroke of half time after scooting 60 metres to give Wests a handy 18-6 lead. He grabbed a second along with Mulcahy (2), prop Fotuaika and the spring-heeled Rowe as the Tigers slammed the Raiders in a dominant second half display. The Raiders started the match on a positive note when talented half back and skipper Mitchell Cornish raced 40 metres to score under the posts after eight minutes. Wests Tigers’ triumphant U/20s skipper Jacob Miller holds But the lead was shortlived. Saunders, Miller and Mulcahy then combined to send the Toyota Cup aloft after the 46-6 Grand Final victory over Rowe darting over for his first try in the 11th minute from a neat inside pass before Canberra at ANZ Stadium. 22 CHRIS KARAS at the Balmain Junior League Grand Finals

CHRIS KARAS

CHRIS KARAS is a long-serving Sports Editor of In 2011, he wrote the book “Friends For Life - The Leichhardt Wanderers Story” – a The Weekly Times newspaper at Ryde and the detailed history of one of Australia’s longest-established sporting clubs. Tigers’ rugby league historian with over 40 years The Weekly Times has covered junior league matters in the Balmain district since involvement in the Balmain Junior League as 1921 with Chris coming on board in 1985. both a player and writer. Chris played with Glebe Police Boys, Leichhardt Juniors, Balmain Police Boys and Leichhardt Wanderers and was a centre in Balmain’s junior representative teams. He is a life member of both the Balmain Junior League and Leichhardt Wanderers JRLFC. He is also the author of the book “The History of Ryde Eastwood Hawks Football & Leagues Clubs 1963-2004.” Chris, 51, is the author of the book “From Fraser to Farah: The History of Balmain Junior League 1908-2008” that was published during the rugby league Centenary season.

UNDER 9 Div 1 GRAND FINAL

CONCORD Burwood Silver produced their best display of the season to upset the Gardiner, Cale Edmed, Sam Carrington-Kunaleca, Jake Thomas, Jake Smith, previously unbeaten Wanderers Red team 22-6 and lift the Arthur McIlveen U/9 Div Jackson Logalbo. Coach: Andrew Phillips; Manager: Michael Ryan; Trainers: Rodney 1 Trophy. Owens & John Logalbo.

Promising cub Christian Emelio inspired the Wolves with a skilful performance to earn the official Player of the Grand Final award.

His sharp running and support play were a feature as the Concord-Burwood ‘under- dogs’ rallied after the interval to claim premiership honours.

Minus injured co-captain Adam Brooks, the tenacious Wolves capitalised on good field position to upstage the title favourites.

Emelio’s 25th minute try after the interval broke a 6-all deadlock and proved the turning point in a hard fought contest.

Wanderers opened the scoring after 14 minutes with a Christian Ryan try that was converted by Max Phillips before Wolves’ whiz Jack MacGillicuddy sliced through for a neat solo try before the break.

Emelio and McGillicuddy ignited the Concord-Burwood attack with their pace and skill as the Wolves dominated possession in the final quarter.

Anthony Carbo, Charlie Bruton, Leroi Kelly, Matt Lesic, Jayden Merhi and Jamie Sarkis also shone as the Wolves kept Wanderers scoreless in the second stanza. U/9 Div 1 champions Concord-Burwood Silver

It was a tragic result for the Leichhardt cubs who had dominated the competition with their enterprising brand of football.

Ryan, Phillips, Liam Spiropoulos, Robbie Tocco, Cale Edmed, Sam Carrington- Kunaleca, Jake Thomas, Jake Smith and Zaine Gardiner turned in fine games for the Wanderers.

CONCORD-BURWOOD SILVER 22 (J MacGillicuddy, C Emelio, J Merhi, A Carbo tries; J Melia, J Sarkis, J Merhi gls) d WANDERERS RED 6 (C Ryan try; M Phillips gl).

CONCORD BURWOOD SILVER – Blake Beazley, Adam Brooks (co-captain), Char- lie Bruton, Anthony Carbo, Christian Emelio, Joseph Isaac, Alec Katsiavos, Leroi Kelly, Matthew Lesic, Jack MacGillicuddy (co-captain), John Melia, Jayden Merhi, Jaxson Rahme, Jamie Sarkis, Jordan Snowden. Coach: Tim Kelly; Manager: Paul Brooks; Trainers: Romeo Isaac & Colin MacGillicuddy. Wests Tigers’ star Tim U/9 Div 1 runners up Leich- Moltzen with Wolves’ U/9 hardt Wanderers LEICHHARDT WANDERERS RED – Max Phillips, Zane Santarossa, Liam Div 1 captain and Player of Spiropoulos, Robbie Tocco, Jake Tonna, Josh Anderson, Christian Ryan, Zaine Match Jack MacGillicuddy. 23 UNDER 9 Div 2 GRAND FINAL

POCKET dynamo Finn Hurst was instrumental in Holy Cross capturing the U/9 Div 2 title - notching four tries in a 30-6 victory over Strathfield Raiders.

The quicksilver cub produced a brilliant Mini League performance to earn the official Player of the Match award and help the Rhinos lift the Mick Manning Trophy.

Hurst showed his skill and speed to notch three first half tries in the 6th, 12th and 18th minutes as Holy Cross established an 18-0 lead at the break.

The Rhinos’ attacking ace added a fourth try after 25 minutes when he fooled the Raiders defence and darted 50 metres to score.

Hard-working skipper Jonah Tuilata crossed out wide for the Rhinos’ fifth try four minutes later before Strathfield playmaker Jordan Roumanous grabbed a consola- tion try with 90 seconds left on the clock.

Other Holy Cross cubs to shine were Tuilata, Ben Ferguson, Adam Sidhu, Xavier Hill, U/9 Div 2 champions Holy Cross Maroon Austin Reich, Joshua Maher, Evan Ryper and Jordan Bilic.

The Strathfield youngsters tried hard and got value from Roumanous, fullbackTerry Sarkis, Luke Achmar, George Tassopoulos, half Lewis Taylor and Ben Criss.

HOLY CROSS MAROON 30 (F Hurst 4, J Tuilata tries; A Sidhu, T Wunsch, A Reich, B Ferguson, Z Sheerin gls) d STRATHFIELD RAIDERS WHITE 6 (J Roumanous try; gl).

HOLY CROSS MAROON – Zac Sheerin, Jonah Tuilata (captain), Joseph Meagher, Ben Ferguson, Adam Sidhu, Jordan Bilic, Xavier Hill, Austin Reich, Jack Karakasis, Alex Hazouri, Joshua Maher, Evan Ryper, Finn Hurst, Matthew Assaf, Tom Wunsch. Coach: Robert Bilic; Manager: Framo Tuilata; Trainers: Ray Moujalli & Peter Moujalli.

STRATHFIELD RAIDERS WHITE – Terry Sarkis, Luke Achmar, Patrick Bouchahine, U/9 Div 2 runners up Strath- Emerging Wests Tigers’ five George Tassopoulos, Aayush Maharaj, Jordan Roumanous (captain), Lewis Taylor, field Raiders eighth Curtis Sironen and BJL Chris Kapaniris, Ben Criss, Jonathon Cremen, Jonathon Stylianou, Isaias Campos. patron Mick Manning with U/9 Coach: David Criss; Manager: Ashleigh Criss; Trainer: Jim Sarkis. Div 2 Player of Match Finn Hurst (Holy Cross).

UNDER 9 Div 3 GRAND FINAL

LEICHHARDT Wanderers Black clinched the Under 9 Div 3 Peter Provan Trophy after overpowering Balmain PCYC 26-12. It was the first of four premiership titles on the day for the proud anderersW club with top games from forwards Tom Buvac, Toby Phillips and sharp backs Sebastian Foster, Isaac Chafei, Terry Reilly, Joseph Schmitzer and Jack Duckworth.

Talented PCYC prospect Oliver Gajda turned in a non-stop performance and was judged Player of the Match, despite the loss. Buvac opened the scoring for the Wanderers with a determined try after six minutes before Gajda weaved through defenders to cross for the first of his two tries in the 9th minute. Chafei and O’Reilly then gave the Wanderers a 14-4 lead when they posted neat tries in quick succession. PCYC fullback Max Donnellan bridged the gap on the stroke of half time when he U/9 Div 3 champions Leichhardt Wanderers scooted over for a four-pointer out wide.

Gajda kept PCYC in the hunt when he stepped through tackles and raced 30 metres to nab a second try shortly after the interval. But Wanderers wrapped up the title with three tries in the space of nine minutes by forward Phillips, Chafei and the elusive Foster. WANDERERS BLACK 26 (I Chafei 2, T Buvac, T O’Reilly, T Phillips, S Foster tries; T O’Reilly gl) d BALMAIN PCYC 12 (O Gajda 2, M Donnellan tries).

LEICHHARDT WANDERERS BLACK – Sebastian Foster (captain), Jackson Omodei, Jack Duckworth, Joseph Schmitzer, Samuel Menzie, Terry O’Reilly, Isaac Chafei, Blake Murray, Tom Buvac, Toby Phillips, William Rue, Nathaniel Mara, Levi Collins, Jacob Meyer. Coach: David Buvac; Manager: Tammie Phillips; Trainers: Martin Chafei & David Foster.

BALMAIN PCYC – Sebastian Bezzina (captain), Harry Coyne, Max Donnellan, Tigers mascot, ‘Tiger Tim’ BJL director Frank Dunne Luke Emmington, Oliver Gajda, Bailey Gilbert, Sebastian Higgins, Charles Kelso, and Wanderers’ stalwart with Wanderers’ U/9 Div 3 Hanisinoa Ladas-Jensen, Klaudio Lizarralde-Giftopoulos, Christian Malacco, Roy Frank Dunne with U/9 Div 3 captain Sebastian Foster. O’Neill, Villiami Pikula, Charlie Reynolds, Ryan Zauner. Coach: Steve Emmington; Player of Match Oliver Gajda Manager: Claudette Gajda; Trainer: John Murphy. (Balmain PCYC). 24 CONCORD-BURWOOD SILVER – Adrian Bechara, Robert Catalano, Luke Haralam- UNDER 10 Div 1 GRAND FINAL bidis, Jake Harrison, Krystian Mapapalangi, Sione Mapapalangi, Stefan Moscarello, Jaiden Najdovski, Joseph Rahme, Jacob Sahyoun, Zayn Sluvinsky, Michael Tannous (captain), Tom Younan. Coach: Aida Catalano; Manager: Jamilie Nicolas; Trainers: CARLINGFORD Cougars toppled Concord-Burwood 18-12 in the U/10 Div 1 title John Tannous & Jeff Sahyoun. decider to bring home their first title since 2006.

Young guns Rylee Hazell and Mitchell Haigh turned in strong performances to help the Cougars secure the Lawrence Briggs Trophy. Hazell, a tackling machine with tons of stamina, produced a non-stop display to earn the official Player of the Grand Final award.

The talented Haigh caught the eye with his playmaking skills and pulled off a try- saving tackle on Wolves’ utility Zayn Sluvinsky to ensure victory.

Other Cougars’ players to impress were fullback Connor Rose, skipper Dominic Micallef, Christian Habkouk, centre Dominic Belgrove, Nathan Bainy and forward Laurence Sheehan. Belgrove opened the scoring with a solo try after two minutes before Wolves’ forward Jacob Sahyoun crashed through tackles to level proceedings midway through the first half.

Two tries by Rose and Micallef before and after the break gave Carlingford a handy 18-6 lead but a blindside try by Concord-Burwood’s Robert Catalano set the scene for a tense finish. U/10 Div 1 premiers Carlingford Cougars

Catalano, Sluvinsky, Sahyoun, Michael Tannous, Adrian Bechara, Jake Harrison, Krystian Mapapalangi and Joseph Rahme played strongly for the Wolves. CARLINGFORD COUGARS BLUE 18 (D Belgrave, C Rose, D Micaleff tries; C Rose, M Haigh, D Micaleff gls) d CONCORD-BURWOOD SILVER 12 (J Sahyoun, R Catalano tries; M Tannous, K Mapapalangi gls).

CARLINGFORD COUGARS BLUE – Nathan Bainy, Jack Barry, Dominic Belgrove, Hayden Carney, Matthew Dezius, Christian Habkouk, Mitchell Haigh, Daniel Hall, Rylee Hazell, Ben Kirkman, Dominic Micallef (captain), Connor Rose, Laurence U/10 Div 1 runners up BJL director Richard Kelly Sheehan. Coach: Andrew Dezius; Manager: Marissa Sheehan; Trainers: Peter Concord-Burwood Silver with Cougars’ U/10 Div 1 Corliss & Terry Kirkman. skipper Dominic Micallef

UNDER 10 Div 2 GRAND FINAL

LEICHHARDT Juniors returned to the championship-winning list with a 28-0 drub- bing of North Ryde in the Under 10 Div 2 decider. Powerful centre Harrison Henson capped a strong game for the premiers, scoring three tries and creating havoc with the ball to earn the Player of the Match award.

His bustling runs after the break were a feature and paved the way for a resounding victory. In an absorbing first stanza, Leichhardt winger Tom Dobbin scored the only try – converted by Henson – after outsprinting the Hawks’ cover defence in the 11th minute.

U/10 Div 2 Premiers - Leichhardt Juniors Trailing 6-0, North Ryde defended stoutly and remained in contention until the hard running Henson stamped his mark on the game. The Leichhardt trump turned the match with solo tries in the 23rd, 37th and 38th minutes to help his side secure the Austin Hoyle Trophy.

Leichhardt’s crafty half back and skipper Jake Jorgensen – son of triumphant coach and former Wallaby star Peter Jorgensen – also impressed with support from Dobbin, centre Rory Plummer, Kody Papa and forwards Malachi Matoe and Alex Campbell. North Ryde were best served by fullback James Bragg, centre Tom Neil, half Nathan Moujalli and forward Joel Price. LEICHHARDT JUNIORS 28 (H Henson 3, T Dobbin, J Jorgensen tries; H Henson, J North Ryde Hawks – U/10 Div 2 Runners Up Jorgensen, K Papa, A Campbell gls) d NORTH RYDE 0.

LEICHHARDT JUNIORS – Mischa Browne, Tom Dobbin, Rory Plummer, Harrison Henson, Remy Scalone, Kody Papa, Jake Jorgensen (captain), Dylan Cowin, Tristan Ghraiche, Sharbel Nadel, Jordan Marsden, Mark Henderson, Malachi Matoe, Hwan Inverso, Alex Campbell, Marcus McNulty. Coach: Peter Jorgensen; Manager: Frank Inverso; Trainers: Warren Henson & Malachi Matoe snr.

NORTH RYDE – James Bragg (captain), Conan Williams, Thomas Neil, Oscar Manning, Joshua Mayo, Cameron Georgievski, Nathan Moujalli, Billy McCarthy, Joel Price, Max Scalise, Aiden Smith, Lachlan Waller, Riley Price, Luke Bryant, Jayden Beale, Regan Cooper-Phillis. Former BJL president Austin BJL life member Austin Hoyle with U/10 Div 2 Player Hoyle with Leichhardt Jun- Coach: Scott Mayo; Manager: Matt Bryant; Trainers: Warren Smith, Rod Waller & of Match Harrison Henson iors’ U/10 Div 2 captain Jake Derek McCarthy. (Leichhardt Juniors). Jorgenson. 25 UNDER 10 Div 3 GRAND FINAL

CONCORD-Burwood White lifted the inaugural Under 10 Div 3 Peter Duffy Trophy with a hard-fought 18-14 victory over Wanderers Black. The Wolves - led by strong running skipper Nathan Topic - staved off a spirited second half challenge from the Wanderers to claim the title. Speedy backs Jordan Cassaniti and Sofele Uluakiola posted early tries as the Wolves jumped to a 12-0 lead after six minutes. Leichhardt forward Daire Filitonga responded with a try in the 13th minute before winger Vincent Fedele nabbed the Wolves’ third try on the stroke of half time for an 18-4 lead. It was a rejuvenated Wanderers after the break as they rediscovered their mojo. U/10 Div 3 premiers Concord-Burwood White Talented back Callan Oeding produced a big performance - spurring the Wanderers with his attacking skills to earn the Player of the Match award. Forwards Oskar Matos and Filitonga burst over for tries in the 27th and 29th minutes to keep Leichhardt in the mix but there was no stopping the Wolves, who tackled like demons in the closing minutes. Concord-Burwood were best served by the talented Topic, Cassaniti, Uluakiola, Ethan Orlic, Sofele Langi and Watisoni Bogiso. Other Wanderers’ players to shine were Filitonga, Matos, Jack Logan, Jacob Tauia, Hunter Merrick and Joseph Lavaki.

CONCORD-BURWOOD WHITE 18 (J Cassaniti, S Uluakiola, V Fedele tries; D U/10 Div 3 runners up Leichhardt Wanderers Mastroianni, N Topic, K Jing gls) d WANDERERS BLACK 14 (D Filitonga 2, O Matos tries; J Logan gl).

CONCORD-BURWOOD WHITE – Sofele Uluakiola, Watison Bogiso, Jordan Cas- saniti, Guy Conti, Vincent Fedele, Jules Gobran, Kyzar Jing, Jonathan Kheir, Sofele Langi, Daniel Mastroianni, Will Mata, Ethan Orlich, Hass Radwan, Nathan Topic (captain), Phil Vecchio. Coach: Robert Cassaniti; Manager: Giuseppina Mastroianni; Trainer: George Kheir.

LEICHHARDT WANDERERS BLACK – Jacob Tauia, Callan Oeding, Cameron Gar- cia, Nick Kennedy, Jack Logan, Tyrone Murda, Flynn Leaver (captain), Oskar Matos, Legendary Balmain half Wolves’ U/10 Div 3 captain Hunter Merrick, Michael Morgan, James Pickering, Joseph Lavaki, Daire Filitonga, back Peter Duffy with Nathan Topic delivers his Christian Ntziaferis. Coach: Scott Merrick; Manager: Noella Merrick; Trainers: Brian Wolves’ U/10 Div 3 skipper victory speech alongside BJL Pickering & Chris Matos. Nathan Topic. chairman John Critchley.

UNDER 11 Div 1 GRAND FINAL

RANGY forward Daniel Sykes inspired Leichhardt Wanderers to a thrilling 16-12 premiership victory over a gallant Holy Cross in the Under 11 Div 1 showdown. The promising Sykes made a huge impact as Wanderers staged a second half revival to collect a third consecutive trophy under the coaching of club legend Craig Barnett. A revved up Holy Cross were on the brink of title success after jumping to a 12-0 lead after 23 minutes through two magnificent tries by classy centre Zane Camroux. The fleet-footed Camroux – son of former Tigers’ utility and premiership-winning Jersey Flegg coach Peter Camroux – showed a good turn of speed to fool the Leich- U/11 Div 1 champions Leichhardt Wanderers hardt defence and score crucial four pointers before and after the half time break. But just when the Rhinos looked destined for honours, the power running Sykes left his mark. The key forward used his strength and footwork to crash over for second half tries as Wanderers dominated field position. With two minutes left on the clock, Sykes set up the match-winning try for prop Ngalu Ikani which was converted by centre Jonathan Whitehead. It was a cruel blow for Allan Jarvis’ well drilled Rhinos, who revelled in the big end-of- season fixtures. Camroux, hooker Jake Kusto, fullback Jason Smyth, halves Jae Frison and Zac Stanton and Tyran Rotondo turned in strong games for Holy Cross while the Wander- ers were best served by forwards Sykes, Ikani, Josh Fineisaloi, Max Barnett and the elusive Mason Ward. U/11 Div 1 runners up Holy Cross

WANDERERS RED 16 (D Sykes 2, N Ikani tries; M Ward, J Whitehead gls) d HOLY CROSS GOLD 12 (Z Camroux 2 tries; J Frison, J Smyth gls).

LEICHHARDT WANDERERS RED – John Danson, Daniel Quinn, Jonathan White- head, Bailey Caldwell, Theo Kavourmas, James Estwick, Mason Ward, Josh Finei- saloi, Michael Coleman, Ngalu Ikani, Max Barnett (captain), Daniel Sykes, Marcus Buvac, Mitchell Gigg. Coach: Craig Barnett; Co-Managers: Leoni Barnett & Karen Sykes; Trainers: Jeremy Barnett & Marcus Sykes.

HOLY CROSS GOLD – Jason Smyth, Joseph Georges, Zane Camroux (captain), Jesse Provan, Joshua Fedele, Jae Frison, Zac Stanton, Blake Hopper, Jake Kusto, BJL director Frank Dunne with BJL life member John Stanton Liam Davies, Benjamin Wood, Luke Smyth, Tyran Rotondo. Coach: Allan Jarvis; Wanderers’ U/11 Div 1 skipper with U/11 Div 1 Player of Match Manager: Sally Frison; Trainers: Rodney Farlow & Glen Smith. Max Barnett. Daniel Sykes (Wanderers). 26 UNDER 11 Div 2 GRAND FINAL

LEICHHARDT Wanderers Black collected the Under 11 Div 2 Dally Messenger Trophy after toppling Shamrocks Yellow 22-12. Dashing fullback Finn Walsh spearheaded the victory with a slick performance as Tom Riley’s Wanderers rallied after the interval.

Trailing 12-6, Walsh scored a crucial try just before the break and lifted team mates with his bustling runs and jarring defence to pick up the Player of the Match award. Leichhardt forward Enrico Dolfo opened the try-scoring after two minutes before Dundas forwards Bryce Langford and Anthony Kassis gave their side an early advan- tage by registering four pointers in an absorbing first period. Wanderers gained the upper hand when Dolfo crashed over for a second try in the 26th minute and established a ten point lead when talented five eighth Leon Hutchin- son darted over to score with seven minutes left on the clock. Other Leichhardt players to impress were halves Hutchinson and Declan Milton, centre Lewis Verrell and forwards Dolfo, Con Begetis and Anthony Squadrito. Dundas got value from forwards Levi Milford, James Tiler, centre Harry Cavender, skipper Anthony Bayeh and Daniel Faraj. U/11 Div 2 champions Leichhardt Wanderers

WANDERERS BLACK 22 (E Dolfo 2, F Walsh, L Hutchinson tries; D Milton, A Pol- licina, E Dolfo gls) d SHAMROCKS YELLOW 12 (B Langford, A Kassis tries; A Field, A Kassis gls).

LEICHHARDT WANDERERS BLACK – Finn Walsh, Lewis Verrell, Tristan Parkinson, Leon Hutchinson, Declan Milton (captain), Ben Menzie, Adrian Totaro, Anthony Pol- licina, Tony Squadrito, Enrico Dolfo, Con Begetis, James Williams-Day, Sebastian Angelucci. Coach: Tom Riley; Manager: Robyn Hutchinson. Trainers: Damon Walsh & Wayne Hutchinson.

DUNDAS SHAMROCKS YELLOW – Anthony Bayeh (captain), Harry Cavender, Jye Wanderers back Leon Hutchin- Dundas Shamrocks stalwart Bob Durkin, Daniel Faraj, Aiden Field, Tim Greig, Anthony Kassis, Bryce Langford, Ryan son accepts the U/11 Div 2 Dally Siemsen with U/11 Div 2 Player of McGregor, Levi Milford, Patrick Taylor, James Tiler. Messenger Trophy from BJL Match Finn Walsh (Wanderers). Coach: Robert Turner; Manager: Jodie Turner; Trainers: Kevin Fraser & Colin Field. director Bob Siemsen.

UNDER 12 Div 1 GRAND FINAL

LEICHHARDT Wanderers confirmed their status as the powerbase of Balmain Junior League after collecting four championship titles on Grand Final day at Leichhardt Oval. The Wanderers’ premiership quadrella included triumphs in the U/12 Div 1, U/11 Div 1, U/11 Div 2 and U/9 Div 3 age groups to cap another fruitful season for the famous 101 year old club. Ben Codey starred in Wanderers’ 22-10 victory over Dundas Shamrocks in the U/12 Div 1 decider with solid games from Tane Edmed, Louis Tanner, Lachlan Ilias, Ryan Musillo, Lewis Parfitt, Saul Lewis, Luke Florian and Jack Emery, a grandson of Souths legend Bob McCarthy. Codey, one of the district’s best young forward prospects, produced another non- stop performance as Leichhardt dominated their age group for yet another season. U/12 Div 1 champions Leichhardt Wanderers He is the son of former Wallabies captain and flanker David Codey, who represented Australia in 13 Tests including the 1987 World Cup. The Wanderers led 6-0 at the break following a converted try by young gun Edmed in the 14th minute and consolidated when Kayleb Cantali scored out wide, shortly after the interval. Dundas playmaker Bradley Doherty and centre Ray Ghalloub kept their side in the hunt with neat tries in the space of six minutes. Wanderers sealed their third title in four seasons when Ilias and Emery, a powerful fullback-cum-forward, crashed over for tries in an action-packed second half. Doherty, Ghalloub, nippy fullback Joshua Rizk, prop Nikola Najdovski and Michael Gibson shone for Dundas.

WANDERERS RED 22 (T Edmed, K Cantali, L Ilias, J Emery tries; T Edmed, L Ilias, L Parfitt gls) d DUNDAS SHAMROCKS YELLOW 10 (B Doherty, R Ghalloub tries; B U/12 Div 1 runners up – Dundas Shamrocks Doherty gl).

LEICHHARDT WANDERERS RED – Lachlan Ilias, Griffin Taylor, Bailey Cox, Lewis Parfitt, Jack Emery, Tane Edmed (captain), Sosaia Teakaraanga, Ryan Musillo, Ben Cody, Will Cornish, Marc Micalizzi, Luke Florian, Louis Tanner, Riley Wellfare, Tyler Garcia, Kayleb Cantali, Saul Lewis. Coach: Steve Edmed; Manager: Tamena Brown; Trainers: Andrew Cox & Arthur Ilias.

DUNDAS SHAMROCKS YELLOW – Joshua Rizk, Lachlan Allan, Ray Ghalloub, South Sydney great Dundas Shamrocks Legendary Rabbitohs Connor Tannous, Bradley Doherty (captain), Joshua Takchi, Nikola Najdovski, Bob McCarthy with U/12 Div 1 skipper and Test forward Bob Andrew Azize, Mark Khattar, Ryan Giusti, Dylan Simkin, Ryan Joynes, Michael Wanderers’ U/12 Div 1 Brad Doherty McCarthy with U/12 Div Gibson, Samuel Ferguson, Jacob Poole, Rhys McGilligan. Coach: Stephen Doherty; skipper Tane Edmed. 1 Player of Match Ben Co-Managers: Phil Azize & Stuart Allan; Trainers: George Tannous & Tony Ghalloub. Cody (Wanderers). 27 Zacharias, Jackson Coleman, Joshua Beattie, Kale Ozluk. Coach: Damian Beaufils; UNDER 12 Div 2 GRAND FINAL Manager: Diana Lawrie; Trainers: Alex Pattaro, Brendan Dessent & David Gigg.

STRATHFIELD Raiders claimed the Charles ‘Chook’ Fraser Under 12 Div 2 Trophy after a gutsy 12-10 victory over Leichhardt Wanderers Black. Clever five eighth James Roumanous engineered the victory with an outstanding performance for the Raiders, who garnered the win from a never-say-die attitude. Trailing 10-0 at lemons, it was the capable Roumanous – the official Player of the Match - who inspired Strathfield with his leadership and skill. Wanderers opened the match in spectacular style with a fine solo try by elusive back Peter Lefao-Seu in the sixth minute, followed by a Ryan Gigg four pointer just three minutes later.

Both sides soaked up the pressure before the talented Roumanous put the Raiders on the board with a cracking try shortly after the interval which he duly converted. Strathfield seized the moment when Roumanous sparked an attacking raid in the 27th minute that enabled half back Nic Nordo to score in the corner. Nathan Saade’s conversion gave the Raiders a narrow two point lead – an advan- tage they protected with scrambling defence in a Mod League thriller. Other Raiders’ players to impress were fullback Saade, Nardo, Francesco Carbo, Khaled Allam and hooker Philip Adam. U/12 Div 2 premiers Strathfield Raiders Wanderers were best served by half Flynn Beaufils, fullback Massimo Bianchino, prop Nick Lawrie, lock Lachlan Beattie, Kale Ozluk and Lefao-Seu.

STRATHFIELD RAIDERS 12 (J Roumanous, N Nardo tries; J Roumanous, N Saade gl) d WANDERERS BLACK 10 (P Lefao-Seu, R Gigg tries; A Burton gl).

STRATHFIELD RAIDERS – Nathan Saade (captain), Alex Vu, Christian Modica, Jacob Abraham, Isaac Christodoulou, James Roumanous, Nicolas Nardo, David Youssef, Philip Adam, Jordan Saade, Aidan Trainor, Maea Havea, Charbel Dagher, Joseph Taaous, Francesco Carbo, Khaled Allam, George Shinner. Coach: Morris Adam; Assistant Coach: Gabi Dagher; Manager: Ann Maree Adam; Trainers: Leon BJL Chairman John BJL life member BJL director Chris Shinner & Fred Ibrahim. Critchley with Wan- Peter Mortimer with Raheb with Raiders’ derers U/12 Div 2 U/12 Div 2 Player of U/12 Div 2 skipper Na- LEICHHARDT WANDERERS BLACK – Massimo Bianchino, Jules Beaufils, Angus captain Tom Dessent Match James Rou- than Saade Burton, Harry Boyd, Peter Lefao-Seu, Tom Dessent (captain), Flynn Beaufils, Nick manous (Strathfield Raiders) Lawrie, Joshua Dolfo, Daniel Pattaro, Rumi Rigg, Ryan Gigg, Lachlan Beattie, Vince

Legend has it that while playing union for Balmain, he thumped a referee and duly Tigers pioneer honoured received a lifetime ban from the sport.

with Centenary medal Joe switched codes in late 1907, then called a meeting to establish a Balmain club in the newly formed NSW Rugby League.

AVID Balmain rugby league supporter Bob Apolony (pictured) is proud of his sporting Prejudice against professionalism at the time precluded him from hiring a hall and roots. instead Joe staged a soap box style meeting outside the Leichhardt Council Cham- bers. The 78 year old grew up revering the deeds of his famous grandfather Joe Apolony – a league pioneer who played in the first-ever Balmain top grade side in 1908. The meeting was enthusiastic and led to a second and then to the first annual meeting of the Balmain DRLFC on January 23, 1908 at Balmain Town Hall. Joe, a rugged prop, was one of 16 Balmain rugby union players that crossed over to the new professional code when the NSW Rugby League competition was formed Bob played rugby league as a youngster and was a hard-working forward with the and went on to play 44 first grade matches for the Watersiders and represent Com- Enfield Federals, helping the club win an U/18 premiership in the esternW Suburbs bined City and NSW. Junior League competition back in 1951.

He retired as a player at the end of 1912 and was later made a life member of both the Balmain District Football Club and NSW Rugby Football League for his yeoman service as a club official – chalking up ten consecutive years as a iceV President and selector.

Bob experienced a huge thrill when he attended this year’s Tigers Awards Night at Ryde Eastwood Leagues Club to accept a commemorative medallion on behalf of his late grandfather.

The medallions were issued to all Balmain first grade players after the League’s Centenary celebrations in 2008 and numbered chronologically from the foundation side captained by former Wallaby and Kangaroos forward Robert Graves.

A chuffed Bob was beaming with pride when Tigers’ chairman David Trodden presented him with Joe’s medallion – inscribed No 1 – which takes pride of place in the Apolony household today.

“I was honoured to accept the medallion – it means so much to the family,” said Bob. “We also have in our possession Pop’s blue tasselled cap embroided NSWRFL 1909 that he was awarded when selected in the NSW team which played the touring NZ Maori side that year.” Joe earned a reputation for his fearless displays on the field. 28 NSW ICCC Grand Finals Rhinos’ U/13s STEP UP A CLASS

THEY didn’t collect any silverware in 2012 but Holy Cross Ryde U/13 rugby league team (pictured) stamped themselves one of the State’s most promising outfits.

Under the guidance of former Balmain forward and Tigers’ director Danny Stapleton, the Rhinos figured in two major championship finals where they held their own. South Sydney club Matraville Tigers edged out the Rhinos 20-16 in a hard fought NSWRL Combined Inner City U/13 Div 1 Grand Final at Leichhardt Oval – three weeks before Holy Cross lined up against Parramatta champions Wentworthville in the final of the prestigious NSWRL Coca Cola Challenge at ANZ Stadium. The Wentworthville whiz kids used their superior size to record a 16-0 victory, but only after a compelling tussle with their Balmain rivals. NSW Inner City Combined Competition U/13 Div 1 runners up Holy Cross. Holy Cross eliminated Pennant Hills (North Sydney) 18-0; Mona Vale (Manly) 24-0 and Moorebank Rams (Canterbury) 20-16 in a semi final to qualify for the Challenge Cup decider. Talented prop Will Lawson was a tower of strength up front for the Rhinos - turning in outstanding performances during the big end of season matches. Lawson inspired team mates with his power running and no-nonsense defence as the Holy Cross cubs showed their courage and skill to advance. Coach Stapleton praised his Ryde charges for their stout-hearted efforts during an injury-riddled campaign. “We finished the year with only 14 players but gave it our best shot in both Grand Matraville Tigers – winners of the NSW Inner City Combined Finals,” reflected Danny. U/13 Div 1 competition.

“What we lacked in size we made up for with determination and a strong work ethic - the boys just kept winning with their never-say-die attitude.”

Other Rhinos to impress were hooker Bennett Wheelhouse, half back Lachlan Cam- roux, fullback Scott Brooks, prop Simione Teekafa, five eighth Curtis Wilson, centres Anthony Sakr and Matt Harwood, Jarod Sabat, Carlo Minnicino, forwards Billy Sta- pleton, Nathan Davis, Mateo Tatola, wingers James Roulston and Corey McNamara, Angus McElroy and Tyrone Farrell. BJL life member John Stan- Legendary Balmain coach ton with U/13 Div 1 Player of John Stanton with Ma- Match Will Lawson. traville’s U/13 Div 1 skipper Dean Hawkins.

UNDER 14 Div 3 GRAND FINAL

LA PEROUSE captured the Under 14 Div 3 title after a comprehensive 38-22 victory over Concord-Burwood at Leichhardt Oval.

The South Sydney club turned the tables on the Wolves with clever half back Jack- son Travers turning in a dynamic performance to earn Player of the Match honours.

Concord-Burwood were favoured to lift the trophy following a 36-6 victory over La Perouse in the major semi final.

The Wolves led 16-14 at the interval after neat tries by Tristan Proctor, hooker Kaua Paseka and half Ben Breen before La Perouse over ran their rivals in a second half blitz.

Giant La Perouse prop Kane Wilson proved a handful for the Wolves’ defenders – using raw power to nab four of his side’s eight tries. U/14 Div 3 premiers La Perouse

Travers, Wilson, hooker Tim Brown, second rower Bradley Davidson, centre Jake Jefferies and fullback David Johnson shone for La Perouse while the Wolves were best served by Paseka, Breen, fullback Pasquale Rea, centres Joshua Voisin and Isaac Brydon.

LA PEROUSE 38 (K Wilson 4, B Davidson 2, T Brown, C Bennett tries; K Crumpton 2, C Bennett gls) d CONCORD-BURWOOD 22 (K Paseka 2, T Proctor, B Breen tries; L Ius 2, I Brydon gls).

BJL director Frank Dunne BJL stalwart Frank Dunne and Yvette Downey with tri- with U/14 Div 3 Player of umphant La Perouse skipper Match Jackson Travers. Bryce Liddell. 29 Balmain Junior League – Accredited Events

Aaron Woods Cup

Leichhardt Juniors would like to thank the clubs that participated in the inaugural Aaron Woods’ Cup. We hoped you enjoyed the day. We were fortunate to have wonderful weather, a well behaved crowd and good football. There were no injuries which was a blessing and hopefully the players enjoyed themselves. Our congratulations to the eventual winners, Leichhardt Wanderers Red who defeated a very gallant Balmain PCYC.

The Club would especially like to thank the Junior League and, in particular, Jennie who provided us with support. The day could not have gone ahead without the referees so thank you to Sam Gebrael for organising coverage for our Cup and to Robert Bechara and Robert Gerrie who refereed nearly all day. Thank you to Robert’s sons Hayden and Tom Gerrie for running lines and to Nathan Taylor for refereeing one of the games and also running lines. These tournaments are a great learning opportunity for our new referees to develop their skills.

Final thanks must go to our small group of volunteers who were at the field from about 6.00 am through to 5.30 pm. Without your efforts this day would never have gone ahead.

BENNY ELIAS SHIELD

HOLY Cross Rhinos paraded their emerging junior talent at the 10th annual Benny Elias Shield Gala Day at Frank Street Oval on August 25.

Pictured is the Rhinos’ triumphant U/8 side that recorded an 8-4 golden try win over Leichhardt Wanderers in a thrilling final.

Player of the tournament Charlie Sharp proved the architect - notching two vital tries including the match-winner after a dashing 60 metre run.

Wanderers led 4-0 via a Kyle Leaver try and were poised to upstage the unbeaten Rhinos before Sharp levelled the scores with a late try. Leichhardt Juniors – U/7 Benny Elias Shield champions Promising Wanderers’ cub Matt Delaney took out the Player of the Match award.

Leichhardt Juniors downed Holy Cross 16-12 to lift the U/7s trophy with Keenan Lawandos earning Player of the Match honours.

Player of the day was Leichhardt’s rising cub Samson Tuqiri - son of Tigers’ dual international Lote Tuqiri - who turned in dynamic performances.

Concord-Burwood United clinched the U/6s title after toppling Leichhardt Juniors 28-4 in the final.

Wolves’ skipper Alex Conti was named Player of the Carnival after skilful displays throughout the series. Holy Cross Rhinos – U/8 Benny Elias Shield champions

Concord-Burwood Wolves – U/6 Benny Elias Shield champions

30 MARK O’NEILL SHIELD

HOLY CROSS lifted the 2012 Mark O’Neill Shield U/10 trophy in sweltering condi- tions at St Patricks Oval Dundas on April 1.

Promising cub Connor McCann was named Player of the Final after spearheading the Rhinos to a 24-16 victory over Concord-Burwood in the Shield final. It was an impressive team effort by the well drilled Rhinos who dominated the Gala Day event.

Holy Cross posted resounding wins over Leichhardt Wanderers White (40-4), North Ryde Hawks (28-8), Dundas Shamrocks (24-0) and North Ryde (28-4) in a semi-final before toppling the Wolves in the trophy decider.

The Rhinos caught the eye with their pace, mobility and defensive skills.

Concord Burwood also impressed with gallant wins over Wanderers Black (52-0), Carlingford Cougars (24-0), Wanderers Red (24-0) and Cougars (16-8) in the lead-in to the Shield final.

Outstanding Wolves’ prospect Michael Tannous was named Player of the Series. 2012 Mark O’Neill Shield winners – Holy Cross Rhinos Pictured with Wests Tigers’ legend Mark O’Neill is the triumphant Holy Cross squad: Connor McCann (captain), Sam Kanaan, Connor Doueihi, Henri Burt, Daniel Besgrove, Ronan Leayr, Max Dominello, Jayden Lawandos, Jayme Elias, Tristan Farnworth, Will Young, Alex Beatty, Henry O’Kane, Christian Belcastro, Leon Gellen and Peter Baroutts; coach Darryl Lawandos; co-coach Matt Dominello; trainer Kevin O’Kane and manager Shannon Kanaan.

Wests Tigers legend Mark Mark O’Neill presents win- Hard working dads on the barbecue during the Mark O’Neill O’Neill with Player of the ning Holy Cross skipper Shield Carnival. U/10 series Michael Tannous Connor McCann with the (Concord-Burwood). U/10 Shield.

ROBBIE FARAH SHIELD

HOLY Cross Gold U/9 team defeated Concord-Burwood United 48-12 to secure the Robbie Farah Challenge Shield at Blackmore Oval on March 25.

Talented Rhinos junior George Pickering and Abdul Ghazal (Strathfield Raiders) were named joint Players of the Carnival.

Along the way the Rhinos defeated Carlingford Cougars (28-4), Leichhardt Wander- ers Black (16-0), Enfield Federals (44-0) in a quarter final and Strathfield Raiders (16-8) in a semi final.

Pictured with trainer Luke Grogan and coach Dave Best are the Shield-winning Rhinos standing (l to r) Tully Kidman, George Pickering, Gabe Mannering, Hugh Bell, Thomas Wunsch, Mason Wheelhouse; front Mitchell Allan, Brodie Howard, Jordan Best, Matthew Simmons and William Boys.

31 likes of Benny Elias, Steve Roach, Kevin Hardwick, Paul Morris, Steve Massey, Rod Tributes Sironen and Mark Clinton.

BILL TULLOCH He starred for the Tigers in their Grand Final win over Newtown at Henson Park and played a key role in the team’s big win over Northern Division to bring home the BALMAIN Football Club lost one of its NSW U/18 Championship title. oldest living players during 2012 following the death of former third grade centre Bill Gary was graded in 1981 by Balmain and played U/23s and reserve grade before Tulloch at the age of 92. making his top grade debut in 1982 in Frank Stanton’s youthful Tigers line up as a winger. At the time of his passing, Tulloch was the He was a member of Balmain’s 1982 reserve grade-winning squad and in 1983 oldest graded player from the pre-war era. booted two goals in the Tigers’ 6-4 semi final loss to Canterbury. He died on July 21 after a brave battle with cancer. Gary joined Parramatta in 1984 – making one first grade appearance – as a centre and that same year helped the Eels win the U/23s premiership. A lightweight three quarter with a sharp turn He later played A Grade for Mount Pritchard, Cessnock and the Cricketers Arms of speed, Bill was a product of the Balmain before retiring. Shamrocks club in the Balmain Junior League and started in C Grade in 1936 After his football career finished he began work at Balmain’s Unity Hall Hotel and before playing B Grade in 1937-38 and ‘39. was described by many as the “soul” of the Tigers’ sporting fraternity.

Bill Tulloch (standing left) He played in Balmain’s 1939 Presidents Gary’s uncle Frank Ragen played 19 top grade matches for Balmain between 1974- and fellow Shamrocks stars Fred Cherry and Harry Pearce Cup-winning side that defeated Western 76. helped Balmain win the 1939 Suburbs 10-2 in the Grand Final at Belmore Presidents Cup title. They are Sports Ground with club mates Jack Spen- Tigers’ stalwart Peter Duffy, who coached Mara in the lower grades, said the district pictured at Birchgrove Oval cer, Fred Cherry and Harry Pearce and had lost a “wonderful human being.” with trainer Harry Christian third grade in 1940-41. and the Cup trophy. “Gary was widely respected and was the type of bloke who would drop everything to After retiring from the game, Bill moved to the Botany area with wife Ada where they help a friend in need,” said Duffy. raised two daughters Catherine and Julie and son Bill junior. “He’ll be sadly missed but will always remain in our hearts.” He later turned his hand to golf and lawn bowls and began a long association with South Sydney Junior Bowling Club.

Bill wasn’t the biggest centre running around in his heyday, but what he lacked in RON WILSON size he made up for with raw courage. Balmain Junior League are mourning the Old timers would recall a funny moment during the early stages of the 1939 Presi- death of former Holy Cross stalwart Ron dents Cup final at Belmore when the pint sized Tulloch was struggling to contain his Wilson who lost a brave battle with lym- strongly-built opposing centre. phoma on January 6, 2013 at the age of 76.

Legend has it that the Tigers’ tough-tackling lock Sid Cooper swapped positions with A former Western Suburbs rugby league Tulloch and pulled off some bone jarring hits on the Wests three quarter, who left the fullback and president of Ryde Ex Services field soon after with injury. Club, Ron was a prominent BJL identity before relocating to Kincumber on the Bill always enjoyed returning to the Balmain district for visits - then catching the ferry Central Coast. from Balmain East back to Circular Quay on his way home to Botany. Ron, who had been battling cancer since first being diagnosed in January 1998, had a long association with both the Balmain Referees Association and Balmain Junior GARY MARA League.

BALMAIN rugby league identity Gary Mara was He played rugby league for Gladesville in the late 1950s before being graded in the the life of the party when he celebrated his 50th Western Suburbs third grade team in 1958 that won the Grand Final. birthday at Gladstone Park Bowling Club with family and friends in August. Ron also figured in the Magpies’ 1961 reserve grade premiership winning team and played one first grade match for the club - a game in which he broke his jaw, A week later the former Tigers’ top grade winger He later joined the Balmain Referees Association in 1963 and refereed in the district tragically lost his life in a road accident near the for two years. famous Santa Monica Pier in California while on a family holiday in the United States. In 1972-73, Ron coached Macquarie University rugby league side - winning the Arnold Stehr Knockout competition - before joining the Holy Cross Junior Rugby Mara - who played first grade with both Balmain League Club where four of his sons played. and Parramatta in the early 1980s - was struck by a car allegedly driven by a drunk driver while crossing Colorado Avenue with wife Wilson was the Holy Cross delegate to the Balmain Junior League and later served Julianne and eight year old daughter Olivia. on the BJL Management Committee from 1976.

The popular Mara was hailed a hero by his wife and friends who said he paid the Ron was Chairman of the Judiciary until 1979 and also Assistant Secretary of Bal- ultimate sacrifice to save his young daughter, who was also struck by the car but not main Junior League in 1978 and 1979. seriously injured. Ron is survived by his wife Anne; five sons Steven, Phillip, Anthony, David and Gary died in hospital the following day while Olivia was treated for minor injuries. James; 12 grandchildren and three great grand children. The son of legendary Balmain winger and Hall of Fame inductee Bobby Mara, Gary played his early football with Balmain Police Boys and Birchgrove Scorpions in the Balmain Junior League. JACK ADAMS

A gifted goalkicking centre or winger, he represented Balmain in the Harold Matthews BALMAIN District Rugby League Referees stalwart John ‘Jack’ Adams passed away Cup (1976), S.G Ball (1977 & 78) and Jersey Flegg Cup (1979-80) competitions and in July, 2012 at the age of 97. was regarded a ‘natural talent’ by Tigers’ officials. Jack was a Life Member of the Balmain Referees Association and served on the BJL Gary was a member of the Tigers’ 1980 Flegg Cup-winning side that featured the Referee & Appointments Board during the 1940s and 1950s. 32 JIM THOMSON The Tigers lost only one match all season - against Newtown (10-2) - and featured in JIM THOMSON - the man who shaped possibly the first 0-0 draw in Australian rugby league history when they drew with St the early careers of Balmain rugby league George on August 5, 1950 at Leichhardt Oval. legends Wayne Pearce, Benny Elias and Steve Roach - passed away on December During that 1950 season, Jim was captain-coach of Cowra and also coached 7 after a long illness aged 87. Blayney as well as representing Riverina against the touring English team before returning to Balmain. He retired as a player in 1954. Thomson, who packed down at prop for the Tigers in the 1948 Grand Final loss to In 2008 he was bestowed with Life Membership of Balmain District Football Club in Western Suburbs, was regarded as one of the Tigers’ Centenary season. the best-ever coaches to ply his trade in the Balmain Junior League. Jim is survived by wife Gladys, sons Gary and Ian, daughters Vicki and Leanne and their families. His proud record with Balmain junior representative and lower grade teams from 1975 to 1984 is testimony of his ability to convert promising youngsters into top PICTURED Jim Thomson (centre) flanked by sons Gary and Ian after receiving Life grade footballers. Membership of the Tigers in 2008.

Kangaroo representatives Wayne Pearce, John Muggleton, Ben Elias, Steve Roach and son Ian Thomson along with first grade stars Paul Clarke, Paul Morris, John STEVE STANTON Davidson, Kevin Hardwick, Lance Thompson, John Owens, Mark Clinton, Wayne Innes, Peter Grounds, Craig Clarke and Steve Massey were some of the players that ROZELLE Codocks product Steve ‘Stitchy’ Jim coached at a junior level. Stanton lost a brave battle with cancer on September 18 at the age of 62. Thomson coached the Balmain Jersey Flegg team for six successive seasons from 1975 - guiding the Tiger cubs to a premiership in 1980; a Grand Final in 1978 and A punishing and skilful forward in his semi final appearances in 1977 and ‘79. heyday, Steve burst into the Tigers’ grade ranks as a precocious 17 year old in 1968 The Tigers’ talented “Class of ‘78” won the NSWRL Summer Coaching Schools after mature performances in the Balmain Trophy before they were pipped 12-10 by South Sydney in the Flegg Cup final after Jersey Flegg ranks. leading 8-0. Stanton figured in numerous Codocks’ premiership sides before earning a call up That Balmain team was skippered by Pearce and also included a fresh faced centre to the Balmain third grade squad. named John Muggleton. The team was coached by Alan Mason and Jim’s champion 1980 Balmain side featured future internationals in Elias and Roach went on to capture the 1968 premiership and top graders in Hardwick, Morris, Massey, Clinton and Gary Mara. at the SCG with young Stanton making an impact. The team later defeated Northern Division to clinch the NSW U/18 Championship A proud moment for ‘Stitchy’ came the title. following season when he packed down

alongside the great Arthur Beetson in the Tigers’ reserve grade side. Four members of that crack Balmain team - Roach, Elias, Morris and Massey - were The team went on to qualify for the Grand Final against Manly - minus Beetson - who selected in the City and NSW U/18 rep sides with Jim appointed manager of both suffered a season-ending injury midway through the 1969 competition. squads.

While the Sea Eagles claimed premiership honours in reserve grade, a youthful The following season Jim coached the Balmain U/23s team to the semi finals before Stanton sat on the sidelines as the Tigers pulled off an epic 11-2 victory over hot steering the Tigers’ third grade squad to the finals in 1982. favourites South Sydney in the top grade. A gifted sportsman, Steve represented Balmain Cricket Club with distinction in the Before taking up the Jersey Flegg coaching role, Thomson served ten years as A.W Green Shield U/16 competition. coach of Ryde RSL (1961 to 1971) and with Leichhardt Wanderers club (1972-79) in the Balmain Junior League. The talented all rounder shone with bat and ball and earned selection in the Com- bined City U/16 squad – alongside future Test stars Jeff Thomson, Len Pascoe and He was also a member of the NSW Coaching Panel from 1976-78. Kerry O’Keefe – that squared off with Country Coaching Class in the annual challenge at the SCG. Jim, the older brother of former Manly international forward Allan Thomson, was Steve is the younger brother of legendary Balmain Junior League coach John raised in Newcastle and played with premiers Belmont (1945) and Western Suburbs Stanton. Newcastle (1946) as a ball playing prop forward.

In 1947 he played rugby for Newcastle Technical College while an apprentice electri- cian at Commonwealth Steel and that same year represented Newcastle on three RON GOODWIN occasions including a match against City in Sydney. FORMER Leichhardt Coaching Class stalwart Ron Goodwin died on July 9 after a brave battle with cancer aged 80. Jim trialled and was graded with Balmain in 1948 and impressed selectors with his strong running and rugged defence to force his way into the top grade. Ron coached and managed several premiership-winning Coaching Class teams in Thomson played 15 matches including the controversial 8-5 Grand Final loss to the Balmain Junior League schoolboy competitions after joining the club in 1971. Western Suburbs at the SCG.

His daughter Sandra was also a leading official and Grand Final-winning manager. Playing alongside Balmain greats such as Dave Parkinson, Leo Nosworthy, Tom When the club was renamed Leichhardt Juniors, Ron persuaded his cousin – Bourke, Arthur Patton, Jack Hampstead, Sid Ryan, Bob Lulham, Fred de Belin, Joe legendary St George international fullback Ted Goodwin – to help coach the club’s Jorgenson, Tom Tyrrell, Stan Ponchard and Jack Spencer was one of Jim’s greatest talented U/15 squad in 1976 with Warren Allen. sporting thrills.

The Leichhardt cubs went on to clinch the E Grade premiership at Birchgrove Oval A late try by second rower Kevin Hansen and a Billy Keato conversion snatched a with a memorable victory over reigning champions North Ryde. premiership victory for the Magpies.

Ron, Sandra and Ted played a significant role in the Grand Final triumph – a title But Balmain players involved in that match still maintain they stopped Hansen short they savoured as a family. of the line - only for referee George Bishop to award the try. Jim went on to play 86 first grade games in his seven seasons with the Tigers and also figured in Balmain’s At the end of the 1977 season, Ron moved to the NSW north coast town of South 1950 reserve grade premiership winning team that defeated St George 10-6 in the West Rocks and began a long association with the Smithfield Tigers Football Club as Grand Final. a coach and mentor. 33