Young stars recognised on Central Coast

A strong crowd was in attendance at Gosford RSL to celebrate another strong AFL season on the Central Coast that will culminate this weekend with Grand Finals to be played in three age groups (Under 12s, 14s and 16s).

Simon Smyth, Regional Manager for the Hunter and Central Coast was pleased with the progress of the competition.

“Everyone has adapted really well considering it is our inaugural year of Sunday football,” Smyth said.

“A lot of credit goes to our departing Regional Chair, Brendan Wilson, who has given three years of dedicated service to the Central Coast.

“Moving forward, we are very excited to introduce Under 17 football and a Youth Girls competition next year on the Coast.”

Killarney Vale Bombers midfield sensation Josh Mifsud was crowned the 2012 AFLGSJ Central Coast Best and Fairest Player. Misfud captained Killarney Vale, played Under 18s and debuted in the KVAFC First Grade side at the age of 15 this year. He also won the 2012 Challenge Cup Best and Fairest, when Central Coast beat Newcastle.

Tristan Stewart from Peninsula Swans was named the AFLGSJ Central Coast Under 14s Best & Fairest Winner for a great 2012 season and Regional Committee member Gavin Cornish was recognised for the hard work, long hours and dedication that he has put into the planning of events within the region all year.

AFL Central Coast 2012 award winners:

Volunteer of the Year
Nikki Gleisner (Peninsula Swans)

Coach of the Year
Miles Guthmann (Saratoga)

Auskick Volunteer of the Year
Leigh Walters (Saratoga)

Umpire Awards:

Best First Year Umpire
Rhys Gosper

Most Improved Umpire
Riley Friend

Goal Umpire of the Year
Lachlan Waters

Boundary Umpire of the Year
Charlotte Craine

Field Umpire of the Year
Lachlan Head

Golden Whistle Award
Josh Duffy-Sykes