ACT claim sportsmanship trophy

The ACT’s best up and coming AFL players have returned home from Perth lifting the R.G. Newman Shield high above their heads after claiming the coveted trophy for the team that demonstrated exemplary sportsmanship at the Australian Football Championships.

Fifteen teams travelled to Western Australia for the event as the two age groups, under 15’s and under 12’s, battled it out to be crowned the best football state.

While the ACT under 12 side finished in seventh place it was the R.G. Newman Shield which they will remember most fondly from the trip.

The shield is presented to the side that demonstrates the highest level of sportsmanship and the ability to work best as a team.

Coach of the side, Cameron James, said the trophy is a fitting reward for the commitment, enthusiasm and dedication shown by the players.
 
“The main reason why we won this award is because the ACT players demonstrated a high level of sportsmanship both on and off the field even though the side didn’t get the results they were seeking,” James said.

“Not once did the players drop their heads after losing a game, they were always willing to listen to the advice from the coaches and go out there and give it their best shot.

“This is a fantastic achievement for these players and a testament to the hard work put in by the coaching staff, parents and supporters.”

The under 15 ACT side finished the championships in fourth place, behind Western Australia and the two Victorian teams.