Newcastle recognises top talent

By Will Dempsey

The Newcastle junior competition has acknowledged another outstanding season with an awards night in Newcastle.

Simon Smyth manager for Hunter and Central Coast region said it was an exceptional night that recognised the contribution of all the clubs in the competition.

“It had an amazing environment, all the teams from the competition were represented by decorating their tables in club colours,” he said.

“The presentation night recognized the exceptional players, umpires and volunteers that support the game in the Newcastle region.

Retired Sydney Swans and Carlton player Jason Saddington and AFL NSW/ACT Operations Manager Joseph La Posta were the guest speakers on the night.

“It was a tremendous occasion with great community atmosphere,” Saddington said.

Newcastle GSJ U10 Award Winners

Saddington answered questions from the audience surrounding his career and thoughts on the game.

“It’s obvious that the kids really enjoy playing their footy, hey have some great opportunities up in Newcastle with the Swans Academy system in place,” he said.

Saddington, who is currently the NSW/ACT State Coach, commented on rising star Isaac Heeney from Cardiff Hawks who has been accepted in the AFL AIS Academy program.

Nathan Vaisey – Nelson Bay (winner)

Lenden Pratt – Cardiff (runner up)

“He’s got fantastic potential- there is some strong talent coming out of the Hunter region, especially from those who are playing across other sports,” he said.

La Posta made comment at the presentations on the growth of the game in Newcastle and its positive agenda moving forward.

“We have some massive growth in the past couple of seasons especially in numbers of Auskick sides,” Smyth said.

“The volunteers and community support we have gained is fantastic, it’s been another very successful season.”

Smyth acknowledged the support of GSJ board members John Holmquest and Bob Robinson for their tireless efforts throughout the season, as well as Sue Kendrick who set up and helped organise such an exceptional presentation night.

Gary Eade (Singleton Juniors)- Winner

Callum jones (Cardiff Juniors) – runner up

AWARDS

Volunteer of the Year

Julie Ferguson – Warner’s Bay

Coach of the Year

Shane Jones – Cardiff

Auskick Centre of the Year

Warner’s Bay

Auskick Volunteer of the Year

Ryan Connor

Upcoming Grand finals – 2nd September

Under 16’s

Nelson Bay vs. Bay Dockers

Under 14’s

Cardiff Bay vs. Warner’s Bay Bulldogs

Under 12’s

Newcastle City Blue vs. Muswellbrook