District Junior Rugby League

2013 104th Annual Report

BALMAIN

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

Coateshire proud major sponsor of the Balmain District Junior Rugby League

Coateshire became the major sponsor of the Balmain District Junior Rugby League in 2010 and once again sponsored for 2013.

The sponsorship received is allocated to educa-tion within our District and affords every volun-teer who is appointed to a role in their Club to be properly qualified and then accredited as a Coach, LeagueSafe Trainer, and Sports Trainer. We also encourage our Administrators to attend workshops at no charge and this is also through the generosity of our Coateshire sponsorship.

Coates Limited is Australia’s largest equipment

hire company with over 120 years experience in industry, supplying a wide variety of markets including Engineering and Building Construction and Maintenance, Mining and Resources, Manu-facturing, Government and Events.

With over 200 branches and satellite locations with our own maintenance and transport ca-pability, Coateshire is well positioned to satisfy the equipment hire needs of an ever increasing customer base

Coateshire NSW are proud to support the Balmain District Junior Rugby League.

www.coateshire.com.au2

http://www.coateshire.com.au

GENERAL MANAGER’S REPORTWe were all in raptures with our 2012 efforts but the amount of young men from our Junior League graduating to NRL & NYC in 2013 & the success of our SG Ball again made 2013 a year to re-member for all.

Luke Brooks, Joel Luani & Nathan Brown all made their NRL debuts coincidentally in the same game last year which may be some sort of record for the Junior League and Jarred Farlow who has been a wonderful Clubman finally got his chance in a rare victory over the Panthers. Their Junior League Clubs should be very proud of this achievement.

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Balmain PCYC kids

Another three players Alefosio Tatola, Matthew Woods & Rhys Armstrong also graduated to NYC football after winning a memorable SG Ball & National U/18 Final. Well done to you all.

Our Junior Clubs had mixed results across the Sydney Combined Competition but were very competitive in a number of age groups and divi-sions. A bit more hard work and a touch of luck will see some of the Clubs with premierships in 2014.

Our Junior League Grand Final Day was again well attended by family & friends with big crowds

cheering on the boys. A huge vote of thanks to Operations Manager Jennie Webster and the BDJRL Directors who gave up their time to con-tribute to the success of the day.

Coateshire were again major sponsors of the Junior League in 2013 and along with Ryde East-wood Leagues Club, Wests Ashfield, Dulux Inspi-rations Gladesville & Burwood Heights, Sydney Markets, Tigers Sydney Markets and Tigers Five Dock and Patron Mick Manning your support and assistance is never taken for granted and from everyone involved with BDJRL a mighty thanks!

Our Awards night and Junior League Luncheon were again wonderful highlights on the 2013 calendar both socially and to recognise our major contributors for our Junior Rep and Junior League Programs. To Jennie and her band of vol-unteers who make these events run so smoothly it is appreciated by all Clubs and attendees.

Our thanks to Ryde Eastwood Leagues and All Occasion Cruises for their continued support of these wonderful events. To Australian Power & Gas & James Myatt your support both financially & personally has been sincerely valued & from all of us we wish you well in future endeavours.

To the Balmain DJRL Referees Association many thanks for the job you do in sometimes a thank-less world. Without you we do not have a game.

To all the partners/sponsors of all the Clubs, you keep the lights turned on at training, put the jerseys on the backs of the kids and contribute towards the trophies our players receive at sea-son’s end. You put a smile on the kids’ faces and get them active in a team sport which can result in lifetime friendships-THANK YOU

Balmain Volunteers

John Critchley and the Directors of the Junior League, keep up the great work and to all the executive committees of the respective Junior League Clubs our thanks for your time and dedi-cation to our game.

Our precious volunteers who selflessly give up their time to lend a helping hand Mrs Mac, Barry, Norma & Renee for all you do at all levels of Tigers Football. Lyn & Stapo for your help when Leichhardt is needed for our Junior League events-many thanks.

With my focus a little more on other Rugby League matters in 2013 I want to firstly congratu-late Jennie Webster on her historic appointment to the Board of the NSW Junior Rugby Leagues Association who are a voting member of the NSWRL. Another valuable role she combines is her role with the Sydney Combined Competi-tion Committee (SCC) and the contribution she makes to both BTFC and the BDJRL. It is a credit to you to be recognised at all these different lev-els of the game. Congratulations & thanks from all of us.

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

Black & Gold-We Never Fold!

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

Paul Sironen

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

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

GENERAL MANAGER’S REPORT

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OFFICE BEARERS 1908 - 2013

SECRETARIESDave ButchartPat McQuadeFrank SavageRobert SavageLeo MasonW L YoungBill O’ConnorC H ‘Micky’ Roberts L Crawley J Burnicle Sid JenkinsJ GriffithR Rourke Harry AddisonGeorge LeeDanny CliffordBill BallardJoe HayesDon Graham

Mick Ko’Cass

Bill Brown Bob Carroll

Paul Egan

PRESIDENTSArthur Ballerum Frank Savage James N Walsh J McCarry J Shaw Bill O’ConnorA S Cochrane L Crawley A Dawes Bert Hampstead Austin Hoyle Robert McKinney Bill Evans Bob Waterson John Jackson Ted Hellsten

Sid Coghlan Robert Henderson

1908-09-10-11-12-13-14-15-161917-18-191920-21-22-23-24-25-26-28-29-40-411927-1930-31-32-331934-3519351936-37-38-391942-431944-45-461947-48-49-50-51-52-53-541955-56-57-581959-60-611962-63-64-65-66-67-68-69-701971-72-73-74-75-76-771978-79-80-81-821983-84-85-86-87-88-89-90-91-9219931994-95-96-97-98-99-2000

1908-09-10-11-12-13 1908-091914-15-18-19-221916-171920-21-23-24-251926-27-281929-30-31-32 1933-341934-351936-371938-39-40-411942-431944-45-461947-48-49-501951-52-53-54-551956-571958-59-601961-621963-64-65-66-67-68-69-70-71-72-73-74-751976-77-78-79-80 (Resigned)1980-81-821983-84-85-86-87-88-89-90-91-92-93-941995-96-97-98-99-2000-01-02-03-04

ASSISTANT SECRETARIESHarold Matthews

M Cooney B Curran J Burnicle W L Young E Whitford J Burnet Harry Chalk Arthur Robinson Bill Ballard Arthur McIlveen Ron Wilson Ray DaltonBob Carroll Chris Kenny Kathleen Hughes Pat Hegarty Cliff MadgwickGraham Simmons Lyn Phillis

1913-14-15-16-17-18-19-20-21-221927-281929-30-31-32-33-3419351936-37-38-39-401941-42-43-441945-4619471948-49-50-51-52-53-54-551956-57-58-59-601961-62-63-64-65-66-67-68-69-70-71-72-73-74-75-76-771978-791980-8119821983-84-85-8619871988-89-90 (Retired)1990-91-92-93-941995-96-97-98-99-2000-01-02-032004-05

Bob Barnett Bill Wise John Culbert

20012002-03-042005 (deceased)

TREASURERSFrank Savage Harold Matthews W L Young M Cooney B Curran D Cooksey L Crawley Allan Slarke J Connor H McLeod J Donovan Harry Chalk A Harding Bob Jones Arthur Robinson Ron Pursehouse Reg Patterson Phil Lloyd Doug Vitnell Myles Kennedy

1914-15-16-17-18-19-201921-221923-24-25-261927-281929-30-3119321933-341935 1936-37-38-39-40-41-42-431944-4519461947-48-49-50-51-521949-50-511953-54-551956-57-58-59-60-61 1962-63-64-65-66-67-681969-70-71-72-73-74-75-761977-78-7919801981-82-83

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Tony Newell Kathy PalmerSid Coghlan Ernie Baldwin Tony Bietola Chris Annison

1984-85-861986-87 1988-89-90-911992-93-94-2002-031995-96-97-98-99-2000-012004-05

JUNIOR LEAGUE ADMINISTRATORSFrank Delaney J Galvin

19371937

VICE PRESIDENTSTom Prescott Richard Baker

19241930-31-32-33

SENIOR VICE PRESIDENTSArthur McIlveen Ted Hellsten Maurie O’Brien Ken Brownlee Sid Coghlan Bob Barnett Bill Wise John Culbert Allen Carling

1978-791980-81-821983-84-85-861988-89-90-9119921993-94-95-96-97-98-99-200020012002-03-04 (deceased)2005

OPERATIONS MANAGERDarren Mooney Jennie Webster

2004- 20062007 – continuing

CHAIRMANRobert Henderson John Critchley

2006-2010 (resigned)2011 -

DEVELOPMENT MANAGERDavid Kelly Yvette Downey

1997- 20102012 - 2013

GENERAL MANAGER RLFC & JUNIOR LEAGUEMichael Keech Paul Sironen

2007-2010 (resigned)2010 (Acting) 2011 continuing

OFFICE BEARERS 1908 - 2013

John Carrington Debbie Chalmers John Critchley Warwick Hilder Gary Hinchliffe Steve Lavers Peter Mortimer Mick O’Keefe Bob Siemsen Philip Taylor David Wilson Scott Todd Chris Raheb Charlie Khalifeh Chris Annison Ian Gibbeson Jon Monroe Robert Gerrie John Stapleton Brian Johnston Chris Woods Michael Benson Brett Wheelhouse Frank DunneLeoni Barnett Con Veneziano Aida Catalano Paul Jenson Gabriel Georgy Richard Jones Richard Kelly Joe Bainou

2006-201020062006-08-09-102006-07-082006-072006-0720062006-20122006-20122006-20122006-2011 resigned2011-20122006-20122012-2007-08-092007-08-09-102007-08 (deceased)20082008-20122008-201220082011-201220092009-2012 resigned20122009-2012 resigned201020102010-20112009-20122011-20122012

DIRECTORS

PATRONMick Manning 1997-continuing

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BALMAIN JUNIOR LEAGUE BOARD OF DIRECTORS

CHAIRMANJohn Critchley

PATRONMick Manning

Balmain PCYC Carlingford Cougars Concord Burwood Dundas Shamrocks Enfield Federals Five Dock RSL Holy Cross Rhinos Leichhardt Juniors Leichhardt WanderersNorth Ryde Hawks Strathfield Raiders Balmain Referees Assn

Mick O’KeefeRichard KellyDavid DurbinBob SiemsenJoe BainouNick SperanzaRichard JonesPhilip TaylorLeoni Barnett Brian JohnstonCharlie KhalifehScott Todd

SUB COMMITTEES

Paul Sironen (General Manager)Jennie Webster (Operations Manager)

FINANCE COMMITTEE

Tony Beger (Chairman)Mick ManningSam Gebrael

JUDICIARY COMMITTEE

John Critchley (Chairman)Jennie Webster (Operations Manager)Mick ManningJohn Carrington

LIFE MEMBERS COMMITTEE

Jennie Webster (Operations Manager)

SYDNEY COMBINED COMPETITIONS COMMITTEE

Jennie Webster (Operations Manager) representing NSW

NATIONAL LEAGUENET COMMITTEE

Peter Mortimer (Chairman)Jennie Webster (Operations Manager)

RULES COMMITTEE

Chris Raheb (Chairman)Mick ManningMick O’KeefePhillip TaylorBob Siemsen

BEHAVIOUR MANAGEMENT PANEL

BALMAIN JUNIOR RUGBY LEAGUE LIFE MEMBERS

Jim Acheson, Fred Alexander*, Chris Annison, Kathy An-nison, Jeff Aplitt, Keith Bailey, Bill Ballard, Allan Barber, Bob Barnett*, Ernie Baldwin, Ken Bell*, Ray Barclay, Tony Bietola, Des Booler, George Bowden*, Bill Bradshaw*, Bill Brown, Ken Brownlee*, Bill Burke, Harold Chalk*, Alan Carling, John Carrington, Bob Carroll, Sid Coghlan*, Brian Coleman, Bob Cooper, John Critchley, John Culbert*, Charlie Day, Ray Dalton*, Phil Dore, John Doyle, Max Da-vis, John Dunlea, Gary Dickson, Paul Egan, Terry Evans, Bill Evans*, Bill Fender*, G Frederick*, Jim Fitzgibbons, Mal Finnigan*, Gino Fogliati, Dennis Fowler*, Sam Ge-brael, Ray Gerrie, Don Graham*, Bert Hampstead*, Harry Hannaford*, Pat Hegarty, Ted Hellsten*, Austin Hoyle, Les Heath, Bob Henderson, Peter Hunter, J Hughes*, Wally Houghton*, Keith Jacobs*, John Jackson*, Steve Leslie,

Cliff Madgwick*, Mick Manning, Peter Mortimer, Harold Matthews*, Chris Karas, David Kelly, Myles Kennedy*, Jack King, Mick Ko’Cass, Mick O’Keefe, Arthur McIlveen*, Tom Middleton*, Leo Neylon*, Tony Newell, Maurie O’Brien, Reg Patterson, Lyn Phillis, Ron Pursehouse, Roy Rawson, Eric Richardson*, John Robertson, Arthur Robinson, George Robinson*, Martin Ritter, Ron Ryan, Bob Siemsen, Den-nis Simmons, Graham Simmons, H Skinner, John Stanton, Jack Tagg*, John Stapleton, Ken Stapleton, Jack Taylor*, Kevin Thatcher*, Colin Thew*, Ian Todd, Doug Vitnell*, Alan Watts, Bob Waterson, A Waterson, Athol Webster, Paul Wheelhouse, Ron Wicks, Billy Wise, Fred Woodbridge*, Stan Woodbridge**Deceased

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CHAIRMAN’S REPORTAs we close off the 2013 season I look back on some of our achievements with consideration to the financial challenges we had to overcome. With 142 teams containing 2,500 players, it sometimes meant long hours at our club grounds and canteens for many of our volunteers.

On that note I would like to congratulate Leich-hardt Wanderers hard working Leoni Barnett who was a finalist in the “ONE COMMUNITY NA-TIONAL VOLUNTEER AWARDS”. Recognition must also be given to our great band of Balmain Referees, because without their dedication and commitment from week to week, we would not have a game.

A special mention to our Operations Manager Jennie Webster and the JRL Board of Directors who steer our competition from week to week. Jennie has secured a great deal of sponsorship to assist our clubs and their players.

I would also like to congratulate Mick O’Keefe from Balmain Police Boys who after many years service has decided to hand over the reins as a Director. Mick has gradually grown the club under his leadership over many years and set-up a great band of workers to take it forward.

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

In mid September I attended our JRL Presenta-tion night where not only did we acknowledge our Junior Rep Squad players, but also our outstand-ing club volunteers. If it were not for our dedicat-ed volunteers and Board members, our Balmain JRL would not be as successful as it is. On the night, NRL “Wests Tigers” coach – Mick Potter reminded everyone to not only encourage their children to play the sport, but more importantly “allow them to enjoy their time on the field”. Good advice.

Our Grand-Final day was the highlight of the season where we witnessed the kids enjoying the thrill of playing on Leichhardt Oval. I was person-ally pleased to see the mass of supporters from Enfield Federals offering support and encourage-ment to their U/12 boys late in the evening.

Thanks to Jennie Webster, Mick Manning and our Board of Directors for another successful season, hope to see everyone back again in 2014.

John CritchleyChairmanBalmain District Junior Rugby League

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OPERATION MANAGER’S REPORTBalmain was the first junior league formed in 1908, some 106 years ago and passion and love of the game is the glue that keeps our District strong with our members wanting to continually strive to be better every year.

We have been very fortunate to have had some incredible years where everything seems to have fallen into place and all the hard work and plan-ning by many has been rewarded with on field results from our fine young players and coaching staff and off field accolades to our magnificent clubs and volunteers.

Paul Sironen’s Report reveals how well our Representative players have performed and who would have thought that after a 30 year drought in winning the SG Ball that Balmain would go back to back winning the U18s SG Ball titles in 2012 and 2013 and go on to become National Champions both years! The Wests Tigers now has a number of our district young guns in their NRL team and this year Luke Brooks, Joel Luani and Nathan Brown all made their NRL debuts.

John Critchley, the magnificent Junior League Chairman shares in his Report the community feel of our District and recognises our wonder-ful volunteers and the incredible job they do throughout the year. The season is not just the few months of the footy, there is so much pre and post season planning to do and along with John Critchley I congratulate all of our Clubs for doing such a wonderful job.

Personally, the most remarkable aspect of Rugby League in this District is the camaraderie that I have witnessed growing between the officials and clubs over the years. It has taken a lot of hard

work but the end result is that our Clubs are trulyworking together to create a wonderful District with a happy atmosphere. I am very proud of this and even more proud of our Clubs for wanting to create that atmosphere to play in.

In 2013 the season commenced with 142 teams comprising 2,500 players and officials compet-ing in the Junior League and the newly named Sydney Combined Competition. Again our district growth remains steady and my heartfelt wish is to see every Club competing in each division of every age group. We still have a way to go to ac-complish this.

Although we had some very competitive senior teams who made the final series, we could not quite get over the line to be able to host some “home” grand finals at Leichhardt Oval and as a District I am sure our clubs have set their sights to achieve this for 2014.

9s with Robbie Farah

Where competition for the sponsorship dollar is so strong, we cannot state how much our District appreciates the support from our Major Spon-sor Coateshire 13 15 52. With the funding received, our District is able to offer every volun-teer the opportunity to become a Coach of young players from 4 through to 12 years (Modified

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when they played at Leichhardt Oval. This resulted in a very generous amount paid to each of the Clubs involved. Wests Ashfield Leagues went a step further for 2014 in offering Club Grants to a number of our Clubs. On behalf of our Junior League, we thank Simon Cook and his team for the generosity shown to our Dis-trict and Clubs by Wests Ashfield Leagues.

Every year we have the fantastic support of McDonald’s. Once again we had an opportu-nity to advertise and promote rugby league in our District through the Tray Mat Program at no cost throughout the 23 Inner Western Suburbs stores to support our registration period and every year we can rely on McDonald’s sending “Ronald” to our Grand Final Day to assist with the presenta-tion of our Mini League Trophies.

Following is a list of some of the season high-lights• Luke Brooks, Joel Luani and Nathan Brown

made their NRL debuts.• Alefosio Tatola, Mat Woods and Rhys Arm-

strong moved into the NYC ranks• Rhys Armstrong and Alefosio Tatola selected

into the NSW U18 representative team• Pifeleti Pifeleti selected into the NSW U16

representative team• Nellie Hage named Wests Tigers Woman of

the Year• Balmain Junior League continues to be a force

not just on the footy field but in all aspects of the game. Leoni Barnett from Leichhardt Wanderers was named a finalist in the cat-egory of National Volunteer of the Year at the NRL National One Community Awards

• Clubs were very active in supporting the McGrath Foundation Pink 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.

Game) or a coach of 13s through to A Grade (International Game), or become a League Safe Trainer or Sports Trainer. The funding also as-sists with the purchase of uniforms, equipment, course materials, and sports DVDs for taping.

The District is also able to offer Coaching Up-dates to ensure that all coaches are able to con-tinue their development and education.

We would not be able to do any of this without that support and every member of our District is very grateful for the generosity of Coateshire 13 15 52.

Ryde Eastwood Leagues Club [RELC] also became a Sponsor of the Junior League with their very generous funding covering the costs of all insurance premiums for every player from the age of 4 years through to 15 years and this resulted in an incredible saving to our families and Clubs. Chris McCarthy and his team at the RELC have been wonderful to work with and we hope to continue our relationship for years into the future.

Ryde Eastwood Leagues Club have also been very generous in allowing the District and Clubs to use their meeting rooms and facilities and their venue has been the home of our very successful Awards Nights for the past few years.

For 2014, the Ryde Eastwood Leagues Club become another Major Sponsor by increas-ing our sponsorship grant with their incredibly generous offer to pay the insurance premiums for our entire district from age 4 through to A Grade. Our 11 Clubs plus the Balmain Referees Association are all beneficiaries of their generos-ity and are all so appreciative.

Wests Ashfield Leagues became a spon-sorship partner and offered Clubs a share of $1,000 per try scored by Wests Tigers

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The Sydney Combined Competition (SCC) con-tinues to grow in strength and is a Competition held in high regard by NSWRL. Each year, more Districts are applying to become part of the SCC and I would like to thank Stuart Stanton from the NSWRL Academy who is the Competition Man-ager. Stuart performed an exceptional role and was a main reason for its success. My thanks also go to Cathy Crowe, Chris Books and Mitch-ell Sim from St George, Kevin Shanahan from Canterbury Bankstown, Julie Luke from Western Suburbs and Luke Curry from South Sydney/Eastern Suburbs for their hard work and support to make the Competition such a success.

In the centre, Nellie Hage, Wests Tigers Woman of the Year

The National Online Database is the system used to register all players, coaches, trainers and volunteers across the country. My congratulations to all of our club volunteers for attending training and working hard to be able to use all aspects of the system. Clubs may now register their members online and offer early bird discounts, merchandise and the convenience to be able to register at any time of the day or night. The system is certainly not without its hiccups but I for one am a huge fan as I can see how much time is saved and the system will continue to improve.The District’s main fundraiser is the Sports-man’s Lunch and what a great day it was. We are blessed to always have such a beautiful sunny day on the harbour on the “Bella Vista”. Our grateful thanks to Joe Elias and his team at All Occasion Cruises as everyone has a wonder-ful time and a lot of money is raised for the junior league clubs.

We are so fortunate to have the full use of Leich-hardt Oval on Grand Final Day and it is one of the days I enjoy most as it is a culmination of a season’s hard work and the fine spirit and friend-ship between the clubs is absolutely outstanding. There were some very close and exciting games.

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

Every year Sydney Markets provide fresh fruit to every player which is very gratefully received. This is a significant contribution and we love the healthy options!

Along with the generous sponsorship from Coateshire 13 15 52, every player competing in the Grand Finals also receives an “enviro” bag which includes pens, notepads, sunscreen and pencil cases. These bags are very popular and are very well received. We then see the “enviro bags” throughout the next season!The joint Balmain Tigers Football Club and Bal-main Junior League Annual Awards Night on Fri-day 13th September held at the Ryde Eastwood Leagues Club was a wonderful success with the Junior League and District Club Reps coming together to celebrate the season. Our thanks go to Mick Campbell for being the MC this year and Mick did a wonderful job.

Birchgrove Oval

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Mannings

There is not enough room in my report to be able to highlight all that our District’s Volunteer of the Year achieved in 2013; Glenn Hillier from North Ryde Hawks. Glenn was instrumental in organising the Inaugural Walk for Cancer held at TG Millner Field which raised over $10,000 for the McGrath Foundation and Benji Marshall’s pet charity – The Children’s Cancer Institute. Glenn has been a real force within his Club, District and Community this year and extremely deserving of the George Thompson Volunteer of the Year Award. Glenn like Leoni Barnett, Tony Bignold and Peter Mortimer all honoured in the years before him, was invited to the NSWRL Volunteer of the Year Awards in November and he was ac-knowledged for his dedication.

Congratulations to Concord Burwood who were crowned both Junior Club and Senior Club of the Year. This is a fantastic effort by the Club! Further congratulations to their Club Secretary, Aida Catalano who was honoured with the Ray Stellar Service to Rugby League Award at the 2013 Brad Fittler Medal Awards Night. Aida is an integral part of her Club along with a wonder-ful Committee and this was a very well deserved honour.

Throughout this year’s Annual Report there are many more stories and highlights and I am sure you will enjoy reading them.

We say it all the time, but it is true….. Volun-teers are the lifeblood of our sport and without them we would be nothing. The thousands of hours given so willingly by our Volunteers is truly appreciated. My special thanks go to June and Barry Maguire, Norma Walters, Renee Simpson and Lyn Phillis who go above and beyond for both the Balmain Tigers and the Balmain Junior League.

John Critchley has again been outstanding as Chairman of the BDJRL and he provides wonder-ful leadership, friendship and wisdom. A man who has time for everyone. My sincere thanks to John for his personal support to me.

The JL Board of Directors continue to work ex-tremely hard and the camaraderie and profes-sionalism show by each and every one of them is reflected on how well the Clubs work together. On behalf of the BDJRL Board, our thanks go to Danny Stapleton, Director of the District Club who attends our Board meetings and contributes so well. Danny continues to coach in the Junior League and is well across all of the issues and concerns that junior leagues face from time to time.

My sincere thanks go to past Balmain Tigers Football Club Chairman David Trodden for his support and faith in me and to new Chairman, Dr

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Leslie Glen who has also been very supportive since taking over the role.

We are fortunate to have a s trong relationship with the Balmain Referee’s Association and my grateful thanks to President, Scott Todd and Ref-eree Manager, Phillip McMahon for their support and enthusiasm throughout the year.

To my colleagues, Vinh Tran and Bree Keighran, thank you for your support, friendship and as-sistance throughout the year and for promoting rugby league throughout the schools system and I wish both of you well with your new ventures in 2014.

Special thanks to Mitch Lewis and Yvette Downey who have both been an absolute pleas-ure to work with. Mitch Lewis took over Yvette’s role in Development and has done a wonderful job with our coaching coordinators, junior reps and junior player development and Yvette for her support and encouragement with her new role in Community, Welfare and Education. Our junior league is very well looked after in these areas.

I would also like to offer my sincere thanks to Wests Tigers General Manager, Grant Mayer

Jennie WebsterOperations Manager Balmain District Junior Rugby League

who has been very supportive of our Junior League and what we are striving to achieve. “Thank you” just does not seem enough when Mick Manning is mentioned. As Patron of our Junior League since 1997, his kindness, passion, generosity and incredible support to me and to all at the Junior League is absolutely legendary and I hope that Mick understands how much he is ap-preciated for all that he does.

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.

Balmain Junior League has a magnificent history and I so pleased to be just a small part of that history.

HAROLD MATTHEWS

2013 DISTRICT REP SECRETARY’S REPORTAs always, recognition must go to the many peo-ple who make it possible for the teams to take the field every week. Thank you to the Balmain Tigers Football Club, the Balmain Junior League Board, our major sponsors Tigers Five Dock and Tigers Sydney Markets, Ryde Eastwood Football and Leagues Club, Australian Power & Gas,

This squad unfortunately didn’t meet expecta-tions. Even though they showed some glimpses

DTS, Blades, Griffin Air Conditioning for the outstanding support provided during the 2013 Representative season.

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Western Sydney Academy won 44-16; Qualifying Final vs Cronulla won 32-18; Semi Final vs South Sydney won 26-24; Preliminary Final vs Par-ramatta won 24-16; Grand Final vs Penrith win 14-6; National Championship vs Redcliff Dolphins won 24-12.

I would personally like to thank the all the boys from Harold Matthews and S G Ball, for the way they conducted themselves throughout the sea-son, it was an absolute pleasure. I would also like to thank the ballboys for their assistance each and every week. It was a pleasure to get to know you all.

I hope that all of the players take the knowledge and experience they have gained working with such experienced staff and use it in the future to reach their full potential as players and young men. Congratulations to all of the Balmain players who gained selection in NSWRL Representative Teams, Schoolboy Representative teams, Wests Tigers NYC train-on, and the Wests Tigers CUBS at the conclusion of the Junior Rep. competition.

Thank you to all the people who make it pos-sible for the boys to train and play every week, I really don’t know how to thank you all enough. Brian Murtagh, Paul Fletcher, Dilhan our Physio who kept the boys on the field each week, our wonderful Leichhardt Oval voluntary staff (Barry Maguire, June Maguire, Maureen McKeon, Norma Walters and Renee Simpson) and our loyal parents and supporters for their incredible encouragement throughout the season.

I would also like to extend my condolences to those who have lost loved ones during the year.Finally, a special thank you, as always to Paul Sironen, Yvette Downey, John Stapleton and Mitch Lewis for the never ending help, support and guidance they give at all times.

Another unbelieveable season for our wonderful Club!

Lyn PhillisDistrict Rep. Secretary

At the start of the season this squad was an unknown quantity, most players improving each week which is what we hoped for and also grow-ing closer as a group. What we didn’t expect was for them to take out the S G Ball Premiership and the National Title for the second consecutive year.

Thank you to Mat Head, Pat Gibson, Liam Roach, Bob Cooper, Wally Carpenter, Bruce Hammond and David Patman for the unending dedication and effort shown during the year. You all did a wonderful job and your commitment never waivered. I would also like to thank Todd McKeown for helping out on the side-line each week.

Results:Round 1 vs St George won 38-18; Round 2 vs Penrith Lost 32-12; Round 3 vs Newcastle won 24-12; Round 4 vs Western Suburbs won 18-10; Round 5 vs South Syd ney lost 46-12; Round 6 vs West Coast won 48-6; Round 7 lost 38-14; Round 8 vs Parramatta won 24-21; Round 9 vs

SG BALL

of what they were capable of when they stuck to the game plans etc., they unfortunately fell short only winning three from nine rounds.

I would like to extend my sincere thanks to Todd McKeown, Peter Mortimer, Mark De Gioia, Mitch Lewis, Glen Jeffery, Tom Livsey and David Pat-man for the dedication, commitment and effort you all showed during the year.

Results:Round 1 vs St George won 28-10; Round 2 vs Penrith lost 28-6; Round 3 vs Newcastle lost 30-4; Round 4 vs Western Suburbs lost 28-24; Round 5 vs South Sydney lost 50-0; Round 6 vs SWSAS won 34-6; Round 7 vs Canberra lost 32-12; Round 8 vs Parramatta lost 38-10; Round 9 vs Western Sydney Academy won 22-16.

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Vinh Tran – Balmain High Schools2013 proved to be another solid year of Rugby League activity in the Balmain region.

2013 Community Carnival To start the year we ran one of our biggest ever cam-paign of school visits. NRL Game Development staff took the Wests Tigers players to nearly 40 primary and secondary schools across the Balmain area. The visits were part of the NRL One Community Carnivals and the message the play-ers delivered was “Tackle Bullying” and how to deal with this issue. They also talked about their junior league experiences and promoted all the local BDJRL clubs. Over 8000 students were part of this year’s community carnival.

2013 Balmain All SchoolsAnother great Balmain All Schools Gala Day was held in 2013. High School teams from across the region gathered to St Luke’s Park and Goddard Park for a massive day of competitive rugby league. The win-ners from this year’s carnival were:13s – Holy Cross College, Ryde14s – Holy Cross College, Ryde15s – Strathfield South HS 16s – Homebush Boys HS

These schools went on to represent the region at the

NSW All Schools. The 13s Holy Cross team were fantastic and progressed to the final but gallantly went down.

2013 High School clinics and activitySchools from across the Balmain area continued their affinity for rugby league activity. With a multitude of single sex and co-educational schoolsparticipating in Coles NRL Backyard League pro-grams, Introductory NRL clinics, training sessions and coach and referee education programs. As part of these programs hundreds of Steedens were distribut-ed to students as well information on how to join their local BDJRL club. St Patricks Marist Dundas, Dom Remy College, Fort St HS, Santa Sabina College, Epping Boys HS, Strathfield South HS and Hunters Hill HS were just some of the schools involved in the above mentioned activities.

There was also the continuation of regular, week-to-week rugby league competitions that saw a number of schools from the area continue the traditions of these competitions. Schools including, Holy Cross College, De La Salle Ashfield, St Patricks Marist Dun-das, Marist College Eastwood, Marsden HS, Ryde Secondary College, Sydney Secondary College and Concord HS were amongst those that were involved in MCC, MCS, CHS, Buckley Shield, University Shield and GIO Cup and Trophy competitions.

NRL GAME DEVELOPMENT 2013 REPORT

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THREE of Balmain Junior League’s most re-spected figures – Ron Ryan, Mick O’Keefe and referee coach Sam Gebrael – have been hon-oured with life membership.

The trio are pictured at Leichhardt Oval – just days after receiving their life membership pins at the Junior League AGM at the ground’s Centuri-ons Room.Ryan, 48, of Tennyson Point has proved a fine ambassador for Balmain rugby league, both as a player and administrator with North Ryde Hawks.

The former Tigers’ utility back has given yeoman service to the district over the past 40 years.

A crafty half back with North Ryde and Balmain junior representative teams, Ryan skippered the Tigers to a Jersey Flegg premiership triumph in 1982.

That same year, Ron captained the City, NSW and Australian U/18 teams to victories over Country, Queensland and the touring Great Brit-ain Colts before helping Balmain reserve grade side defeat Eastern Suburbs in the ’82 Grand

JUNIOR LEAGUE STALWARTS HONOURED

Final at the SCG.

Ryan went on to play 30 first -grade matches for Balmain and Eastern Suburbs from 1983-87 as well as a short stint with English club Halifax.

He was a member of the Tigers’ 1984 reserve grade premiership side and since retiring as a player has devoted many hours to the North Ryde Hawks as a club patron and executive.

Ron has poured his energies into grassroots rugby league and is highly regarded in sporting circles for his generosity and business acumen.

MICK O’KEEFE is a name synonymous with the Balmain Police Citizens Youth RLFC.

The long serving police officer helped re-form the famous ‘Coppers’ in 2004 after many years in the Junior League wilderness and has played a major role in the club’s growth.

From one U/7 side, the club now fields eight teams in the BJL competitions – thanks to the tireless efforts of O’Keefe and Tony Bignold.

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Mick, a skilful prop with Newtown in the NSW Police Rugby League series from 1982-89, has coached the Coppers’ Mini and Mod League sides these past nine seasons and has served as a BJL director since 2005.

SAM GEBRAEL achieved a unique milestone when he became the first referee to be bestowed with life membership of the BJL.

Evergreen Sam stumbled into refereeing at the age of 36 and has given sterling service to the Balmain Referees Association since 1986.

He caught the refereeing bug while playing touch football on Sunday mornings with friends at Blair Park Croydon.

The matches would become heated, so playerstook turns at refereeing with Sam relishing the opportunity to control proceedings.

Sam was encouraged by former referee Graeme West to get his ticket and after completing his course was graded as a BJL referee.

After a short apprenticeship, Sam worked his way up to the senior ranks and controlled the 1995 U/21 title decider - the first of four Grand Final appearances.

Sam received life membership of the Balmain Referees after 10 years service and has held the position of Director of Referees and Referees Manager since 2000.

Sam enjoys his mentoring role with the BJL refer-ees and watched with pride as 18-year-old grand-son Robert Bechara achieved his Level 2 and controlled the U/12 Div 1 Grand Final between premiers Leichhardt Wanderers Red and Dundas Shamrocks at Leichhardt Oval in 2012.

up over 40 years experience in the Balmain Jun-ior League as both a player and writer.

Chris 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.In 2011, he wrote the book “Friends for Life – The Leichhardt Wanderers Story” – a detailed history of one of Australia’s longest-established sporting clubs.

Chris has also written the “History of Ryde East-wood Hawks 1963-2013” – a proud club that recently celebrated its 50th anniversary.

CHRIS KARASCHRIS KARAS is an ac-complished Sydney sporting journalist and author who is entering his 30th year as Sports Editor of the award-winning suburban newspa-per The Weekly Times.

He is the Balmain Tigers rugby league historian and a life member of both the Balmain Junior League and Leichhardt Wanderers Junior Rugby League Football Club.

At the age of 52, Chris has had a lifetime involve-ment with the game – representing the Balmain Tigers where he still has strong ties and chalking

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SALUTE TO FIVE DOCK LEAGUE LEGENDS

FIVE Dock RSL Junior Rugby League Club sa-luted their lone international Bronson Harrison at its 50th anniversary function on August 2 at Club Five Dock. Harrison, the former Wests Tigers’ NRL premier-ship-winning forward and current St George-Illa-warra star, played his early junior football with the Dockers before linking with Leichhardt Wander-ers.The impact forward went on to help the Tigers capture the 2005 title and experience World Cup glory with the New Zealand Test team.

Harrison is pictured extreme left with Five Dock JRLFC life member and event co-ordinator Chan-telle Garrett; City of Canada Bay Mayor Angelo Tsirekas; Five Dock RSL Football Club secre-tary Penny Chalk; Five Dock RSL Football Club president Joe Dougall; Reid MP John Murphy; Five Dock RSL JRLFC life member and assistant treasurer Helen Gregory; Balmain Junior League chairman and Five Dock RSL legend John Critch-ley and Five Dock RSL stalwart and Balmain Junior League director Nick Speranza. Six stalwarts - Walter Zatz, John Robertson, John Slattery, Terry Dickson, Steve Malcolm and John Critchley - were inducted as Five Dock

FIVE Dock RSL junior products Lindsay Delpech, John Owens, Bronson Harrison, Steve Blyth and Gary Lonnon (pictured) at the Dockers’ 50th an-niversary Reunion Night. All five went on to play first grade in either the NSWRL or NRL premier-ship.

‘Legends’on the night while stalwart Ted Collins received the Steve Malcolm Memorial Club Spirit Trophy.

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Inspirational co-captains Fosio Tatola and Matthew Woods proudly hold aloft the S.G Ball Cup trophy after Balmain’s memorable 14-6 Grand Final victory over Penrith at St Mary’s Stadium.

TIGER CUBS ROAR TO S.G BALL CHAMPIONSHIPBALMAIN U/18 rugby league cubs etched their names in the record books after clinching back to back S.G Ball Cup premierships on May 4.

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

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

It was the first time that Balmain had won back-to-back S.G Ball titles and the club’s third overall since the competition’s inception back in 1965.Parramatta were the last club to achieve the feat back in 1987-88.posts for a 6-0 lead.

Marshall-King booted a penalty goal after the interval for an 8-0 lead and created his team’s second try in the 57th minute with a clever kick for winger Jayden Wheelhouse, who leaped high to grab the ball and cross in the corner.

Penrith - led by giant forwards Peter Tiatia, Jor-dan Muna, Myles Taueli and hooker Sione Utia-Katoa - hit back three minutes later when skipper Katoa pounced on a loose ball to keep his side in the hunt.

Co-skipper Tatola was named Player of the Grand Final after turning in a powerhouse display against the Panthers, who were installed as red-hot favourites before the match.

Tatola inspired team mates with his bullocking runs, clever off-loads and bone-jarring defence as the Tigers showed their champion qualities.

It was a case of deja vu for the Tigers’ talented trio of Tatola, Woods and Armstrong who were also stand outs in Balmain’s 2012 premiership-winning side.

Bustling defence, raw courage, high set comple-tion and basic fundamentals were the recipe for another Balmain Grand Final triumph.

Emerging lock Ta’auso - a tireless campaigner for the Tigers in 2013 - turned in yet another non-stop performance and was supported by Woods, hooker Jack Wheelhouse, halves Rhys Armstrong and Jeremy Marshall-King, forwards Junior Tatola and Tyler Cassel and fullback Cam-den Sutton.

For coach Mathew Head, the trophy win capped a dream debut coaching stint with the reigning premiers.

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TIGER CUBS CROWNED - NATIONAL U/18 CHAMPSBALMAIN S.G Ball rugby league team covered them-selves in glory at North Sydney Oval on May 12 after capturing back-to-back National U/18 Club Champi-onship titles.

There was no stopping the rampant Tiger cubs, who overpowered the Redcliffe Dolphins 24-12 to retain their mantle as the top U/18 outfit in Australia.

Eight days after lifting the club’s third S.G Ball Cup trophy, the Balmain young guns extended their cel-ebrations with a Mothers Day special.Showing the spirit and tenacity that has lifted the side to great heights, the Tiger cubs rebounded from a 12-4 half time deficit to carve out a gutsy victory over

their Queensland counterparts.

Emerging Balmain five eighth Rhys Armstrong was named the official Player of the Match after scoring two tries and creating havoc with his strong running, clever passing and robust defence.

It was a proud moment for the versatile Armstrong, who figured in the Tigers’ 2012 premiership-winning side as a back rower before representing NSW U/17s against the touring England Academy team.

Other cubs to shine were sibling forwards Fosio Tatola and Junior Tatola, lock Peter Ta’auso, prop Pio Sokobalava, wingers John Tohi and Jayden Wheel

After indifferent form in the preliminary rounds, the Tiger cubs hit their straps in the finals series to eliminate Cronulla, South Sydney and Par-ramatta before claiming their biggest scalp in the Cup decider.

Balmain kept the rampaging Penrith side at bay with rugged defence and drew first blood after 19

minutes when the hard-running Ta’auso bustedthrough tackles to score under the The Tigers weathered a late onslaught before Marshall-King sealed victory with a 68th minute penalty goal.

BALMAIN 14 (P Ta’auso, Jayden Wheelhouse tries; J Marshall-King 3 gls) d PENRITH 6 (S Utia-Katoa try; T May gl).

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house, centre Josh Camroux and dashing fullback Camden Sutton.Redcliffe opened the scoring after 14 minutes when strapping forward Richie Skelton crashed over out wide with hooker Jack Alley adding the extras.Balmain hit back in the 27th minute when the strong running Sokobalava scored after smart lead up work from Armstrong to put the NSW champions on the board.In a savage blow, the Tigers lost key hooker Jack Wheelhouse (wrist) and co-skipper Matthew Woods (shoulder) with serious injuries before the break as Redcliffe mounted pressure through their powerful forward pack.

The Mal Meninga U/18 Cup winners extended their lead on the stroke of half time when pivot Alex Albert strolled over for the Dolphins’ second try.Balmain coach Mathew Head revved up his troops during the break and the cubs responded with a stir-ring second half performance.

With halves Armstrong and Jeremy Marshall-King calling the shots, the Tigers clicked into top gear with the elusive Sutton slicing through a gap to score after 49 minutes. Marshall-King’s conversion bridged the gap to two points and spurred the cubs into action.

Balmain grabbed a 14-12 lead when the lanky Jayden Wheelhouse showed flashy footwork and fine balance to score in the corner after combining with Sutton and Marshall-King.

Moments later, Wheelhouse pulled off a crunching tackle on talented Redcliffe custodian Josh Beehag that turned the match.The dynamic Armstrong came into his own in the final 15 minutes and used his strength and pace to notch a vital try double and seal the trophy.Redcliffe were best served by forwards Skelton, Alley, Andrew McArthy, Tyson Cleal, fullback Beehag and half Mitch Wilson.

With four players - Jack Wheelhouse, Junior Tatola, Jaleel Seve-Derbas and Sokobalava - eligible for the 2014 S.G Ball series plus the inclusion of boom cubs Bayley Sironen and Pifeleti Pifeleti, the Tigers again shape as genuine title contenders.

Several of the triumphant 2013 squad are bound for the Holden Cup – boosting the Wests Tigers’ U/20 stocks.BALMAIN 24 (R Armstrong 2, P Sokobalava, C Sut-ton, Jayden Wheelhouse tries; J Marshall-King 2 gls) d REDCLIFFE 12 (R Skelton, A Albert tries; J Alley, D Fletcher gls).

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TIGER CUBS LEAVE THEIR MARK FOR NSWLIFE couldn’t be better for emerging Balmain rugby league colts Rhys Armstrong, Fosio Tatola and Pifeleti Pifeleti.

Helping NSW conquer the Maroons in an U/18 Junior Interstate Challenge in front of a massive crowd at Suncorp Stadium sits high on a list of notable achievements for the talented Armstrong and Tatola.

Armstrong - a strong running utility who has signed with Manly for 2014 - and forward warrior Tatola produced strong performances in the Jun-ior Blues’ crushing 56-6 victory over Queensland last month in a curtain raiser to Origin 2.

It was a season to savour for the Holy Cross Rhinos’ junior products who made every post a winner after linking with Todd Payten’s powerful Holden Cup U/20 squad.

Tatola and Armstrong were rewarded for their stand out displays with Balmain’s triumphant U/18 side that clinched back-to-back S.G Ball Cup and National U/18 Club Championship tro-phies back in May.

Promising forward Mathew Woods, who co-captained the Tigers with the rampaging Tatola, was a strong contender for a Blues jumper before undergoing shoulder surgery.

All three were trump cards in a courageous Bal-main outfit that rolled Penrith in this year’s S.G Ball Grand Final and Redcliffe Dolphins in the National U/18 Championship final at North Syd-ney Oval.

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

Rhys Armstrong, Wests Tigers Coach Mick Potter, Alefosio Tatola and Pifeleti Pifeleti

Ball premiership and National U/18 title success. Armstrong and Tatola were blooded in the Tigers’ U/20 ranks following the victory over Queensland U/18 champions Redcliffe.

Holy Cross Ryde schoolboy Pifeleti enhanced his reputation with a strong performance for the NSW U/16s side that defeated Queensland in a curtain raiser to State of Origin 1 on June 5.

A dynamic prop with mobility and ball skills, Pifeleti gained selection after tireless performanc-es for Balmain in the U/16 Harold Matthews Cup competition.

Last year, the emerging forward took out the Jack King Trophy as the top U/16 player in the Bal-main Junior League and was named in the Aus-tralian U/15 Schoolboys Merit team after helping NSW Catholic Schools clinch the national title.

Pifeleti hopes to follow in the steps of Wests Tigers’ young guns Curtis Sironen, Luke Brooks and Mitchell Moses – three former Holy Cross trump cards that graduated to the senior ranks after earning Australian Schoolboys caps.

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Former Eastern Suburbs three quarter Ken Wells and the quick-stepping Brad Wilson were named as Ryde-Eastwood’s best-ever centre pairing.

They gave the Hawks plenty of strike power out wide with former St George back Wilson stamping himself one of the club’s most prolific scorers.

Brad, the younger brother of Coach of the Half Cen-tury Ken Wilson, held the Hawks’ club points-scoring record until it was eclipsed by superboot Marc Web-ber, who played a record 195 matches.

Friend, a scheming Kiwi half back, established himself with North Sydney from 1986-89 before teaming up with Filipaina at Ryde-Eastwood and figuring in the Hawks’ 1990 Metro Cup triumph.He played 24 test matches for New Zealand and also has stints with Carlisle and Whitehaven.

Judges named a punishing forward pack that included tough-tackling lock John Barrett, experienced back rowers John Owens and John King, teak tough props Gordon Fraser and Brian Sullivan and the wily Mas-terman. Barrett gave the Hawks yeoman service after arriving from Eastern Suburbs while Owens (Balmain) and King (Penrith) were forward warriors who turned in lion-hearted performances.Former Country Firsts prop Sullivan and ex-South Sydney enforcer Fraser were also honoured along with former Kurri Kurri and Eastern Suburbs Test rake Masterman.

The four reserves were current South Sydney and Samoan World Cup forward Jeff Lima, Wests Tigers’ Kangaroo prop Keith Galloway, ex-Balmain and New-town star Frank McGarry and journeyman utility Bill Tonkin, who shone for the Hawks after stints with Bal-main, Western Suburbs, South Sydney and Penrith.Newtown legend Ken Wilson - who guided Ryde Eastwood to Metro Cup premiership honours in 1990 - pipped current Wests Tigers’ NSW Cup mentor Paul Fletcher for the Coach of the Half Century tag.

HAWKS LEGENDS HONOURED IN TEAM OF HALF CENTURY

Hawks legends honoured in Team of Half Century LEGENDARY Balmain and New Zealand five eighth Olsen Filipaina was named captain of the Ryde East-wood Team of the Half Century at the Football Club’s 50th Anniversary Reunion on October 19 at Ryde Eastwood Leagues Club.Filipaina was one of 17 players chosen in the Hawks’ greatest-ever team from the past five decades with Ken Wilson named coach.The Kiwi powerhouse led Ryde Eastwood to an inau-gural Metro Cup premiership title in 1990 and is one of five internationals in an All Star lineup.

Former Australian hooker Jeff Masterman, Kangaroos prop Keith Galloway, Kiwi half Clayton Friend and Samoan forward Jeff Lima also were honoured with selection in the Hawks’ best-ever squad.Goalkicking fullback Dave Barsley was named in the custodian role.Barsley scored 51 tries and booted 199 goals and three field goals during a distinguished first grade career with Western Suburbs (1959 to 1968) and Newtown (1969-1971).He joined Ryde Eastwood in 1972 and starred in Laurie Fagan’s first grade team that won a maiden NSWRL Second Division premiership.

Barsley, a former NSW representative, finished the top points-scorer in the competition on 226 points with 20 tries and 83 goals.

Steve Broughton and speed machine John Vanden-berg were selected as wingers along with prolific try-scoring centres Ken Wells and Brad Wilson.Broughton was a classy back for Ryde Eastwood during the club’s halcyon days in the 1970s before earning his first grade spurs with Western Suburbs and Parramatta.He scored 43 tries in 75 appearances for the Magpies from 1978-84 before finishing his career with the Eels.Vandenberg was one of the code’s fastest wingers during his heyday with Manly and North Sydney and nabbed many a try in the Hawks’ premiership-winning A Grade sides during the 1980s.

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Inaugural coach and stalwart director Keith Aggett said the Jubilee celebrations were a resounding suc-cess.

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

Other internationals to play for the club include Bron-son Harrison, Dene Halatau, Matt Utai; Kiwi utility Lewis Brown; Ireland prop Ryan Tandy; England half Rangi Chase and forward Chris Heighington and Wests Tigers and Kangaroos hooker Robbie Farah.

NSW Origin skipper Farah played with Balmain-Ryde Eastwood in 2005 before cementing a spot in Tim Sheens’ premiership-winning line up.

Two former Ryde coaches Laurie Fagan who guided the Hawks to their first ever Second Division premier-ship in 1972 - and Barry Harris both represented NSW while Ron Raper captained Queensland in 1973.Stalwarts Dave Barsley and Brian Sullivan gained City and Country Firsts honors while a multitude of top grade players in the NSWRL and NRL have worn the Hawks’ colours at various stages of their careers.

Under the guidance of long serving coach Paul Fletcher, Balmain-Ryde Eastwood have made an impact in the NSW Cup competition - making Grand Final appearances in 2009 and 2012.

TIGERS LIFE MEMBERS REUNION LUNCH

BALMAIN Tigers Rugby League Football Club held its annual Life Members luncheon at TIGERS Five Dock on November 8.

Pictured are Balmain Junior League life members Brian Coleman, Bill Burke, Mick O’Keefe, Ron Ryan, Sam Gebrael and Mick Manning with District Club life members Danny Stapleton and Patti Perkins and Balmain Junior League Operations Manager Jennie Webster.

Other life members in attendance included Keith Barnes, Laurie Fagan, Jack King, Keith Aggett, John Stanton, Bill Brown, John Doyle, David Kelly, Austin Hoyle, Bob Siemsen, Martin Ritter, John Critchley, Tony Bietola, Bob Henderson, Steve Lavers, Maurie O’Brien, Bob Carroll, Steve Leslie, Paul Wheelhouse, Kevin Rooney, John Pearson, Brian Murtagh, Jeff Aplitt and TWT Sports Editor and Tigers’ historian Chris Karas.

Ryde Eastwood Football Club chairman Malcolm Chapple with Hawks’ Team of the Half Century honorees John Bar-rett, coach Ken Wilson, Steve Broughton, Brad Wilson and Gordon Fraser at the Reunion luncheon.

HAWKS’ PIONEERS CELEBRATE

MEMBERS of Ryde-Eastwood’s inaugural 1963 first grade rugby league team attended the Club’s 50th Anniversary Dinner and Reunion luncheon at Ryde Eastwood Leagues Club during October.

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GREATER VOICE FOR JUNIOR LEAGUEMEMBERS from Junior Leagues across NSW have signed an historic document around the formation of the first combined Junior League Association in the game’s history.

Due to recent changes in the NSWRL’s constitution, the newly formed NSW Junior Rugby Leagues Asso-ciation Inc - will gain full membership of the NSWRL and have voting power at Annual General Meetings.The association has formed a Board and will unify the delivery of the game across the NSW footprint.“This is an historic day for rugby league in NSW,” NSWRL Chief Executive, David Trodden said.

“The formation of the association gives Junior League clubs a greater voice with their membership to the NSWRL and we hope this increases the communi-cation channels we have with the Junior Leagues because we value their input highly.

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

“I would like to congratulate everyone involved on all the hard work they have put into the formation of the association and I look forward to working with them in

PICTURED are directors Greg Florimo (North Sydney), Jennie Webster (Balmain), Julie Luke (Western Suburbs), Yvonne Purtell (Penrith) and Chris Books (St George).

DREAM DEBUT FOR TIGER CUB BROOKS

the future,” he added.

The finalising of the document was completed at the annual Junior League Administrators Conference in Gerringong which took place across three days. During the conference administrators had presenta-tions from NRL Chief Executive, David Smith; NSWRL General Manager - Strategy and Community Affairs, Dirk Melton, on the NSWRL’s strategic plan and lec-tures on NRL education programs and inclusive rugby league.

Directors will include Yvonne Purtell (Penrith), Jen-nie Webster (Balmain), Greg Florimo (North Sydney), Julie Luke (Western Suburbs) and Chris Brooks (St George).

BOOM Wests Tigers’ half back Luke Brooks was the cub on everyone’s lips after his spectacular NRL top grade debut against St George-Illawarra on the hal-lowed Sydney Cricket Ground turf last season.

Brooks produced a crafty display to engineer the Ti-gers’ 34-18 victory over the Saints – nabbing a try and creating two others in a memorable debut that augurs well for the future.

Not since Tigers’ all time greats Benny Elias and Paul Sironen were carving up rivals has a Ryde native

burst onto the first grade scene with such fervour.

In a magic moment, legendary Western Suburbs and Kangaroos half back Arthur Summons presented Brooks with his first grade jumper - a gesture that left the Tigers’ rookie beaming with pride.

Cool hand Luke described playing alongside one of his childhood heroes in Benji Marshall as a “dream come true.”

He also struck up a fine combination with his former

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NORTH RYDE HAWKS LUNCHEONNSW Origin coach Laurie Daley and Penrith legend Royce Simmons were special guests at this year’s North Ryde Hawks’ Sportsmen’s Luncheon at Ryde Eastwood Leagues Club.

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

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

Brooks is now entrenched in the Tigers’ number seven first grade jumper and will spearhead one of the most exciting young back divisions in the 2014 NRL competition.

Luke Brooks

Holy Cross College halves partner Curtis Sironen - a partnership that coach Mick Potter could implement in 2014.

How did the quietly-spoken Brooks prepare for his top grade debut on the eve of the SCG clash?The teenager turned up to Morrison Park Putney to give some coaching tips to the Holy Cross U/12 Div 1 side that was chasing a Balmain Junior League premiership at Leichhardt Oval.

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

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

AARON CELEBRATES WITH HIS JUNIORS MENTORS

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

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CLUB PERSONS OF THE YEAR AWARDBALMAIN Junior League’s hardest working officials were recognised with the 17th annual Club Volunteer

of the Year Awards.

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

This year’s recipients were: Troy Zammit (Balmain PCYC); Warren Brooks (Carlingford Cougars); Aida Catalano (Concord-Burwood United); Colin Field (Dundas Shamrocks); Margaret Matos (Enfield Feder-als); Rose Elias (Five Dock RSL); Ron Whyte (Holy Cross Rhinos); Tina Marsters (Leichhardt Juniors); Monique Coleman (Leichhardt Wanderers); Glenn Hillier (North Ryde Hawks) accepted by wife Sarah and Michelle Meadham (Strathfield Raiders).

GEORGE THOMPSON MEMORIAL TROPHY- VOLUNTEER OF THE YEARTIRELESS North Ryde Hawks’ president Glenn Hillier is the 16th recipient of the George Thompson Memo-rial Volunteer of the Year Trophy.

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

The popular Hawks’ official was unable to attend the Tigers’ Awards ceremony in September at Ryde Eastwood Leagues Club – due to commitments with the North Ryde U/15s on their annual trip to Murwil-lumbah to contest the Sugar Cane Cup.

Glenn’s wife Sarah accepted the award on his behalf from George Thompson’s widow Eileen Thompson.The North Ryde supremo, who joined the Club five years ago when son Harry registered in the Under 11s, is devoted to re-building the Hawks into a major force.

Since taking over the reigns from BJL director and former president Brian Johnston in 2011, Glenn has championed the family-friendly spirit that exists within the club today.

“Glenn campaigns heavily on behalf of each player within the Hawks community and invests an inordi-nate amount of effort making sure every sibling and parent is welcome and feels a key part of the success of our club,” said Hawks’ assistant secretary Collette Ryan.

“His commitment, enthusiasm, humour, pragmatism and genuine love of the kids is evident in everything he does and community leaders like him are few and far between,” she said.

“The vitality that Glenn has injected into the Hawks bubbled over into the North Ryde community this year with the inaugural Walk for Cancer held at TG Mill-ner Field which raised over $10,000 for the McGrath Foundation and Benji Marshall’s pet charity – The Children’s Cancer Institute.”

Sarah Hillier accepts the George Thompson Volunteer of the Year trophy on behalf of her husband Glenn from Eileen Thompson.

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When he finishes this, he does it all again for the Hawks’ joint venture teams in the Sydney Shield and Ron Massey Cup. And when either of these teams play at home, Glenn will be on the sideline commentating the game - much to the amusement of all who attend.

A former right back with Ermington United Soccer Club in the Granville-Parramatta Association, Glenn later coached Macquarie Dragons Sports Club for seven years.He was also a talented all rounder with Woolwich Pier, Hunters Hill and Sawdust clubs in the Glades-ville Cricket Association competition.

He plays a key role in co-ordinating the game day wrap ups, Mini League exhibition games, Wests Tigers training day, Mums v Dads touch football, Tug-of-war, Kids Relay Races, raf-fles, apparel sales and the Back to Hawks Luncheon and Red & White Dinner.

This is on top of all the general club administration that is required including securing team, club and major sponsors.

WOLVES CROWNED CLUB CHAMPIONS

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

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

AIDA HONOURED WITH RAY STELLAR SERVICE TO RUGBY LEAGUE AWARD

CONCORD-Burwood United’s energetic secretary Aida Catalano was officially recognised for her con-tribution to the game at the 2013 Brad Fittler Medal Awards Night at Le Montage in Lilyfield during Sep-tember.

Aida (pictured with Balmain Junior League Operations Manager Jennie Webster) was honoured to receive the prestigious NSWRL Peter Wynn’s Score Ray

Stellar Service to Rugby League Award.

Regarded as one of the hardest working officials in Balmain Junior League, the popular administrator completed her sixth successive term as club secretary in 2013 - overseeing the Wolves’ Senior and Junior Club Championship success.

Aida’s passion for the game is evident as she busily

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

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

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

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

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

JACK KING TROPHY UNDER 16 PLAYER OF THE YEAR

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

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

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

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

The crafty Cincotta showed his skills to help the

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AS a youngster growing up in New Zealand, Peter Ta’Auso idolised Wests Tigers’ excitement machine Benji Marshall.Watching the Kiwi superstar engineer a Tigers’ NRL premiership triumph in 2005 inspired the promising 10 year old Auckland junior who dreamed of one day emulating the deeds of his hero.

Turn the clock forward eight years and the industrious Ta’auso is on the right path to an NRL career after powerhouse displays for the champion Balmain S.G Ball team in 2013.The former Auckland junior representative lock is this year’s recipient of the Harry Quinlan Memorial Trophy as the Tigers’ Best & Fairest U/18 player.

Tough-tackling T’Auso is pictured displaying his award with loyal sponsor Joe Syme and Balmain Football

HARRY QUINLAN MEMORIAL TROPHYClub chairman Dr Leslie Glenn at the Tigers’ Awards Night at Ryde Eastwood Leagues Club.

Ta’Auso helped the Tigers capture the S.G Ball and National U/18 Club Championship double this season with stand out performances at junior representative level.The Auckland native made a huge impact in his debut season with Balmain and proved the cornerstone of a dominant forward pack that laid the foundations for back to back championships.

A punishing defender and strong running back rower, Ta’Auso moved to Australia with his family as a 16 year old and was discovered by talent scouts in the Canterbury-Bankstown Junior League where he shone for Milperra Colts and East Hills.Growing up in Auckland, Peter began his league career as an 8 year old with the Waitmatta Seagulls before spending three seasons with the Glenore club.

Officials earmarked Ta’Auso for higher honours when they selected the promising forward in the Auckland U/14 and U/15 representative sides.Since moving to Sydney, Ta’Auso has made every post a winner and will be blooded in the Wests Tigers’ Under 20s squad for the 2014 National Youth compe-tition.

A St Patricks College Dundas student, Bradley is also a gifted touch football player and has featured in five NSW Junior State Cup championship victories with Ryde-Eastwood Touch Football Association.

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 Har-rison (Wanderers); Ewen Cameron (Wanderers); Nick Tice (Leichhardt Juniors); Daniel Casa (Holy Cross); Nathan Plummer (Holy Cross); Tim Bennetts (Carling-ford Cougars); Drew Laing (Holy Cross); Brodie Mon-roe (Five Dock RSL); Curtis Sironen (Dundas Sham-rocks); Andrew Kazzi (Wanderers); Peter Semaan (Enfield Federals) and Pifeleti Pifeleti (Holy Cross).

Hawks capture U/12, U/14, U/16 (twice) and U/20 State titles and represented NSW at the National All Schools U/15 Championships.Bradley is part of the Tigers’ 17 years Development squad and complements his training program with regular games of golf, touch football and basketball.“I really enjoy the touch football as it has helped de-velop my ball skills in rugby league,” he said.It was a disappointing end to a busy campaign for Bradley, who represented Balmain in this year’s NSWRL Harold Matthews Cup U/16 junior represent-ative series.

Cincotta began his career with the Shamrocks as an 8 year old and guided the club to an undefeated U/13s premiership in 2010 – downing Strathfield Raiders 22-20 in the Grand Final at Leichhardt Oval.

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THEY don’t breed them tougher than Holy Cross and Balmain junior representative hooker Jack Wheel-house – winner of the Jan Carroll Memorial Trophy for the district’s Under 17 Player of the Year.

Living up to his potential, the crafty S.G Ball rake turned in wholehearted performances at club and Junior Cup level to catch the eye of senior Tigers’ of-ficials.

Jack played a key role in Balmain capturing back-to-back S.G Ball and National U/18 Club Championship titles before helping the Rhinos reach the NSWRL Combined Inner City U/17 Div 1 Grand Final against South Eastern at Redfern Oval.

He is pictured receiving the trophy from Wests Tigers’ CEO Grant Mayer at the Tigers’ Awards Night at Ryde Eastwood Leagues Club.

Teak-tough Jack hails from good rugby league stock and a family widely respected in footballing circles.

His grandfather Paul Wheelhouse - a former punish-ing South Sydney back rower - is a life member of the Balmain Junior League and long time junior repre-sentative selector.

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

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

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

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

JAN CARROLL MEMORIAL TROPHY - U/17 PLAYER OF YEAR

He switched to hooker at the age of 13 and after tast-ing Grand Final success with the Rhinos was selected in the Tigers’ Junior Development squads.

Jack made an impact for Balmain in the U/16 NSWRL Harold Matthews Cup series in 2012 - helping the team reach the semi finals before experiencing S.G Ball premiership glory during a memorable 2013 cam-paign.

The talented number nine is backing up for a second stint in the U/18 Junior Cup competition in 2014 and shapes as a key player in Balmain’s quest for an S.G Ball trifecta.

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 (Dun-das Shamrocks); Alex Zarounas (Wanderers) and Richard Coorey (Enfield Federals).

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JOHN STAPLETON TROPHYA GRADE PLAYER OF THE YEAR

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

“Rugby league is in my blood”, says the capable number seven who is the 24th recipient of the John Stapleton Trophy for the district’s A Grade Player of the Year.Like a good wine, Zappia gets better with age and his clever performances for the red and blacks as captain-coach were a highlight of the team’s 2013 campaign.

The crafty half was instrumental in Wanderers reach-ing the finals of the NSWRL Combined Inner City A Reserve Grade competition, where they bowed out af-ter a 38-20 loss to eventual premiers Liverpool Titans.

Michael was also appointed captain-coach of the Balmain open age representative team for the annual Arthur Beetson Cup challenge against Eastern Sub-urbs at Leichhardt Oval.The Tigers led 20-18 before the Roosters stormed home to regain the trophy with a strong second half performance.

Zappia was joined by Wanderers’ team mates Lee Johnson, Jon Kempys. Jay Cho, and John Stevens and showed his organisational skills in senior com-pany.Michael is the son of former Balmain Junior League Coaching Director and leading mentor Bernie Zappia and while growing up received a sound rugby league education from his father.

He pulled on his first boots at the age of five and figured in Wanderers’ Mini and Mod League teams before winning premierships in the U/17 and U/18 Combined Balmain/St George competitions.

The promising half earned his first representative

jumper at the age of 14 when he toured northern NSW and Queensland with the Tigers’ Young Guns alongside talented cubs Sammy Wara, Dean Cald-well, Jarrod Farlow and Luke Fahy.Michael then turned his hand to coaching and tasted Grand Final success with the Wanderers’ U/11 and U/12 junior sides.“I still enjoy playing at the club and helping out with junior coaching – it’s important to put something back into the game at grassroots level,” says Michael.

Balmain stalwart John Stapleton presented Michael 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 Bingham (West Ryde-Denistone), Jason Ban-field (Concord United), Frank Dunne, Craig Barnett, Robert Gerrie (Leichhardt Wanderers), Aaron Brown and Nathan Donato (Balmain United), Cameron Lid-dle and James Harradence (West Ryde-Denistone), Jason Tutt (Sawdust Storm), Joel Lacey (West Ryde-Denistone), Paul Wallace and Justin Williams (North Ryde), Damien Braumann (Leichhardt Juniors), John Kaho (Leichhardt Wanderers), Kelvin Weir (North Ryde), Michael Basan (Dundas Shamrocks), Steve Pont (Concord Burwood/North Ryde) and Abdul Mo-hamad (Burwood/North Ryde).

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

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

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

The award has capped a memorable two seasons for Cooper, who managed the triumphant 2012 and 2013 Balmain S.G Ball premiership-winning teams that an-nexed the National U/18 Club Championship trophies.

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

JOHN KELLY MEMORIALQUIET ACHIEVER AWARD

Whether its encouraging the Mini or Mod League cubs in the Tigers nursery or supporting Balmain’s elite junior talent, Bob has proved an outstanding ambassador for the game of rugby league.

TENACIOUS WOLVES CLINCH ROBBIE FARAH CHALLENGE

BALMAIN JUNIOR LEAGUE – ACCREDITED EVENTS

CONCORD-Burwood United Silver captured the 2013 Robbie Farah Challenge Shield for U/9 juniors at Blackmore Oval on March 17.

Pictured are the all conquering Wolves squad mem-bers Zac Bruce, Adam Chami, Levi Conti, Zac Chalak, Louis D’arrigo, Pat Kosmas, Luca Mancuso, Jacob Matta, Harry Samaha, Carlos Succar, Kaidyn Wright and John Paul Catalano with coach Glenn Bruce, manager John Kosmas and trainers Noel Mancuso

and Joe D’arrigo that defeated Strathfield Raiders 5 tries to 4 in the Shield decider.

Luca Mancuso showed his attacking skills in the Grand Final – scoring two tries and igniting the Concord-Burwood attack with his turn of speed.

He was supported by Zac Bruce, Adam Chami, Levi Conti, Patrick Kosmas and 8 year old John Paul Catalano.

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A feature was the Wolves’ scrambling defence that kept the Raiders at bay and set up a 3-0 lead at the break.

Strathfield were best served by talented backs Jor-dan Itaoui and Jonathan Ibrahim and strong-running forwards Tony Sukkar and Jared Talanoa.

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

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

Promising Wanderers’ cub Kyle Leaver was named Player of the Series and received his award from leading junior coach and former Balmain prop Steve Edmed.

AARON WOODS CUP 2013

Strathfield Raiders and Leichhardt Wanderers were crowned joint winners of the Aaron Woods Cup for 2013. On a wonderful day and in a thrilling grand final against competition favourites Leichhardt Wanderers Red, Strathfield led 24-4 with 15 minutes remaining but could not hold on as Wanderers finished strongly to draw 24 all.

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MARK O’NEILL SHIELD

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

The Wolves - winners of the Robbie Farah U/9 Chal-lenge seven days earlier - had plenty to cheer about after the Silver team produced skilful displays to earn the title.

Promising Wolves’ junior Christian Emelio was named Player of the Final with top Shamrocks prospect Jax-son Rahme snaring the Player of the Carnival award.

Wanderers and Strathfield Raiders were declared joint winners of the Aaron Woods U/12 Cup - hosted by Leichhardt Juniors JRLFC - after finishing 24-all in the final.

BENNY ELIAS SHIELD

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

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

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

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

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

In a quality final, Daniel Azzuri and Matt Losurdo scored early tries for the Rhinos before the fleet-foot-ed Catalano left his mark.

The powerful Lawandos gave Holy Cross the edge when he burst through to score in the dying moments.

U6 winners – Strathfield Raiders

U7 winners – Concord Burwood

But fullback Henry Ryan proved the hero for the Rhi-nos when he pulled off a brilliant try-saving tackle on Catalano with only seconds left on the clock.

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CONCORD-Burwood clinched the U/7s title with a 5 tries to 2 victory over Holy Cross.

Young gun Alex Conti capped an outstanding game for the Wolves, nabbing two tries in the final to claim the Player of the Series award.

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

Earlier, Strathfield Raiders collected the U/6 trophy with an emphatic 5 tries to 2 victory over Concord-Burwood.

Jack Taylor and Michael Papas starred for the Raid-ers with classy displays throughout the Carnival.

U8 winners- Holy Cross Rhinos

Taylor was later named Player of the Series while Papas picked up the Player of the Final award for his four-try effort in the final.

UNDER 9 DIV 1 GRAND FINALSTRATHFIELD Raiders White lifted the U/9 Div 1 Ar-thur McIlveen Trophy with a gutsy 22-18 victory over Concord-Burwood Silver at Leichhardt Oval.

Promising forward Matthew Rehab orchestrated the Raiders’ triumph over the Wolves, turning in a power-ful display to earn the Player of the Match award.

It was the first leg of a Strathfield premiership double with the club’s U/12 Div 1 side also claiming honours on the day.

Other Raiders to impress were forwards Tony Sukkar, Jackson Campton, Matt Jerkovic, Jared Talanoa, Emre Gundoganli, five eighth Jon Ibrahim and full-back Jordan Itaoui.

The Wolves jumped to a 12-0 lead after nine minutes with converted tries by Adam Chami and Zac Chalak before Gundoganli crossed for Strathfield’s opening

CHRIS KARAS AT THE BALMAIN JUNIOR LEAGUE GRAND FINALS

try in the 13th minute.

Concord-Burwood extended their lead to 18-4 shortlyafter the interval when Chalak notched his second try but they couldn’t halt a spirited Raiders revival.

With a determined Raheb and Sukkar leading the way, Strathfield piled on three tries in the space of eight minutes to finish strongly and bring home a deserved title.

The Wolves were best served by Zac Bruce, Luca Mancuso, Kaidyn Wright, John Paul Catalano, Jacob Matta and Zac Chalak.

STRATHFIELD RAIDERS WHITE 22 (T Sukkar 2, E Gundoganli, M Raheb tries; M Raheb, J Itaoui, T Sukkar gls) d CONCORD-BURWOOD SILVER 18 (Z Chalak 2, A Chami tries; H Samaha, K Wright, L Conti gls).

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BJL chairman John Critch-ley with U/9 Div 1 Player of Match Matt Raheb (Strath-field).

BJL chairman John Critchley and director Richard Jones with Raiders’ U/9 Div 1 cap-tain Tony Sukkar.

STRATHFIELD RAIDERS WHITE – Jordan Itaoui, John Chalhoub, Joseph Pirri, Richard Yammine, Samuel Sattout, Jonathan Ibrahim, Daniel Daher, Matthew Jerkovic, Emre Gundoganli, Matthew Ra-heb, Tony Sukkar (captain), Jackson Campton, Jared Talanoa; Hasan Khalil, Julian Martins, Sitiveni Tamani; Coach: Luke Campton; Trainers: Andrew Sattout & Danny Daher.

CONCORD-BURWOOD SILVER – Louis D’Arrigo, Levi Conti, Zachary Bruce (captain), John Paul Catalano, Jacob Matta, Kaidyn Wright, Adam Chami, Carlos Succar, Zac Chalak, Luca Mancuso, Patrick

U/9 Div 1 champions Strathfield Raiders

DUNDAS Shamrocks collected the U/9 Div 2 Mick Manning Trophy with a resounding 38-6 victory over Leichhardt Wanderers Black.Hard working forward Cooper Rennie starred for the Shamrocks with a non-stop performance to earn the official Player of the Grand Final award.

The strong running Rennie opened the try scoring

after two minutes when he crashed through defend-ers with half back and skipper Ryan Field adding the extras.

Wanderers hit back almost immediately when forward Jamie Miletic crossed for a converted try after a pow-erful surge out wide.

UNDER 9 DIV 2 GRAND FINAL

Kosmas, Harry Samaha; Coach: Glenn Bruce; Man-ager: John Kosmas; Trainers: Noel Mancuso & Joe D’Arrigo.

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Shortly before the interval, Dundas forward Conor Chisholm gave his side an edge when he strolled over for his team’s second try for a 10-6 lead.

There was no stopping the Shamrocks after the break with talented fullback Justin Chahin using his speed and flair to bag a hat-trick of tries and forward Bryan Rowlands and centre Patrick Cleary notching four pointers in a second half blitz.

Other Shamrocks players to shine were backs Cha-hin, Field, Cleary, Mark Wahbe, Joel Hallitt and for-wards Chisholm, Rowlands,, Kingi Williams and Zane Watson.

Wanderers were best served by halves Joseph Schmitzer and Darcy Gillies, elusive backs Harry Appleby and Sam Waddington and forwards Miletic, Patrick Tobin, Rafael Iovannella and Ashton McGuin-ness.

U/9 Div 2 champions Dundas Shamrocks

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

DUNDAS SHAMROCKS 38 (J Chahin 3, C Rennie, C Chisholm, B Rowlands, P Cleary tries; R Field, Z Watson, K Williams, J Chahin, C Rennie gls) d WAN-DERERS BLACK 6 (J Miletic try; H Appleby gl).

DUNDAS SHAMROCKS – Justin Chahin, Mark Wahbe, Patrick Cleary, Joel Hallitt, Kane Vinton, Ryan Field (captain), Conor Chisholm, Thomas Lewis, Bry-an Rowlands, Cooper Rennie, Kingi Williams, Zane Watson, Nathan Rizk. Coach: Ray Watson; Manager: Brendan Cleary; Trainers: Ray Hallitt & Colin Field.

WANDERERS BLACK – Samuel Cropper, Harry Appleby, Patrick Banno, Xavier Hassey, Sam Wad-dington, Joseph Schmitzer (captain), Darcy Gillies, Lucas Toskas, Jamie Miletic, Ryan Jackson, Rafael Iovannella, Angus Fraser, Ben Fletcher, Patrick To