2013 Season- Annual Report
Registrar’s Report
Firstly, I would like to congratulate each and every one of the 309 players who played for, and more importantly with the club in
2013. You have done yourselves, your families and the club proud.
For those of you who may be interested, a few 2013 registration statistics.
Burraneer Rugby club in its 59th year fielded, as mentioned above 309 players consisting of the following:
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Under 6
Under 7
Under 8
Under 9
Under 10
Under 11
Under 12
Under 13
Under 14
Under 15
Under 16
Seniors
3 teams
1 team
2 teams
2 teams
1 team
2 teams
1 teams
2 teams
1 team
1 team
1 team
1 team
32 players
12 players
24 players
28 players
16 players
37 players
28 players
33 players
24 players
26 players
27 players
21 players
18 teams from the largest village Rugby Club south of the harbour participating in a very successful season. Got to be happy
about that!
A special congratulations goes to all the people involved in the “minis”, Lynne, Dean and all their helpers. 8 teams, 96 players!!
You are the future of this club!
This year we used the iSIGN online sports registration system for the first time. Whilst it wasn’t without its teething problems,
(as anything new is), it has been of great benefit to the club, the treasurer, registrar, coaches, managers and the committee in
general and we look forward to next year when it will be easier again. Why? Because you are all returning and your details
won’t need to be recorded again.
To all the parents, (and “others”, nans, pops, aunts, uncles), who have helped this season, it is you who make the whole thing
tick! I can’t single out each and every one of you, it’s a collective effort of many hundreds of “hangers on”.
Thank you all for your efforts in making Burraneer Rugby Club the Family Club that it is!
Any player, playing any sport, anywhere is a Champion as long as they are doing their best and having fun.
Yours in Rugby,
Stephen Plummer - Registrar
Publicity & Gear Report
This year, the club bought shirts for all the managers and coaches and from all reports they were a hit. We also
bought 100 beanies and 100 caps and sold close to half of these. More on sale next year!
Over 120 Hoodies were sold and we have a few spares that will be available for sale next year on rego dates. Thanks
to Keith Sharpe of S2 Creative Graphic Designers for doing the back dolphin design at no cost. These were a real
winner and we expect there will be a line-up of orders early next year.
The club membership badges were not as successful as last year due to the lack of big days at home but we still
managed to sell about 50 and raising close to $2,000 for the club.
Thanks to our major sponsor Taren Point Hotel, the club managed to buy more new jerseys for quite a few teams
this year. Next year, we will be looking to fill in the gaps for the younger age groups that still had the older style
jerseys so every player will be playing in the same style jersey.
Our Facebook Page “Likes” have continued to grow and now stand at 246. Keep it going and share the posts and
interact by adding Burra rugby photos.
We need to make sure all parents, players and supporters subscribe to the club newsletter so that everyone can stay
up to date with important news or dates such as 2014 rego dates. Just go to the home page and “Join the
Newsletter”.
Thank you to Jo Pratt for assisting me with the club newsletter this year.
Matt Bell
A Big Thank you to our 2013 Season Sponsors:
Please support our sponsors by referring them to friends or family or giving them business.
Team Reports
All teams were asked to submit reports and photos. Thank you also to Milos Lekovic from Southside Studios for
supplying some of the great photos you will see below.
Under 6 Blue
The year started off with huge registrations in the Under 6 group, so it was exciting that there was so much interest in the great
game of rugby! With most of our team from last year returning, we welcomed Riley and Andy to complete the Burra Blues for
2013.
It was clear from the beginning of the season, that the boys really enjoyed the game of rugby and were keen to get back into it
after the summer break. After some of the team moved up to the 7s it made room for our return players and new boys to really
step up and shine. Each and every one of the boys have improved 100% throughout the year and by the end of the season Rod
had to calm them down and make sure the ball was shared around, as they were all so keen and excited to get the ball, have a
run and score! Each week they gave it their all and although scores are not kept, we did come away with smiles on our faces
each week .
Burra Under 6 Blue are a great bunch of boys and parents. We have all become friends and look forward to our Saturday
morning catch-ups. When you join a sport it is a big commitment for the whole family and our families & the siblings take it all
in their stride and turn up each week excited to watch and support the boys. We have had lots of fun and we have some great
little up and coming rugby champs coming through in the next few years. I know all of the boys will be back next year to tackle
the Under 7s, with only a few of our younger boys staying behind to lead the new Under 6s in 2014.
Another quick thank you to Rod for taking time out of his busy work and home life to coach the team. We really appreciated it
and you did a fantastic job with the boys. You are so patient and caring and the boys really responded to that and loved learning
rugby skills from you each week. Assistant Coach, Clinton, thanks too for everything you did to support Rod and the team. We
also had some great Dads & Mums that each week would put up their hand to help out; whether it was for crowd control at
training, organizing the substitutions on game day, helping warm up the boys, keeping an eye on the siblings that were running
around, canteen duty or tying up boot laces!!! There was always someone willing to help out.
We look forward to doing it all again next year! Enjoy the summer.
Lynne Pauling - Manager
Player Profiles:
Luke Pauling
A fantastic season by Luke where he picked up where he left off last year. His ability to stand back and read the game and act as
the team’s last line of defence was way beyond his years. He also proved his ability to score great length of the field tries and
his kick-offs often sent the other team into the next field!
Andrew Ruhle
Andrew was always keen to have a go and really enjoyed his rugby this year. He was solid in defence time and time again and
did some great kick offs that sent the opposition team backwards and had us defending on the front foot. A solid all round
player in the making.
Ollie Longman
Another player in his second year of rugby that proved his mettle and really led the team from the front. Always keen to get his
hands on the ball, his direct runs and committed chasing and tags showed us all what rugby is about. Always keen to have a go
and would chase and tag all day long. The great improver of the team throughout the year.
Ben Layton
Ben was a try-scoring machine this year! Once he got the ball and slipped past the opposition there was no catching him. His
speed and commitment also ensured he was always there to tag the opposition – many tries were saved right on the line
because of his great chasing. A top season.
Will Steiner
Will took his game to the next level this year and impressed everyone with his great tags and tries. He showed his turn of foot
on many occasions but the highlight of the season was his ‘swooping eagle’ tag, which no opposition player could get past! A
great player in the making.
Nicholas Balding
In his second year of Rugby, Nicholas really stepped up. He loved a run down the sideline to score and was always keen to back
up and support his teammates – often reaping the benefits of a quick try. He became more confident in defence as the year
went on and made some really good try saving tags. A wonderful season.
William Balding
The youngest player in the team, William had a great 1st season. He enjoyed chasing the other team to make tags, put in some
great kick offs and even managed to cross the line for a few tries. One to watch in his next 2 years in under 6!
Dylan Stark
In his second year of Rugby, Dylan really came into his own. Keen to be in the action, his hard and straight runs laid the platform
for the rest of the team to attack. He was also solid in defence, closing in on many opposition players before they had a chance
to score. One of the big improvers during the year – watch out Under 7s!
Kaylen Mullins
Kaylan always put in 100% to his game and became more and more confident as the season progressed. Hitting the ball at pace
became his specialty throughout the year and his tireless chasing helped the team defend valiantly week after week. A great
season.
Riley de Soza
He may be only little but Riley was one of our toughest and most dedicated players all year. Starting his first game of rugby with
a couple of tries and a trophy, he continued that form through the year; sidestepping his way through the opposition and never
shirking away from tag. A wonderful season played well above his age and size!
Rod Balding - Coach – Under 6 Blue
Under 6 White
It was a sunny afternoon early in (whichever month we started). Their arrival to John Dwyer oval was not noticed by many as the
others were quietly going about their registration business. Nobody would have noticed their quiet nods to each other as their
parents awkwardly shook hands and said hello for the first time. The parents looked nervously around as the coaches and
manager roles were decided. The group of boys quietly moved away from the parents, getting closer to each other… they were
sensing the moment was coming. You could see shoulders being rolled, quads flexing….others lightly bouncing on their toes.
Then it happened…."You guys are the Burra Under 6 Whites". With a mighty roar the boys greeted the news and took off on the
first of their tearing training sprints to the dirt piles under the goal posts. It was already clear these boys were going to have fun
together, starting the journey of learning to play in a team, developing some rugby skills while at the same time terrorising the
opposition and in many cases each other!
The team was definitely a mix of personalities. A great little group who took on the challenge of learning the game and
becoming friends with enthusiasm and energy. Each of them brought something special to the team throughout the year and
they are all worthy of a callout.
Byron: A determined team player, learnt to follow the ruck with energy and often snuck through the defensive line when least
expected. Byron's confidence grew as the season went on, often getting in to the middle to rip and tear. While only small he
struck fear into the opposition forwards with his relentless go forward and fierce running.
Riley: A true clubman, Riley was always in the thick of things and emerged at the back half of the season as one of the most
determined runners in the game. Riley was always alert and ready to take the offload from his mates and make barnstorming
yards up the middle coupled with rock solid defence.
Matt: The thinker of the team, Matt was often cooking up the plans for the team's attack and defensive patterns, in many cases
leaving his set play designs visible in the dirt at the 20 metre line. Matt just got better and better as the season continued and he
was a constant force roving the field with the team sparking attacking forays into the opposition half.
Tom: Our tall man in the line out and the man in the middle when we needed someone to leap for the high ball. Tom was often
showing sublime skills with the ball, matched only by his energetic chanting from the bench when on the sideline. Tom was a
driving force behind the team, often waving his arms with the call to go forward…and his mates would follow his lead
Jake: A running ball player, Jake would emerge from behind the ruck and use his speed to scout out wide, slice through the
opposition defence and often scoring tries. As the season progressed he showed the benefits of training with the emergence of
a very effective right foot step and a back bend to avoid those fingertip tackles. Jake took great delight in taking on the bigger
boys and did well to contain his tackling tendencies.
Lachy: Often deceptive, Lachy would create uncertainty in the opposition minds every time he touched the ball. His darting runs
in all directions were often the spark for attacking raids and were the trigger for his team mates to run off him. Many times
Lachy would start the movements and his creativity lead to tries at the other end of the field.
Archie: The team running machine! An early injury in the season saw Archie become the first of the team to experience the
healing power of the "magic water". He almost grew another leg and showed his fighting spirit to get back out there. From that
moment on, whenever Archie got the ball his determination was always visible. Powering down the line, up the centre and often
running angles that saw him gliding through gaps, busting tackles and offloading beautifully for his mates in support.
Kalani: With blinding speed from broken play, Kalani proved to be a try scoring machine. His swerving runs and amazing diving
tries often brought gasps from the crowd. And in defence Kalani would use the same enthusiasm diving left and right making
tackles in mid air that saved tries in almost every game. Kalani showed his skills and leadership in the team, often taking the hit
up against the bigger boys and leaving them behind once he accelerated down the line.
Tahi: When we needed someone to make yards up the middle it was Tahi who answered the call. Always keen for the ball he
would be into everything and often would emerge from the ruck with the ball under one arm and his eyes on the try line. Tahi
was always hard to stop and was ready when needed to stand firm in the defensive line.
Jayden: A powerhouse runner, Jayden was explosive in his pursuit of the ball and was one of the team's most eager defenders.
Jayden was often the defensive rock the team relied on. His tackles were super solid and he would pursue the others with a
relentless focus.
As a team the boys bonded well and enjoyed their season together playing some great running rugby. The weeks sailed by
quickly and by the end we could see plenty of development in the boys. However none of us were prepared for the performance
at the gala day at Rockdale.
The boys turned up and played their best games of the season. There was a fierce determination in them that we were all
delighted to see. Every single one of them went flat out for every game. There were amazing tackles, swerving runs, diving tries
and every one took great delight in the dirty knees and elbows that were a sign of good hard running rugby.
That being the case, it was no surprise to see Tah Man appear at the side of the boys last game expressing his amazement at the
skills on display. It was therefore no wonder that by the time the final whistle had blown that Tah Man had secured the entire
Burra U6 Whites with new contracts for next season and as they headed off for their lemonade in the sponsors tent, it was great
to hear them saying to each other that they enjoyed their first season of rugby and were looking forward to playing together
again soon.
Thanks for a great year boys and a big thanks to Daniel and Adam for Coaching as well as Nicole and Chris for managing us all.
Pete Hughes
Under 6 Gold
Southern Districts Gala Day Winners
Well what can you say about this team. They had a lot of fun this year, they were enthusiastic and they learned the joys of
rugby. With modified rules and unmatched energy level the boys took to rugby like fish to water. Training was always fun and
involved lots of cool games and the occasional visit to the naughty witches hat. All games were played with great spirit and
sportsmanship and most importantly the boys learned about fair play and mateship. To top off an amazing year the boys were
fortunate enough to win the gala day and bring home the shield for Burraneer.
The boys finished the gala day undefeated and scored some amazing tries and showed some fantastic team work in defence. As
a coach it was awesome to see them win and be rewarded for the effort but more importantly it was great to see them enjoying
themselves and forming friendships that will last for many years.
The boys are very talented and every single one of them improved as the year progressed. Hopefully they can stick together for
years to come and continue to develop their rugby skills. All up we had 11 boys ranging in age from 3 to 6 and they all
contributed something to the team.
The team was
Hamish “Spiderman” Barlow - Hamish is in his second year of rugby and still has one more year to go in the under 6s. Hamish
showed great game awareness this year and was consistently involved in all the games with some excellent defence and some
great runs. Like Spiderman Hamish had great flexibility tagging all opposition players with ease and moving with great speed
with the ball.
Regan “Ben 10” Bennett - Regan is one of the veterans of the team with this being his third year of under 6’s. Regan literally ran
rings around the opposition at times and was a joy to have in the team. Eager to please and happy to listen Regan scored some
great tries and made some excellent tags. Regan was also one of our best Octopus players. Like Ben 10 Regan could utilize
different powers to deal with different situations with his favourite being spider monkey to make the tags.
Finn “Ironman” Chandler - Just like Ironman Finn was constantly calculating the best way through and often pouncing when the
opposition least expected Finn was our try sneak scoring lots of tries through some great running. Finn was also very good at
tagging and was constantly providing cover defence when needed. Finn was always fun to have around at training as well.
Brodie “Batman” Dorahy - The youngest member of the team, Brodie’s involvement in the game increased as the year went on.
Brodie loved running with the ball and loved the games we played at training, especially when he was batman rounding up the
bad guys. Blessed with sporting genes Brodie will be unstoppable when he plays in 6’s again next year and again in 2015.
Max “Dash”Kennedy - Just like Dash from the Incredibles Max is built low to the ground and is super quick. Surprising given his
dad is an ex prop! Max was a pleasure to watch and played some outstanding rugby this year even though his Irish Brogue was
sometimes hard to understand. Max was excellent in both attack and defence and saved his best to last playing outstandingly
well on the gala weekend.
Jayden “Superman” Morton - Jayden was our other veteran with this being his third year as well. Just like Superman Jayden
was often seeing flying through the air faster then speeding bullet. For Jayden the bad guys were the opposition who were
trying to score tries and just like Superman Jayden always got his man. Jayden played exceptionally well all year in both attack
and defence and was someone who tried his best very game. He scored some great tries and made some awesome tags.
Enzo “The Hulk” Neels - Just like the mild mannered Bruce Banner who turned into the Hulk when he got angry Enzo was quiet,
shy and mild mannered off the field however once he crossed the white line he transformed into a formidable rugby player.
Blessed with great speed Enzo scored some amazing tries and also made some exceptional try saving tags running down players
from nowhere. Enzo saved his best to last playing his best rugby of the year in the gala weekend.
Billy “The green lantern” Rose = Billy was also in his second year of rugby and still has one more year to go in the under 6’s.
Billy’s power ring were his football boots and once he put them on he took on great power, stopping all who tried to score
against us and scoring tries for the team of good. Billy could often be heard stating the green lantern oath before he ran on the
field
“In brightest day, in blackest night,
No opposition player shall escape my sight.
Let those who play for the other teams might,
Beware my power, Green Lantern's light!!!”
Harry “Mr Incredible” Steen - A late comer to the team it was awesome to have Harry in the team. Like Mr incredible Harry
possesses great strength and a heightened resistance to the oppositions attempts to stop him. A fierce competitor Harry made
an incredible amount of tags and scored some amazing tags with his great awareness and swerving runs.
Peter “The Flash” Verbic - Peter is at 5 already an exceptional athlete. Fast as the flash and with incredible hand eye co
ordination Peter was able to score tries at will and make some exceptional tags. Besides his rugby playing ability Peter displayed
great sportsmanship and compassion and care for his team mates supporting and encouraging them throughout the year.
Peter’s trademark was a big Ben Tune like swan dive when he scored tries.
Caylem “Captain America” Weir - Caylem was a welcome addition to the Dolphins in 2013. Like Captain America Caylem is
blessed with superhuman traits and mixed them well with his rugby intelligence to ensure he was always involved in the game.
Always in the right position Caylem scored some great tries and made some wonderful tags.
Taine “Thor” Wihare - Just like Thor Taine has incredible strength. Taine absolutely loved playing rugby. A veteran of the team
Taine made some amazing tags and was always involved in the game. He loved every aspect of it. Kicking, tagging, running and
playing. Throughout the year Taine showed great sportsmanship often playing for the other team. Taine’s enthusiasm was
infectious and his development was great to watch.
Addison “Wonder Woman” Bennett Played a couple of games for the team at aged 3 and loved every minute of it.
To my loyal and ever present assistant coach Dave. Thank you for all your help throughout the year. Keeping a large group of 5
year old boys entertained for a long period of time is always difficult and your assistance was ever present and thoroughly
appreciated. Special mention to my assistant assistant coaches OLLIE AND LOGAN.
To the dads who helped with the warm ups in particularly Jason and Matt, Thank you. Each week the warm up seemed to get
better and the boys really loved it.
To my amazing manger Leona thank you for all your assistance and support. You are amazing and you must have a very lucky
husband.
To all the other parents thank you for encouraging and supporting your children and assisting them to learn and develop their
rugby skills. I am very passionate about rugby and believe it develops great life skills including mateship, team work
responsibility and respect. I am proud to say the boys all learned some of these skills along with their rugby skills.
Under 7 Blue
The 2013 U7 Season will go down as a fun and successful season for the boys. We managed to play in all weather conditions,
much to the boys liking. This season brought a significant uplift in skills which will only improve as we move to full contact next
season, an experience that I feel the boys were very much ready for this year. This U7 team has formed a very strong nucleus to
move through the Burra Ranks and I am looking forward to seeing them grow and build their rugby and friendships in the years
to come. As the 2013 U7 Premiers you should be proud of yourselves boys, Well Done!
Ethan Stark:
Ethan had a great year and was our ‘roving’ defender around the edges of the ruck. There wasn’t a game that Ethan didn’t have
a smile on his face and would consistently make the up close tags to stifle the attacking team. He set up many a great try with
his yard gaining runs and quick turn and passes!
Liam McGrath
Liam weighed in as our smallest Burra player but what he lacked in size he made up for with tenacity. He was Ethan’s partner as
a ‘roving’ defender and would catch the attacking runners off guard around the rucks with immediate tagging precision. He
earned himself ‘man of the match’ in the grand final.
Nick McGrath
Nick was the ‘quiet achiever’ of the team whose defence was outstanding all season. Always off the line quickly to make the all
important tags, Nick was one of our consistent all rounders of the team that earned himself the tag of ‘Mr dependable’. Great
season Nick, see you next year!
Joel Steiner
It’s always hard having your dad as the coach of the team but Joel had a great season this year and played with 100%
commitment every game. Joel’s attacking skills and his tenacity in defence made him one of the team’s hard hitters and tryscorers. He played with a much improved maturity and consistency that made him a valuable member of the team. Yes, you can
finally tackle next year Joel, great season!
Oliver Randazzo
Ollie (1) was a new addition to the 7s team this year and slotted straight in with his ‘barnstorming up the middle runs and
fantastic defences up off the line. He was another member of the team that enjoyed every game we played when running onto
the field. Great first season this year Ollie, see you next year!
Oliver Lloyd
Ollie (2) had a fantastic season this year. His speed and footwork whether through the middle or out wide was very impressive
to see in a 7 year old and has a wealth of potential as he grows into rugby. He scored and saved many a try this season again
playing with 100% commitment to attack and defend every game. Ollie, great season mate, see you next year!
Henry Smith
One of the ‘big four’ defenders, Henry played week in week out with great enthusiasm. Henry is a great listener who was always
keen to absorb how to improve and play better. He played this season with great ‘elusiveness’ breaking the defensive lines with
sparkling runs down the sideline! Great having you part of the team Henry, well done!
Mitchell Slater
Mitchell was one of team’s ‘pocket rockets’ with a great side step that always caught the defence off guard. He had great
passing skills and played as a future number 9. When the chips were down Mitchell was always there gritting his teeth and
making that try saver. From the beginning of the season through to the grand final, Mitch displayed great determination.
Jarrah Bell
Jarrah’s trademark skill was the ‘show n go’ who often made great runs down the sideline to put points on the board. His
defence was also outstanding this year often assuming the fullback role to ensure we had cover defence at all times. Another
consistent member of the team, I am looking forward to seeing Jarrah develop his skills into the future.
Hamish Johnston
Hamish was a newcomer to the 7s this year and you would not have thought so. Hamish was another great defender with great
left and right foot kicking skills. Most games the referee would comment on which kid was making the big kickoffs. Hamish
seemed to thoroughly enjoy himself and was always willing to listen intently to absorb what was required to improve and play
better. Great season Hamish!
Well done on a great and rewarding season. I am looking forward to next year when we step up to full contact rugby to further
learn all of the skills of playing great rugby. Let’s recruit next year so that we continue to be strong and competitive.
Nathan - U7 Burra Blues coach
U8 Blue
The parents started the year with a little apprehension about what to expect in the first year of tackle for our boys, who seemed
to us still so small. Having lost one player to AFL and one to Soccer from our 2012 team, some recruiting produced four new
players in Darcy McKeown, Jake Andrews, William Morrison and Harry Caughlan. All the boys, old and new, took to tackle like
ducks to water, and soon eased our concerns about their ability to get into it. Although they were a little battered and bruised
after game one, by the Gala Day at the end, they were throwing themselves into it like pros.
We began the season with twins Luke and Elliot Jallier, who had brought their Kiwi training back with them from NZ in 2012.
However, due to the family moving again, this time to live in Italy, we lost them from our team mid-season. Being such lovely
boys, phenomenal players and keen-bean rugby nuts, the whole team really felt their departure with great sadness. Our team
took a few weeks to re-group on the field and work out new tactics without the Jallier boys directing play.
It didn’t take them long though, and the Jallier’s absence actually assisted the rest of the team to grow and develop their
strengths in varying areas. William Morrison (who we gained from Soccer) and Jake Andrews proved they have the legs to make
it over the line. Zach Pauling and Harry Caughlan also contributed greatly to our try tally, but proved to be our strongest tacklers,
and expert break-aways due to their size advantage and sheer determination. Jack and Oscar Dransfield tapped into their inner
(dare I say) bulldog and proved themselves as the ruck men, with their shorter stature and power packed driving to help bring
down boys twice their size and win the ball. Declan Ruhle is our goal kicker extraordinaire with deft accuracy, and also provided
great support in all areas along with Darcy McKeown who is new to the game, and probably shocked by going straight into
tackle, but learnt all the skills and got amongst it by the end of the season. Tom de Soza likens himself to the Genia of the team,
ferreting the ball out of the ruck and following runners to be there at the break down to pick it up.
It has been a pleasure as parents to watch the boys grow this year, not only in size but in skill level and understanding of the
game. Rugby is such a great game for kids of all shapes and sizes, which could not be more evident in our team, where everyone
played to the best of their ability and found a job to do and a valuable position in the team.
We ended up wooden spooners at the Gala Day but we are so proud to have witnessed some amazing courage from all the boys
who not only gave 100% right up to the last whistle but played the game with great spirit and a 'never say die' attitude. Chasing,
tackling and fighting for every ball, never dropping their shoulders in defeat and always having fun.
Special thanks to Sam Herman for giving his time to help coach our team all year and assisting coach Allen in making it as fun as
possible for the boys to learn the game, not only in terms of skill but evidently attitude. Thanks also to the dads that helped fill
in with coaching, subbing and report writing. A great team effort this year and looking forward to what 2014 brings this
awesome group of boys!
Janelle de Soza - Manager U8 Blue
Under 8 Gold
Southern Districts Gala Day Winners
I started my rugby career in the under 8s and remember it as a great year. At the start of the year I was nervous about how the
boys would take to the challenge of playing tackle rugby. We turned up on the first day and had a healthy return of players from
the year before with 7 boys backing up. We split the 8 new boys evenly between the blue and gold team and we were blessed
to get great boys with great personalities.
The boys surprised and inspired me with their dedication and enthusiasm and played exceptional rugby all year. In total the
boys played 18 games for 17 wins losing only one game all year. They went through the gala weekend undefeated and scored
over 150 tries for the year to only about 60 against. They showed exceptional skills and courage throughout the year and were
probably the smallest team but with the biggest hearts and best techniques. Most importantly every single boy improved
throughout the year going from good to great.
I believe that rugby can teach boys a lot about life and they learned the concepts of teamwork mateship, responsibility, respect,
sportsmanship, integrity, resilience, toughness, over coming fears and winning gracefully and not being bad losers.
Whilst coaching can be a challenge based on time restraints and dealing with different personalities I can say that I honestly feel
that I probably got more out of this year then the boys. They were inspiring and fun to be around, a pleasure to coach and a real
credit to their parents.
Boys you can all be whatever you want to be in rugby as long as you try your best. I sense we may have some future
internationals in this team. Maybe even some Olympic sevens medalists. No matter what though you will get some great
friendships and memories from your rugby.
Unfortunately we had 2 boys who couldn’t finish the year with us as they were not ready for the contact of rugby just yet but we
look forward to seeing Harry Ellis and Rory Glenn in the future.
The mighty Burra u8 gold team were as follows:
Harry Beer - Harry loved his rugby this year and continually improved as the year went on. Harry really started to come to life
in the second half of the year getting involved in the rucks and mauls and becoming a vital link man in attack with some
awesome passes. Harry also loved his training sessions and it is hard to remember a time that he played without a massive
smile on his face.
Logan Bennett - Logan took to the rucks and mauls like a duck to water. From the first game he got into every ruck and maul
and was constantly ripping and mauling. Doing the hard yards for the speed men out wide. Logan turned over a lot of ball for
his team mates and was constantly improving with his tackling, running and passing. Logan also loved training especially the
rucking and mauling sessions.
Nathan Boggiss - With the special guidance of his tackling coach Barney Nathan really developed into a hit man this year. A
great direct runner, good passer and constantly involved in the rucks and mauls Nathan’s highlight reel consisted of a lot of big
hits, often on players a lot bigger then him. Shoulder in and legs driving Nathan often left the opposition gasping for air.
Liam Feros - Liam must have the strongest legs in the comp. He never gave up in the tackle and scored many tries throughout
the year from keeping his legs pumping. Liam has a great all round game with excellent running, passing and tackling
complimenting his excellent leg drive. He also has an infectious enthusiasm and energy.
Lucas Hoy - Lucas’ dad said to me at the beginning of the year he was probably a back. Sorry Gavin. I think Lucas is a loosie. He
tackled everything that moved, attacked all the rucks and mauls and provided great support and running. Lucas also had an
awesome fend that many opposition players felt the full brunt of.
Kainen Leask - Kainen was a late starter in our team and a bit of a late bloomer with his back end of the year being exceptional.
Once Kainen realized that it didn’t hurt he was in every ruck and maul often popping out the other side and streaking away. A
good link man and defender Kainen was agreat new addition to the team.
Jasper Luxford - Without doubt Jasper is a speed machine. During the course of the year he also discovered how strong he is
and when he started running with all his effort proved unstoppable. Jasper also learned about resilience this year bouncing back
from tough tackles to continue playing. Despite scoring a bucket load of tries my favourite thing with Jasper was that he learned
to appreciate his teammates and the teamwork that is required to allow him to score often thanking the person who passed him
the ball.
Caleb Murphy - The heart and soul of the team Caleb played himself to exhaustion every week. A born competitor Caleb has
exceptional skills for a child his age. A great passing game, running game and tackling technique mixed with a hunger to be best
means Caleb has a very bright future.
Sam Newton was mr everywhere. Hard to peg him as a back hard to peg him as forward he was the best clean outer in the
team, a great link man, good defender and an awesome runner. He was consistent throughout the year and improved his all
round game as the year progressed.
Hamish Spedding - Hamish was another who blossomed as the year progressed. He had great speed, good awareness and
strength in the tackle. Not afraid to be in the front line of defence Hamish would often stop the opposition. Hamish was
probably our best support player always supporting any breakaway runs.
Alexander Vaughan - Alexander is an awesome runner. He is also big and strong. What impressed me about Alexander this
year was his development as a player. Alexander was happy to take on the tough roles, do the hard yard’s in attack and
defence, win the ball for the team and let others score. Don’t get me wrong Alexander scored lots of tries but he learned to
make it happen rather to wait for the opportunity to come to him.
The Assistant Coaches
The boy’s skill level this year really was amazing for an U8 team. A large part of this was because so many parents were willing
to help and give the boys the time and attention they deserved. Special thank you to Barney our defensive coach, Dave and
Steve N my assistant coaches, Steve M my stats man and Mike, Anthony and Michael my pad holders. Your support was truly
appreciated and the boys got so much more out of it because you gave them your time.
The Support Crew
Playing across the Sutherland Shire and St George on different days and times can be tricky but we had an awesome group of
families involved. A special thank you to all the parents and especially the mums who brought the kids to training and the
games. Also a shout out to all the siblings who were awesome supporters and after game lolly eaters.
The Manager
Over the years I have been blessed with great managers and this year was no different. Sue was awesome and ensured that
everything ran smoothly so that I could concentrate on coaching. Sue I can’t thank you enough.
Under 9 Blue
Well what another great season of rugby was had by the U9 Blues. We started our campaign this year with some good rugby
played and enjoying the forward’s style of game played and learnt from the last few seasons. This year also saw me, after 4-5
rounds, leaving the field. Forever as a coach on field, I must say it was very tough not being the 11th player out there. I
especially missed being in the middle of the action, calling the forwards on and setting the back line, however, as they say, all
good things must come to an end!
This year we were playing 10 a side rugby so I thought at some point we should look at who’s suited to what position with the
age old question back? or forward? I am happy to say the boys basically made up their own minds, the boys with the gel and
haircuts went into the backs and the boys with rugged good looks went straight into the forwards (it’s funny how that’s always
been the way). With this done, we started to train as 2 groups working on the various skills need for the ultimate outcome of
“Running Rugby”. Each week at training with about 25 minutes left we would come together for a team run or what I like to call
the Captain’s Run against me and some dads, this is always a great fun way to finish the training session and it lets the boys put
into practice what’s just been learnt.
BACKS
Our Backs this season consisted of Noah, Will and Oliver in the halves who all showed great ability with the ball in hand and
setting the back line for defence and attacking plays all over the paddock, you guys did a great job this season, so keep it up. The
centres were made up of Hennessy and Harrison with both boys having a great sense of where to be in attack and defence, I was
very pleased with your progress throughout the year, especially at the end of our season so good work boys and keep it going
for next year.
That brings me to our wingers, Charles and Kye, these guys both have speed to burn and it showed this year. Charlie made some
great tackles out wide and good hard running with the ball in hand. Kye in his first year of rugby scored the greatest try ever in
the history of the game up at Old Bush Road. This was achieved by the forwards doing a perfect clean out and the backs using
width in their passing and old fashioned straight hard running, drawing and passing all the way out to our flyer Kye who put the
afterburner on to blitz his opponent and score in the corner.
Well done backs. I want to hear you are all doing some sprint train in the off season and tackling your sister, brother, mum, dad
or whoever is handy.
FORWARDS
Our Forwards this season consisted of Angus, Matt and Seth (mostly) up in the front row doing a great job organising the fellas
at scrum and line out time. Gus well done on a good season mate, as with being the strongest/biggest in our side, you where
earmarked by our opposition a lot but you keep on going, so well done, keep it going next year mate. Seth and Matt you guys
were also great this year with really good tackling and cleaning out in the rucks and mauls, and we cant forget the sneaky ball
stealing, so keep it going as well next year!
Our second rowers were Alex and Ethan. You two had awesome games week in week out, Alex you are always in there making
runs and cutting (I mean tackling) the other teams in half with your big hits. Ethan I really noticed a big difference this year with
your ball running mate, you were trying to run over the top of players and liked what I saw. Both you guys continue to run the
ball and stay hungry for it, and lets enjoy another season again next year. Our flankers for the year were Rory and Ryan. Rory,
you have come along way since you starting kicking the footy around from four years of age for Burra, you stepped up this year,
stealing the ball and cleaning out was your speciality by the end of the season, Dad’s extremely proud of you. Ryan you were
mostly outstanding for this season with some very tough games you never backed down from the challenge and I was impressed
with your tackling, clean out and waiting for the right time to run the ball, well done. I would like to hear you are all heading out
the sand hill in the off-season to build up our stamina and leg strength.
I would like to say thanks to mums, dads (dads for helping at training) for canteen and getting the boys to and from games
training etc. Also a big thanks to Karla, you are a really great manager and make my job a lot easier all-round. To our team I had
another enjoyable year coaching you guys, you are all great fellas and I always look forward to spending Thursday night coaching
and having a laugh with you, so thanks for playing our great game of rugby.
David Waugh
U9 Gold
Coach Glen Pilcher did a fantastic job in developing the technical and tactical skills of the players, specifically around the
breakdown and setting the back line. The players loved Glen's coaching. Additionally the input from guest coach, Wallaby Kane
Douglas was a real thrill for the boys.
Under 10
Season 2013 was a big year for the Burra U10s, as I imagine is the same for each U10 rugby team. The season presented
challenges for our boys, which they have managed positively. On reflection the improvement as a team throughout the year was
my major highlight along with their dogged determination and persistence although not winning a game. We can’t sugar coat
this fact and although coming close a few times our team was very aware of it after each loss.
The team continued on with the confidence that their game was improving and they were still enjoying themselves regardless of
the final result. It was our 1st season on the full length field, also our 1st of contested scrums and line-outs. The game tested the
fitness and strength of our team both physically and mentally.
Matt and I made our best effort to prepare the training appropriate to the development of the team and maintain the
enjoyment.
From the years playing minis most of our team grew familiar with the opposition, though this season our opposition was new to
us, it was a big step up to the intensity and skill of the teams from the Eastern Suburbs, playing against quality opposition will
only help the development of the boys for the future years.
It was great to have the majority of our 2012 team back and we were fortunate to welcome 5 new players to our side.
Individually each player added their own skills and personality to the team.
Matt & I have both enjoyed being part of the boy’s development as Rugby players and their development as individuals.
It has been my pleasure to be part of the coaching team for the Burra U10s this season.
I have been very thankful for the involvement of every parent. The support and encouragement we give to our children as they
grow, the lessons of mateship, sportsmanship, learning to be a team player and a gracious looser are part of the lessons of life
we learn from playing a team sport. I feel it is important to acknowledge each parents involvement whether it was helping out
at training, running the touch line, running water, completing the team sheets, setting up and packing up the field and
clubhouse, helping out behind the bar and canteen and cheering from the sidelines.
A Special thanks must go to our team manager Sue Bannister, for her weekly communications and game day organisation, you
were invaluable to Matt and myself.
We look forward to rugby season 2014 to build on the great effort from this season.
Shane Ewings & Matt Kennedy
U11 Blue
In March this year, it was touch and go if we would have enough players to make up the U11 Blues! With only 8 players from
the 2012 season, we needed another 4 players to at least field a team! We needn’t have worried, as luck would have it and
some recruiting of friends, we managed to get an extra 6 players all of whom were new to rugby union!
Our first game of the season was a bit of a wake up call to the boys, we got thrashed 65 to nil! We still had work to do but by
the 2nd game, we had improvement and only got thrashed 35 to nil! By the third game we won, things were definitely on the up!
It was right back to basics in training, teaching the new boys the skills, techniques and laws of the game. Fortunately our boys
were quick learners and our play continued to improve through out the season.
Due to other commitments a couple of our players had to leave in the season, Mason and Cullen, thank you boys for your
contribution to the team.
We also gained another 3 players into the season, Maximus, Corey and Jacob, again all new to the game but proved to be an
asset to the team.
Thank you Ethan T, Ethan W, Rayden, Matt, Zac, Luke, Angus, Jai, Flynn, Theo, Tai, Hugh, Jude, Corey and Jacob, you are a
great bunch of boys and a pleasure to coach and manage. You have worked well as a team, improved your skills and
understanding of the game and ranking 5th out of 11 teams on the table is a credit to you and a testament to your efforts, a
huge achievement boys, well done!
We are so proud of you boys and hope you’ve enjoyed the season as much as we have and hope to see you back in 2014.
We would also like to thank our parents for your support in all aspects, we really appreciate it.
A huge thank you goes to Adam Westwood for your help over the season as trainer, we couldn’t have done it without you and
to George Websdale for writing our match report every week, not an easy task and very much appreciated.
Here’s to 2014!
Simon, Ayman & Jodie
U11 Gold
James McNaughton – While he may have worn the No.1 jersey James was one of our fast improving back three. As the year
progressed he grew in confidence, taking on the line more and more each week. We look forward to big and brave things from
our new recruit next year. Plenty of veggies over summer mate!
Connor Dillon – Holding down both the N0.2 position AND Vice Captain role was very demanding of young CD. As all good rep
players, CD rose the occasion every week and well and truly earned his status within the team. Next year will be a good year for
our resident jujitsu practitioner. Keep wrestling buddy.
Zachary Cambridge – “The Rock” held down the N0.3 position with his typical flare and athleticism. What was most pleasing was
Zac’s maturity this year, especially at training where the boys can sometimes loosen up a little. We look forward to his
improvement next year in the 15 man game. More scrums matey.
Ben Robinson – Even though he wore N0.4 on his back Ben was a huge influence in our tight five group. He was asked to play
both front & second row positions and fore filled both roles extremely well. His presence and urgency around the field was most
evident in the tighter games. Good work “Boxhead!!”
Dylan Falesita – What can we say about our second quietest player in the team? Wearing N0.5 and playing N0.8 Dylan was a
standout and like Ben Robbo was most noticeable when the big games required it. His representative career has only just begun
and if he improves as much next year the team will be better for it. More again please next year Mr. D.
Kyle Woolbank – Mr. Versatility. Wearing N0.6 Kyle was everywhere in the backs, attacking from the deep and defending to the
last. There was many a game played by our young trooper where he dragged himself off his death bed to play. He would never
let his team mates down. Fantastic effort Mate!
Joshua Pritchard – Playing in jersey 7, Josh had his best year to date. As a major member of the tight five he was one of our
most consistent players this year and a very well respected member of the team. We are looking to his maturity next year to
step up to the 15 man game. Well done!
Trent Wimpey – Jersey 8 may have been his number but Trent well and truly established himself as our future N0.7. Trent had
an outstanding year leading the team in all areas of the game. Many times he dug us out of a hole and got better the longer the
season went. He is going to be a very important member of the “Piggies” next year! Brilliant!
Lachlan Feros – Wearing N0.9 Lachie was one of three boys charged with the hardest job in the team –Halfback! Not only did he
improve his game here, he also held his own in both the wing and fullback positions when required. Most importantly he was
one of our most improved defenders in the team. Awesome work.
Harrison Dransfield – As N0.10 and Captain, Harry had the most responsibility of all the players. You wouldn’t know this as he
was by far our calmest player. As playmaker he showed us why he played reps, leading the team to wins over several of the top
teams in our comp. His composure under pressure was outstanding and we see great things in our Captain. His greatest
achievement this year was the bonding of the team into what we believe as the happiest and most improved in the competition.
Well Done Champ!
Daniel Shaw – Our incumbent N0.11 had many roles this year. None more important than goal kicker for the team. Having to
play in three positions and kick pressure goals was a testament to Daniels work ethic and tenacity. He was an invaluable player.
More again please next year buddy!
Jack Rees – Our energetic N0.13 was a non stop “Battery” all year. He was arguably our most improved player, especially at
training were composure was required. His outstanding defense at fullback saved our team on many occasions. He should take a
lot of confidence into next year’s season. Give me five Jacko!!
Alex James – As one of our newest members Alex unfortunately had a short season due to injury. But our current N0.14 shown
enough in the short time he was with us that he will be a force in the forwards next year. See you soon.
Zachary Hodges – Playing in Jersey 15 Zac occupied the difficult inside centre position. Having come across from league, where
he played second row, Zac improved with every game. His position is a very difficult position to play let alone learn. All credit
should be given to Zac for well and truly holding his own here in a short space of time. Awesome.
Harrison Quinn – Coming to us mid season as a new recruit, Quinny played front and second row in jersey N0.17. Coming from a
league background is always hard but as Quinny’s fitness grew so did his confidence and impact. Only good things will come
from this experience. Great work Quinny.
Samaauga Kalamelu – Along with Kyle and Jack, Sam grew into one of our more exciting finishers this year. Wearing N0.18
didn’t stop him from popping up everywhere to support his team mates. Next in 15 a side he will grow even more. Just
remember not to trip out in the open next year mate!!
Andre Fuller – With out doubt Andre was our quietest player this year. However our incumbent N0.21 was also one of the most
improved players in the group. He was asked to play in the very hard position of hooker and acquitted himself with great dignity.
We will be expecting the same again from Andre next year. Well done Andre.
Cain Lightbody – What can we say about Cain? He challenges Jack for energy, Kyle for speed & Enzo for talking. But our full
throttle N0.22 was always willing to put his body on the line for his team mates. His discipline this year was great and he proved
his importance playing in the most positions this year. Great work Cain.
Enzo Sebastani – Again a new recruit to the team. Enzo had the popular N0.23 jersey this year. As a new comer to union it took
a little time to settle into our systems. As the year wore on Enzo grew into his role in the team to become a very important
member of the back three. Same again next year Enzo!
Christopher Slattery – Another of our mid season signings from league, The “Big Fella” well and truly occupied the N0.27 jersey.
Having said that, Chris was the only player to score three tries on one game! I see a union version of Glen Lazarus here! Once his
fitness improved Chris was able to get more game time and hence more impact for the team. See you next year “Big Marn”
Under 12Bs
Well - WOW! What else can you say ....
The Mighty Burra Under 12s rode into the G.F. like the wild colonial boys from the south....and shot Forrestville town to pieces!
Forestville put on the gunslinger swagger prior to kick off as they were undefeated minor premiers. They had beaten us by 40
plus earlier in the year....but less than an hour later, they were even more minor!!!
Whilst Forrest ran onto the field wearing green and white, they were very quickly belted black and blue to the point that I
thought they might have to chopper in more replacements from the north shore!
From our perspective, our performance in the G.F. was simply a reflection on the ability of our boys to play rugby the only way
they know how and that is fast and furious! The G.F. performance was effectively the icing on the cake in terms of the way we
had been building over the last month! This premiership is just reward for the strongest team in the competition!
Sure....we may get penalised a lot, in fact, a lot of a lot but I think we realised in time and accepted that this is just going to
happen because we are a bit wild and woolly! We play on the edge and we can be a bit loose ..but that's also why we are such a
good footy team!
Our team did exactly what was required in the G.F! Our forwards dominated and our backs ran amuck and scored points ! 22 - 5!
Winner's are grinners!
Accordingly, I take this opportunity to tell you a little bit more about the Champions who make up the Mighty Burra Under 12s 2013 Vintage!
Alec - If you ask Alec at training to run left, he will run right, if you ask Alec to hit the tackle bag, he will dummy, step and chip
kick over the top of it.......but in a game.....he does things the way it should be done...and he plays the way you need a front
rower to play ...every team needs an Alec....Alec always steps up when we need to get on top in the middle and he did this big
time against both Linfield and Forrestville in our last two games!
Zane J - The Jaegermyster had a massive year and was a crucial part of our rolling thunder of front rowers upon which this
premiership was built! As one of our "Bruise Brother's", Zane terrorised our opposition when on the charge and was often
responsible for getting our first pick and drive going forward which set the platform for the magic to follow!
Jack - Is not our first choice goal kicker ...and he need never put in a chip kick into the in goal in the last play of a tough G.F ever
again!!! But ..he can score a try or ten and Jack would be amongst the first front rowers picked in any "Best of the Under 12s
Teams" in the history of Burra rugby! Jack played outstanding rugby every week in the toughest position in which to do so! Jack
is another pillar on which this title was built!
Jordon - I love watching the Musc, or the Mongrel play rugby! He smashes into things like a truck! He has everything a hooker
needs, (including a good sort PT trainer). Jordon typifies the description that rugby is a hooligan's game played by gentleman!
Jordon is a pleasure to have around a rugby team, he his loyal and tough and looks after his mates!
Josh C - The G.F. typified Josh's year! He stuck his head out of a ruck just long enough for Trainer / dad Dave to wipe some blood
from his schnooze, only to immediately disappear back into the bottom of the next ruck ...and he did not reappear until it was
time to pick up his winner's medal! Josh does what his coaches ask him to do and it's the stuff no one sees!
James - When Crossos has his running hard head on .....look out world! Looking back through this year's match reports, I am
reading about crunching tackles into touch whilst Captaining the side against Beecroft, dominant line out performances,
repeated references to pick and drives for big meters, including a memorable world class try against Mosman, that would be the
envy of the Wallabies second row!n(James however firmly denies wearing his mum's clothes to sprint training during the
season!)
Sam S - Burra rugby is lucky to have snared Sam away from the dark side of rugby league. Sam likes his rugby aggressive, hard
and direct! Sam crunches ‘em with his defence and punches holes in them when he runs at them! Sam had a great year and can
play anywhere you need him to. I think he will end up as a punishing back rower!
Robert - Rob is made to be a rugby forward! In his first year he had no drama's slotting into the front row, second row or back
row as required. His commitment to being head down and bum up doing the strong running, rucking and defending was exactly
what we needed so as to allow others to do what they had to do! A premiership in his first year is a just reward!
Liam - Liam ripped in at every opportunity, whether it was primarily getting down and dirty in the engine room with the
forwards where his strength was best utilised or doing what is needed with the glory boys as an outside back! Liam had a serious
crack and more than held his own in his first year at the coal face of premier rugby!
H - Well what can I say! H is like our "Mojo", our team soul, our spiritual leader, our chief winning song singer and our go to man
on the field when we need someone to get us out of the sheeet ..and no one does it better! No one put more fear into the
hearts of our opposition's players, coaches, trainers and crowd than when H went "MELMAN" on them! When H wound up and
unleashed, like he did repeatedly, (like against Linfield for a crucial try from half way when the game was on the line and again
when we needed it in the 'Forrestville Massacre" that was the G.F..) he was unstoppable! H is the complete rugby package
.....however ...he can be dodgy at goal kicking ...like his grubber kick attempt in the semi against Beecroft!
Callum - Cal had a huge year! Despite his English background, Cal's pace, enthusiasm and athleticism make for a terrific rugby
player! Cal could have retired in glory as a back rower after his game against Beecroft early in the year when, in a four minute
period, he saved a certain try in one corner, then scored a try in the other corner from the next play! Lucky for us he played on
and has developed into try scoring machine, whom, at inside centre, scored a magic try in the G.F. which effectively got us
beyond Forestville’s reach!
Dobby - Dobby is both a forward in a back's body and a back in a forward's body! Dobby has the skills to play anywhere in the
back line and the grit and toughness to get in amongst it in tight. Dobby provided a heap of highlights but the best revolved
around him tackling, annoying and pestering the Forrestville Number 8, (who was their danger man) so much that he got himself
sin-binned in the G.F. just to get away from Dobby!
Zano - Every team needs a Zano! An open side flanker whom is always busting his gut to be over the ball and in the opposition's
face! Zano is a worker who does the stuff that allows for his team mates to shine! Zano often featured amongst the weekly
awards and produced his best in the G.F. where his efforts in stealing ball from the opposition took pressure off us at important
times when we were under the pump! Zano had a great year of rugby!
Mikey - Mikey had a massive year! Mikey developed into our Captain for the big end of season games and thrived in stepping up
and taking on this leadership role! Mikey matured as the season progressed and his class and footy-head repeatedly got us on
track when we had the potential to get a bit wobbly when decisions were not going our way. His footy awareness in pouncing on
opportunities and converting them to tries proved invaluable. His opening try in the G.F was all class, as was his goal kicking all
year!
Isaak - Has the skills to be able to play both as an inside and outside back and did both particularly well this season! Isaak's
stepped up and in big time at half back in the biggest toughest game of the year in the G.F. and he had the coaching staff smiling
with the quality of his work at the back of the scrum and line out's in the second half when the title was up for grabs!
Harry. - Harry is the grease that keeps the Burra 12's machine in motion! Whilst Harry had the enviable job of playing behind a
rampaging forward pack, he had to work hard to get some ball off them in order to feed our back line. The way the back's
operated in those last three games where we scored a heap of quality tries out wide tells that he got the mix right at the right
time! Harry is a clever ball runner whom knows when to run and when to pass and is always solid in defence - they never get
through his link in the defence chain!
Josh M - Josh is our Mr Fix it ! Josh is such a handy, genuine footballer that you can throw him into any position and not have to
worry about what you are going to get. Josh never lets you down! He is the ultimate team utility!
Damon – Damon is kind of like an iron fist in a silk glove! He has the power to smash the opposition both in attack or defence
and has the kicking and long and short passing game to cause untold suffering for opposition players and coaches! Damo can
easily slot between Number 8 and Number 10 and has football smarts way beyond the average human! His clever try from the
back of the scrum almost untouched in the G.F. says it all!
Sam Hughes - Sam proved to be a nightmare for anyone who had the misfortune of having to line up opposite him! Whilst a
powerhouse in defence, his running game from centre and particularly full-back later in the year, proved to be one of our
greatest asset's. If he was not scoring tries himself he was setting up his outside men to do the same. Sam has a fend that causes
dents in the opposition that only a panel beater can fix!
Matt - Played his best games in the centres where his punishing up an in or rush defence snuffed out many an opposition back
line's momentum before it got going. Matt is skilful and quick and is a real asset to our mob! Matt has developed big time this
year and the sky is the limit here!
Daniel - Dan's last two games, being the major semi and G.F, in particular stand out as defining a class outside back with real
pace and an ability to both sniff out a try and bury an opposition's chance of scoring. His try from half way in the big semi against
Linfield, and the excitement it created on the sideline is etched in my memory as is his cover defence in the same game!
Andy - Andy is a true team player and provided a heap of spark in attack at the end of a quality back line. Andy worked really
well with his main man, centre, Sam Hughes in attack and provided a highlight of our season through good support play for a try
in the corner in our big semi win over Beecroft. Andy's defence has been spot on all season!
Lachy - Missed the start of the season with injury but learnt a heap this year! Lachy listened to instruction and showed the
smarts and the ability so as to develop into a safe and reliable winger who stuck to his opposite winger like poo to a blanket and
nailed them consistently. Lachy has the energy and get up and go to develop into a quality back rower!
Max - How good was it to see Max develop in his first year into a confident quality outside back whom always made the right
decisions in crunch moments. Max shone best when playing full-back and developed a knack for being in the right place at the
right time, particularly in support of those team mates who cracked the defence to find Max right where he needed to be!
To Ethan as our kicking Tee Coach - Thanks for the meters run! A highlight of the G.F. was watching you in action against
Forestville after they smashed us earlier in the season, thus denying you field time! Revenge is sweet!
To Coach Redrup - Thanks for sharing your knowledge of the game they play in heaven and for your dedication in teaching the
boys the skills of rugby!
To Coach Crossley - Thanks for your man management, passion and commitment to the cause! How about those Lakers!
To Trainer Dave - Thanks for doing the hard yards and for your efforts in trying to talk the boys into listening to the coaches
instructions - not an easy task with this mob!
To our sideline eye and match official - Jas - thanks for keeping the b******s honest!
To the Manager with the Mostest - Kellie ..thanks for all you did and done ....no one does it better and the season would not
have been a success without your efforts!
To Team Colaco - Ian, Glenn and Jan, thanks for keeping us sticky taped together with your efforts and magic bits of tape!
To the army of dads in Pete, Rod, Paul, Jon, Scott and Damien who put in throughout the year and to the support crew of mums
and family, including the cheer girls at half time in the G.F, the Burra club committee and to the sponsor's ...TA!
To Mel - ta for the coffees!
David Ches.
PS: Huge thanks to Scoop Chesterfield for keeping us entertained each week with insightful match reports and always being on
hand to help the boys.
Under 13 Blue - B Grade
Well, what an interesting season…. It proved to be a difficult and disrupted season, for all sorts of reasons but in the end, it was
still a terrific season of rugby and most enjoyable for everyone involved.
To begin with, 17 registered players is too few for a competitive Under 13s team. All but 2 of our players also play either private
school rugby or Rugby League on a Saturday, so getting everyone to training and games uninjured and ready to play was
problematic.
We really need another 3 or 4 players to round this team out…. and when we do we will be more than competitive and not just
in B Grade - we are definitely an A Grade side capable of beating any A Grade team on our day.
Evidence of this came in our final 3 matches of the season, where we comfortably beat semi-finalists Coogee; we drew 19-19
with Grand Finalists Mosman despite being down to 12 men; and finally in the last round we came within a whisker of beating
the undefeated minor premiers and Grand Finalists Dural, going down 17-19 in the final minutes.
We are so very proud of this team. NOBODY comes close to their toughness. Many of the boys have played together since the
Under 6s and it shows – these guys will spill blood for each other!
TEAM :
Props;
Sam King – one of the most improved players in the side, for the second year running. Especially in the last few games, Sam has
really begun to grow into his frame and match it with opposition forward packs. At that rate of improvement, Sam will be a
great asset to the team in 2014!
Billy McLennan – Big Billy loves playing footy and the boys love playing footy with him! One of the real characters of the team,
Billy has trimmed down and aimed up… He had a great season – look out for him in 2014!
Hooker:
Kyle Devine – the Paul Gallen of the Under 13s, our Captain and leader in every way. The closer the match and the tougher the
opponents, the better Kyle likes it! Leads by example in all aspects of the game and usually sets the tone of every match he plays
– we are yet to see an opposition forward he has not dominated and intimidated, Kyle cannot wait for 2014!
Locks:
Luke Richardson – the Victor Matfield of the Under 13s. The best lineout exponent in Under 13s rugby. Full stop and not just a
lineout ace but a great performer with an incredible work rate across the park, in both attack and defence. Just wait until he
puts a little weight on in the next year or two!
Damon Foley – if Luke is the Victor Matfield of our team, then Damon is our Brad Thorn. Tough as nails and a super hard worker,
Damon is one of those second rowers that you hardly ever see…. because they’re in the thick of it grinding out the work. Oh and
he was always there to back his mates when the biff was on!
Back Row:
Harrison Armour – the most enthusiastic player on the field every week, Harry is Mr Consistent and simply never has a bad
game. He throws himself into every ruck with no thought of self-preservation and has one of the highest work-rates in the game.
We’re looking forward to seeing Harrison improve year-on-year.
Daniel Matwijiw – Daniel is still one of the smallest players in the Under 13s and still plays like he’s the same size as his
opponents! His tackling technique is flawless and his willingness to take the ball into traffic is astonishing. Keep an eye on him when he grows he will be a greater player than he already is!
Jake Young – Our Most Improved player for 2013. Jake is unrecognisable from the league player we first met last year. His sense
of being where the breakdown will be and his ability over the ball, remind us of the great Richie McCaw…. definitely one to
watch in the years ahead.
Halfbacks:
Blake Barbuto – Blake is simply an unbelievable player pound-for-pound. His perfect timing and technique in defence
(particularly cover defence) likely saved us 10 or 12 tries this season. And his darting runs from the base of the ruck or scrum
always got us on the front foot. Blake added technicality to his natural game this year, and is quickly becoming a potent and
accurate rugby half-back with a great future in the game.
Logan Hopkins – Logan had a disrupted season and was unavailable for several matches – and we sure did miss him. He is the
Dan Carter of Under 13s rugby, who controls a match better than any other fly half. Looking forward to 2014 with Logan back at
the helm.
Inside Backs:
Tremaine Terzis – Tremaine continued his rugby education this year, improving every aspect of his game since coming across
from League. He is a formidable runner of the ball, always looking to set up his outside men, and when he takes it TO the
opposition defence we always do well. He is also a big hitter in defence, and loves the heavy contact!
Aden Perry – has earned himself a reputation as the Sonny Bill of the Under 13s with his perfectly timed massive hits! He has
even started to use his arms in most tackles!! Not just a big hitter, Aden is also a strong ball runner, with a big future in rugby.
Charlie Davis – Charlie is the player that every team wants; big, strong, versatile, incredibly quick, the best fend in the game,
and…. he loves the physicality! So valuable is Charlie that we played him in either in the forwards or the backs, according to the
opposition and game plan required. Charlie’s efforts this season earned him the award for Best & Fairest player.
Outside Backs
Lachlan Morgan – started the season where he left off last year, as a tremendous finisher who really knew his way to the try
line. Lachie lost his way a little mid-season through injury, but came home strongly with outstanding performances in the last
few games. Definitely an “A Grade” player, we look forward to seeing him in the years to come.
Josh Morgan – Josh had a terrific season playing alongside his brother in 2013. Josh is not the biggest bloke on the field, but he
has a huge ticker and never shirks the task at hand. Got hammered twice by his 25kg heavier opposite winger in one match, got
hurt, and still claimed the final turnover that drew the match for us – inspirational stuff Josh!
Dash Wimpey – really grew into the season Das, and by the last few games showed us his reputation was genuine! A real
competitor, especially for his size, Dash played wherever we put him without complaint. He is going to be a key team member in
2014!
Tuscany Rikihana – Tuscany’s season “clicked” into gear in the last few matches too, using his wonderful natural gifts in
conjunction with some smarter decision-making and urgency. His huge left-foot kick is a coach’s dream and he is learning to use
it well. He is also an elusive runner and solid defender at fullback. Looking forward to Tusc starting 2014 where he left off this
season!
We would like to thank Lisa King for her outstanding role as team Manager – there is no-one better or more enthusiastic!
We would like to thank the parents of the players – always willing to do what is best for their sons and always willing to help and
never complaining (in spite of the frustration & disruption this season held).
Finally we would like to thank the players – who can be both the most frustrating group imaginable AND the most rewarding….
almost at the same time.
Rugby is never about winning. It is about far more than that.
Rugby is the only activity that addresses almost every key issue for young men – it provides a position for every shape & type of
bloke; it provides a grade for every level of player; it provides challenge and reward. It requires commitment to compete; it
requires teamwork to function; it requires leadership to flourish; it requires discipline to excel.
It creates a regulated, controlled environment for young men to legitimately and safely exercise the natural aggression that
simply is a part of them, especially at this age.
There is simply no other sport or activity that can do all of these things. It is an honour and a pleasure to be able to help guide
this diverse group of exceptional young men through a season of this wonderful game, rugby. Thank you for that.
Bruce Hopkins - Coach
Brad Devine –Assistant Coach
Under 13 Gold
The year started with approximately 28 U13 boys keen to play, more than one full team but not quite two. The call went out for
new recruits and we ended with two teams and a great bunch of 18 boys in the Gold squad. Dubbed the “fun” team the
message from the coach and manager was that it’s important to be competitive but even more important to bond as a team and
have a lot of fun – so that’s what we did.
It was great to see the boys improve individually and to see that all the parents were impressed with positive attitude of the
boys and their team spirit. We would like to thank the parents that assisted throughout the year, the Dads that attended
training and tried to keep up without causing themselves an injury and the parents that consistently put their hand up for
canteen and other duties.
The U13 Gold team attended training regularly and became better mates as the year went on. Injuries were the main reason for
the boys being unavailable and it was great to see the injured players still turn up and support their team. Everyone seemed to
enjoy the many and varied activities organised by the coach at training and responded well to the positive fun attitude shown at
all times from the coaching staff. As a result the boys improved each game and competed well all year.
Overall it was a very enjoyable year – thanks again to all involved.
Under 14s
After a successful U13 season, it promised to be a even more successful U14 season. However, the dreaded injury and Rugby
League Representative drain on our team proved to be an overwhelming burden on our playing strength. A total of 5 players
had season-ending injuries and 3 or 4 players were unavailable at crucial times due to Rugby League commitments.
As a result, our performances as a team were affected. This is not a reflection on individuals input but rather, a team in the A
competition not putting its best team on the paddock every week. Competition in the A division requires week in week out
100% commitment from every player. Burraneer U14s competed to the best of their ability every week. This was evident as we
went down by between 4-6 points in all bar 2 games with a greatly depleted team. It is a sign of the courage of the boys who
were available week in week out and their determination not to give up.
On a positive note, Burraneer U14s should hold their heads up high as we competed with much bigger clubs and teams, and
were competitive to the end.
A high point of the season was our last game against Mosman where we had 15 players available and won convincingly in front
of their home crowd.
We look forward to our end of season New Zealand trip with much enthusiasm which will galvanise the boys in anticipation for a
successful U15 season.
Tim Mayo – Coach
Under 15Bs
Last year (2012) our Burraneer u14s played in the B & D grades. We only had 32 registered players so it was a real struggle to fill
two teams each week and only managed a win each for the season. The year was concluded with the annual father & son trip to
Fiji where all the dads & sons bonded well and shared some wonderful experiences which will last our lifetimes.
This season 23 boys returned and they were joined by 2 new players in Blake Eason & Liam Porter plus Kai Woodger returned
after a serious injury to his arm last year to train with the boys at most sessions. It was great to have Kai back leading the way at
many fitness sessions.
With a squad of 25 we settled on one team. Unfortunately, we suffered 2 broken arms from the trial with Lachie Olbrechts
being ruled out for the season. Poor Lachie was so pumped for a big season too. So we were down to 24.
We had been selected to start the season in the C Grade. After some strong wins early on, it was clear we should be in the B
grade, which is where we moved to after 5 rounds. Confidence was high as was the enthusiasm by our boys. This year it was
just a matter of reaching our potential.
We started our B grade games with some solid wins until we came up against Wakehurst. With only 15 players plus Max
returning from an injured back, we lost our first game in a disappointing effort giong down 26-10. It was to be our worst
performance for the year and one we should have learnt by. We followed with a strong win against Forest 32-5, then leaders
Blue Mountains 27-12, but then came up against a very enthusiast Harbord side which we took too easy in the first 20 minutes
when the damaged was done and we could not catch up from there going down 14-12. Lesson learnt. From there, we finished
the year with a strong game against Beecroft winning 29-5 with the game disbanded with 10 minutes remaining. We finished
the comp 2nd behind Wakehurst and played them in a major semi. We started that game strong leading 17-5 before they scored
just before half time and eventually ran over the top of us out wide in the 2nd half winning the game 29-17. In the final we
played Blue Mountains who had beaten Harbord the week before in a close one. We knew they would be strong and kept us at
12 all at half time but with 2 early tries in the 2nd half we got on top and won 24-12 with the game disbanded again with 10
minutes remaining.
The boys had made the grand final which was an amazing achievement with 8 players having played in the D’s the year before
and stepping up big time. With Wakehurst having beaten us in the 2 games we had played, we knew we had to give it
everything we had. And we did. Our boys threw everything at Wakehurst. It was a real arm wrestle of a grand final with
possession and territory changing like a tennis match from great defence and pilfering. Wakehurst were up 5-0 at half time so
we knew we were definitely still in it. We scored near the post through Matt Pescud about 15 min into the 2nd half. Dinga
converted so we were up 7-5 but Wakehurst were not giving in. In the end we gave them too much ball and allowed them into
our territory too easy and they scored in the corner from a lineout that went wrong to lead 10-7 with 5 minutes to go. We
launched an attacking raid from the kick off but unfortunately ran out of time. It was a fitting grand final and one we can all be
proud of being part of. Our president Chris Storey said it was the best game of rugby he’d seen all year. Many people agreed.
BIG THANKS
I would like to thank the following people:
Michele Cawley for managing the team this year - it is great to have someone like Shell I can really depend on to look after all
the official parts to running a side so I don’t have to worry.
Daniel Frearson who was recruited to assist with coaching this year and I couldn’t ask for a more perfect fit for me and the boys
(despite the odd “@#$%” bomb before games). He really gelled with the boys and was a big support to me.
Scott Benson who helped at training and ran the water for the boys and always had some words of advice for the boys when
needed – a hard man with a big heart.
Matt Kennedy, Geoff Townsend & Chris Storey, three highly experienced forwards, coaches and friends I called on to help with
scrums and line-outs at training on the odd occasion.
Rod Molla & Darren Spooner were our assistant refs, always did a great job and helped ensure we got our bonus point each
game. And all the other parents who showed their support and friendship during the course of the year.
The Players
Daniel Bell – a big improver this year in attack, defence and leadership, he guided the forwards around in attack from fly-half
and let the ball sing through the backs when required. Daniel played in his 11 th season this year and the experience is really
starting to show. There is none prouder father than this coach.
Kurt Benson – played on the wing but I think he will probably end up in the pigs (forwards), Kurt’s confidence grew in leaps and
bounds towards the end of the season making some great catches and tackles when it counted. I hope Kurt has realised the
power that comes with practice and training hard and if you believe in yourself, results will follow.
Tom Colquhoun – difficult to find a more polite young man, although we do have a few. Tom suffered an ankle injury early in
the season ruling him out for quite a few games. Tom played early games in the back but we moved him into the forwards for
the semis where I think he is far more suited and where he contributes a lot to the defence of the team and has a high work
rate.
Tom Declauzle – played most games at fullback where he likes to sniff out an attacking raid. Tom is very effective at talking to
his backs in defence which is key to being a good fullback. Tom has a real sporting brain and with more game time, he will just
get better and better. Next year I want to see him in more rucks!
Blake Eason – played his first year of rugby and scored plenty of tries with some hard running. Blake is also a very hand
defender to have out wide and enjoys playing in the centres where he can get his hands on the ball early and have a crack at the
opposition . Blake was rewarded this year with not only representing Southern districts but he also made it into the Southern
Zone team. Well done Blake.
Max Freeman – was so pumped for a big year at the start of the season but his early season was interrupted with a chronic back
injury ruling him out for the first half of the season. Max worked hard to recover and made his long awaited comeback in round
8. After getting through that game, he just got better and better, scoring several tries from his new No. 8 position. Max’s
confidence in attack was evident but it was his improved defence and work rate that I was most impressed with this year. I have
no doubt Max will be a future leader.
Beau Grimley – is someone you don’t want to run into, in attack or defence. With the ball in hand Beau can match pace with
most backs, although he may need a rest after long run! Beau scored some great tries this year and helped set up Jack K for the
try of the year against Beecroft. Keep working hard on your strength and fitness Beau and I have no doubt you can make it all
the way to first grade.
Cooper Harris – had an outstanding year. He is an extremely focussed young man who trains hard and plays hard. He played his
first game against Newport at outside centre in a 15 man squad and had a blinder. He was moved back to flanker & No. 8 while
Max was injured but also had stints in the centres. Midway through the season he was appointed full-time captain after I was
impressed with his leadership of Southern Districts u15 reps. Late in the season, we decided to move him back to centre fulltime where he had a real positive impact in attack & defence.
Joshua Jennings-Smith – started the year not really sure if he wanted to play but after watching a few games from the sideline
and taking some time out after a busy rep baseball season, Josh turned up to training after round 2 and said “Matt I want to
play”. Well, Josh had a cracker of a season at flanker. He is a specialist at a kick charge-down and made life hell for many an
opposition kicker or half. He scored a try or two as a result of his hard work and was unfairly penalised on many occasions due
to his speed from the side of the scrum. It was great to have old the tearaway Josh back.
Jack Kenning – when this fella tackles you, it feels like someone has thrown a large block of concrete in your guts. It’s not nice!
As a result, I have given up letting Jack run at me at training. Jack really knows how to tackle and tackle hard although he does
need to work on getting his head out of the way, suffering concussion on 3 occasions this year. At open side flanker, Jack gets
around the park so fast you would swear he had a twin brother. He often does the work of 2 or 3 players. Jack doesn’t say too
much but he listens and does what you tell him. Every team would benefit with half a dozen Jack Kennings in their side.
Bayley Kuenzle – is one of our veterans in his 9th season was very unlucky to have suffered quite a few injuries. BK (as he was
dubbed in the u8s) only knows one way to play and that’s hard. He is a fast, skilful player who never stops working. He was
down for the count on a few occasions in our grand final but kept getting up and making more runs and more tackles. The sort
of player every team needs. BK also got selected in the southern zone squad this year. Well done mate.
Oscar Lekovic – has been playing scrum half for the last couple of years in the lower grade. We knew at the start of the year he
had the build, fitness and confidence for a half, we just needed to work on his passing game. As the season went on Oscar did
just that and towards the end of the season, the improvement really showed with a lot cleaner ball for the backs which made a
big difference out wide. Oscar’s confidence and instincts for the game has really improved and I am confident if he keeps
working hard on key skill areas, he could make first grade one day.
Jack Mahoney – is a fine young man, a true gentleman who, like most of our boys, really loves the mateship that comes from
rugby. He knows how to sniff out a try when we’re close to the opposition line and crossed over on quite a few occasions. He
also has a handy step when running the ball up. Keep working hard mate and your rugby will continue to improve.
Chris Molla – has really matured as rugby player in the last 12 months. He has always been a great player but I have noticed he
has taken on more of a leadership role through some of the things he says and does at training. Chris is a smart player and solid
player. When he runs the ball up, he always makes yards and it is rare the opposition can get their hands on it. In defence, an
opposition attack need to steer right around him in order to have any chance of getting through. He wins a lot of line-outs that
many jumpers would not and is a big part of our scrum going forward. Another future first grader if he stays focussed and
continues to work hard.
Tom O’Donnell – should probably be playing in the forwards but out of necessity for the team we have played him on the wing
and fullback. Tom took a number of great catches on the fly running the ball back hard into the opposition. His defence also has
improved a lot this year and he made some crunching tackles on unsuspecting backs. Unfortunately Tom broke his collar bone in
the grand final but showed a lot of guts to stay on the field for longer than he should have. Stay focussed.
Kyle Peakman – is one of our utility backs. Last year he played halfback, fly half and in the centres. This year we moved him
around in the centres and fullback. I thought Kyle worked harder this year than any other previous year at Burra. His attitude at
training was good and this showed on the park. A real improver this year. At fullback he may have found a long-term position.
He has a handy kicking game, solid defence and some pace he has been hiding.
Matt Pescud – has a huge amount of potential - more than he realises. When Matt puts his mind to training hard and playing
hard, the results follow. He has pace that most big forwards of his size dream about and he can tackle. He had a great reps
season at No. 8 being selected in the run on side ahead of a Junior Gold player. Matt scored our only grand final try too proving
his value to the team. I hope Matt sticks to rugby and comes back for a big season next year.
Liam Porter - came over from Sylvania this year having played up in the 15s last year. Liam is a good young fella who runs hard
and tackles hard. Liam was a bit crook in the middle of the season but bounced back and was a valuable member of the team
working his way into the run on side for the semi finals.
Rory Powditch – is another real gentleman of the team. Rory is just about to have a growth spurt – I can see it! Rory is our
smallest prop but has a big big heart. He trains hard and plays hard and is great to have in the team. You could say he balances
out some of our less-quite players at training. Rory showed a lot of dedication to getting fit this year doing the Beep test when
he was sick and not mentioning anything until asked. Not recommended but noticed and noted.
Liam Rennie – is one of our dynamic wingers and another polite young man. Liam is another player who has grown in
confidence and ability this year with some great runs down the sideline scoring a try in front of a home crowd. Despite not
having the size of some of his opponents, Liam didn’t seem fazed and always gave 100%.
Ryan Roberts –Having been a hooker for several years, he had never thrown a line-ball much before this year, so was given the
goal to practice this skill, and practice a lot. Eventually Ryan saw the benefits of this and his throws improved a lot. Ryan is a
real work horse. He is mobile, tearing around the rucks to move the ball over the gain line and punches above his size in
defence. A real inspiring player, especially when things might not be going our way and the team needs a rev up.
Liam Ryan – is another one of the club’s veterans having played in his 11th season. Liam is a smart player. He is also a referee but don’t hold that against him. He loves the game of rugby so much he just wants to get involved in it as much as he can. I
believe Liam would make a very good coach one day. He knows how to sniff out an opportunity and can pilfer ball like no one
else in the team. Keep working hard mate.
Jack Spooner – is another player with so much potential. Jack has so much ability – there is no question about that. He always
makes a lot of good yards when he runs the ball up, with great body height. He can also tackle like you want a tight forward to
tackle. If Jack can really work hard and focus on his rugby (rather than vocabulary) in the next 5 years, I believe he could make
first grade before his 21. No pressure Jack, just invite me to your 21st so I can say “Told you so”.
Chris York – is another one of our props and a really polite young man. One night he came to training to tell me he was injured
and couldn’t train and then went home. That’s the sort of guy Chris is. Chris doesn’t say a lot - he lets actions on the field do
the talking. He is big and strong and has more ability than he realises. Chris works really hard around the park making a lot of
tackles and runs when it counts. Another one of our big improvers this year.
The pride, happiness and overall satisfaction Daniel & I have for how our boys have played and trained (usually) this year and
the team work and club spirit displayed, the positive attitude and growth in self-belief was just amazing. It’s why we coach. I
don’t care too much we didn’t win a grand final. Sure, that would have been great but my grand final was seeing the boys come
together for the first time in 11 years and play like soldiers. The lesson our boys have learnt from the power of positive-thinking
is one that they will hopefully carry through life. And I am thankful I was part of the experience.
Matt Bell – coach
Under 16As
Seniors
This was my first year coaching at Burraneer. Given that we had a poor start to the season by only playing one game
in the first three weeks due to bad weather and also the fact that all of our pre-season games were cancelled, I think
we went ok!
Our record for the season: Played 18, Won 9, Lost 9
While we finished 6th, our playoff hopes were probably gone by the middle of the second round, because we
couldn’t seem to get across the line and beat any of the top four teams.
We had a good core group of about Ten guys that never missed a training and this showed in in the way they were
performing compared to the guys that were only showing up to play without putting in the work!
Those players were Dan Kritzler, Steve Kelly, Brent Hill, Ritchie Kitchingman, Zak Robertson, Andrew Bernadini,
Owen Hennessey, Greg Morris, Steve G and Dan Burnett. Burraneer should try hard to keep these guys playing for
the club and build around them.
Ritchie Kitchingman is our player of the year and Owen (backs) and Steve G (forwards) also receive awards. We had
two Captains during the year Greg Morris and Dan Burnett, Greg was forced to pull the pin on his season early in the
second round due to injury and Dan stepped up and done a good job. Greg would be a great option to coach going
forward.
While I really enjoyed my time coaching at Burraneer i think the club in general could do more to make sure we can
field a competitive senior team in the next few years and into the future. After watching games last year and now
coaching at the club I think more support is needed for the senior set up. Our team should be treated as an asset to
the club.
I have been involved in clubs in Otago, Nelson, Melbourne, Perth and Scotland playing around 400 premier games
and in my opinion if you have a healthy senior club it rubs off down through the junior teams. We need our under
16s under 15s etc coming back in their late teens early twenties and playing for the club if they can’t crack higher
honours at other clubs.
At the moment there doesn’t seem to be any young guys coming back to the club to play. It shouldn’t be a case of
the coach and manager relying on past players to fill the void every week which was the case this year. I’m sure
there are things we (seniors) could have done better also, like supporting club functions etc. Let’s start advertising
for players in the next few months - the shire is a big place!!!
Thank you to Shane Ewings for everything he has done for the team this year often using money from his own
pocket for drinks and food for after training!!
Wrapping up, thanks for giving me the opportunity to coach this year I will be using it as a stepping stone to further
my coaching in New Zealand next year.
You have a great little club at Burraneer I will be watching with interest next year to see if we can climb the ladder!!
Regards
Cory Robertson
Final Say
Burraneer Rugby Club is a great little club, a hidden treasure for rugby in the southern suburbs of Sydney. Our club is
the envy of many visitors from all over Sydney. “How good is this” they say. “These are the best burgers I’ve had at
any sporting ground”.
Its great to hear such comments, but they come at a cost. Not money but time and people power. In the club’s 58
years, we have had some pretty special people give up a lot of time to get us where we are today. It doesn’t just
happen. The Club needs more help. The club needs YOU!
A number of committee members will be moving on this year. We need some more mums, dads, grandparents,
uncles and aunts or ex-players to get more involved with helping the club function well.
A lot of little things get taken for granted. They just seem to happen. Here are some of the tasks ort positions that
you might be able to help with:
- Helping to find sponsors to offer financial support to the club
- Marking fields and general ground maintenance
- Managing the club newsletter
- Fundraising through such programs as Club Membership and sale of badges, etc
- Helping with gear sale days
- Canteen management
- Bar management
- Registrar and assistant registrars
- Taking minutes at meetings (secretary)
- Social event coordinators
- Assistance on Club Registration days
- Coming along to committee meetings and just generally getting involved
Whether it be something small or more substantial, we need more help. If you think you can make a positive
difference, please come forward and let a current committee member know.
This year’s committee was:
POSITION
President
Secretary
Treasurer
Vice-President - Publicity
Vice-President - Gear
Vice-President - Gear
Vice-President - Canteen
Vice-President - Bar
Vice-President - Registrations
Vice-President - Registrations
Vice-President - Seniors
Vice-President - Minis
Vice-President - Grounds
Vice-President - Grounds
Website
NAME
Chris Storey
Ian Wilson
Steve Pocklington
Matt Bell
Jen Carmody
Sally Eruini-Bennett
Sonia McIlroy
Scott Faddy
Steve Plummer
Tim McGrath
Shane Ewings
Lynne Slater
Colin Fletcher
Mark Rumsey
Matt Bell