Cardijn College 14.6 (90) def. Concordia College 1.6 (9)
In what was the third grand final in three years between these two schools, our boys entered the match with great confidence, composure and a clear understanding of ‘our best is good enough’. Although we had been defeated by Concordia only two weeks ago, the return of key players Lachlan Hayes and Cooper Rogers from significant injuries, and several key position players, strengthened the side and added much-needed experience. The previous ‘heated’ clash with Concordia was enough fuel for the boys to use in a positive manner and throw everything they had at them in the grand final.
From the first bounce until the final siren, the match was one-way traffic. Over the four quarters, I witnessed some of the best football I have seen in my 8 years of being involved with football at Cardijn. The physicality and relentless pressure applied by all players caused many turnovers and allowed us to control the game and move the ball with efficiency into our forward 50 on many occasions. The home ground advantage gave allowed us to play the brand of football that we have trained all year. This was on display for the many passionate supporters who flocked to Cardijn to support the boys in their ‘back to back’ pursuit. Accurate goal kicking has been an issue for us all season and it was pleasing to see the extra practice this week paid off, kicking very straight and putting heavy scoreboard pressure on all game. Concordia were suffocated all match and barely gave a yelp and by the final siren, Cardijn ran out winners by 81 points.
The best player was awarded to Bailey Pilmore, who brought his game to another level this year. A move from defence to offence, saw Bailey become both a strong marking target but also a smart crumbing forward. His grand final performance was impressive and one he should be proud of. Talon Copley was the dominant midfielder all game, winning the ball at the contest but also getting on the outside and using his elite ball use to the team’s advantage on many occasions. Talon’s profound leadership and captaincy this year is something he should be extremely proud of. Austin Hogg had one of his classiest games on the wing, utilising his silky smooth skills to link-up between the arcs and used the ball with impressive efficiency. His game has developed nicely throughout the year and I look forward to seeing him perform next year as a Year 12.
I am proud of all the footballers who were involved in representing Cardijn in the Open A and B sides this year. At the start of the season, the decision was made to enter two sides into the Open competition. This was the first time we had done this and to finish the season winning both Pool A and Pool B, shows the depth, dedication, commitment and talent of footballers we have here at Cardijn College. The Marcellin and Cardijn alignment has continued to flourish this year and I would like to acknowledge the efforts of all Marcellin staff and players throughout the season.
In what has been an unprecedented and challenging year, I feel the resilience shown by players, staff and parents is something to be commended. I would like to acknowledge the work of Mr Anthony Martin for his leadership and helping organise matches on a weekly basis. Mr Daniel Rabbett has once again pulled on the runner’s kit and assisted me with all duties on match day. Mr Shaun Halliday, Mr Shaun Beath and Mr Damian Fenoughty have done a fantastic job with the Year 10 this year and I am pleased they were able to finish off a consistent year with the major victory. Thank you to all the parents for your commitment to supporting your sons with their football journeys. I wish all those playing club finals football all the best and I wish all Year 12’s well in their final weeks of secondary school life. I also thank the Year 12’s for their dedication and efforts over the past 5 years at Cardijn College. I hope you are able to come back to the College as old scholars and give back to the community in an officiating or coaching capacity.
Tarak Redigolo
Football Academy Coordinator, Cardijn Campus
Cardijn College 5.12 (42) def. Urrbrae 3.4 (22)
The boys ventured away to Urrbrae to take on an experienced and undefeated Urrbrae team. The boys came into the game as underdogs, having lost to Urrbrae twice throughout the season. All 28 who were involved consistently throughout the season were sent off to experience the moment and it ended up being an experience they’ll never forget. The boys played four full quarters of strong and hard football, playing to their strengths using speed and skill to pick apart Urrbrae all game. Each player contributed in their own way, with the Cardijn Open B team taking out the Grand Final by 20 points.
Key contributors for the day were Kyle Marshall, who played out the whole game in ruck and was a strong presence all game. Cameron Kirkland, who used his elite speed and skill to break the lines and will the ball forward. Shaun Havers saved his best game of the season for when it counts, kicking two quick goals that gave us separation on the scoreboard, as well as some strong hardnosed football. Jackson Reavill-Howlett was massive, with several game-changing tackles in crucial moments of the game.
Coaching this group of young and talented boys has been an absolute honour. Having coached most of them in Year 9, seeing the growth in their football has been nothing short of incredible. The Open B competition is full of students ranging from Years 10 to 12. The fact that the boys have taken out the competition, with a team that is fully made up of Year 10’s is mindboggling. It shows great will, determination through adversity. This year we have seen a great amalgamation between both campuses with a 50/50 representation from students from the Marcellin, and main campus. This shows that the football program at Cardijn is growing, and the future is bright.
What really solidified this team this season was our depth. Brodie Visser and Alex Lawley, two students who are fresh to the Cardijn Football program but have fitted in seamlessly with their contribution to the team. Brayden Fielder, who was marred by injury last season but showed his true capability, being our strongest contributor in the second half of the year. Caleb Kirk, a student who started this year with little to no football experience whatsoever, finished the season a valuable contributor to the team. This was not so much a reflection of the coaching, rather the nurturing nature that these boys have for their teammates. Very rarely would you see these boys bickering with one another, they just wanted to play together, and this really shows with the success we have achieved this season. Some of these boys have even gotten opportunities and exposure on the SANFL level, which is incredible
As a coach, I could not be prouder of these young men and I look forward to seeing their growth moving into Year 11 and beyond. I would also like to take this opportunity to thank my coaching staff, Mr Beath, Mr Fenoughty and Mr Redigolo as well as all of the parents that come along week in and week out to support these young and talented men.
Shaun Halliday
Coordinator of Students, Marcellin Campus
