U12 Grand Final Noosa Dolphins vs Peregian Saints
It has been a fantastic season for the Noosa Dolphins, with players and coaches working tirelessly to reach the grand final stage. Having faced Peregian Saints several times in pre-season and throughout the season – where the Saints often had the upper hand – the boys knew this was going to be a defining contest.
The match was held at the Sunshine Coast Stadium, a huge honour for the team and a stage that brought both excitement and nerves. Backed by strong crowd support and chants of ‘Noosa, Noosa’, the Dolphins started strongly. They dominated the first half, racing to a 17–0 lead, soon stretched to 24–0 after the break with tries from Mason, Hugo, Sol and Alex.
The Saints refused to fold however. With determination and grit, they clawed their way back into the game, piling on 17 unanswered points before the final whistle. The Dolphins held on valiantly to secure a 24–17 victory.
Both sides displayed outstanding sportsmanship and courage, capped off by inspiring captains’ speeches in front of the stadium crowd. A memorable day the boys will carry with them for life.
U10 Noosa Dolphins vs Maroochydore Swans
The Under 10s finished the season with a real bang against Maroochydore at Sunshine Coast Stadium, producing a strong win that showcased just how far the boys have come this year.
Noosa displayed excellent defence against the Swans, including a strong tackle by James early on. Constant pressure from Noosa led to a lost ball from Maroochydore and, after running more than half the length of the field, Theo scored; converted by Arlo. Noosa quickly got the ball out to Ramsay, who crossed for another try. Maroochydore was unable to penetrate Noosa’s defence, with the boys winning the ball back and working as a team. Strong running from Josh, Arlo and Ramsay led to another try.
Impressive play followed, with great running from Eddie, Max, Archie and Toby.
The second half started strongly, with an early try from Forrest. Teamwork created another opportunity for James, who pushed through the Maroochydore defenders to get the ball down. Maroochydore finally crossed the line with a well-deserved try, which was swiftly answered by Noosa. As fatigue set in, the Swans managed another try, though Noosa responded once more to increase their tally.
Coach Iain congratulated the boys on a very impressive game and praised their defence, effort and teamwork. James and Toby were named joint Domino’s Players of the Match.
Well done, U10s!
U8 Noosa Dolphins vs University Barbarians
Last game for the season and what a physically and emotionally challenging match it was. The Dolphins showed true sportsmanship in the face of adversity, rallying to come back stronger in the second half. Buster opened the scoring, outrunning University. Hemi quickly followed, busting through the advantage line and touching down in the far-left corner. Otis stepped left to right, carving through the opposition straight down the middle to score.
Owen displayed fantastic tackling; it was hard work protecting the ball to maintain possession. Hudson was powerful in defence and attack; a true players’ player, always there to support and step up when the team needed him most. Archer made an important tackle to play his part, composed and supportive on the field.
Alfie sealed the ball all game to maintain possession, producing a try-saving tackle in the corner, followed by a few hard-fought tries with his powerful running. Gus got involved with stints of attack and defence but, even more impressively, was always there to look out for his teammates’ safety and wellbeing.
We could not be prouder of this Dolphins team and we’re already looking forward to next season!
