Dolphins push toward season finals

Minor premier U15s head to finals this weekend - Ryker, Rory, Devereux, Jett and Murray. (Supplied)

Under 15s – U15 Semi Final Noosa v Maroochydore. On Friday night the minor premiers, Noosa Dolphins, played fourth-placed Maroochydore Swans in a knockout semi final.

Despite the damp conditions after the rain during the week, Noosa played controlled and disciplined rugby. Their first try came after multiple attacking phases disrupted the Swans defence and created enough space out wide for EJ to unleash a trademark run to the tryline, beating several defenders to score under the posts.

The next two Dolphins tries came from similar periods of sustained pressure from Noosa, eventually presenting Dev with opportunities to use his fast feet and brute strength to crash over. Half time score 19-0 to Dolphins.

The second half saw a more determined Swans outfit defend outstandingly. The Swans have been challenging and tough opponents throughout the season, congratulations to them for making the finals after a disrupted season with injuries and illness. The win sees the Dolphins into the grand final this Saturday with an opportunity to emulate the Noosa A Grade side’s premiership victory. Swim the ‘Phins!

Under 12s – Reds – Saturday saw semi-final day for the Reds against competition heavyweights Brothers in Caloundra. The nerves were enormous for the boys, but they ran out onto the field eager to show what they were made of. The first half saw the boys’ excellent defence hold Brothers’ attack in check, with only 7 points separating the teams at half time, with the opposition in the lead. The Reds came back to level the score, but spirited play from Brothers in the ruck eventually saw the tide turn against the ‘Phins. It’s been an absolute pleasure to watch these boys develop over the season: hold your heads high Reds! Domino’s Pizza Player of the Match: Xavier. Brothers 24 vs Reds 12

Whites – The U12 Whites had no choice but to bring their a-game to the semi-final, played against Caloundra on their home turf. Conscientious preparation both on and off the field in the lead up saw the Whites run on with confidence, something which put them in good stead for this absolute nailbiter. At half time, two tries to one converted Caloundra try meant it was still anyone’s game. The Lighthouses put up some great defence against the ‘Phins attack, with Whites’ pure grit and determination in their own line holding the lead throughout the second half. Congratulations to the boys on getting through to the finals: it’s going to be a huge match! Domino’s Pizza Player of the Match: Sebastian. Whites 10 vs Caloundra 7.

Under 11s – A heartfelt thanks to U11 Dolphins coaches Scott Cairns and Blair Townsend for their outstanding dedication and enthusiasm this season. Their energetic and supportive coaching has transformed the team’s experience, providing structure while making every training session enjoyable. Scott and Blair treat the boys with respect and maturity, often asking them insightful questions about their performance and guiding them to self-improvement. Their commitment, whether rain, hail, or shine, has been unwavering, and their readiness to join in and run alongside the boys has been truly inspiring. This season’s success is a testament to their hard work and passion. We couldn’t have achieved this without their incredible leadership. Thank you, Scott and Blair, for making this season memorable and for fostering such a positive and driven team environment.

Under 10s – It was a convincing win at Maroochydore for our U10s this weekend against Brothers. The opening minutes of the first half saw some great moments, including a killer run by Hayden and textbook tackles from Hunter, Seb and Stella. A quick tap and go by Zachy D and a beautiful pass out to Hugo on the wing scored the ‘Phins their first try, with a second to come soon after from a string of phases and a lovely dive over the ruck by Millsy to hit the line again. The second half saw some lovely play by our U10s, including a big run by Eden and amazing support play as more tries were collected to really seal the win. Domino’s Pizza Players of the Match went to Henry for his four great pilfers in the first half, both Paddy and Hayden for their consistent tackling and Eden for his work effort and aggression at the ruck.

Under 9s – It was such a warm morning in Caloundra when we kicked off against Matthew Flinders. Captained this week by Quade, the Dolphins made Flinders work hard against some impressive teamwork and early ground made by Noosa, especially Arlo and Toby in the early stages. Impressive defence and teamwork made this a really exciting game to watch, with a standout try from Saul in the first half and a great run from James. In the second half, the boys worked really hard and well together, with excellent efforts from Quade and Josh and a second impressive try from Saul. Very deservedly Saul was named the Domino’s Pizza Player of the Day. A very impressive effort from the whole team this week – well done boys!

Under 8s – Noosa v Nambour. It started with a road trip to Caloundra where the Dolphins took on the Toads. Both teams started with great go forward. The Dolphins team impressive play was on display with the boys supporting each other with great passing and running game. Owen was superb around the ruck non-stop competing for the ball. Eddie was running with great confidence to bag a couple of tries. Duke, Flynn and Fion were determined with their tackling, shutting down several attacking raids from the Toads. We saw amazing courage from Alfie taking on the Toads with up-front tackling.

We had two Domino’s Pizza Players of the Match, Hugo and Koa, Hugo showed robust running to get his tries, strong defence and team play which included great passing to boys in space which led to tries. Koa showed brave running and speed to burn leading to another try from the boys backline move, the ‘Chicken wing’. It was a great game of rugby by both teams playing with good fun spirit.

Under 7s – Noosa played Grammar at Maroochydore on a very hot day and a very small field. With limited space to run around, good communication and teamwork was important. Buster scored the first try of the game by breaking the line out wide. Otis booted a big dropkick to restart. Hemi had an impressive game feeding the ball from halfback, ensuring everyone was spread out. Gus got three tries, making several bursts towards the line, alongside his gritty defence work. Owen showed amazing vision to spot the gaps, with many breaks through the line. Domino’s Pizza Player of the Match went to Alfie for outstanding listening and setting of the field. We were still missing our mate Archer, and his speed to the breakdown, hope you get better soon Archer.

Under 6s – U6s went to Maroochydore last weekend, with Noosa Red vs Gympie and Noosa White vs Maroochydore. Noosa’s defence was the standout aspect of each game this week, spreading out across the field and stopping the ball carriers close to the line over and over again. Domino’s Pizza Players of the Day went to Frankie R for Noosa Red and Alfie H for Noosa White.