Under 13s – The U13s finished the 2024 season playing top-of-the-table Caloundra at Caloundra. With no subs and missing several players, the Dolphins put up a valiant effort. The post-match chat from coach and leader Ben did not talk about the game nor were points issued for the match. Rugby is not about counting the wins, it’s about mateship, and being a team. Off the field if you see someone making the wrong choice, have their back, step in and steer them back on track. That’s what we practice on the field and that spills over into life. Rugby is so much more than a tally of wins and losses.
In a talk reminiscent of an episode of Ted Lasso it was inspiring and typical of Ben’s calming nature, influence and leadership displayed all season for the U13’s. The players and families are so grateful for everything you are and have been for our boys Ben, thank you. You too, Frankie. It seems fitting to finish with a Ted Lasso quote that summed up Ben’s parting words for 2024. “Success is not about the wins and losses. It’s about helping these young fellas be the best versions of themselves, on and off the field.” Ted Lasso.
Under 12s – Reds – At home against Grammar, the U12 Reds solidified their reputation as a dangerous outfit within this U12 competition. Round 14 saw them display their continual development and improvement, with great team play, solid tackling and determined work in the ruck. The boys really tightened up in the second half with fantastic ball play, with special mention to Mikey and Harry B, who were everywhere all at once. Eight tries and fantastic conversion work by Max and Tommy led to an enormous win over the visitors. The boys have overcome almost constant illness and injury this season, playing with tenacity and courage to see their rightful place in the finals round. Good luck boys: we are so proud of you all! Domino’s Pizza Player of the Match went to Tommy. Reds 52 vs Grammar 7.
U12 Whites – The final game of the regular season,
A minor premiership beckons if they finish the game not beaten.
A clear message to the young tearaways to respect possession,
Run with purpose and tackle with aggression.
From the opening whistle the team heeded the call,
Supporting each other and spreading the ball.
The forwards were carting it up and cleaning out,
Steaming over the gain line their physical intent left no doubt.
With the team pivoting around Marcus and Perry,
The forwards and backs running great channels with every carry,
Jack, Ollie and Riley were barnstorming all game,
Seb and Louie were strong over the ball along with Zane.
The packs work in the middle set a platform for the backs;
Crisp passing, daring offloads, swerving runs, scintillating attacks.
A double to Lenny; tries also to Connor, Harry and Fin,
Sending the Uni Barbarians into a tail chasing spin.
Bailey, Oscar, Levi, Emerson, and Ollie C deserve a special mention,
For their effort on effort adding to the whole team contribution.
A terrific win to cap a remarkable season,
A minor premiership for now a title not beyond reason.
Whites 29 Uni 7
Under 11s – Noosa starting on the defensive and was met by good turnover work from Grammar. Some great tackling from Monty, while Harvey showed grit in the maul but a fantastic run by Grammar’s inside centre led to a try under the poles. Noosa scrums were challenged by Grammar. A great series of tackles by Jake inspired Taylor who nailed an epic tackle when it counted. Noosa’s patience eventually paid off with an excellent try by Mason, and we converted it. The second half took off fast with a good tackle from Jai and a great run up the wing from Taylor, followed by Jake. Unfortunately a penalty eventually resulted in a second try for Grammar. Spectacular ball control from Eddie helped Noosa score its second try. So close on the conversion, bouncing off the cross bar. Final score, a draw, 12-12. Thanks to Charlie, Monty, Erick and Hudson for helping Grammar out.
Under 8s – Noosa v Brothers. After a great training session on Friday, the Dolphins were ready to fire. Hugo trucked it up with great go forward, and tries. The ruck area was great with multiple steals and penalties to the Dolphins. Archie rewarded his teammates with plenty of possession from his ruck play. Captain Flynn led from the front with solid tackles and great runs. The Dolphins had been training on backline moves and they tried the “Chicken Wing” move with great results, leading to a try by Koa. Domino’s Pizza Player of the Match went to Flynn.
Under 7s – What a game! Playing Matthew Flinders Green at home, our great teamwork was displayed with impressive passing. Coach Hamish was very proud of everyone. Strong runs and a big outstretched try and celebration from Alfie kickstarted the game. Good straight running from Gus made gains all game. An amazing kick-off from Owen put the team in a great position to defend strongly. Our first scrum of the season and our good defence made Flinders work hard to score. A try for Owen straight after half time showed how determined we were to get across the line. Otis and Hemi linked up multiple times, drawing and passing. Hemi scored a hat-trick of tries! Gus also dotted down after a wonderful burst down the sideline. Domino’s Pizza Players of the Match went to Otis and Hemi for great teamwork. We can’t wait for Archer and Buster to be back for our final two games of the season.
Under 6s – This week Noosa White took on Maroochydore and Noosa Red took on Brothers. Both Noosa teams showed just how far they have come this season stringing together passes to set up tries and demonstrating amazing skills from our Under 6s. Noosa Whites Domino’s Pizza Player of the Day went to Carter F who launched a number of try-saving tags. Noosa Reds Player of the Day went to Lando who showed his speed and agility on the way to the tryline. Well done to both teams.
