Sport

Warrandyte Women in historic debut decider

Photo: TREWELLA SPORTS PHOTOGRAPHY

A GALLANT debut appearance on grand final day didn’t deliver the silverware Warrandyte’s Senior Women were after.
But it certainly delivered an even bigger cohort of fans after a hell-bent Bloods gave it everything at H.E Parker Reserve in the Division Four Women’s decider.
Warrandyte had bested Boronia by eight points in the preceding week’s Preliminary Final, but Grand Final opponent Wantirna South came in favourites after defeating the Bloods in their previous two meetings — by 44 points in Round 14 and then by more than 10 goals in the Qualifying Final.
In the first 10 minutes, that billing counted for nothing as Warrandyte caught the Devils on the jump.
Eden Carruthers handed Warrandyte the perfect start with the opening two goals of the game, sharking a ground ball in close before snapping on the run, and when Ava Radle’s kick found Chelsea Constable running into goal, a coolly converted opportunity saw the Bloods take a three-goal lead.
Two late goals to Wantirna South made it four points the difference at quarter-time, and the early momentum belonged to the Devils in the early stages of the second.
The back six repelled wave after wave, led by some gritty defensive work from Eilish Vaughan and multiple intercepts from Channelle Vitiritti, but the Devils managed to convert twice to retake the lead, a nine-point buffer at half-time.
Jade McCormack elevated her game in the midfield to another level alongside midfield compatriots Meg Callow and Zara Vitiritti, to wrestle back the ascendancy to start the second half, capitalising through Carruthers once again for her third goal of the day.
The ball whizzed around the reserve for the next 15 minutes before the Devils stole a major back on the stroke of three-quarter-time, Warrandyte’s equation equalling out to seven points as coach Lachlan Richardson made an impassioned plea for one more effort.
Needing an all-important first goal of the final quarter, the Bloods went forward on numerous occasions before a footrace to the goal-line was won by Taya Davies, taking her moment with a left-foot soccer from an acute angle to send the Warrandyte contingent behind the goals into raptures and trim the margin back to two points.
It would be the Devils with the final two goals of the game, however, to take the grand final by 13 points, bringing the curtain down on an excellent campaign for the Warrandyte women.

Warrandyte 5.3 (33)
def by
Wantirna South 7.4 (46)

Best: Eden Carruthers,
Jade McCormack, Meg Callow, Chanelle Vitiritti, Raegan Craggs, Zara Vitiritti

Goalkickers: Eden Carruthers 3,
Taya Davies, Chelsea Constable

 

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Young volleyballer to compete against the nation’s best

JOE KNEEBONE is a 16-year-old resident of North Warrandyte.
During his younger years, he was introduced to volleyball at Warrandyte Primary School by PE teacher Sally Freemantle.
It was here that Joe first discovered the world of Volleyball, and where he realised he had a strong talent for it.
Joe joined the Manningham Volleyball skills sessions at Mullum Mullum Stadium on Sunday afternoons when he was in Grade 5 and continued to play inter-school volleyball at Blackburn High School.
A school friend asked Joe to play with him in the Victorian School Beach Volleyball Championships in Year 8, and they won the competition.
Joe plays State League volleyball for the La Trobe University Premier 2 team as a setter.
They then went on to play in the National Schools Beach Volleyball Competition that year in Queensland.
This opportunity opened up a whole other level of volleyball for Joe.
Later that year, Joe made the State indoor volleyball team and made both the Victorian Indoor and Beach Volleyball teams each year since.
Making a sport squad for your state is truly an impressive feat.
When reflecting on the achievement, he said, “It was really exciting to be named for the first team, especially after being injured the year before; it was really special.

“Being named captain of a Vic squad, that’s also something I’m really proud of myself for.”

Last summer Joe was invited to participate in a National Performance Program camp in Adelaide for beach volleyball.
This year Joe was named Squad Captain for the entire Under-18 beach volleyball State team (U14—U18) for the National tournament on the Gold Coast in March, recognising his leadership skills and passion for the sport, care for his peers, and respect for umpires and coaches.
He and his partner Finn Langfeldt came 5th in Australia out of 36 teams.
Joe is clearly a very talented player in both beach and court volleyball.
When asked what he believes his biggest strengths are, he said: “Definitely my running on sand, both with speed and power.

“Beach volleyball is only two players a team, so there is more ground to cover, and covering the ground in sand is difficult, but when I was younger, I did a lot of lifesaving, so the running on sand wasn’t too difficult for me”.

Joe has recently been selected for the U18 Victorian indoor Blue team (the 1st team) and will compete in Perth in September.
This is where Joe will compete against the nation’s best young Volleyballers, in hopes that he can help lead Victoria to a championship victory.

“My hope is definitely to win gold; we have a really strong squad, and to bring it home, after winning silver previously, would be awesome”.

When Joe completed school, he stated his ambition of one day becoming a professional volleyball player and hoped to play in tournaments all around the world.

“There are domestic tournaments, then of course the senior Australian tour tournaments, then the governing body for global Volleyball runs beach volleyball tournaments, some challenges, and then if people do well, then ‘Pro-Tour’.
That’s very much the goal; it would be a dream.
I’ve had a strong passion for volleyball since I was in Grade 5.
I have had the opportunity to watch and meet some pro-level players, and they have given me tips and methods to help me improve.
It’s just something I’d love to do”.

Joe would like to acknowledge and thank the Warrandyte Riverside Market Committee and the Rotary Club Warrandyte for providing financial support through grants that help cover his travel expenses.

A look to the future

IT FEELS LIKE the whole world has come to a stop, as billions are glued to their screens watching the FIFA World Cup.
This brings many wonderful things, such as the opportunity to watch world-class talent represent their country with pride.
However, there are as many highlights off the field as there are on it.
The World Cup has a unique way of bringing people together.
Hundreds of strangers gather in Federation Square, all in support of the Socceroos.
Footage of fans celebrating Australia’s 2-0 win over Türkiye is shared not just across the country but around the world.
Thanks to the power of social media, we have also witnessed similar scenes from other nations.
Fans from all over the world have gathered in America and are seen enjoying the festivities with fans from other countries.
There are also opportunities to bring the younger generation together.
After the conclusion of the FIFA Men’s World Cup, New York City is hosting the FIFA Youth World Challenge Cup for both under-12s and under-10s.
Between July 21 and 26, 48 countries will be sending squads of 12 players to take part in a 7 vs 7 tournament.
One of the handful of players from across the country who will represent Australia at the Youth World Challenge Cup is Warrandyte local Caleb Johnston.
Caleb has many attributes that set him apart from the rest, including his work ethic, his reading of the game, and his ability to generate power from both feet.
Caleb is a player who, so far in his young journey, has made it clear that his potential is limitless.
His talent stretches across the field, as he shows promise as left back, centre back, defensive and central midfield, and on the left wing.
To top it off, he has a passion for playing as a goalkeeper and has the skills to back it up.
Caleb named Gianluigi Donnarumma, of Manchester City as an inspiration, along with Virgil Van Dijk, and Lionel Messi.
Caleb has been a part of Manningham United, and Melbourne City youth teams.
Caleb has also been mentored by former Melbourne Victory player Nick Ansell.
Ansell has helped Caleb immensely with his development of skills and game IQ, something Caleb now prides himself on.
We were fortunate enough to sit down with Caleb and talk to him about his journey and his hopes for the future.
When asked about the prospect of potentially playing elite-level sport, with his eyes wide and a beaming smile, he said:

“Yes, definitely, I’d love to play in the Premier League and, of course, play for Australia in the senior team”.

When asked about his strengths, he responded with:

“I’m a lot faster than I look; I’m a lot tougher than I look.
“What usually surprises people, though, is my defending.
When I defend, I feel like I get in the right position and can read the game well”.

For a player to represent their country is an amazing achievement.
But the question is, how does one get from grassroots soccer to the world stage?
Caleb’s mother, Belinda, said it was a chance encounter.

“It kind of found him; the coach who was putting the team all together saw him at a regular game and then asked Caleb if he would like to come try out for it
I’m proud he’s being recognised for all the work he is putting into it”.

Caleb joins a growing list of Warrandytians representing Australia on the global sporting stage.

Bloods make amends against Panthers but end with a rare draw

WARRANDYTE ENDED JUNE four games clear inside the top five of the Eastern Football League’s Division 4, but not without a healthy dose of drama in two games that yielded vastly different post-game atmospheres.
The Bloods senior outfit staged a more than 10-goal turnaround against fellow pacesetters Chirnside Park in Round 9, pipping the Panthers by 16 points at Warrandyte Reserve to make amends for their Round 2 capitulation.
Taylor Hayton’s ruck dominance was on full display, Jack Grybas booted three goals, and Josh Meyers was influential down back to guide the Bloods to a 74–58 triumph, a far cry from its 49-point result at the start of the season.
After a dour first quarter, Warrandyte opened up a game-high margin of 27 points in the second thanks to back-to-back goals from Koby Gilmour, before the Panthers slammed home three on the trot to tighten proceedings.
But this time around, Warrandyte was able to keep Chirnside at arm’s length, and the reasons why were obvious to coach Jake Whitling.

“We got shown up a lot in that Round 2 result.
Territory, inside-50s just weren’t in our favour at all in that game.
We were able to get on top in those areas and dictate the game from our front end.
I think we just played a bit more confidently and owned the game a bit more than we had previously.”

After another bye, the Bloods headed to Pinks Reserve to face Kilsyth for the first time this season and add another win against a top-five opponent.
Instead, the Bloods had to settle for their first draw since 2023, the points shared at 51 apiece after a cold, hard-fought afternoon.
A holding-the-ball effort and converted set shot from the recalled Tim Caldwell and a point to Gilmour helped save the day, with chief spearhead Gabriel Stumpf’s four goals and another starring performance from Hayton, and Will Grybas helping the Bloods steal two points.
The gap at each break never drifted beyond a goal, and some strong defensive efforts from Noah Habjan and Will Nelson helped to curb a resurgent Cougars.

“You don’t really know what to say after a draw.
It’s always a difficult result.
It just shows that we have to be really consistent; you’ve got to be on in every game, especially for the away ones against anyone in the top five.
They came to play and were able to show us up in a couple of areas.
We did win seven in a row, but we have to improve as the season progresses.”

Regardless, Warrandyte remains perched in third with a 7–1–1 record and still in the hunt for a coveted top two position, with Nunawading and Doncaster to come.

Senior Women continue to dominate

Photo: Trewalla Sports Photography

After 10 rounds, and only a few games left in the home and away season, the Warrandyte women remain at the top of the ladder, yet to drop a game.
They’ll be playing away for the next three rounds, but will be back at Warrandyte Reserve for their Round 14 matchup against current second-placed Wantirna South on August 7.
In Round 8 at the beginning of June, Warrandyte executed a strong 85-point win over Fairpark on the back of Ava Radle’s eight-goal haul — currently second in the league goalkicking with 32 — while Jade McCormack, Alex Martorella, and Chelsea Constable continued fine seasons to be named in the best.
A week later, the Bloods commemorated an important milestone with a hard-fought win.
Maddy Trewella celebrated game 100 in style, helping her side break a four-point lead against Norwood on June 20 into an 8.7–55 to 3.6–24 triumph.
Radle added another five goals to her tally as Raegan Craggs and Meg Callow chipped in for the Bloods’ eighth win in a row.
With a fixture quirk meaning nearly a month between games, Warrandyte will have plenty of time to regroup before taking on Boronia at Tormore Reserve on July 18.

Reserves

The Reserves also kept their unblemished record intact in their pursuit of back-to-back flags, but haven’t had it all their own way.
The Bloods dispatched Chirnside Park by 76 points as usual suspects Tim Caldwell, Luke Saunders, Michael Cullum, and Angus Boell (five goals) ran amok, keeping them firmly placed at the top of the ladder.\
Against Kilsyth, Kyle Appleby was a clear standout in Warrandyte’s hard-fought 72–44 win, booting four goals and seemingly everywhere all at once as the Bloods moved to 9–0.
Boell was again a key target with three majors, while Saunders and Sam Ferguson also impressed.

Under-19s

The Under-19s currently sit a game clear in second, receiving a forfeit from Chirnside before heading to Kilsyth.
The Bloods ran rampant in an 111-point win, with Warrandyte junior Archie Wood marking his Under-19 debut in style with a game-high seven goals, ably assisted down forward by two apiece from Xavier Bennett, Jacob Close, and Sam Olsen.

Abbey shines in Diamond League

OLYMPIC Middle-distance runner Abbey Caldwell has had a huge career breakthrough, taking out her first Diamond League title on May 23 in the 1500m in Xiamen, China.
Caldwell ran a tactically perfect race, winning with a time of 3:57.26 in very humid conditions.
The Warrandyte local finished ahead of fellow Australians Jessica Hull, 5th, Linden Hall, 8th, Sarah Billings, 11th, and Claudia Hollingsworth,13th.
Caldwell was delighted after the race, capping off a huge couple of weeks following her bronze medal performance in the 1500m at the Shanghai Diamond League meet, saying.

“I’m really happy with that.
It was really hot out there; it was a lot harder than last week I think with that extra bit of humidity.
It was tough, and I just wanted to go out and execute a good race.
“The time would have been a PB last week, so I can’t complain at all,”

At the Shanghai meet a week earlier, the Commonwealth bronze medallist produced the run of her life to turn the tables on Olympic silver medallist Hull and Australian champion Hollingsworth in the Women’s 1500m, carving three seconds off her personal best in 3:56.12.
Calwell said the win came as a bit of a surprise.

“I honestly didn’t think, even mid-race, it would be that good.
But to get a PB, I’m absolutely stoked!
I knew I was very fit and I wanted to show that on the track.
We have the luxury of coming off our domestic season in Australia and I knew I was race ready.
“I just needed to put my training into a race, and I executed that, so I’m very happy,”

Caldwell is now heading to Scotland for the 2026 Commonwealth Games, in Glasgow.
Watch all the action on the Seven network from July 23.

Harding sisters dominate national championships

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There must be something in the Warrandyte water, as Warrandyte’s own Harding sisters — Shakira, Jamison and Harper — delivered a powerhouse performance at the recent Australian Open and Underage Track and Field Championships held in Sydney and Brisbane.
Sixteen-year-old Jamison Harding shone across multiple events.
Competing against Australia’s best in the open women’s pole vault, she claimed an impressive third place behind Olympic champion Nina Kennedy, clearing 4.22m — just 5cm shy of her personal best set the week prior in Melbourne.
She then secured silver in the U20 pole vault, gold in the U18 pole vault, and capped off her campaign by winning the U20 100m hurdles.
With the U20 events doubling as selection trials for the World U20 Championships in Eugene, Oregon, USA, Jamison earned selection in both pole vault and 100m hurdles — a rare and remarkable dual event achievement considering the technical differences of both events.
Older sister Shakira Harding also booked her ticket to Eugene after a breakout season in the 400m hurdles.
Chasing qualification for the World U20 team, she produced a stunning personal best of 58.54 seconds at the national championships, her 5th personal best of the season and more than three seconds quicker than her best of last season, 61.69.
Her performance secured a narrow second place and confirmed her spot on the Australian team.
Not to be overshadowed, 13-year-old Harper Harding stamped herself as the fastest 13/14-year-old in the country.
Competing in the U15 age group, she dominated the sprints and hurdles, winning the blue ribbon 100m, as well as 90m hurdles, 200m hurdles, and contributing to Victoria’s victory in the 4×100m relay.

Young Bloods get in the Anzac Spirit

WARRANDYTE Junior Football Club (WJFC) marked Anzac Day 2026 with a weekend of reflection, community connection, and football, honouring those who have served and sacrificed for the country.
Commemorations began on Friday night under lights, with Auskick and U8s taking part in an interclub hometown derby, bringing families together for a spirited evening and community BBQ.
A standout moment saw the young players take a valiant run through red and white banners adorned with poppies — a meaningful nod to the Anzac tradition and an unforgettable experience for the next generation.
Proceedings were led by special guest Peter “Jock” Fallon from the Warrandyte RSL, who delivered a thoughtful address and led the minute’s silence.
He was joined by Keith Wolahan, former Australian Army Commando Officer and veteran of three tours in Afghanistan, who spoke to players about the significance of Anzac Day and the importance of carrying its spirit forward.
Local Andersons Creek Primary School student Isla Mitchell performed the national anthem with pride, adding to the occasion.
On Saturday, under clear skies, the Warrandyte community gathered for the annual Anzac Day march.
Local groups and veterans made their way along the main street to the RSL Memorial Ground for the service.
Representing WJFC, Club Captains Ashling Tatt and Archie Wood laid a wreath on behalf of the club — a moment of respect, remembrance and gratitude that resonated deeply with all in attendance.
The weekend continued into Sunday with a full slate of home games, where WJFC teams honoured tradition with pre-game ceremonies including the Last Post and Reveille.
Matches across U9 Mixed, U10 Mixed, U14 Girls, U16 Boys and Youth Boys reflected both strong competition and a shared respect for the day.
A live bugle performance by Richard Thornton for the 3pm game, alongside another address from Jock Fallon, reinforced the significance of the occasion, with the home side finishing on a high.
At WJFC, the Anzac Spirit lives not only in moments of ceremony, but in everyday actions — supporting teammates, contributing to the club and building a strong, connected community.
As the season continues, that spirit remains front of mind.
We will remember them.
Lest we forget.
Go Bloods!

Photos: CAMERON BAILEY

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WCC celebrated for Mental Health and Wellbeing program

WARRANDYTE Cricket Club (WCC) has not only had a good result on the pitch, but off the pitch as well.
The club has been recognised and celebrated at the Alcohol and Drug Foundation’s Good Sports Award, picking up the Mental Health Excellence Award.
The club has received this national award for its strong commitment to raising mental health awareness, sharing mental health resources, and helping to prevent and reduce harms from alcohol and other drugs.
WCC’s Mental Health and Welfare Officer, Rachel Watts, said she was proud of the club for being recognised for its work in the mental health space, as it has been a big focus over recent years.

“Our club raises awareness about mental health and the connection between alcohol, drug use and wellbeing through education, culture, and practical support,”
“Our dedicated Welfare Team leads our mental health program and offers members up to three fully funded counselling sessions with a local psychologist, along with referral support.
“We also run a range of workshops to reinforce resilience, help-seeking, and the risks associated with alcohol and other drug use.”

She said part of the program is the Thursday night club meal, designed to build social connections without alcohol being the focus.
“These evenings provide a safe, supportive environment where members can talk openly and check in on each other.”
Having reached the highest level of the Good Sports program, WCC has policies that cover mental health, as well as alcohol and tobacco management, illegal drugs, and safe transport.
“Good Sports has helped us build a club environment where health, safety, and connection are prioritised, on and off the field,” Ms Watts said.

“We are deeply invested in our members, their wellbeing, and the community we serve.
“Our guiding philosophy sums it up perfectly: there is a place for everybody at the Warrandyte Cricket Club.”

She attended the award ceremony at Parliament House, Canberra, in late March, along with club President Luke Warren.
The award includes a cash prize, which will go towards mental health support for members and the club’s girls’ program — specifically to buy new kit for the girls’ teams.
Ms Watts said WCC hoped to expand the girls’ cricket program to two teams for the 2026/27 season.
The Alcohol and Drug Foundation’s Victoria Manager, Skye Mackay, applauded the Good Sports award finalists, saying they should all be incredibly proud of their achievements.

“The Good Sports Awards give winning clubs and volunteers the recognition they deserve.
“Their commitment to building healthy and family-friendly environments is truly inspiring,”

Ms Watts said they were really honoured to receive the award.

“The club has an active wellbeing team, which has worked hard to promote mental health and wellbeing and reduce stigma, so it’s nice to have this work recognised.
“There’s always more for all sporting clubs to do in this space, and being alongside other award winners at Parliament House was really inspiring and gave us lots of ideas for how to continue to foster a positive, safe and welcoming culture at our club.”

Doncaster Rovers start their 2026 campaign

THE DONCASTER ROVERS Soccer Club started their campaign in Men’s League 3 — South East — of the 2026 VETO Sports State League.
Following relegation from League 2 last season, a club spokesperson said the club has been demonstrating a lot of determination to get back to League 2 this season, and beyond.
Bolstering this energy is the return of A League champion Nick Ansell.
Nick played in the Junior ranks at Doncaster Rovers before signing with Melbourne Victory at age 16.
He spent the next 12 years playing for Melbourne Victory and Adelaide United, with a sprinkling of overseas appearances in South Korea’s K League and, in 2024/25, with the Nakhon Ratchasima F.C. in Thai League 1.
His return to Doncaster was announced in August 2025 as Technical Director of the MiniRoos and Juniors programs.

Loui Spiridis, Nick Ansell, and Silvio Santostefano

In October, the club then announced Nick would play for the Senior side in the 2026 season.
Nick said playing for the Rovers again is a big change from where he has been playing.

“But what brought me back is the culture of Rovers, the dream that drives everyone here, and the passion that connects this club at every level.
I’m proud to pull on the Rovers shirt again and be part of what’s next.”

Senior Men’s Coach Loui Spiridis described Nick’s signing as a huge boost for the team’s future.

“Nick brings immense experience, leadership, and professionalism to the group.
Beyond his skill as a player, he adds value to our culture and sets the tone for what it means to wear the Rovers badge.”

Loui added that working with Nick will lift the standards across the playing group and bring a new level of belief and energy into the club.
Silvio Santostefano, Senior Men’s Football Director, welcomed the announcement and highlighted how well Nick’s new playing role complements his existing position within the club:

“Nick and I already work closely together as Football and Technical Directors for the club.
Having him now step onto the pitch as a player reinforces his total commitment to Rovers and reinforces the exciting project we are embarking on.
We expect to see every part of our football program benefit from his influence and experience.
Nick’s involvement is helping shape the future of Doncaster Rovers and marks a significant first step in building the Senior Men’s program.”

Commitment, determination, and pride are at the core of the Senior’s 2026 campaign; qualities demonstrated on the field at the season opener on Friday, March 19, and by the supporters in attendance.

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There were good numbers at Andersons Park for the opening round and the clock ticked down towards the 8:30pm kick off, spirits were high following a 4–3 win in the Reserves match.
The air was thick with passion, which was more evident when the team emerged from the changerooms.
Rovers won the toss.
Both sides were aggressive with the ball, until Doncaster broke through with the first goal courtesy of Daniel Piazza in the 23rd minute.
This is what the crowd wanted, to make a statement.
The crowd’s elation was tempered in the 28th minute with an equaliser from Bentleigh.
With supports from both teams vocal in the stands, the pressure was on to get the upper hand.
But when the whistle blew at half time, the scoreline was still drawn.
Bentleigh were dominant in the second half, keeping the ball in the Rovers end for much most of the 45 minutes, making the Defenders and Goalie work hard to keep the ball out of the net.
Bentleigh managed to sneak one past at 61 minutes — 1–2, and the woodwork deflected a few more chances coming from a hungry Bentleigh side.
Another from Bentleigh in the 84th minute and at 1–3 the job felt done.
But those values of commitment, determination, and pride never faltered in the hearts of Doncaster with the players taking every opportunity to score, and the stands remained full to the final whistle.
Grassroots sport at its best at Andersons Park, with 22 Rounds to take us through to September, why not check out a game under the Friday night lights, Senior Men’s games kick-off at 8:30pm.
On Friday, March 27 the Rovers will host Manningham Juventus.
The Bulletin will provide results from this and other matches, as well as other club news including Women’s and Junior soccer in the coming months.
To find out more about Doncaster Rovers, visit doncasterrovers.org.

Fun, friendship, and footy at WJFC in 2026

PRE-SEASON training is in full swing for most teams, and the Warrandyte Junior Football Club is gearing up for an exciting 2026 season.
With games kicking off on April 19, the club is inviting new players and families to join a football community that puts participation, support, and friendship at the heart of everything it does.
WJFC is known for its welcoming culture, where kids are encouraged to have a go, learn the game at their own pace, and enjoy being part of a team.
Rather than a strong competitive focus, the emphasis is on skill development, teamwork, confidence, and fun, creating an environment where children feel safe, supported and keen to keep coming back.
This culture is backed by an engaged and friendly parent and carer community, resulting in strong volunteer support and dedicated coaches who genuinely care about the kids.
Players are encouraged to problem-solve on the field, learn from mistakes, and support one another, values that extend well beyond football.
And the approach works.
In 2025, WJFC proudly brought home three premiership flags, a reflection of what can be achieved when kids feel encouraged and connected.The club has also seen fantastic growth in girls football, now fielding girls’ teams in all age groups from Under 10 upwards.

Meanwhile, the highly successful AusKick program for three to seven-year-olds has led to strong numbers in the Under 8 and Under 9 teams.
The club is now keen to boost participation in the Under 10 to Under 16 age groups, where numbers have dipped in recent years, potentially due to the lingering impacts of COVID.
Local parent Gaynor Stanicic says junior footy has been incredibly positive for her son’s health and wellbeing.

“Moving his body and creating friendships has been so good for him.
“I really hope it sets him up for his future years.
“With so many kids spending more time on devices, having regular outdoor activity is so important for both physical and mental health, especially for young boys.
“My son has really found a passion for the sport.
“It’s increased his interest in AFL, and it’s funny seeing the boys bring goal celebrations and back pats from the games they’ve watched into their own matches.”

She also highlighted the strong sense of community across age groups.

“He has a great support network, not just with kids his own age, but also from older players, and he’s learning how to support younger kids too.
“When kids feel relaxed and supported in their peer groups, it gives them confidence in other areas of life, like school, and social situations.”

Club President Duncan Loydell, who commenced in the role in 2025, has been taking proactive steps to strengthen leadership, engagement and child safety across the club.
His focus is on ensuring every child feels supported, encouraged and valued throughout their football journey.
Duncan says, “We’re very much looking forward to welcoming new players and returning families into the WJFC community”.
New players, returning players, families and supporters are all welcome, because at WJFC, footy is about more than winning games; it’s about growing confident, connected kids.
If you’d like to learn more about joining WJFC, visit warrandytejfc.org or email secretary@warrandytejfc.org.

A stellar start for Junior cricket

NOVEMBER has been a standout month for Warrandyte’s junior cricketers, with the club’s Woolworths Blast program kicking off for the community’s youngest future stars.
Children aged four to eight have been enjoying Friday afternoons at Andersons Creek Primary School, taking part in skills-based games and learning the fundamentals of cricket in a fun, supportive environment.
The club’s Under-10 program has expanded to three teams this season, all playing modified-rules matches on Friday evenings.
In the Under-12 age group, Warrandyte fields two strong sides with excellent female participation, and the top U12 team is off to an impressive, undefeated start.
As well as supporting the U12s in November, the girls have also been playing weekly on Sunday mornings, where they are enjoying plenty of fun and development.
Warrandyte’s Under-14 cohort is also thriving, boasting another undefeated side and a second group that competed three times a week throughout November in the highest grades, producing outstanding results.
All U14 sides are shaping up as strong finals contenders.
In the older age groups, the Under-16s have secured a couple of solid wins and sit just outside the top four, while the Under-18s find themselves in a similar position as the season approaches its midpoint.
The U18s are also putting in some impressive performances and also enjoying the fast-paced format of a midweek T20 competition.

A glimpse of the future for Warrandyte Cricket, with the impressive Under 18s, led by skipper, Toby Potter

Bloods’ Seniors bow out in end of an era, but Reserves go through to a grand final

IT WAS THE end of the season and the end of an era for the Warrandyte Football Netball Club.

The Bloods made a brave foray into Division 4 finals, facing a series of cut-throat clashes en route to an eventual Preliminary Final exit.

Warrandyte, requiring victory against Croydon North MLOC Kanga Rams in the final round to qualify for finals, delivered a 35-point win over the Kanga Rams, sparked by a six-goal haul from Josh Appleby, four to Jake Moss, contributions from Josh Meyers and Zak Carroll, and a physics-defying effort from Will Nelson.

It thrust Warrandyte into something that at round four seemed unlikely after as many consecutive defeats — an Elimination Final, up against Kilsyth at East Ringwood Reserve.

An arm-wrestle in pristine conditions saw the Bloods five points the merrier at half-time as young key defender Noah Habjan stood tall under pressure, but the Cougars kept coming to take a similar lead at the final break.

With the Bloods’ faithful at full voice, Will Grybas was calm and collected to slot a lead-restoring set shot, but the result would not be apparent until the dying minutes when a piece of Jake Moss magic sent the crowd into raptures.

Moss collected the ball near half-back, took a couple of bounces down the wing, and unleashed a miracle shot from 50 metres to put the cherry on top of a 12.7-79 to 9.14-68 victory, Warrandyte’s first finals victory since the 2015 grand final.

Habjan, still Under-19s age, was judged best-on-ground, while Jack Palmer, Josh Meyers, Josh Appleby (three goals), and ruckman Noah Reddaway — playing his second final in as many days after suiting up for the Reserves — were all influential.

“I think the fact that we won a senior final for the first time since [then] is a huge achievement, especially to give the club and the players some confidence,”

“[Kilsyth] were our bogey side throughout the year twice, so I just wasn’t sure how it was going to go,” Bloods’ coach Paul Donahoo said.

Thrust into a Preliminary Final against Whitehorse Pioneers, however, any hopes of a Grand Final berth were scuppered by the more experienced Pioneers.

Josh Beasley (three goals) and Josh Appleby toiled hard down forward, while Will Nelson, Nick Sharpe, and Nick De Preu also battled for the Bloods, who couldn’t quite switch into gear in a 40-point defeat to draw the curtain on season 2025.

“We obviously had a few questions put to us [early in the season], and I think it was a good test for the boys.

“After the game, I was really proud of us for sticking with it and continuing what we had been teaching, learning and growing together, because we knew our best was good enough, ”Donahoo said.

The defeat also marked the end of an era.

Fifth-year coach Donahoo announced his resignation in the lead-up to the Preliminary Final, with two-time best-and-fairest Zak Carroll also calling time on a glittering playing career.

Donahoo joined the club as a player in 2019 before taking the reins in 2021, while Carroll’s experience was keenly felt after a career that spanned the highest levels of the Eastern Football League.

“It’s really mixed feelings; I love doing it, I’ve worked and grown a lot in five years.

“I remember back to my first game, which was actually round two of 2021; we beat Ferntree Gully at Ferntree Gully and in a game that we were really challenged in, and the opposition kicked seven goals in a row.

“I looked back at that now, and I’m not sure I really knew what I was doing on the day, and I’m not saying that I do now because every day is different in the job.

“I think the last two rounds of this year, when the heat was on, the boys had to win to make finals, and we knocked off Whitehorse and then Croydon North… the highlight for me is that feeling you have after a win, that you see that enjoyment in everyone from the supporters through to the players.

“That half an hour after those wins in the rooms is what you play for, and I loved every minute of that.

“But being able to call Warrandyte home for five years is a privilege and one that I’ve loved,” Donahoo said.

Warrandyte’s quest for flag glory didn’t end at the seniors’ conclusion, however.

The Reserves, after falling to Whitehorse by 10 points in the Qualifying Final, booked a grand final rematch against the Pioneers after defeating Bulleen-Templestowe in the Preliminary Final by 40 points.

Ben Richardson was dynamic to be Warrandyte’s best-on-ground, while Gareth Hitchman and Ben Ogilvie each booted four goals.

Meanwhile, the Under-19s enjoyed a dominant 77-point elimination final win against Whitehorse, led by Samuel Ferguson, Oliver Elmslie, and Charlie Hovey, before falling to Kilsyth by 29 points in the preliminary final.

Warrandyte stalwart farewelled after historic semi-final

Warrandyte’s first foray into women’s finals was significant for a variety of reasons.

It was the first time in club history that a women’s team had progressed to finals, and the August 10 showdown against Vermont Eagles at Silvan Reserve garnered support from the Bloods faithful.

Against the eventual premier, Warrandyte found themselves only 10 points in arrears at half time, with the efforts of Evie Callow, Tilly Hodgson, and Rose Rostron providing the backbone of the Bloods’ efforts.

However, the Eagles proved a bridge too far for the brave Bloods, eventually running away to a 21-point victory.

Callow booted two goals, while Eden Carruthers also chimed in with a major.

The defeat marked the end of a superb season from Warrandyte, but also the end of one of its popular stalwart’s careers.

Jenny Trewella, often seen behind the lens at most Bloods games, joined the playing ranks ahead of the 2023 season, playing 31 games and often standing as one of Warrandyte’s most energetic and reliable performers.

The semi-final was her last, and Trewella was chaired off post-game by daughter and skipper Maddy Trewella, bringing the curtain down on the playing exploits of one of Warrandyte’s favourite figures.

 

Photos: Trewella Sports Photography

Mavericks inspire Warrandyte netballers

Photos: JIMMY HARRIS

MEANDERING past the Warrandyte sporting and cultural precinct one crisp July Sunday afternoon, I spotted dozens of excited girls and women buzzing around the netball courts.
What seemed like an invisibly controlled frenzy, scores of these keen netballers were busily practising ball passing and intercept techniques, readying for the upcoming spring season.
All divided into little gangs, or teams, they all seemed to be named after Australian native birds and animals — the kookaburras, pelicans, emus, dingos, and many more.
I had to investigate further.
The footballers had just finished.
An even larger crowd of netballers, their families and friends, along with the club’s loyal sponsors and supporters, were gathering for the Warrandyte Netball Club (WNC) Spring 2025 Season launch.
Mingling amongst this huge flock of netballers were two Melbourne Mavericks superstars, Amy Parmenter and Jessie Grenvold.
Amy, who hails from New South Wales and is the current Melbourne Mavericks Captain and an Australian Diamond player, along with South Australian Jessie, gave the assembled netballers a wonderful insight into their respective netball journeys.
Both Amy and Jessie had fascinating stories to tell about when they first started netball and how they grew and developed their skills to become the professional athletes they are today.
After that, it was on to team presentations, with trophies for all the “Little Legends” and then Coaches’ and Most Valuable Player awards for the older players.
With the Autumn netball season just finished and the Spring season about to start, it was the perfect occasion to celebrate the premiership wins of the Kangaroos, Emus, and Kestrels, and start making plans for the games ahead.
The club then thanked all the volunteers who are essential to getting the players out on court, as well as the parents who bring them there, and of course, the players themselves.
Although I enjoyed listening to Amy and Jessie, watching the presentations, and making lots of new friends, I must confess I was getting rather hungry towards the end of the day.
Luckily, WNC had planned their catering with me in mind, and I was able to gulp down a ham sandwich or two to give me the energy to farewell everyone, but not before I posed for some photos with my new friends Amy and Jessie.

All sides in contention at season’s half time

AT THE HALFWAY mark of the season, Warrandyte Football Netball Club has all six of its teams eyeing finals.
And led by what may have been a season-defining run from the Senior Bloods as they completely flipped the script on Season 2025.
A resurgent Bloods have gone from 0–4 to 6–4, perched two games inside the top four with six games to play after critical wins against fellow finals contenders Whitehorse and Kilsyth.
Their three-point heist at Springfield Park stands as the best of Warrandyte’s trio of June wins, inspired by Josh Meyers, who stood in as Skipper in the absence of the injured Oscar Hodgson.
The Bloods also saw club Junior and Northern Knights star Gabriel Stumpf at Senior level for the first time and, unsurprisingly, he was influential in an arm wrestle against the Whitehorse Pioneers alongside defenders Zak Carroll, Nick De Preu, and Noah Habjan.
A 59–49 lead at the final change expanded to 19 with mere minutes to play, but nerves were jangled as Whitehorse made a final lunge, Warrandyte just holding on in a thriller.
Back at Warrandyte Reserve against Kilsyth, who had bested the Bloods by 50 points in their last bout and usurped the Pioneers in second, the revival continued.
The home side took until the second half to get into gear, trailing by 11 points at half-time, but Warrandyte returned hungrier and cleaner with the ball, led by its latest stand-in skipper, Josh Appleby, with three goals.
Meyers again put in a good shift with two goals, while Nick Sharpe and Chris McDonald marked their return to the Seniors with a mention in the best as the Bloods kicked away to a 16-point win in front of a vocal Bloods cohort in the famed Warrandyte Road pocket.
Warrandyte then capped off its month of footy with a strong 75-point win over bottom-placed Forest Hill, Mitch Wilson booting four goals and experienced heads Alex Simpson and Luke Shelton keeping the Bloods train rolling.

Reserves

Meanwhile, the Reserves have also set a hot pace.
The Bloods have gone eight games without tasting defeat, sitting a game clear on top of the ladder at the time of writing with an average winning margin of more than 100 points throughout June.
Michael Cullum returned from injury with a point to prove and was one of Warrandyte’s best, while Tim Caldwell and Luke Saunders have also been instrumental in tandem with the forward trio of Jarrah Aitken, Noah Kendal, and Ben Ogilvie.
Under-19s
The Under-19s are in fourth place, with an undermanned outing against ladder-leading Bulleen-Templestowe being the only blemish, sandwiched between two triple-figure victories.
Angus Boell, Bailey Elam, and Jack Grybas have helped lead the charge.

Women

The Senior Women, also fourth, hold a 4–4 record after a promising month.
Alice Garwoli and Maddy Trewella booted 11 goals between them in a big win over Nunawading before crafting a solid first half against Wantirna South in a 23-point loss.

EFNL Netball

On the courts, both Warrandyte teams are perched in second position.
Warrandyte Red tasted its first defeat at the hands of Vermont but kept the good times rolling with a two-goal win over Norwood and an eight-goal result over Upper Ferntree Gully on the back of some good form from Em Ransom and Jorja Carty.
Warrandyte White dialled up the pressure with big wins against Waverley (49:19) and Upper Ferntree Gully (58:23), before going down in a tight contest against Heathmont.

Vale John Ryan

Warrandyte Football Club lost a key piece of its famous Ryan family history with the recent passing of the beloved John.
Ryan, a player from 1968 to 1973 and a decades-long contributor who provided rich service to the club in many roles and committees, passed away on June 12, sparking an outpouring of tributes.
“John played for the Bloods in the 60s and 70s, and then spent many years on committees, plus helping out around the Club,” a Warrandyte Football Club spokesperson said.
“He dedicated decades of service to the Bloods, and this only diminished in later years due to ill health.
“Even given his health problems he was still a regular at home games and Thursday night meals/selection.
“John, alongside his wife Julie, son Terry, and daughter-in-law Lisa, are all Life Members.
“Back in his working days, who will ever forget the windscreen of his Land Cruiser full of sticky notes — no mobile phones or Google calendars in those days.
“RIP John Ryan, forever a true mate and great friend of those at the Bloods,” they said.

Hall of Fame a home run for Dragons’ duo

DONCASTER Baseball Club stalwarts Amy McCann and Samantha Hamilton were immortalised by Baseball Victoria (BV) after their induction into the organisation’s Hall of Fame.
Their remarkable decades-long commitment to baseball culminated in joining 28 BV luminaries at an event at Albert Park on May 21.

“The Inaugural Baseball Victoria Hall of Fame Presentation will recognise outstanding on-field performances and celebrate Victorian baseball trailblazers who have achieved impressive, inspiring success at the state, national, and international level,” said BV CEO Chet Gray.
“Our 2025 inductees have made amazing contributions to baseball in Victoria over the years and are very deserving of such recognition.
“We invite our Victorian baseball community to join us for a fantastic night celebrating the past and sharing excitement in the future.”

Amy McCann said there were many amazing stories in the room that night.

“It was just ridiculous; the quality, the history of the people in the room… and it just made you feel even more amazed that you were in it.
“You don’t do it for any of this, but I guess years after retiring, you actually get to sit back and go, I did a bit.
“It’s nice that it was recognised.”

Samantha Hamilton shared a similar perspective on the proceedings, describing it as a “humbling” experience and a good opportunity to reflect on her journey.

“I think that it’s an amazing recognition of our service to the sport and the time that we spent as athletes.
“It’s very humbling as well to be around the 28 people that got inducted the first time.
“I think the biggest thing is that it really does hit you how much you’ve done over the span of your career.
“I genuinely think each one of us thought it was the most amazing night ever.”

Inductees were included with the requisite of “trailblazers who have achieved impressive, inspiring success at the state, national, and international level”, and a look at Amy and Samantha’s achievements, on and off the field, shows they excelled in all three areas.
Over their decade-long tenure with the Australian Emeralds, of which Samantha was an inaugural member, they have showcased their exceptional skills in a total of 11 World Cups.
Their talent didn’t go unnoticed, earning them numerous individual honours at both state and national levels, including coveted MVP titles and spots on All-Star teams.
They were key members of a historic moment in time for the Emeralds, which yielded two World Cup podiums, including the nation’s historic first silver medal in Venezuela in 2010, and a bronze four years later in Japan.

“I think if you ask any of the players and coaching staff that were a part of the 2010 Silver medal-winning team, I think you won’t get any of them saying that that wasn’t the moment of their career,” Amy said.
“It was our best-ever performance on the international stage, and finally breaking through, I think it was more than just a medal.
“And it was kind of cool because no one knew who we were and where we’d been battling.”

Success was born of humble beginnings for Amy, who is also prominent in baseball media, hosting her podcast Women’s Baseball: The Inside Pitch, and serving as a commentator.
Her wish to play baseball around the turn of the century was scuppered somewhat by the lower profile of the women’s game at the time.

“We’ve got girls (nowadays) that are playing baseball, two types of football, whereas back in the 90s, you pretty much played softball or netball… and that was it.
“My Dad rang so many clubs before finally, someone went yes to baseball, most of them said you have to play softball.
“I was the only girl in my whole league, but I had a really good club in Sydney.
“I only started back up in Melbourne as a social thing; I had no friends because I moved from Canberra to Melbourne, and then I was like, oh, I’m going to start playing baseball to find friends.
“It changed my whole life,” she said.

At Deep Creek Reserve, they have made their mark as both players and coaches.
Samantha has headed the Doncaster Dragons women’s baseball program since 2006, transforming it into one of the most successful programs in the area.
The Women’s MVP award at the Dragons is named in her honour, and Amy described Samantha’s work as “second to none” for good reason, with the program producing a wealth of state and national talent of its own.
For Samantha, who has held roles as assistant coach of the Emeralds, Victorian High-Performance Manager, and Head Coach, it has been a beautiful association.

“The club couldn’t have been more supportive if they tried.”
She said, regardless of what the Dragons offer in terms of programs or where her career takes her, the bond nourished at Deep Creek Reserve will stay with her.
“I’ll be a Doncaster player forever — I just love the community.”

Tossing the Caber at Eastfield Park

SINCE 1967, the City of Maroondah has been holding Highland gatherings and games.
In 2014, the Ringwood Games, as they were known then, were on the verge of collapse.
Now, just over a decade later, the Melbourne Highland Games & Celtic Festival is a massive celebration, with thousands pouring into Eastfield Park on Sunday, March 23, to partake in a fantastic event that stems from a centuries-old tradition.
In the earlier days of the Scottish Highlands, many clans would bring their best and strongest to the local lords.
Often, this was to ensure the mightiest of each clan’s warriors were in the mix if a “call to arms” was to occur.
These events would often take place at a castle or in small surrounding villages.
The men would compete in tests of strength, such as the Caber Toss.
Soon, these “games” became a bigger event as vendors soon realised they could sell food and wares to all those travelling to the event.
This is the origin of what is now celebrated worldwide as the Highland Games.
Today, on the other side of the world, events like this provide a family-friendly insight and celebration of Scottish and Celtic culture.
Clan MacLennan was the honoured clan of the day, an ancient and noble family steeped in Scottish history.
Their Coat of Arms, with the motto, “Dum spiro spero” (While I breathe, I hope), includes a piper because the clan is noted for its piping.
The Great Pipes of the Highlands were classified as a musical instrument of war in the 1700s, and through the sound of battle, the shrill and penetrating notes could be heard at distances up to 10 miles (16 kilometres).
What would a Scottish festival be without pipping?
The Victorian Pipe Band Championships were also held as part of the day’s activities.
Throughout the day, the various bands from around Melbourne could be heard fine-tuning and performing in the centre of the festivities, providing the backing track for all the clans and games around them.
This year, the Melbourne Games partnered with the International Highland Games Federation to include several ‘heavy’ events, including Hammer Throw, Weight for Height, Weight Throw, and Caber Toss.
With athletes from Australia, New Zealand, the USA, the Netherlands, Scotland, and Japan, the heavy events ran right through the day, providing plenty of highlights.
Several events saw some record-breaking performances.
Lily Riley (representing Australia) received gold in the Women’s A Group and achieved an Australian Record in the Weight for Height event.
Lily tossed the 28-pound weight over the bar at 20 feet to achieve this, a phenomenal effort.
Then, it was time for the Caber Toss.
The caber is not thrown for distance,  but for style.
The caber is stood with the thickest part in the air, and the athlete then lifts it against their shoulder, gives it a quick flip, and tries to upend it so it is thrown to land 180 degrees in front.
A number of different-sized cabers were tossed throughout the day, and although many onlookers were not quite sure of the rules, every attempt was met with cheering and applause.

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Away from the pipe bands and the heavy games, many onlookers watched the Scottish dancers, the Irish dancing, Morris dancing, and the folk music tent.
Those wondering about their genealogy or wanting to know about clans could wander the clan tents and learn about the rich history of all those in attendance.
The kids could have their photo taken with one of the Highland “Coo’s”, and many canine friends were roaming around the grounds enjoying the day, too.
For those looking for lunch, there were a number of Scottish and Celtic food vendors; the Celtic Bakery was particularly popular.
For those with and without Scottish or Celtic heritage, the Melbourne Highland Games & Celtic Festival is a great way to explore the ancestry of more than two million Australians (according to the 2021 Australian Census).
The games return in 2026, learn more at melbournehighlandgames.org.au.

Ann’s exemplary service recognised by Cricket Victoria

The Pascoe name is enshrined in the fabric of Warrandyte Cricket Club’s DNA.
And for Life Member Ann, her dedication over four decades has been acknowledged with a top gong at a special MCG event.
Ann was one of a special group presented with a Cricket Victoria Service Award on Day 3 of the Boxing Day Test, an accolade that celebrates the significant contributions made by individuals to benefit Victorian Cricket.
This comes after Ann’s 42 years contributing off the field for the WCC, and although the famed scorer hung up her multi-coloured pens several years ago, she continues to be a valued presence around the club.
A Life Member of both the WCC and the RDCA and now recognised at State level, this is another well-deserved award — Congratulations Ann.

 

Top Warrandyte sporting moments of 2024

WITH THE END of the year in sight, we take a brief look back at just some of the moments that stood out in the Warrandyte and surrounding sporting arena and the back pages of the Diary in 2024.

Caldwell, Mackenzie make their mark at the Olympics

Two Warrandyte Olympians, one at her first Games and another at her second, made their mark in Paris.
Local athlete Abbey Caldwell made her first foray into the Olympics with a thrilling campaign in the 800m event, placing fifth in her first heat before qualifying for the Semi-Final via the Repechage.
While the 23-year-old missed out on a spot in the final, she had done enough to reinforce her position as one of Australia’s premier middle-distance athletes and walk away proud of a stellar Olympics debut.
For Oceana Mackenzie in the sport climbing event, it was a historic moment for the sport in Australia.
After competing in Tokyo and finishing 19th, Mackenzie found herself in a podium chance after the boulder section of the combined boulder and lead competition at the Paris Games.
In front of a big finals crowd — a big contrast amid COVID-restricted Tokyo — a devilishly difficult lead wall proved a tougher opponent as Mackenzie finished 7th in the Final.
Nonetheless, the result was Australian sport climbing’s best at the Olympics and highlighted Mackenzie’s rapid rise up the ranks.

Venom women
bring home a championship

Warrandyte Venom broke a 10-year title drought by claiming the Big V Division 1 women’s competition.
The 73-50 grand final victory over Chelsea marked a turnaround from last place in 2023 to champions this year, sparking scenes of jubilation at the final buzzer.
Shannon Powell-Ross was judged grand final MVP after a 31-point, 21-rebound, and seven-assist masterclass, which capped off a brilliant 2024 season.
Emmie O’Nial and Ellie Locke were also pivotal in the clash as the Venom look forward to hanging another flag in the rafters.

Swans soar

Warrandyte Football Netball Club’s senior netball side created a slice of history by winning its first premiership since entering the side in the Eastern League competition.
The Swans defied an even competition and a dramatic extra-time Division 7 decider to defeat Lilydale 40-34 at HE Parker Reserve, leaving a strong crowd absolutely breathless by the final siren.
Darcee Clark, in defence, was pivotal, named best on the court, while Amy Potter (19 goals), Melissa Blakis (11), and captain Katelyn O’Reilly (10) also found the net for the Swans.

Junior girls shine

The future of women’s football in Warrandyte is in safe hands if this year’s Youth Girls team is anything to go by.
The junior stars picked up their third flag in a row as a group in the victory against Fitzroy in a thriller at Winton Oval as a last-minute Ava Radle smother and goal saw Warrandyte seal a 22-10 result.
It was a win to savour for the Trent Ferguson-coached Warrandyte in Division 1, with Milla Haas named best on ground for her efforts.
It was the first of two grand finals the Youth Girls played this season, facing off against Prahran in a YJFL/South Metro Junior League combined division.

Sophie’s got the golden arm

It was the equal second-most number of wickets claimed in a single WBBL season.
Sophie Day spun her way to a record 27 wickets in WBBL|09, claiming the competition’s Golden Arm accolade for most wickets.
The crafty left-armer’s skillset earned the attention of national selectors, who promptly named her in the Australia A squad, competing in a variety of T20s and a four-day game, earmarking her as one to watch in the future.

50 years of Junior footy

Warrandyte Junior Football Club marked a significant milestone in August, celebrating 50 years since its inception.
Long a hotbed for the town’s young football talent coming through the ranks, the half-century celebrations at The Grand laid bare the club’s pivotal presence not just for rising sportspeople — but for the community in general.
More than 100 people attended the function, including past players, coaches, life members, and those who continue to contribute to WJFC.
Memorabilia was on display, including jumpers, team photos, and much more, while speakers included Club President Brad Byrnes, long-time junior coach and Life Member Bill Luttick, and former player Trent Ferguson.
“The people we had around the club made it the most incredible time — clubs are built on people,” Luttick said.
“Things just got done.
“It was just a fantastic atmosphere.
“I look at the custodians of the club over the years, and it hasn’t changed; there are still fantastic people.”

Declan’s Big Run

A RUNNER from Park Orchards has set his sights on a big challenge.
Declan Johnson will run 165 kilometres from Warrandyte to Bendigo in late November, hoping to cover the distance in two days.
He hopes to raise $5,000 for children’s cancer charity Little Big Steps.
Little Big Steps is about keeping kids with cancer moving, so the charity funds fitness technology like activity trackers and virtual reality, and physiotherapist-supported exercise medicine programs to support kids with cancer by keeping them active.
Declan, 22, told the Diary he has always been a keen runner, but when looking for something “big” to work towards, he felt Warrandyte to Bendigo (where he has family) was a suitable challenge.
His planned route will take in the Mullum and Yarra Trail, Plenty River Trail, and the Western Ringroad Trail, eventually ending up at Heathcote for the 50km stint along the picturesque O’Keefe Rail Trail for his big finish in Bendigo.
Doing something for a cause is also a great motivator and a way to stay accountable, so Declan decided to turn the run into a fundraising opportunity.
He told the Diary he chose this particular charity because it provides a unique service for kids with cancer, and being relatively small, it is often not the first charity people think of when raising money for cancer charities.
Declan has been training hard for his run since April and spoke to the Diary about the level of preparation needed.
“Preparation for a run of this magnitude requires a lot of planning and several extra pairs of running shoes,” he said.
It takes special people in our community to make a difference, and Declan is definitely one special young man who is determined to give back, one kilometre at a time.
You can support Declan by donating to his cause, simply search “Declan’s Big Run” and donate online via his Just Giving page.
For more information on the wonderful work of Little Big Steps, head to www.littlebigsteps.org.au.

Venom stars nab top awards at Big V presentation

WARRANDYTE Venom stars swept up a number of prestigious Big V awards at the league presentation night.
Division One women’s star Shannon Powell-Ross led the charge for the Venom at the Port Melbourne ceremony, adding a league MVP award to her grand final one.
Powell-Ross unsurprisingly earned a selection in the All Star 5 on the back of a season where she led the league for scoring (23 avg) and assists (6.2).
She rounded out what will go down as one of the great individual seasons with an MVP award at the Venom Awards.
Powell-Ross wasn’t the only one to earn All Star honours for season 2024, with championship teammate Emmie O’Nial also a member.
O’Nial was a force in defence for the Venom this season, second in the league for rebounds (16.62 avg) and blocks (1.9).
The Venom men’s team were also represented on the night, with star addition Tristan Forsyth capping off a big year with selection in the Division 1 All Star team.
Warrandyte’s senior award winners were also recognised internally at the organisation’s presentation night, with Powell-Ross and Forsyth named the men’s and women’s MVP.
Youth League women’s star Summer Davis took out the top gong for the team, while Tyson Mackenzie was named MVP for the Youth League men.

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Warrandyte Basketball award winners
Senior Women
MVP: Shannon Powell Ross
Runner up MVP: Emmie O’Nial
Youth League Women
MVP: Summer Davis
Coaches Award: Christina Schibeci

Senior Men
MVP: Tristan Forsyth
Coaches Award: Aaron Vant Foort
Youth League Men
MVP: Tyson Mackenzie
Best Defensive Player: Acelin Adama

Abbey’s off to the Paris Olympics

FROM THE Doncaster Athletics Track to the Stade De France, Warrandyte’s Abbey Caldwell gets her chance to compete at the 2024 Olympic Games.
The 22-year-old had her ticket to the Paris Games confirmed in April as part of the first intake of athletes for Australia’s track and field team, locked in for the 800 metres scheduled to commence on August 3.
A silver medal at the 2024 Australian Athletics Championships put the final flourish on her selection in a steady rise for Abbey, one of the country’s premier middle-distance athletes.
The Warrandyte local now has a deserved opportunity to make her dash at glory in the pinnacle of her sport, but she told the Diary that it might take some time for it all to sink in.

“I feel like it hasn’t properly sunk in yet.
Certainly, finding out the news was a euphoric feeling.
There was a lot of emotion in that, and I couldn’t stop the happy tears.
That feeling alone was exciting, but then it was like, that’s in August, so I had to switch the mindset.
I’m hoping that when I get into the athletes village and experience being in that environment, it will sink in, but at the end of the day, we’re going over to compete and be at our best.
It’s still a very long road of training and life beforehand, but it’s nice to have an exciting future goal and not necessarily chasing anything or waiting to qualify.
I’m just enjoying the ride at the moment, knowing there’s an exciting time ahead.”

At just 22, the star’s running exploits already stack up as one of the most impressive in the travelling Aussies’ squad.
A famous bronze medal at the 2022 Commonwealth Games in the 1500m lives fresh in the mind, but since then, Abbey has continued to elevate herself.
A World Athletics Cross Country Championships mixed relay bronze in early 2023 added to her medal collection, and since then, it’s been a procession of smashed PBs.
As holder of Australia’s second-fastest women’s 800m time (1:58.48), Abbey comes into the Games ready and raring to make an impact, and she’s drawing on her experiences on the big stage when setting her sights on her Olympic goals.
But it’s a goal in two as she explains that walking away with nothing left in the tank would be reward enough.

“I think ultimately the goal is to go in and make the final,” she said.
“It’s very much easier said than done because there are three rounds of running before the final.
“It’s a long road, but I think setting that goal came off last year at the World Championships, missing out on the final in the 800m by .02 seconds.
“I think that’s made me want to make it there.
“But if I can walk away from the Olympics and say that I put it all on the track on the day, I enjoyed the experience, then I know I’ll be happy.”

Abbey departs for Europe shortly to kickstart her road to the Games, with several races and a six-week training block taking prime focus for the newly minted Olympic Australian.

“I’ll get over there and do three or four races across a few different cities.
“We have a training camp in Saint Moritz,” she said.
“That will all take about six weeks, and before we know it, we’ll be heading into the staging camp, which will be in Montpellier.”

A well-known face around the area, Abbey’s athletics journey began 17 years ago at Doncaster Little Athletics Club, marking the beginning of a steady progression through the ranks.

“I was pretty much just like any other kid being thrown into sport.
“I dabbled in basketball, tennis, Auskick.
“I ended up at Doncaster Athletics Track on a Saturday morning and really enjoyed it.
“My brothers were both around there.
“I think the Little Aths environment was really healthy, and I was fortunate to have a good age group, which made it enjoyable.”

Abbey added the social side of the athletics made a big difference.

“The social component was nice and kept me in sport, and as we progressed through the age groups, it just gradually progressed from starting at Little Aths to participating in school Aths.
“Then it was a state team, and then I made my first international junior team in Year 11, and I thought, this is going somewhere.
“Ever since then, it’s just progressed.”

But as she has stated, it takes a village to support developing athletes, and she points to her family and coach as key influences on her journey.

“I’ve been pretty fortunate; I’ve been with my coach for 10 years now,” she said.
“It’s quite rare in athletics to have that lasting connection with your coach, especially from a young age.
“I wouldn’t be here without the support of Mum, Dad, my brothers.
“They say it takes a village, and it does.
“There are so many people along the way, and having that support is phenomenal.”

Her hometown will also be behind her when the Games are officially unveiled, with the Opening Ceremony commencing on July 26.
The Olympic Games will take place in Paris from July 26 to August 11, and the Women’s 800 metre event is scheduled to take place on August 3 (heats), August 5 (semi-finals), and the final to take place on August 6. The Nine Network will provide coverage of events.
Go Abbey!

Photos: CASEY SIMS, ATHLETICS AUSTRALIA

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