Paul Kelly AFL Gala Day

Round 1 saw a friendly match between the two recently formed Marist teams, the ideal start to a day with a focus on enjoyment. The boys used this game to adjust to the range of rule modifications and soon recognised the opportunity to highlight their skills in a game void of tackling, bumping and shepherding.

Both Marist teams played a range of tight games throughout the day. Marist 1 asserted their dominance, narrowly losing just one of their four matches. Both Marist teams qualified for finals, with Marist 2 losing to St Clare of Assisi, and Marist 1 reversing their previous one point loss against Majura with an emphatic Grand Final victory in the rematch.

Our boys are to be congratulated for flying the Marist flag high by playing with courage, enjoyment, and a complete respect for their rivals. Griffin Sluis and William Brown are commended for rucking for their respective teams all day, along with fearless Logan McRae. Well done also to Lachlan Green, Ethan Cook, Ollie Henderson and Jesse Ellwood for their multiple standout performances. Each boy should be proud of the effort they put in throughout the day.

The resilient attitude of Marist 2 was impressive. These boys held their heads high after a handful of frustrating losses and showed great pleasure in forming a guard of honour for their Grand Finalist mates to run through. The hearty chant of Marist helped Team 1 over the line.

Mr Welsh