It was a massive result for the team who continue to show consistency on the field in what was the Association's first time being represented at the Junior State Cup.

Wellington returned three wins from seven games over the three-day competition, defeating Hornsby, Murrwiillumbah and Maitland before being knocked out of the finals.

Losses against the Lower Blue Mountains Ranges and Easts ultimately ended Wellington’s run to the finals, with the heat and a shortage of players proving challenging for the side.

Coach Jo Clarke said it was a huge fete for the girls in maroon, many of who are only turning 11 this year.

“The first one particularly we only went down 4-3 and we just didn’t cope with the heat and the humidity, it was quite a big shock,” she said.

“Against Easts it was the same thing – the first game for the second day, only had 10 players, but it was a fantastic experience and the teams who ended up in the finals were kids turning 14, whereas we had kids only turning 11 in our team but were still able to mix it with them that’s for sure.”

Clarke thanked everyone who made it possible for the team to attend the championships, including Wellington Touch and the family of players.

“Also to two specific people – Jess Finn, we couldn’t participate within this carnival without supplying a referee and Jess filled this role for us which we are very grateful to her as she had to take time off work and leave her young family behind for four days,” she said.

“And also to Alistaire Thompson who has been training the girls over the holidays and after school. Without his expertise and commitment the girls would not have reached the standard that they achieved to be competitive at this level.” 

Thompson was quick to return the praise to Clarke who’s commitment to coaching the girls was reflected in their efforts.

“We went there and we got a few wins up which was good and narrowly missed out on the finals, it was a very good effort,” he said.

Mixed Summer Touch Competition draw for Round 11 – February 21: 

 6pm

Field 1: Pirates versus Nanima Connection

Field 2: Morleys Earth Moving versus Blues - Bolos/Mean Machine

Field 3: Wellington High versus Pups - Fast Eddie Owens/ Wolf Pack

6.35pm

Field 1: 

Field 2: Bolos versus Mean Machine - Morleys Earth Moving /Blues

Field 3: Fast Eddie Owens versus Wolf Pack - Wellington High/Pups