Swans women bedevil Saints in Sir Doug Nicholls Round

Lismore Swans women’s team showed refined finesse and fitness in equal measure as they gave the Sawtell Toormina Saints a masterclass in accurate kicking and passing.

FEROCIOUS FOOTY: At Oakes Oval, Sawtell Saints captain Vienna Schoeffel, tries to avoid determined Swans player Holly Wall, during a hard fought game in the Sir Doug Nicholls Round on May 29, 2021. Photo: Alison Paterson

A masterclass in how to manage four quarters of footy was given by the Lismore Swans women’s team when they hosted the Sawtell Toormina Saints at Oakes Oval for the Sir Doug Nicholls Round on Saturday.

The Swans kicked goals a-plenty, including screamers by Tamara Berry, who was named in the best players on the ground, along with Amy Keen, who also booted two balls through the big sticks.

Berry designed the Swans’ newest indigenous jersey which was debuted by the women’s and men’s senior teams on Saturday May 29, 2021.

Other goal kickers were Holly Wall, Laura Cahill and Karli Schafer and along with pocket rocket Lillian Hutchings who notched up her 51st game, were also were named best players of the match.

Under the coaching of Ken McPherson, the women have improved their finesse and finesse, which they used to keep the Saints from scoring.

FLYING HIGH: Lismore Swans women's team defeated the Sawtell Saints on May 29, during the 2021 Sir Doug Nicholls Round, at Oakes Ovals, Lismore. Photo: Alison Paterson

After the final siren, McPherson spoke to the Saints and told them they could hold their heads up high.

Afterwards, McPherson said he always meets with the opposition after a game to thank them for playing the Swans.

“It’s matter of courtesy and it’s something I have always done wherever I have coached,” he said.

“It’s also about showing respect.”

COACH FEEDBACK: Lismore Swans women's coach Ken McPherson addressed the Sawtell Saints after the match and told him he felt they played an excellent game and that they could hold their heads high despite the scoreboard. Photo: Alison Paterson

“Keep practising, keep training,” he said.

“The Saints women have the makings of a formidable team”.

WINNERS ARE GRINNERS: The Lismore Swans women's team were delighted with the result of 10.7-52 to defeat the Sawtell Saints 0.0-0 on May 29, 2021. Photo: Alison Paterson

Saints captain Vienna Schoeffel, 25, said she was proud of her team.

She said this was only their third game as a squad, but players were committed to supporting each other and to improving their playing skills.

“Our team focus is to grow women’s sport in the Coffs area and beyond,” she said.

“Early in the season we had a group discussion on why we were attracted to the sport and why we are a part of the team.

“Not one person said it was about winning, it was all about personal growth and to be a part of a community.”

Schoeffel said her teammates had also committed to step out of their comfort zone.

“We also want to break down barriers and participate in the AFL, so we are working hard to help everyone in the team to reach their goals.”

Saints player Jade Binx was active on the back line with her strong kicking skills causing some concern to the Swans.

“I’m pumped about playing with the Saints,” she said.

“They are a fantastic team, we are all good friends.”

SAINTS: The Sawtell Toormina Saints played well and were gracious in defeat when they played the Lismore Swans on May 29, during the 2021 Sir Doug Nicholls Round, at Oakes Ovals, Lismore. Photo: Alison Paterson

After the women’s match, fans and players were treated to a performance by talented local indigenous women dancers to mark the Sir Doug Nicholls Round at Oakes Oval.

AFL NORTH COAST – ROUND 6 WOMEN’S

Coffs Breakers 9.4 (58) defeated Port Macquarie 2.0 (12)

Lismore Swans 7.10 (52) defeated Sawtell/Toormina 0.0 (0)