Beechwood Oval: Hunter, Mid-North Coast clash in men’s AFL Masters rivalry
A spirited match of men’s AFL between two rivalling teams was played on the Mid-North Coast over the weekend. See all the action and atmosphere from the day.
Mid-North Coast
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The AFL Men’s Masters braved wild wintry winds on Saturday to stage a gala day at beautiful Beechwood Oval on the Mid-North Coast.
The Hunter Hornets travelled north for the carnival to play against the Mid-North Coast in the modified match of four, 15 minute quarters. Both teams subbed in to field a third side, Tamworth, who were unable to make the match due to the restricting COVID-19 environment.
The event was staged in an effort to raise funds for Mental Health Support network, Outside the Locker Room, with all profits from player registrations, a sausage sizzle on the day and fundraising at the pub after-party going towards the charity.
Scores weren’t recorded on the day with Hunter Hornets secretary Adam Shearer declaring the carnival a non-competitive affair.
He said the day and others like it are part of the AFL’s push into regional NSW areas to help grow the sport.
“It was just a bit of fun to grow the brand in the region,” he said.
The Hunter Hornets have been associated for about 20 years, and have a well established brand.
The club has been integral in helping co-ordinate gala days in areas with higher rates of participation in other sports such as rugby league, union or soccer.
“We’ve got to keep working at it [the sport’s growth] or rugby league, soccer, rugby union or something else will take the game away.
Catch all the action from the matches in our gallery of photos below.
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