NSW capture 12th Australian Paralympic football crown
NSW won their 12th Australian title with a 3-0 win over Western Australia at the 2016 National Paralympic 7-a-side Football Championships at Valentine Sport Park, Glenwood, on Sunday.
Rouse Hill
Don't miss out on the headlines from Rouse Hill. Followed categories will be added to My News.
NSW won their 12th Australian title with a 3-0 win over Western Australia at the 2016 National Paralympic 7-a-side Football Championships at Valentine Sport Park, Glenwood, on Sunday.
It was a superior performance from the hosts who had previously being held to a 2-2 stalemate by WA in the group stage.
In the final, NSW began strongly in front of a large crowd with Golden Boot and Man of the Match Jack Williams netting a superb goal past WK keeper Chris Barty.
Just after half time and Williams completed his brace while Ben Atkins finished off the match with the third goal that capped an impressive tournament for the NSW team.
“These are the best bunch of lads I have ever had the privilege of playing with, for eight years we have won this trophy now and it comes down to the commitment, hard-work and friendship between a great group of players,” NSW skipper and Pararoos vice-captain Chris Pyne said.
“A huge thanks to Football NSW and FFA for putting on brilliant tournament, this is how it should be every year.”
During the championships, Pararoos coaches were spotting new talent to represent Australia at the 2017 world championships in Argentina.
Queensland Coach Jay Larkins the echoed feelings of many players, supporters and coaching staff regarding the tournament.
“This is by far the best National Paralympic Football Championships tournament I have ever been involved in,” Larkins said.
“A big thank you to Football NSW and FFA for putting on such a wonderful tournament.”
Dignitaries on the final day included FFA head of national performance Luke Casserly, Blacktown councillor Julie Griffiths, head Pararoos coach Kai Lammert and Pararoos ambassador Claire Falls who all presented trophies.
Results: Bronze medal playoff: Queensland 2 (Robbie Christie, Angus Magregor) Combined State Team (Chris Gudgeon) 1
Final: NSW 3 (Jack Williams 2, Ben Atkins) WA 0
■ If you would like to know more or register your child for the Paralympics football team, email: demelzah@footballnsw.com.au
Revealed: Players you need to watch at National Netball Championships
Future Diamonds will shine on the court at the National Netball Championships. Find out which players you should be keeping an eye on during the week-long tournament.
National Netball Champs 2024: NSW unveiled, Crombie’s bid for one better
The 2024 National Netball Championships are fast approaching. While NSW reveal their new and returning names, one of Queensland’s top shooters is candid with the fact she has unfinished business on the national stage. Full story inside: