North Ryde’s back-to-back premierships showcase outstanding display of teamwork

Dual premierships for all-around team

North Ryde Dockers U/13 side have been nominated for NewsLocal’s Team Spirit award. Picture: Craig Parr

• SHAMROCKS' LUCKY CHARM
• MATTHEW A MULTI-TALENTED STAR

Grand final heartbreak has turned into premiership dominance for the North Ryde Dockers U13s AFL team.

A grand final loss in 2014 was the catalyst the team needed, following up an underdog premiership victory last year with a dominant 79-26 victory over the Canada Bay Cannons to claim back-to-back championships.

Some last-minute schedule changes added to the grand final experience with the boys getting the opportunity to play under the lights for the first time at Macquarie Uni.

However, they held their composure and put together an all-round team effort to come away with the 53 point win.

The team claimed back-to-back premierships this year with 79-26 grand final win over Canada Bay. Picture: Craig Parr

“The team just learned to play together really well,” said team manager Sarah Platts.

“It wasn’t just about the goals.

“Our defenders were amazing and it came down to some key people in the middle of the field.”

After an injury-fraught 2015, Ms Platts said the most pleasing aspect of the season was having the entire team get through the year together in one piece.

“We’ve been very lucky to get a really great group of kids together,” she said.

The Dockers have been nominated for the Team Spirit Award, sponsored by SportsTG, as part of NewsLocals Junior Sports Star awards.

Rebel is the long-term major sponsor, with categories including Young Sporting Spirit sponsored by Simonds Homes, Service to Sport and Junior Sports Star.

To nominate someone you know, go to juniorsportsstar.com.au

Originally published as North Ryde’s back-to-back premierships showcase outstanding display of teamwork