REVEALED: Queensland’S best grassroots footballer

Queensland football fans have had their say and crowned who they believe is the number one grassroots footballer in the state from a list of around 90 nominees. HEAR FROM THE WINNER AND SEE HOW EVERY PLAYER POLLED HERE

INDIVIDUAL awards have never been the motivation behind Crios O’Hare’s commitment to his craft, but the veteran striker conceded it was nice to be voted Queensland’s best grassroots football player.

O’Hare came out on top of 89 outstanding footballing talents from across the state, polling 24 per cent of the vote to be a clear winner to Nerimbula’s Lachlan Riley (15 per cent).

See how every player polled below

“It’s obviously nice winning things, but individual awards have never been a big motivation for me,” O’Hare said.

“With what I’ve been through with injuries over the past few years, I’ve worked really hard to stay on the field.

“It is nice to win an award.”

Crios O'Hare (middle) has been named Qld’s best grassroots footballer. Picture: Brendan Radke

The former NPL Queensland striker turned player-coach is one of the beneficiaries of Edge Hill Utd’s strong roster and regional dominance, having claimed two consecutive Golden Boots in the FNQ Premier League, scoring more than 30 goals last season.

Edge Hill Utd has won every trophy on offer in the north Queensland for the past three years, and in 2021 made the Round of 32 in the Australia Cup.

O’Hare is entering the twilight of his playing career, but has kept himself busy as a coach with his club, his business, Next Level Training Academy, and with Caravella Football Academy.

Boasting a staggering win rate at more than 80 per cent, O’Hare is leading his troops into the 2022 season with the goal of winning every competition in which they play, as well as another deep run in the Australia Cup.

TOP 5 PLAYERS:

1. Crios O’Hare (Edge Hill Utd) 24%

2. Lachlan Riley (Nerimbera) 15%

3. Josh Mulla (Leichhardt) 9%

4. Jesse Casson (Edge Hill Utd) 7%

5. Tim Zimitat (Frenchville) 6%

GOLD COAST

Jacob Sjorup (Broadbeach) 1%

A commanding centre back who has been a defensive rock for the Dolphins in the last two seasons. His intelligence and physicality has been a handful for forwards.

Justin Watmough (Broadbeach) 2%

A cornerstone midfielder and captain on the Dolphins team Watmough has played at a high level for over a decade in the local competition. Coming off a great personal year last year expect big things from Justin this year.

Griffin Bambach (Burleigh) 0%

An NPL level calibre goalkeeper Griffin Bambach’s inclusion into the Bulldogs is a huge addition for the side. A great shot stopper who is still eager to learn is a valuable asset moving forward.

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Dan Smith (Burleigh) 0%

The forward joins the Bulldogs from Palm Beach and has a know-how on finding the back of the net. A successful stint at the Sharks has set Smith up for what the Bulldogs hope to be a high goal scoring season.

Nick Buxton (Kingscliff) 0%

The young midfielder joins the FQPL 3 for the first time and is one of the most exciting up and coming talents on the Coast. His ability to pick the right pass will be a great addition to the wolves.

Fox Slotemaker (Kingscliff) 1%

Joining the Wolves from New Zealand the silky defender will be a valuable asset for the Wolves as they look to push up the table. His leadership qualities will be huge for a team on the rise.

Jayden Sonter (Musgrave) 0%

A successful first season last year has put Sonter on the map as he looks to continue that form under new his new coach at the Mustangs. With raw pace and ability expect big things from the forward.

Ben Litfin (Musgrave) 1%

Joining the Mustangs this season Ben Litfin has had A-League experience alongside plenty of years in the NPL. The midfielder will be crucial to the success of the Mustangs this season.

Jessi Reardon (Nerang) 1%

A young midfield prospect in the local scene Jessi Reardon will be hoping to maximise his personal performances in a Nerang team that will have their backs against the wall this season.

Rafael Carli (Nerang) 0%

A technically sound forward Rafael Carli will be hoping that he can help the Eagles compete at the highest level throughout the 2022 season.

Tom Miller (Palm Beach) 1%

Tom Miller has been a big time player in the local scene for a number of years now. Each year the midfielder gets better and better and the expectations are high for him this season.

Josh Mussell (Palm Beach) 0%

The high flying left back will continue to get better this season as he affirms his spot as one of the best on the Coast. The work rate and ability that Mussell has is second to none on the Gold Coast.

Michael Roussakis (Robina) 0%

Coming off a fantastic season last year Michael Roussakis will be hoping to help his Robina side to victory at the back this year. A hard nosed defender who has great technical ability.

Max King (Robina) 1%

Coming over from playing in Japan the midfielder is the complete player on the local scene. His ability not only on the ground but in the air will be instrumental for Robina’s aspirations this year.

Ethan Leighton (Runaway Bay) 1%

The young forward is just entering what should be a big year in his development in the local senior scene. His aggressive on the ball nature will prove to be a big asset for him and his side moving forward.

Fikret Mehic (Runaway Bay) 0%

Mehic has scored goals in every season he has played on the Gold Coast and will be hoping to replicate that for his new side Runaway Bay. A hard working forward who’s technical ability is underrated across teams.

Andrew Ridden (Southport) 1%

Ridden’s defensive abilities make him one of the best going around. His presence on the Warriors was instrumental to their Grand Final win last season as he looks to replicate that this year.

Dylan Yuill (Southport) 1%

Having his partner in crime Andrew Ridden next to him has taken Yuill’s game to the next level as he proves to be a solid defender on the Gold Coast. His ability to put in a challenge when needed is pivotal for the success of the Warriors.

Nick Panetta (Tallebudgera Valley) 0%

Joining the Tigers from NPL side Gold Coast Knights the forward will play a massive part on the success of Tallebudgera this season. His ability to step up in big moments will play a key role for the Tigers.

Matt Hilton (Tallebudgera) 0%

All the accolades you can possibly achieve are in his trophy cabinet on the Gold Coast and the forward will be hoping to add to that this year with Tallebudgera. His eye for goal is one of the best we have seen locally on the Coast.

CAIRNS

Crios O’Hare (Edge Hill Utd) 24%

One of the best finishers in Far North Queensland, Crios O’Hare been at the forefront of the Tiger’s dominance in recent years.

The former NPL Queensland striker turned player-coach is one of the beneficiaries of Edge Hill Utd’s strong roster, but makes this list courtesy of his finishing ability: he has claimed two consecutive Golden Boots, scoring more than 30 goals last season.

Jesse Casson (Edge Hill Utd) 7%

Arguably the best big game performer in Far North Queensland.

Jesse Casson is a consistent, hardworking and no-nonsense midfielder who has become one of the league’s best players.

But he stands up when it matters most. He won two Grand Final MVPs in 2019-20, and was narrowly pipped for the hat trick in 2021.

Ricky Tuigaloa (Innisfail Utd) 0%

Fast, effective, and a quality finisher in front of goal, Ricky Tuigaloa is among the best strikers in Far North Queensland.

He was co-winner of the Golden Boot in the shortened 2020 season, his lethal finishing ability helping Innisfail Utd make the finals.

The Cutters will count on him again this year as they strive to make the final four.

Jayden Zecchinati (Innisfail Utd) 1%

An underrated defender who simply goes about his business in a no-nonsense manner.

Zecchinati is a key member of this Cutters team but hasn’t received the accolades he probably deserves. He is tough, gritty, and always rolls up the sleeves when hard work is needed to be done.

Alex Russell (Leichhardt) 2%

The most experienced player in the league and 2021 MVP, Alex Russell is this competition’s fine wine.

In his younger years Russell played in Leagues One and Two in England – there’s 537 games accounted for on his Wikipedia page – and those decades of experience made him one of the key components in Leichhardt’s run to the Premier Men’s grand final last year.

His vision and tough have opened plenty of attacking opportunities for his younger teammates.

Josh Mulla (Leichhardt) 9%

The midfielder remains one of the leading players in this competition.

A lifelong Leichhardt Lion, Mulla has found his home in the defensive line or midfield over the years, and while the skill, touch and ability is all there, his passion and enthusiasm in defence stands him apart.

Wayne Srhoj (Mareeba Utd) 1%

The former Perth Glory and Melbourne Heart man is one of the unofficial leaders at Mareeba United.

His A-League experience places him among the most senior players in the league, and that leadership has only helped the Bulls’ young players step up into the higher grades.

Darcy McCormack (Mareeba Utd) 0%

A foundation player for the FNQ Heat, Darcy McCormack remains one of the best midfielders in the league.

He’s an organiser with brilliant vision and can put on a neat, well-weighted pass to find teammates in better scoring positions – and he can score a screamer, which he already has in the opening round of the new season.

Jeffrey Lassche (Marlin Coast) 0%

An everywhere man in every sense of the word, Jeffrey Lassche has added senior men’s co-coach to a long list of commitments on and off the field at the Rangers.

On the pitch, Lassche has played all over the park: he would just as easily pick up the gloves as he would slot into the front line.

Geoffrey Bulkua (Marlin Coast) 0%

As tough as it has been for the Rangers in recent years, winger/midfielder Geoffrey Bulkua has been among the more consistent players.

A facilitator who likes open space, Bulkua will be driven to feed a few more goals for Marlin Coast’s attackers as they eye a move up the table.

Zeca Soares (Southside Comets) 4%

Brilliantly skilled midfielder and a former league MVP, Zeca Soares has an attacking mentality which gives Comets plenty of go-forward.

Can control the ball better than most, and either sets up or scores plenty of Southside goals.

Dylan Soares (Southside Comets) 2%

A long-term Southside man, Dylan Soares is never far from the thick of the action.

He scores goals, sets them up, can defend fairly well and is never one to hide his emotion.

An integral piece of successful Comets teams in the past, and, Southside fans hope, their future.

Matt Harwood (Straford) 0%

The captain is among the most consistent men to wear the blue of Stratford week-in, week-out, and he will lead from the front again this season.

The defender, who has shown a willingness to get forward and score in recent years, will be a crucial component in Rob Wales’ squad.

Jack Baresic (Straford) 0%

The defender made a major impact in his first season at Stratford.

The former Brisbane’s Capital League defender shored up the club’s backline in his debut season, and will be a big part of their success in 2022.

Cole Junna (Redlynch Strikers United) 0%

The quality midfielder will hold the keys to his team’s attacking efforts in 2022.

Cole Junna spent his junior years, and made his Premier League debut, at cross-town rivals Leichhardt, but has made Calanna Park his home for the past three years.

Junna has the vision, passing ability, speed and touch to thrive.

Robin Kapun (Redlynch Strikers United) 2%

The committed JCU Strikers man will play a key role for his team in the new entity’s first foray into the FQPL.

The captain is also Redlynch Strikers United’s centre back and a vocal component of the team’s defensive efforts as they step into the league.

BRISBANE/FQPL1

Jordan Farina (Brisbane Strikers FC) 0%

Farina boasts extensive experience in the NPL Queensland and

featured in Lions FC’s 2021 Grand Final win. A known goalscorer, he is aggressive on the

ball and known for his high work rate which will help push Brisbane Strikers forward in their

quest for promotion this season.

Luke Borean (Brisbane Strikers FC) 0%

Borean established himself as one of the standout keepers in the NPL Queensland before this year’s move to Brisbane Strikers, helping Lions FC to multiple Premierships and Grand Final wins and earning his place in the NPL All-Stars squad in 2021.

Shuto Kuboyama (Mitchelton FC) 0%

A prolific goalscorer, Shuto claimed the FQPL 1 Golden Boot award in 2021 with 16 goals in 15 matches and will be a key member of the Mitchelton FC attack again in 2022.

Veco Serugo (Mitchelton FC) 0%

Widely regarded as one of the strongest midfielders in the league, Serugo’s composure on the ball and fantastic passing range will be on show at new clubs Mitchelton FC in 2022. In his time at former club SWQ Thunder, Serugo featured in two FQPL 1 Grand Finals and was a regular Team of the Week member.

Gabriel Hawash (Redlands United) 0%

An experienced defender with over 130 Senior NPL appearances, 90 of those being for Western Pride from 2014 to 2019. A popular figure around the club, he provides the first team with plenty of experience, leadership and versatility.

Ben Njie (Redlands United) 0%

The prolific striker has been a journeyman of Brisbane football for a number of years, scoring goals wherever he goes. After only playing for part of the 2021 season, he’ll be looking to get back to regular goalscoring form this year.

Frederick Yinka-Kehinde (Rochedale Rovers) 0%

A constant attacking threat no matter who he’s lining up for, Yinka-Kehinde has been a notable presence in the NPL Queensland and FQPL competitions in recent years. He scored 13 goals in 15 games for Rochedale last season, earning his place up front in the FQPL 1 Team of the Season.

Marek Madle (Rochedale Rovers) 0%

The Czech born striker brings valuable experience and goalscoring prowess to Rochedale Rovers for the 2022 season following successful stints with NPL

Queensland clubs including Peninsula Power and Gold Coast Knights.

Liam West (Southside Eagles) 1%

2021 FQPL 1 Player of the Year nominee Liam West secured his spot in last year’s Team of the Season after a strong season with Southside Eagles. An instrumental member of the squad, the midfielder boasts a work rate that is second to none.

Attilio William Asante (Western Pride) 0%

A dynamic box to box midfielder, Asante is known for creating opportunities for his attacking teammates and will play a key role for Western Pride again this season.

Adam Sawyer (Western Pride) 0%

The technically gifted central midfielder will bring his A-League

experience to the club after spending time at Brisbane Roar FC in recent years.

SUNSHINE COAST

Luke Alderson (Woombye) 2%

The Woombye Snakes and Sunshine Coast footballing legend has continued his goal scoring ways in recent seasons netting his 300th goal in the men’s premier competition in 2021. The 31-year-old, nicknamed the Seagull, has been awarded the league’s golden boot on nine occasions since 2008 and said his overall hunger for goals and his game day routine of brushing his teeth before he left the house were the secrets to his success.

Ryan Delahunty (Kawana) 1%

With numerous Sunshine Coast player of the year and golden boot wins to his name, Delahunty has been a standout player for his Kawana side for a number of seasons. His work on and off the ball is unmatched and he serves as a terrific clubman for the Kawana community.

Harry Turner (Kawana) 0%

Turner has continued to climb from strength to strength for his Kawana side and added to his list of breakout matches in last season’s grand final victory over Woombye. Turner’s workrate is viewed as one of the best in the league and there’s no reason he can’t boast another impressive season in 2022.

Dylan Firth (Kawana) 0%

Firth is classed by some as the ‘ultimate midfielder’ and is arguably one of the best footballers on the Sunshine Coast. He scores and sets up goals on a consistent basis and it never seems to matter what opposition is put in front of him.

Korey Nix (Nambour-Yandina) 0%

Under the expert tutelage of his brother and head coach Kyle, Korey was a standout performer in helping the club attain their first piece of silverware since their competition debut in 1974. His skill and knowledge in attack has been unstoppable for opposition defenders in recent years.

Jonathan Harth (Nambour-Yandina) 0%

Harth finished last season as Nambour-Yandina’s leading goal scorer in what was one of the wingers best seasons on the Sunshine Coast. With 15 goals to his name, Harth’s ability to assist his teammates was also a big reason for his overall flair and there’s no question he has now cemented his spot as one of the competition’s deadliest attacking threats.

Michael Holden (Maroochydore) 0%

After joining Maroochydore from Tasmanian NPL team Devonport Strikers in 2019, Holden quickly found himself in the Sunshine Coast team of the year and hasn’t looked back. His presence and instinct up front has made him a handful for defenders in recent years as he netted 22 goals for his side in 2021 and was awarded the league’s golden boot award.

Jye Wivell (Gympie) 0%

Wivell has been a shining star for his Gympie side in recent years as the dominant left back shows his skill in both attack and defence. He serves as a solid defensive presence who is well respected by opposition players all over the league.

Jack Williams (Noosa) 1%

Youngster Jack Williams has followed in the footsteps of his father and former Noosa legend Michael, as he continues to climb from strength to strength. His skill and vision as a central midfielder has made him an exciting player to watch and he’s definitely a player to keep an eye on for years to come.

Luke Becconsall (Noosa) 0%

Becconsall’s move from left back into the Noosa midfield has been hugely successful for his individual and team performances in past seasons. His work alongside his Noosa teammates has been influential with his attack and defensive skills proving too good against quality opposition.

Will Graham (Coolum) 0%

Sixteen year old Coolum talent has made the step up to premier grade this season and has already had an immediate impact for his team. His raw talent in midfield is exciting to see and there are many pundits hoping Graham can deliver against the league’s best.

Cody Shorter (Caloundra) 0%

As one of the clubs oldest and most experienced senior players, Shorter leads by example on and off the pitch for his Caloundra side. His ‘all-in’ attitude at both training and on match day serves as a stepping stone for his teammates and his skill with the ball is nothing short of quality.

ROCKHAMPTON/GLADSTONE

Ryan Hawken (Frenchville) 0%

An experienced campaigner, Ryan has long been considered one of the competition’s best. Playing at the all-important No. 10 for Frenchville, he orchestrates the team’s attack with his excellent vision, ball control and pinpoint passing. Tall, strong and mobile, he has the ability to also regularly break the line. His work rate in defence and his overall fitness help set him apart.

Tim Zimitat (Frenchville) 6%

A respected leader in the Frenchville line-up, Tim shines in the defensive centre midfield position. He’s a quality player who has amazing ball control and close-in skills. He has plenty of experience and his composure under pressure is one of his greatest traits. He’s a genuine workhorse who runs all day and whose on-field energy is infectious.

Josh Noonan (Clinton) 0%

The talented left back has been one of the most consistent performers in the competition in recent years. The Clinton captain, he leads by example with his all-round ability and positive attitude. He reads the game incredibly well and is rock-solid at the back, rarely missing a tackle.

Liam Stephen (Clinton) 0%

The 21-year-old striker brings the X-factor for Clinton. An excellent finisher, he was the team’s leading goal scorer last year. His positional play is outstanding, and he works hard to take advantage of every attacking opportunity presented to him as well as creating plenty of his own with his deft footwork and speed. Predominantly a right-footer, he can also shoot with his left.

Garth Lawrie (Central) 4%

Central’s captain is a dangerous attacking midfielder/striker who loves nothing more than running at opposition defenders. Garth keeps the ball on a string as he weaves in and out of opposing lines to directly shoot at goal or offload to create scoring opportunities for his teammates. He has great vision and a high work rate, and often goes deep in the midfield to help in defence before getting the ball and starting the team’s attacking advances. His talk and direction on the field is invaluable.

Dylan Clark (Central) 2%

A star in defence, Dylan’s organising abilities cements Central’s defenders and gets them working in unison. His vision allows him to read the play and anticipate the opposition’s attack, regularly shutting their runs down. He waits for the attacker to make the mistake before tackling them and snuffing out any hope of the opposition’s scoring chances. A versatile player who shines in attack or defence, he can slot seamlessly into any position required.

Gerard ‘Ged’ Kelly (Capricorn Coast) 0%

Very experienced goalkeeper who has played State League level. Ged is a very important player for Capricorn Coast as he marshals his defence very well and is an unbelievable shot stopper. He is also putting back into the game by coaching juniors, sharing his talent and experience with the new generation.

Elliott Barber (Capricorn Coast) 0%

New to the football scene in Central Queensland, Elliott has played at NPL level in the Brisbane area. He plays in the midfield for Capricorn Coast and is very skilful and quick around the field, causing opposition teams plenty of headaches.

Blake Penfold (Southside United) 0%

A skilled midfielder with a great technique who is strong on the ball, both in defence and attack. Blake is a smart footballer who reads the game well, which results in him constantly being in the right place at the right time. He has a great all-round game and a never-say-die attitude.

Dylan Hall (Southside United) 0%

A very safe fullback whose ability and confidence inspires the players around him. Dylan has a sharp football brain, as well as excellent vision and positional play. Technically one of the best in the league, he is also a great communicator.

Toby Richardson (Nerimbera) 1%

The 19-year-old defensive centre midfielder is the complete package. He has silky skills, speed to burn and incredible endurance and his composure on the ball is something you’d expect from a player far more senior. Toby’s ability to control game play across the park for Nerimbera is exceptional, so is his direction and leadership.

Lachlan Riley (Nerimbera) 15%

The central defender is one of Nerimbera’s most consistent performers. He relishes his role at the back, working tirelessly to shut down opposition teams’ attacking raids by intercepting passes, contesting headers and blocking shots. He has a fantastic eye and his timing on tackles is outstanding. He is cool under pressure and is rarely beaten one-on-one.

TOOWOOMBA

James Thompson (Rockville) 0%

A big framed imposing forward who has a knack for finding his way into good positions. Very hard to defend.

Emmanuel Rushimisha (Rockville) 0%

The swift footed wide man has already good some crackers this season. Quick and off the ball – he is also calm and levelled when through on goal.

Curtis Robinson (West Wanderers) 0%

Robinson is not your typical modern day midfielder. He’s big, tall, imposing and near on impossible to get past. He’s aggressive in defence and wins just about everything in the air. A defensive linchpin that can always be relied on.

Ayii Jok (West Wanderers) 0%

With speed and stamina to burn the Wanderers wide will run the line all day. Has a great shot and will not hesitate to cut toward goal and fire off a shot if given half a yard of space.

Alex Edwards (Gatton) 0%

What Edwards has lost in speed over the years he more than makes up for with a sharp mind and ability to read the play. Edwards seems to know exactly where he needs to be and scores plenty of goals.

Kurt Neuendorf (Gatton) 0%

A utility player of the highest regard. It doesn’t matter where you put him on the park he will get the job down with great attitude, energy and determination to succeed.

Eric Ricaurte (Willowburn) 1%

The Colombian number 9 plays with that typical South American flair. Hasn’t found the back of the net as much as he’d like this season but he’s a key man none the less. Ricaurte has a great work rate up front, often pressuring defences into making mistakes, and can find his teammates with the right pass.

Ada Harerimana (Willowburn) 1%

One of Willowburn’s most skilful – it often looks he has the ball on a string such is his control. Has a very creative mindset, loves to take players on but he can also hit a mesmerising pass when he sees it.

Josue Kalenga (Highfields) 0%

Kalenga is deceptively strong on the ball for a player so quick on his feet. Never afraid to take a shot when the chance arises.

Richard Hayden (Highfields) 0%

Hayden can and will play all day – often backing up his under-23 duties with a run in Highfields top side. Has a phenomenal work rate, bags of stamina and great skill on the ball.

Hunter Purcell (St Albans) 0%

One of the shining lights in what has been a rough year for St Albans. Has made the successful transition from defender to winger this season and has been among the goals.

Matt Hohn (St Albans) 1%

The veteran influence the struggling Saints need right now. Knows how to find the back net and is a threat from distance.

TOWNSVILLE

Christian Minuzzo (Brothers) 0%

At 18 years of age the Brothers centreback was awarded players’ player of the club’s premier side. A Queensland representative, Minuzzo is the rock upon which Brothers defence can be built upon.

Connor Johansen (Burdekin) 0%

The difference between Burdekin with Johansen in-goal and without him can be extreme. In two fixtures against Rebels this year, one with the young goalkeeper and one without, the Burdekin conceded four goals and then nine goals. Johansen’s prodigious ability in front of the net is all down to reflexes and instincts.

Joel Russell (Rebels) 0%

A key attacking weapon for Townsville’s Rebels at just 18 years of age. Russell represented the North Queensland U20s against the Australian U16s and scored both of the side’s goals.

Harrison Parker (Estates) 0%

A dynamic, hardworking midfielder with an eye for goal and clinical ball skills. Parker fell into Estates’ lap this summer after relocating from the UK to start at Townsville Hospital.

Nicholas Tunic (Estates) 0%

An aggressive goalscoring striker who has played in the US, Italy, Slovakia, Germany and Spain before joining Estates this season.

Gareth Edds (Warriors) 1%

The former Nottingham Forest and MK Dons striker turned NQ Fury gun may have turned his focus to coaching the next generation of North Queensland football stars but the veteran is proving he’s still got it with the Warriors.

Originally published as REVEALED: Queensland’S best grassroots footballer