Champion of Champions: Ultimate preview ahead of Football NSW grand finals
The best grassroots teams across NSW have come and gone with only two left in each age group to fight for the Champion of Champions title. Check out what the coaches have to say of their team’s chances this weekend.
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The best grassroots teams from across NSW have come and gone with only two in each age group vying for the coveted Champion of Champions title.
Over 300 teams took part in this year’s knockout tournament with 18 grand finals set for this weekend at Valentine Sports Park.
Ahead of the big games, we’ve asked the coaches to reflect on their season, the strengths and the challenges, and how the teams will approach the grand final.
13G Lindfield FC - Northern Suburbs Football Association
Opponent: Belrose-Terrey Hills Raiders SC
Coach: Samara Liebenberg
How’s the team feeling after getting through to the grand final?
The team is thrilled to have made it this far, and there’s a real sense of momentum and energy growing. They’re proud of what they’ve accomplished, but everyone knows there’s still one last big challenge ahead. The focus now is on finetuning our preparation to make sure they give everything in the final. The players are confident, excited, and fully ready to face their final test — to bring home the title
What has been the team’s biggest strength this season?
Resilience has been the team’s defining quality. No matter what setbacks they’ve faced, the team has bounced back stronger. This fighting spirit has been a driving force behind the team’s success, playing a crucial role in pushing them through to the grand final.
What has been the biggest challenge this year?
One of the biggest challenges has been competing against tougher opponents throughout the season, especially in the G14s competition. The team had to constantly elevate their game and take valuable lessons from each defeat. It’s been a steep learning curve, but it’s also made them stronger, more resilient, and better prepared for the grand final
What will be the main focus come grand final day?
Their focus will be on staying calm and composed, especially in such a high-pressure scenario. We know emotions will be running high, but keeping their focus, managing their nerves, and playing with confidence will increase their chances of success.
13B Wodonga Diamonds FC - Albury Wodonga Football Association
Opponent: St Ives FC
Coach: Shaun Mason
How’s the team feeling after getting through to the grand final?
The Diamonds are feeling pumped to make it to the Grand final of the Champions of Champions. The boys are really proud to be representing Albury Wodonga FA and to be the only regional team in any grand final of any age group.
What would you say has been the team’s biggest strength this season?
A lot of these boys have been playing together since they were under 5s in Mini Roos, so these boys know each other really well, they know how they play and they have great chemistry. The support of their families has also been tremendous, especially this tournament making the commitment to drive to Sydney every couple of weekends.
What has been the biggest challenge this year?
For the boys, the biggest challenge has been the travel to and from the city for the games. But, to their credit, they have made it a bit of fun, looking for opportunities to travel together, enjoying each others’ company and making a heap of memories along the way.
What will be the main focus come grand final day?
If we were to ask the boys, their answer would be “to win”. The team is looking forward to a great game against a strong competition and to showcase the talent that the regions produce, we’re really proud of these players and their accomplishments and we’re thrilled that the whole State can see them in action too.
13B St Ives FC - Northern Suburbs Football Association
Opponent: Wodonga Diamonds
Coach: João Ferraro
How’s the team feeling after getting through to the grand final?
The boys are very excited for reaching the CoC Grand Final and are enjoying the feeling of accomplishment. They are looking forward to playing the best game of their lives.
What would you say has been the team’s biggest strength this season?
TEAMWORK
What has been the biggest challenge this year?
Biggest challenge this season was to rebuild the team that won the NSFA U12 Super League last year (only 5 players remained in the team) and implement their transition to full field during a season with many washed out sessions. We spent weeks without training and playing due to washed out sessions and matches.
What will be the main focus come grand final day?
Playing our game and enjoy every moment of this great experience. Our focus is to perform well.
14G Seaforth FC - Manly Warringah Football Association
Opponent: Lindfield FC
Coach: Catriona Ormond
How’s the team feeling after getting through to the grand final?
The girls are really excited to be representing our association, the MWFA at Champion of Champions and the subsequent Grand Final. It’s a really wonderful opportunity to challenge yourself as a team. Playing other associations’ top teams really pushes us as a team and has been a really big learning curve for us.
What would you say has been the team’s biggest strength this season?
How well our team play together as a team. There are no players in the team that work harder than another. They all play to the best of their ability and try as hard as they can for the benefit of the team. Some of our players have been together since U8’s. As a team they have really good friendships/relationships, they work hard and have a lot of fun together.
What has been the biggest challenge this year?
The welfare & wellbeing of our players has been a key focus. We have worked really hard on providing a safe space for our team. One where our team develops confidence and self-belief in themselves. They are all great players, but self-doubt can be a big hurdle. It’s natural to be hard on yourself, so giving our players the ability to see themselves in a positive and valuable light is so important.
What will be the main focus come grand final day?
Soaking up the atmosphere. This is the first time our team have made it to Champion of Champions. So being able to play on Grand Final day is very special. We’re going to have a lot of fun and really enjoy the opportunity.
14G Lindfield FC - Northern Suburbs Football Association
Opponent: Seaforth FC
Coach: Andrew Jenkins
How’s the team feeling after getting through to the grand final?
Very excited. The girls were buzzing at training on Monday with lots of smiles and a great balance of intensity.
What would you say has been the team’s biggest strength this season?
Culture. The girls led by a terrific captain, Sarah, and with a very supportive parent group have created an environment where they play amazing as a team and can be brave enough to showcase their individual talents. The girls all support each other and celebrate their goals and achievements together!
What has been the biggest challenge this year?
For the vast majority of the group, it was their first year playing on a full-size field. They’ve benefited from playing some really tough teams and it has been amazing to see them embrace that challenge and learn how to play together, have to embrace some more tactical thoughts and learn to score and defend with full size goals.
What will be the main focus come grand final day?
Focus on us. We’ve been using the mantra of ‘control what we can control’ throughout this champion of champions tournament. I have no doubt the girls will give the best performance they can give — let’s see where it takes us!
14B Belrose-Terrey Hills Raiders SC - Manly Warringah Football Association
Opponent: Ryde Panthers FC
How’s the team feeling after getting through to the grand final?
We’ve done the COC competition two years in a row now after losing last year’s Final. Add to that a strong campaign Winning State Cup, the team has had lots of games and experiences. The Team however started the COC campaign very jaded. We’ve had 3 really tough games leading into the final. So the week off last week was needed and really freshened us up and the kids are excited.
What would you say has been the team’s biggest strength this season?
The team’s biggest strength is their mateship. Being a team of local mates who play a variety of multi sports together, the culture and mateship is the key to the teams success on and off the field the past few years.
What has been the biggest challenge this year?
Having a team of kids who play multi-sports at good levels, clashes with other sports is our biggest issue. Winning State Cup this year made it a season were we played Saturdays and Sundays most of the year so a lot of the time that clashes with other sports so that’s always this teams biggest struggle.
What will be the main focus come grand final day?
The team’s main focus come grand final day is just about enjoying the experience. It’s something they love and are passionate about at the end of the day and they just want to enjoy the occasion and soak up the fun.
15G Collaroy Cromer Strikers FC - Manly Warringah Football Association
Opponent: Lindfield FC
Coach: Marcus Wilkinson
How’s the team feeling after getting through to the grand final?
Excited to be going back to Valentine park again
What would you say has been the team’s biggest strength this season?
Resilience and support, they always support each other and never give up
What has been the biggest challenge this year?
Injuries - and the washouts!
What will be the main focus come grand final day?
For all of the girls to enjoy being part of the team one last time this season - and enjoy the day whatever the score
16G Concord JFC - Football Canterbury
Opponent: Wakehurst FC
Coaches: James Monda and Luke Monda
How’s the team feeling after getting through to the grand final?
The team is really excited and proud of what we’ve achieved so far. It’s been a season full of hard work, and making it to the grand final feels like a reward for all that effort. The girls are motivated and ready to give their best on the big day.
What would you say has been the team’s biggest strength this season?
Our biggest strength has been teamwork. The girls have built a strong connection both on and off the field. They support each other through tough moments and celebrate each other’s successes. That unity has made a big difference in how we play and how we handle challenges.
What has been the biggest challenge this year?
Our biggest challenge has been dealing with injuries and keeping consistency across the season. There were times when key players were sidelined, but the team always found a way to adapt and keep pushing forward. Everyone stepped up when it mattered most.
What will be the main focus come grand final day?
The focus will be on sticking to our game plan and keeping calm under pressure. We’ll remind the girls to play their game, stay composed, and trust each other. It’s about making sure they enjoy the moment but also stay disciplined and focused on executing what we’ve practised.
16M Quakers Hill Tigers - Blacktown & Districts Football Association
Opponent: Lindfield FC
Coach: Nicholas Howarth
How’s the team feeling after getting through to the grand final?
They are still a bit shocked, there was no expectation of them to go this far and even the boys didn’t put any pressure on themselves just got to every game with a we can win today attitude. But now it is sinking in a few of them are now starting to realise how big of an opportunity it is for them personally and also the club being the first team to make it and potentially win it, and to get there by beating a team that has won this competition and state cup previously gives them the confidence to go out and know they can win it all.
What would you say has been the team’s biggest strength this season?
By far the biggest strength is their never stop or never say die attitude, no matter what is happening in a game if they are down a goal or playing bad they get themselves together and just keep pushing, this definitely showed in the semi final was less than 10 minutes to go when we got our goal to make it 1-1 being pushed back all game they are just relentless and ruthless and it’s absolutely the best thing about the team.
What has been the biggest challenge this year?
There has been 2 main challenges they boys have faced, firstly was learning how to deal with the pressure of being the team expected to win their own comp this year, they had put this on themselves and had to be able to learn what that is like as they have not been in that situation before and secondly was to try and stay consistent with all the rain affecting games and training it was hard to have that flow of training and games and was a struggle at times for players and the team to be able to pick up form and keep it going through all the schedule changes.
What will be the main focus come grand final day?
The main focus will be to not let any nerves take over the desire and want to win, the boys now know that they have a good chance at winning this grand final and have gained so much confidence in themselves throughout the competition that they have the ability to compete with teams from the rest of the state.
We have played this team last year in a state cup game and have beaten them but we are trying to remind the boys to not set any lower expectations on the opposition and be ready for one hell of a fight against what will be a good team. At the end of the day it’s not going to be about who can play the best football on the pitch it’s who is ready to go that extra length, push that bit more and want that win more who will come out on top.
17M Belrose-Terrey Hills Raiders - Manly Warringah Football Association
Opponent: Lilli Pilli FC
Coach: Dale Graham
How’s the team feeling after getting through to the grand final?
The team is incredibly proud to have made it to the Grand Final of the Champion of Champions. They are feeling determined and focused. Competing in this tournament has been a goal of theirs for the past few years, and now they’ve achieved it.
What would you say has been the team’s biggest strength this season?
The teams biggest strength this season has been their growth and maturity, both on and off the pitch. They’ve evolved into young men who have each other’s backs, building trust and working together as a strong team. I believe they are a credit to themselves and the club.
What has been the biggest challenge this year?
The most significant challenge this year was competing in the under 18/1 division, especially since most of the team started the season at just 16. They pushed through the physical demands and showed their determination by becoming under 17 state champions.
What will be the main focus come grand final day?
With all that the boys have achieved this year, the main focus will be to go out and enjoy the final game of the season and hopefully come away with a win! For us, it’s more than just football; it’s about each individual player and the strong camaraderie they share. It’s always a privilege for the coaches to be part of this team. Regardless of the result on the weekend, it’s been a great season for this group.
17M Lilli Pilli FC - Sutherland Shire Football Association
Opponent: Belrose-Terrey Hills Raiders
Coach: Scott Freeman
How’s the team feeling after getting through to the grand final?
Really excited, it’s been a long season and our first in the U18A SSFA competition, but the FNSW CoC competition has been a great opportunity for us to play some teams we’ve not played before, at different venues and so it’s been an enjoyable experience too. This is the second time the Lilli Pilli “Berry Boys” have participated in a major final at Valentines Sports Park. Having won the Frank Broughton Cup in 2019 we have fond memories of playing at Valentine. We have actually already played our opponents in the Grand Final this season having met them in the Semi Final of the State Cup, so we know a bit about them already. It was a close game last time and we don’t expect anything different on Sunday.
What would you say has been the team’s biggest strength this season?
Teamwork is definitely the Berry Boys’ biggest strength. Even when playing with depleted numbers on the bench or with a man or two down, the boys will always find a way to dig deep to cover the extra ground. When the full team is together, they are a great outfit, a credit to themselves and the club and it is an absolute pleasure to watch them in action. At our core, we believe in how we play and understand our roles and responsibilities within the structure, irrespective of the people playing those roles.
What has been the biggest challenge this year?
Playing our first season in the U18A competition, with 4 players who were already playing up in the U16’s has been a test at times, but it’s also been a driver for us too. We always want to win, but we want to win playing good football as often as we can. Further to this and probably not too different to any other team to be honest, dealing with injuries has been a challenge too. We have had a number of long term injuries which have unfortunately interrupted the season for quite a few of the boys. Luckily, we’ve been able to bolster our numbers by using some members form the U16’s squad and they’ve done a great job for us and continue to do so.
What will be the main focus come grand final day?
To execute on our game plan and trust in the processes that have got us to this point. To play hard, to play fair and to enjoy ourselves. We’ve worked hard for the opportunity, and we won’t leave Valentine without having given it our all.
18M Collaroy Cromer Strikers FC - Manly Warringah Football Association
Opponent: Lindfield FC
Coaches: Anthony Pollard and Ross Brown
How’s the team feeling after getting through to the grand final?
The team is absolutely buzzing with excitement and pride. Making it to the grand final is a huge achievement, and everyone is eager to give their best performance. The atmosphere in the camp is electric, and we’re all looking forward to the big day
What would you say has been the team’s biggest strength this season?
Our biggest strength this season has been our unity and resilience. The players have shown incredible teamwork and have supported each other through thick and thin. This camaraderie has been the backbone of our success
What has been the biggest challenge this year?
The biggest challenge this year has been maintaining consistency in our performance. We’ve faced some tough opponents and had to adapt to different playing styles. However, these challenges have only made us stronger and more determined.
What will be the main focus come grand final day?
Our main focus on the grand final day will be to stay composed and execute our game plan effectively. We need to concentrate on our strengths, play to our potential, and handle the pressure with confidence. It’s all about giving our best effort and enjoying the moment.
18M Lindfield FC - Northern Suburbs Football Association
Opponent: Collaroy Cromer Strikers FC
Coach: Sam Odgers
How’s the team feeling after getting through to the grand final?
The team is feeling positive and confident. This is what this team has been building to all year, so they are more than ready.
What would you say has been the team’s biggest strength this season?
Overall, I think the biggest strength has been their commitment - both to football and each other. Training twice a week from February onwards during HSC, the team should be really proud.
What has been the biggest challenge this year?
The biggest challenge this year has been maintaining good squad depth. Quite a few injuries which impacted a lot of double header weekends with State Cup and NSFA fixtures earlier on in the season.
What will be the main focus come grand final day?
The main focus will be on playing our normal game and not letting the occasion change that. Staying positive and confident throughout the whole process.
21M Cronulla Seagulls FC - Sutherland Shire Football Association
Opposition: Collaroy Cromer Strikers
Coach: Mal Smith
How’s the team feeling after getting through to the grand final?
The boys are very excited to represent the Sutherland Shire football community and the Cronulla Seagulls FC. They’re aware of what it takes and what comes next having had some big game experience as winners of the 2023 under 18s title and the 2023 18s NSW State Cup title. We were so relieved at reaching the final after a close and tense finish with their 1-0 win against Mt Annan FC in the Semi Final. Reaching the final is a reflection of the players commitment, their work ethic on and off the park and their genuine passion for the game.
What would you say has been the team’s biggest strength this season?
We are very fortunate to have a great all round team. Winning the Sutherland Shire Premiership undefeated in our first year in the 21s competition, and scoring over 50 goals, conceding only few, in a rain affected season is a great effort. Many of the playing squad have also played together for many years adding a great camaraderie and strength to the team.
What has been the biggest challenge this year?
Wet weather has hampered the opportunity to play a full schedule of fixtures to prepare us for this competition however we have been fortunate to train on an all weather field during the week. Injuries to players have also impacted our preparation for this tournament. The boys also now have the challenge of juggling their football commitments against their work and tertiary study obligations.
What will be the main focus come grand final day?
Making sure the players, their parents, families and friends enjoy the experience at Valentine Park. Prepare well, play to our best standards both individually and as a team, leaving nothing left in the tank.
Hopefully we come away with back to back titles which would be an amazing feat considering this year the boys have moved from the 18s to 21s age group.
21M Collaroy Cromer Strikers FC - Manly Warringah Football Association
Opposition: Cronulla Seagulls FC
How’s the team feeling after getting through to the grand final?
All very excited and proud to have made it. The boys realise the rare opportunity that they have to win such a prestigious competition is a privilege, and they’ve worked hard for it.
What has been the biggest challenge this year?
Juggling our player numbers mid season while a few of the players completed that popular rite of passage - having a European holiday.
What will be the main focus come grand final day?
Finishing the unfinished business. The games they played through the rounds were against some very good opposition and making the grand final is a real achievement, but there is still the biggest game to win, fingers crossed.
21W Thirroul JFC - Football South Coast
Opponent: Balmain DFC
Coach/Manager: Scott Taylor/Maria Disibio
How’s the team feeling after getting through to the grand final?
The team has worked hard all season and is thrilled to have reached the Grand Final of Champions of Champions, especially after winning the League Championship and the South Coast Youth Grade Women’s Premier League Grand Final. They are looking forward to the opportunity to have some fun together in their final game for 2024.
What would you say has been the team’s biggest strength this season?
The team’s biggest strength is their positive attitudes and ability to always have fun. The team have built positive friendships, they know each other’s strengths and they know they can always count on one another for support. They’ve got a special connection that goes beyond the game, and that’s what makes them such a great team.
What has been the biggest challenge this year?
Juggling the training and game commitments with HSC study, casual jobs and social commitments have been the challenges for the girls this year.
What will be the main focus come grand final day?
Come grand final day the focus will be enjoyment. To continue to encourage one another and give it their best effort. The most important thing will be the smiles.
21W Balmain & Districts Football Club - Football Canterbury
Opponent: Thirroul FC
Coach: Jason Bogatai
How’s the team feeling after getting through to the grand final?
They are incredibly honoured & excited to be in this position. We didn’t know if we would be able to play in this season’s Champion of Champions as the draw was only finalised in August. And then we were then informed that we would have to enter the Under 21 tournament as one of our players was turning 19 so the squad were a little apprehensive,(as they are all still at school) but we managed to adapt quickly and the team deserve to be in the Final after two very competitive games against quality opposition.
What would you say has been the team’s biggest strength this season?
There are 6 or 7 players that have played together since they were 9 or 10 so the balance within the squad is clear to see. We have resilience & stability across all areas on the field. We are resolute in defence as well as being incredibly creative and dominant in midfield and in attack. The girls are used to dictating the balance of play so when they don’t have possession of the football they are determined to win it back at all costs. As a coach you can’t really control that aspect of play as it comes from within. The players have this mental fortitude that is evident when you watch them play
What has been the biggest challenge this year?
Initially it was the washouts that we endured earlier in the season as the rain caused havoc with the fixture list. And then during the middle of the year we had games that were forfeited by various opposition teams so leading into the Finals we only had played twice in the past 5 weeks! So we had to refocus during the Finals series as we were determined to keep our record of remaining undefeated for the season.
And we also have the added pressure of the majority of the girls doing their HSC as well.
What will be the main focus come grand final day?
To enjoy themselves first & foremost. It’s going to be an incredible experience and playing in a Final is an honour and we will saviour the moment that’s for sure! Of course our focus will be to win the game as the players deserve to be here however a win will be a bonus on what has been an incredible year.
O35M Penrith Rovers FC - Nepean Football Association
Opponent: APIA Leichhardt JFC
Coach/captain: Daniel Wells
How’s the team feeling after getting through to the Grand Final?
We are really happy with our performance in the competition especially the semi-final. Everyone contributed to the win. The excitement was felt but now we concentrate on the challenge ahead of us, which we are looking forward to.
What would you say has been the team’s biggest strength this season?
Everyone has performed well throughout the year. Minimal injuries to our players has helped. But I think the biggest thing is that this group of players all respect each other. The camaraderie in the team is like no other.
What has been the biggest challenge this year?
Deciding which players to leave off the team sheet. Again, for the final, a few players had to be left off.
What will be the main focus come grand final day?
To play our game. Concentrate on what we can control and that is what we do with and without the ball. Control the pace of the game, keep the ball moving.
And just enjoy the moment, it’s the first time for us as a team and as club to reach the final
O45M Dunbar Rovers - Eastern Suburbs Football Association
Opponent: Mosman FC
Coach: David Mills
How’s the team feeling after getting through to the grand final?
It’s been a long season but Dunbar are still enjoying playing together and haven’t taken any of our success for granted. ESFA have done a great job strengthening the O45 Championship Competition. The competition gets better each year as clubs push each other to play their best football. Winning the ESFA league and the Grand Final was enjoyable and satisfying, playing FNSW Champion of Champions football and getting to the Grand Final is like the icing on the cake. The players are excited and looking forward to the challenge.
What would you say has been the team’s biggest strength this season and the biggest challenge?
We lost six long term members of our squad at the end of last season and had to recruit new players. I’ve enjoyed working with our new players, watching them gain in confidence as they integrated into a squad. They certainly shook things up, were determined to earn their place and gave us exciting new options on the field. They’re all vital members of our squad now and have each contributed to our success. We aren’t a first eleven plus substitutes. Players park their egos and commit to playing as a part of our squad. Everything we’ve achieved and enjoyed this season we’ve done as a group of players who respect each other and enjoy playing together.
What will be the main focus come grand final day?
Most players don’t get to experience being a finalist in Champion of Champions. Every player will be wanting to step up to the challenge but must remember to cherish and enjoy the occasion. They’ve all earned their place in the final, It’s the biggest game of the season and we’ll be celebrating playing in it, along with everything else we have achieved together in 2024.
AAM Coogee United - Eastern Suburbs Football Association
Opponent: Lindfield
Coach: Brad Walker
How’s the team feeling after getting through to the grand final?
The team is feeling really excited to be playing in the final. They have worked so hard all year to get here and it was one of our goals this season. It will be a tough game but we have been in great form over the last few months and we are all really looking forward to the occasion.
What would you say has been the team’s biggest strength this season?
We have consistently turned up for each other when times have been tough. We have had injuries, suspensions and multiple boys away and we have continued to find a way to win. The character of this squad is one of the best I have been apart of.
What has been the biggest challenge this year?
We integrated a lot of new faces this season, and at the start of the season I seen it as our biggest challenge, but the increased quality of the squad and their personalities has created an amazing environment to be involved in. The club, players and coaching staff have all gelled so well together.
What will be the main focus come grand final day?
The main focus will be to win, but it is a great occasion for everyone involved. We are really looking forward to testing ourselves against the best and I am sure our boys will enjoy the occasion and revel in the opportunity to be crowned champions.
AAW Coogee United - Eastern Suburbs Football Association
Opponent: Gymea United FC
How’s the team feeling after getting through to the grand final?
The squad is so proud to have made the Champion of Champions final, and we are very excited for the game. Our semi final was a tough battle against an undefeated Flying Bats side, and we have an opposition with a similar record in Gymea on Sunday. Confidence is high, but we know it will be a tough game and we will need to be at our best to bring home the silverware.
What would you say has been the team’s biggest strength this season?
We have an amazing squad of determined and talented women this year, who have performed week in week out for each other to get us to where we are today. Our coach Micheal, in his debut year as WPL coach has pushed us and helped forge a style of play that has brought some historic wins, notably against NPL League One side South Coast Flame in Sapphire Cup, and in bringing home the ESFA League title back to Coogee.
What has been the biggest challenge this year?
Sunday’s game marks our 35th game of the season after 2 long cup runs, so the squad have had to deal with significant fixture congestion, often playing twice a week for much of the season. Inevitably this has lead to injuries and we did have one two week period where we had 3 broken arms! However the squad has rallied and we were supported well from our other women’s teams, which is a testament to the spirit and culture within Coogee United that we are so proud of.
What will be the main focus come grand final day?
We are focused on bringing home the trophy on Sunday, but this comes from ensuring we prepare well and do the little things right between now and then. This squad has so much talent and character, but we know we have to work for our results so will be prepared to put in a big shift. Its also so important to enjoy the day, occasions like this don’t come along often and we want to soak up the experience of the event, and then hopefully celebrate all the way back to the East!
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Originally published as Champion of Champions: Ultimate preview ahead of Football NSW grand finals
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