UNDER 19s PREMIERS

Collegians 7.11 53 defeated Preston 2.9 21

Well, what a Saturday it truly was for our Under 19s.

On a freezing morning with sideways rain, we took to the field at Trevor Barker Oval with a loud and rowdy crowd behind, despite the weather.

In a low scoring start to the match, we could not seem to shake Preston, despite kicking the first goal of the morning.

They had numbers behind the footy and attempted to get us on the counter attack multiple time, but the wind proved too strong and our boys were able to shut them down.

We went into half time at 14 a piece, as the freezing conditions weren’t letting up.

In the third term, Preston wasted multiple chances in front of goal, leading us by three points.

A rev-up from Rick and some tactical moves from Ash Heriot settled the nerves and it was truly the final quarter when the Lions stood up.

We opened with three quick goals and then went on to kick two more goals late, after the midfield completely rose to the occasion. The crowd went wild and the game was done and dusted. The Lions, Premiers!

Jake Cotchin was handed Best on Ground honours for his commanding performance, in a game that will go down in the club’s proud history.

On behalf of the club, we congratulate all players who pulled on the jumper for the side this year for the Under 19s (there were over 45!).

Whether it was one game or 18, your contribution led us to the Promised Land!

To Rick Morris and Ash Heriot, thank you both for your efforts to lead these boys in 2024. They all played for you and because of you and could not have achieved the Premiership without you.

To Arty and Dave Cotchin, thank you for your efforts off field to support the boys in getting on field each week.

To all the parents, family members, partners and supporters, thank you all for showing up each week, for supporting your boys in their Premiership dreams and being the first ones there to celebrate.

Let’s enjoy this flag and celebrate the great achievements of our Under 19s in 2024!