Bears’ last quarter secures win

Best: O Willis, S Ferguson, C Powell, T Lidgerwood, A Psaltiras, W Thomson

Goals: L Thompson 4, L Lonergan 2, W Thomson, T Lidgerwood, J Irvine, M Khat, J Cheek, C Powell

The seniors kicked off their 2024 campaign with the always difficult trip to arch-rival Rennie. In blustery conditions, Tungamah started the better of two sides, but were unable to capitalise on their solid start, only leading by 13 points at the first break. The second term was a different story, Rennie came out to play and fought their way back into the game with some tough footy. At half time, Tungamah led by only five points in what was proving to be a very even contest. The Bears swung plenty of changes at the main break, looking for some inspiration. The third quarter proved to be a hard slog with Rennie making the most of some late momentum to lead by a point going into the final quarter. Three-quarter-time was used to rally the troops, with the boys instructed to play some tough old fashioned footy and get the game back on our terms. The Bears responded and managed to pile on a six-goal-to-one final term to kickstart the season with a hard-fought win. In a day that didn’t produce many highlights, it was fantastic to see young Lenny Lonergan kick two final term goals in his first senior game. The kid has a big future! New recruit MK also brought the place to life with a dazzling run from half back, slotting a goal that will be tough to beat for goal of the year. Good to come away with a win, however plenty of hard work to be done before our first home game versus Katandra next week.

Awards: Mulwala Ski Club – O Willis, One Zach – L Lonergan, Tungamah Hotel – T Lidgerwood.

Reserves Football

Tungamah 6.9.45 defeated Rennie 6.4.40

BEST: T Hayes, N Connell, X Smith, J Saunders, B Beaton, C Nye

GOALS: C Nye 3, T Hayes, A Connell, C Bozzola

Football was back this weekend and the twos boys were keen to take it up hot turkey.

With Saunders and Gambi given the leadership roles, people could question how seriously the coaches are taking it this year, as the reserves boys go about chaffing the dream.

With a lot of new faces in the team we knew we’d have to feel our way into it. Ned Connell was money well spent serving up more ball than a Chinese ping pong tournament. Rangi confused his ambition with his ability as he tried to throw the old body into the air for a hanger, with the air time of a Sumatran rhino. Dragging it in from the heavens… or 5ft off the ground. (I’m sure it was goalpost height when retold at the ski club bar though.)

Cam Nye will head home to review his contract heavily, after being provided some of the worst ball delivery getting around. Earning all three of his goals with little help from down the ground.

Tanner Irvine will need to be informed of the difference between NRL and AFL after getting pinged for a forward pass. Saunders proved as useful as the ‘G’ in lasagna with his wildly inaccurate kicking providing the drive of a one-legged kid on a skateboard. Luckily the young kids managed to provide some run heading into the last quarter as the Bears hung on for the ‘W’.

Awards: Hick Butchery – X Smith, Tungamah Hotel – J McQualter Whyte, Yarrawonga Mulwala Golf Club – J Whinray

Under 17s

Tungamah 26.9.165 defeated Rennie 1.2.8

Best: A Doyle, B Grant, J Walker, K Michael, S Bainikoro, D Thomas

Goals: K Michael 5, B Grant 4, A Doyle 4, L Lonergan 3, B Krywyn 3, J Parker 2, M Beer 2, B Doyle 2, B Goudie

With the rain holding off, the team got off to a strong start. Malique dominated the forward flank with his long kicks, putting pressure on the opposition. Jack Parker's adept ball handling and distribution skills saw the boys finishing the quarter off with seven goals on the scoreboard.

Heading into the second quarter the wind picked up, but the boys weren't slowing down. Dean's impressive chase increased the team’s determination, while Kaiden surprised everyone with his fearless pursuit of the ball. By halftime, the team held an impressive lead of 13 goals.

Straight into the third quarter, Kade's early goal set a positive tone, with Archie and Brae's consistent efforts aiding the team's momentum. Maintaining control, the boys were sitting comfortably with a score of 19.4. The boys finished the game off strong with improved coordination leading to precise plays. The team's resilience and effective teamwork secured a decisive victory with Tungamah 26.9 to Rennie 1.2. Special mention to the 4th boys who demonstrated great sportsmanship by helping out and assisting the opposition. Was great to see both Slater and Billy snag a goal each for Tungamah. We also welcome Luka, Dean, and Brodie who showcased their skills in their first game with our great club.

Awards: Tungamah Shop – A Doyle, John Hemphill $20 - B Grant, Doyle’s Sock Award – J Walker, Coaches Award – K Michael

Under 14s Football

Tungamah 24.17.161 defeated Rennie 1.0.6

BEST: J Bamford, B Doyle, X Chessells, T Ussher, T Saunders, S Goudie GOALS: J Bamford 7, B Doyle 6, X Chessells 3, P Poll 2, C Payne 2, T Saunders 2, T Lawrence, T Ussher

First game for the season and the stakes were high as many of the boys were up against their schoolyard rivals. Tunga showed their dominance very early in the game with a goal straight out from the first bounce. Jett was a force to be reckoned with down in the forward line, as his trick shots continued to make their way through the goal posts. Throughout the game, Billy was at his brilliant best as he weaved his way around his opponents, whilst Chase took some great marks and pushed the ball forward. Xave worked hard all day and kept the ball moving and was ably supported by the stalwarts of our fourths team. Our little legends, coming up through the ranks were all amazing and demonstrated courage and confidence out on the field. Thanks to Rennie for hosting us, it was great to see the friendly fire between the Hoppers and the Bears. A highlight for the day was watching our fourths team working together, enjoying playing with mates and representing what the Bears are all about.

Awards: Tungamah Shop – J Bamford, Doyle’s Sock Award – T Ussher, Intents Fishing $10 – P Poll.

Under 11s

The young Bears started the day at Rennie on a wet surface after the overnight rain. With plenty of numbers and multiple goal kickers it’s going to be an exciting year for the youngsters.

Awards:

TFNC $5 - Xavier Whiting

Zambrero - Jamieson Dickins

Tungamah Shop - Levi Bainikoro

Netball

A Grade

Tungamah 38 defeated Rennie 32

We kicked off the first game of the season against Rennie and showed some promising signs for this year. Lauren held strong in goals whilst being under a lot of pressure all day, shooting with phenomenal accuracy and beginning to direct play in the attack end. It was great to see Millie Dodd take the court in her first A Grade game alongside her mum Kim, her pressure in both attack and defence was relentless getting turnovers and taps all day. It was great to see everyone work as a team and see some things fall into place after a great preseason.

Awards: Intersport – L Miles, Free As A Bird – M Dodd

B Grade

Tungamah 45 Def Rennie 32

A new look B grade team took to the court with only two players returning from 2023, we were unsure how it was going to look. We recruited well in the shooting end adding 6ft Treen Wilkinson to the mix, her shooting and rebounding skills making her unstoppable. Marissa feeding well at GA shooting from any range, we moved the ball down the court well with Sharelle and Soph in the midcourt working hard all day. The defence end worked well with Grace and Brodie shutting down the shooters, this was Grace’s first game in B and she played amazing while Molly and Tahnee read the play well taking many intercepts. Han and Issy had a run-in centre showing how versatile the team is and we came away with the win.

Awards: Rich Glen - Grace Whitelock, Ricky D Pizza - T Wilkinson

C Grade

Tungamah 29 defeated Rennie 28

A new look C Grade took to the court for the first game of the season at Rennie with a mix of returning players and new faces. Rennie started strong and it took a few minutes for Tungamah to settle. Once we did our teamwork and court coverage was very positive. Danielle and Tayla worked hard in the ring against tough opponents. Amber, Bernadette, Hannah and Jess gave plenty of run and options in our midcourt. Beth, Nat and Remi had their work cut out for them in defence but made sure they gave their all. The last six minutes were goal for goal, but the team kept up with their pressure and came away with the one-goal win. A huge thank to Sienna Mullavey for joining our bench.

Awards: Players player and Rich Glen - H Moore, Miss Dolly - B Tobin

C Reserves

Tungamah 32 defeated Rennie 31

Our first game of the season with a few new and old faces taking to the court on a warm day at Rennie. The girls started the game strongly and found their rhythm quite quickly, the ball was moved smoothly down the court into the ring where Charlotte and Kandy did a great job of shooting goals. Rennie held strong and gave us everything they had but our defenders Cait, Tash, Alysia and Leoni were just too strong for their shooters. Our midcourt of Toni, Sienna, Amy, Jade and Bella worked tirelessly and took lots of intercepts and caused many turnovers while taking them time and get these rewarded with goals. It was a close result, but the girls never gave up and worked hard from the beginning which paid off with our first win.

Awards: Jaycees- T Beaton, Rich Glen - S Mullavey

Under 17s

Tungamah 17 lost to Rennie 31

With nerves and excitement starting the season off, the girls were keen to get back onto the court after the time off. The girls had strong defensive pressure along the court, resulting in many turnovers from both Bridie and Lily. Hayla stepped up and had a go at WD resulting in a few tips and taps around the ring. The attackers worked hard against Rennie's strong defence, trialling some new combinations with plays not having played together before. It was a tough game taking on the reigning premiership who have a strong side, but the game has provided us with lots of positives and we are excited to get to training and work on some things.

Awards: Credit Union $10 - B Hodgson, Tungamah Shop - V Laffin, Rich Glen - L Burns

Under 15

Tungamah 24 def Rennie 15

In the 2023 grand final rematch the Bears experienced a slow start, struggling to find their footing and contain their nerves. However, as the game progressed, they warmed up, and the flow of play improved. The Bears displayed remarkable resilience, keeping their heads up and maintaining focus throughout the entire game. What truly set the Bears apart was their exemplary teamwork. Players worked cohesively, communicating effectively on the court and supporting each other in both attack and defence.

Awards: Rich Glen - Emily Buerckner for always keeping her eyes on the ball and being a strong defensive presence

Tungamah Shop - Lillie Raven for improving her jumping over the offseason which allowed her to tip and tap the ball to get turnovers.

Under 13s

Tungamah 7 defeated Rennie 4

Excitement was high for the start of our 2024 season. After a tight first quarter the girls managed to settle their nerves to come away with the win. The coaches were really impressed with the full court defence being implemented from training, seeing lots of turnovers across the whole court. Amazing support of each other meant the girls played with smiles on their faces and that’s what we want to see. Fantastic team effort, well done girls.

Awards: TFNC – S Ridley, Rich Glen – Paige Bamford

Under 11s

The under 11s kicked off the season against the Hoppers keen and ready to go. Despite the weather the girls played a great game working as a team and this week’s captain Tilly leading the group.

Awards: Tungamah Shop – G Burns, Rich Glen – H Powell

Mini’s Netball (Under 9s)

Great first game for the Mini's. They all enjoyed themselves and had a lot of fun playing against Rennie. Many girls had turned up with smiles on their faces and were willing to try different positions they were put in.

Awards: TNFC- Maeve, RichGlen - Daisy