Kohen Parkinson and James Hayman lead the under-16s through a guard of honour and onto the field. Photo: Alex Rethus Photography.
There were plenty of season highlights to be celebrated when players in all age divisions ran onto the paddock for the final time in 2025 at the Central Cape Suns grand final day on 30 August.
In the under-7 division, players went from playing tag to tackling by the end of the season, a skill most were far too eager to learn.
The U8 age group had many players experiencing their first season of rugby league due to a partnership with Mapoon – it was a special game to watch as the majority of kids just enjoyed making new friends and learning new skills.
The U10 division was one of the biggest of the season, with players demonstrating increased confidence as they honed their skills.
An excited crowd greeted U12 players as they showed off their skills, with several standout efforts to take the opportunity for their team when it arose.
The U14s gave a stellar performance and put their Tommy Tassell preparation into practice – these boys are going to give a great show during the September carnival, so watch this space.
Caitlin McAllister takes on a four-on-one tackle from Elsie Daniel-Elia, Grethel Mairu, Teeahne-Rae Masso and Alvina Motton. Photo: Alex Rethus Photography.
The club’s U16 girls demonstrated their skills and delivered one of the best games of their season – the team is looking to make its mark alongside the U14 boys when they pull on their jerseys for the Sandy Tassell carnival this month.
The U16 boys team left nothing to chance and all out on the field after players spent the year harnessing their knowledge of the game and how to make strategic plays.
Club president Jess Rex said grand final day had been a fitting end to the 2025 campaign and praised the whole-of-community approach that had made it one of the best junior rugby league seasons yet.
“All these players were shown support by the community,” she said.
“There wasn’t much empty field space as family, friends and supporters settled in for the big day; it was wonderful to see how many people came out to celebrate our young players and the club.
“Of course, we couldn’t have pulled any of this off without our amazing volunteer coaches, canteen staff, parents, and committee, and also our fantastic sponsors.”
The crowd was treated to plenty of fancy footwork on the paddock during grand final day on 30 August. Photo: Alex Rethus Photography.
