AFTER the second extension to the lockdown, Mid North Coast Rugby Union has called an end to the 2021 season and declared the round 15 competition leaders as the minor premiers.

It was an immaculate season for the Coffs Harbour Snappers women’s team who won the minor premiership in style, going undefeated for the entire season.

Whilst there was disappointment not to play finals there was buoyancy in the camp as players reflected on the numerous highlights of 2021 kicking off with Imogen Daymond in her debut season.

“It’s my first season with the ladies and what a year it’s been.

“Such an awesome season and made a lot of friends, dominating the season and completing it in true snappers style, I absolutely loved it,” said Imogen.

Flying centre Brooklyn French echoed her passion for the Club.

“My second year with the Snapper ladies and like last year, we dominated the season and became closer as a team even through the ups and downs, I love our club,” chanted Brooklyn.

The premature end was not how second rower Ashlee Downtown wanted to finish the season but she’s already using it as motivation for the next campaign.

“Some quality rugby was played this year and as a team it was such a great feeling to get better and stronger each week.

“We all put a lot of hard work in throughout the year and as much as it didn’t end as we wanted due to COVID, I know that we will work harder for the premiership next year,” said Ashlee.

Assistant coach Ed Varbadasso was proud of the team’s development through the year.

“Although it had a strange ending, this season was enriching and satisfying.

“Being a part of this group of fine people has been a great experience.

“Engaging in the development of this team is something to be proud of for all of us, helping the ongoing development of experienced players while developing newer members into quality players and team members has been a group effort.

“Going through the season undefeated and taking out the minor premiership is a good testament to all our hard work and team spirit.

“Even though the season was cut before a grand final could put a rubber stamp on our supremacy this season, we all know who is the top team of 2021.

“Be more than satisfied, be proud of our accomplishments this season,” said Ed.

Coach Nicki Black looks upon the team as family.

“Being a part of an amazing group of women that I now call my family, we’ve grown and accomplished so many things together, working hard with determination and grit we rose to the challenge every game.

“Watching each player grow and be confident in their skill set and working together, having confidence in trying new skills, positions and moves.

“The bonding of all ladies is strong, definitely having each other’s back during the season, on and off the field,” said Nicki.

Front rower Breanna Philpot echoed the camaraderie in the camp.

“I’ve been with the Snappers for what feels like my entire life but really it’s four years, I am super proud of where and how we have come together as a team.

“Between a lot of changes this year having new coaches, new girls, and I did not get injured or require surgery this season, which actually is the first time this has happened.

“Snappers are a family not a team,” concluded Breanna.

Greta Smith described her captain’s role as a privilege.

“Being captain of the Snapper women this year has been an absolute privilege.

“Not just in the way the girls have played and improved but the way they have all grown as women and supported each other through all the ups and down.

“It is obviously devastating to have to call the season short but an awesome title to hold minor premiers two years in a row and holding that title as an undefeated team is an amazing testament to the ladies in the team.

“We wouldn’t have been able to do it without the support from Matthew Joyce, Ed Vardabasso, Damien Butcher and Nicki Black all having an important role in coaching and progressing the skills of the team!

“I can’t say enough how proud I am of the girls,” said Greta.

Following the team photographs, Greta was mobbed by her teammates as they celebrated another triumphant year with a big smile in high spirits.

 

By David WIGLEY