The Centre in Ivanhoe was abuzz last night as hundreds of boys and girls from across the League gathered for the 2017 Presentation Night.
Held over two sessions, the top vote getters from our Under 11 competitions through to Colts and Youth Girls were presented on stage with winners being announced and awards presented.
The highlight of the first session (Under 11 – Under 13) was the attendance of Collingwood footballers Darcy Moore, Chris Mayne and Henry Schade.
Aside from presenting awards to the top 3 finishers in each competition, they also shared their experiences of moving through the junior ranks of football and eventual arrival in the AFL. Darcy’s story was particularly relevant given that his own journey was through the Yarra Junior Football League.
The second session (Under 14 – Colts Youth Girls) started with the presentation of the Northern Knights and Oakleigh Chargers Under 15 Player of the Year awards. The Northern Knights presented their awards to Ellie McKenzie and Jaden Collins whilst the Oakleigh Chargers presented their award to Sam Tucker.
Shortly afterwards came the announcement of the Teams of the Year in our highest aged boys and girls (Colts and Youth Girls) acknowledging the outstanding season from those selected. Banyule’s Dale Mayne was named Colts Coach of the Year whilst Whitehorse Colts’ Matt Edwards was named Youth Girls Coach of the Year.
The session concluded with League Vice President Jeff Hooper paying tribute to the outstanding service given to the League by outgoing President Peter Haddad. Peter has been on the Board of the Yarra Junior Football League since it’s inception in 1997 with the last 8 years as President.
A big congratulations needs to be passed on to our Representative Captains who hosted the night, Will Phillips and Ben Cococcia from our Under 15 Boys and Ellie McKenzie and Anna WIlliams from our Under 15 Girls, as well as Keegan Vickers from our Youth Committee.
Speaking of our Youth Committee, we need to congratulate them on their efforts in running a raffle for each of the sessions. This effort managed to raise an additional $750 for their chosen charity – Kids Under Cover.
Photography Matters were the official photographer on the night – official photos can be purchased here
