Competing in Sydney on Monday, Deni South faced South Wagga in the semi final, beating them 80 to 20, before facing South Grafton in the grand final.
From the opening bounce, Deni South showed they were prepared to take on anyone, regardless of size.
Facing bigger opponents throughout the carnival, the Deni boys refused to be intimidated, repeatedly throwing themselves into contests and showing the grit and courage that ultimately carried them all the way to the premiership.
It was a true team performance.
Rather than relying on individual brilliance, the Deni players continually looked for one another, sharing the football, creating opportunities for teammates and putting the team before themselves.
Their ability to move the ball with purpose and use their skills under pressure was a feature of the tournament.
At the heart of the defensive effort was Tate Parlato, who led the way with his fierce tackling.
Tate’s willingness to chase, pressure and put his body on the line set the standard for his teammates and made life difficult for opposition players throughout the carnival.
Up forward, Callan Leiper proved a constant threat. Strong in the contest and composed around goal, Callan played a starring role when it mattered most.
His efforts in the grand final were rewarded when he was named Player of the Match, a fitting recognition of an outstanding performance.
Mason Williams also played an important role in attack, providing plenty of goals and giving the side another dangerous option inside forward 50.
His ability to find the scoreboard helped keep the pressure on Grafton and ensured South always had a scoring threat.
But it was the collective effort that ultimately made the difference.
“Every player contributed. There were desperate tackles, important possessions, selfless handballs, strong marks, clever kicks and plenty of running to support teammates,” team coach and teacher Ash Morris said.
“When one player won the ball, another was there to provide an option. When a teammate was under pressure, another South player was there to help.
“That willingness to work for one another was evident throughout the entire tournament.
“The grand final against Grafton provided the perfect stage for South to showcase everything they had built throughout the competition.
“And when the final siren sounded, the excitement was unmistakable.”
Deniliquin South School comfortably won, beating South Grafton 40 to 10.
The school also acknowledged the support of the Deniliquin Rams Football Netball Club, Deniliquin Rovers Football Netball Club and McDonald's Deniliquin in making the trip to Sydney possible.
30°C