Local sport spring summer 2015 16 (low res)

ECHUCA-MOAMA

LOCAL SPORT Spring/Summer 2015–16

CAITLIN HAWKS TRACK AND FIELD STAR THE RIV’S LOCAL FOOTY

TEAM OF THE YEAR YOUR GUIDE TO THE AREA’S SPORTS, CLUBS, STARS AND TEAMS.

Good sports every

6 Shaw St., Moama NSW 2731. Free Courte

day.

We’re good sports if you’re hungry.

Our Cafe & Bistro have something to satisfy any hunger from 10am daily.

We’re good sports when you play.

Echuca-Moama’s favourite entertainment venue.

3 bars, Players Lounge and Terrace and more.

We’re good sports if you need a lift.

Simply call Customer Service on our FreeCall number to arrange your seat on one of our Mercedes courtesy shuttles.

We’re good sports with sports.

World class bowling greens and facilities, TAB, Sports Lounge and coverage of all the big games and events world wide.

We’re good sports with members.

Echuca-Moama’s premier entertainment venue is second to none when it comes to members’ benefits. Great discounts throughout the Club including dining and bar purchases, sensational members only promotions and much more.

Contact Customer Service today for all your membership details. If you’re not a member of Moama Bowling Club, you’re simply missing out.

tesy Shuttle. Call 1800 806 777 www.moamabowlingclub.com.au ABN 58001046939

SPORTS, EVENTS & ENTERTAINMENT STUBBERFIELD GROUP SPORTS & ENTERTAINMENT CENTRE What the Echuca Basketball Stadium offers: The Echuca Basketball Stadium is a true multi-purpose facility.

The centre provides 2800 square metres of indoor air-conditioned space, which is used for many events from sporting to entertainment and expos.

In the sporting arena the stadium facility hosts basketball competitions and tournaments all year round including the men’s and women’s Echuca Pirates tournaments, the winter netball season, volleyball competitions, badminton competitions, indoor carpet bowls plus much more!

As far as major events go, the stadium has hosted everything from major boxing fight nights to debutant balls to music concerts. The stadium hopes to hold many more events and sports in the future.

The stadium also caters for a broad range of community based sports. Basketball is played throughout the year with a wide range of competitions available throughout the week.

Aussie Hoops is held each week for boys and girls who are keen to learn how to play basketball. The stadium also hosts community groups that have yoga and tai chi classes on offer throughout the day. With an onsite child-care facility available and canteen catering food, the stadium is perfect to bring along the whole family.

The stadium is open as required; all you have to do is book. Whether you want an ongoing arrangement or just feel like shooting some hoops on the weekend, the stadium can cater for you.

244 High Street, Echuca, 3564 Contact: Anthony Matthews echucabasketballstadium@bigpond.com

Ph: (03) 5480 6903 Mob: 0438 806 909

4 | Echuca-Moama LOCAL SPORT 2015–16

For all of your accounting, taxation and investment needs • Tax Returns, Advice & Planning • Superannuation & Investments • Business, Farm & Home Loans

• Business Advice & Planning • Accounting Services • Financial Advising

25-31 Nish Street Echuca, 3564 Phone 5482 1994 ECHUCA ROCHESTER www.stubberfieldgroup.com.au Corporate Authorised Representative of Magnitude Group Pty Ltd. ABN 54 086 266 202, AFSL 221557. The Stubberfield Group owns Campaspe Financial Services Pty Ltd which is the financial planning arm of the business. Campaspe Financial Services is authorised to provide financial services under Magnitude Group Pty Ltd’s Australian financial services licence.

LOCAL SPORT CONTENTS BASKETBALL

CRICKET

Stubberfield Sports &

Variety the spice of summer.....................16

Entertainment Centre.................................4

Goulburn Murray Cricket..........................17

TRACK AND FIELD

Echuca Cricket Club...................................18 Moama Cricket Club..................................18

Hawks is simply flying (Caitlin Hawks)........................................6–7

SWIMMING Echuca War Memorial Aquatic Centre.......8

RIV TEAM OF THE YEAR....................19 FOOTBALL Moama-Echuca Touch Football................20

GOLF

Moama Football Netball Club..................21

Rich River Junior Golf..................................8

Echuca Football Netball Club...................21 Echuca Masters Football Club...................22

TRIATHLON Echuca-Moama Tri Club..............................9

ATHLETICS Echuca-Moama Little Athletics.................22

LAWN BOWLS Bowling faces an uphill battle............ 10-11

TENNIS

Moama Bowling Club...............................30

Wimbledon on the Murray.......................23 Campaspe Tennis Association.............24–25

SQUASH Echuca-Moama Squash Club.....................12

TOP SHOTS OF 2015......................12–13 MARTIAL ARTS

SPECIAL OLYMPICS Able to achieve anything....................26–27 Echuca-Campaspe Special Olympics.........27

Wickham’s Martial Arts Centre ................14

SPORTSTAR OF THE YEAR..........28–29

NETBALL

CLUB DIRECTORY.................................31

Echuca District Netball Association..........15

Cover photo: Caitlin Hawks.

FOR ALL OF YOUR CLUB GEAR AT GREAT PRICES...

– Match and training balls at low, low prices.

CRICKET TRAINING GEAR

Echuca – 132 Hare St 5482 6661 Kyabram – 161 Allan St 5852 1911 Deniliquin – 320 Cressy St 5881 7327

TENNIS BALLS – We can cater for all of your club requirements on any brand of ball.

bennetts@intersport.com.au www.bennetts.intersport.com.au

sport to the peop le

5 | Echuca-Moama LOCAL SPORT 2015–16

CRICKET BALLS

TRACK AND FIELD CAITLIN HAWKS

HAWKS IS SIMPLY FLYING Under-age hurdling sensation Caitlin Hawks clocked a number of personal bests last season and is determined to go even faster this summer. But Erin Lyons writes that as a 400 m specialist Caitlin has a lot of work ahead if she is to even come within sight of the 52.34 seconds that make up the world record.

6 | Echuca-Moama LOCAL SPORT 2015–16

Nathalia’s Caitlin Hawks is running towards a start in the next Commonwealth Games — as fast as she can.

“I want to get a 58.5,” she said, plain and simple.

“Hopefully that won’t be too challenging considering I ran a number of personal bests last year.

But the 400 m hurdler, who slashed almost three seconds from her personal best in the last domestic season knows one race isn’t the answer.

“If I can keep cutting down my time by a second or two every season I will be really happy.”

Consistency, she says, is the key.

Still a long way from Jana Pittman’s Commonwealth record of 53.82.

In early 2014 Caitlin had set the demanding goal of going fast enough to join the elite sub-one minute club.

Caitlin won gold in the women’s under 20 hurdles at the National Championships last season, and made the final of the open event.

And did.

When asked what it takes to break a personal best, Caitlin wasn’t so sure, but she knows she can strip seconds from her time if she improves her technical hurdling.

So what next for this wing-footed rising star?

Caitlin’s personal best currently stands at 59.86 and this season she wants to cut at least one more second from that.

“I basically just do what I’m told to do,” she said.

“You have to be consistent and can’t stop and expect to run the same times.”

Caitlin said she has picked up a session focused purely on hurdling skills with her coach Pam Ryan at Essendon Athletics Club.

The standard hurdle for the 400 m is 76 cm high — so you have to have a substantial leap just to get over the thing, let alone while running flat out.

“I must learn to jump higher over the hurdles and because it’s over a longer distance I need to have the option of leading with both legs,” she said.

“You never want to have to take short strides to get to the hurdle.

“My opposite leg needs to be just as strong.”

Caitlin doesn’t have a stride pattern although a lot of the girls she trains with do.

But whether she thinks she needs one is another question.

“The 400 m hurdles is a little bit different because it’s a longer run and your stride pattern can change, whereas in the 100 m all the hurdles are closer together and you really need to measure your strides.”

There is no doubt Caitlin is a fitness junkie, she revels in the gruelling schedule of the sprinter, putting herself through tough track sessions every day to achieve her hurdling dreams.

On Mondays Caitlin ‘enjoys’ a long-distance run before attending speed sessions at AAMI Park — and all before she finally hits the gym.

Tuesday’s she’s back on the track at the Essendon Athletics Club under the severe eye of her coach and on Wednesdays she does all that again — then hits the gym.

Pure hurdling training is part of her Thursday morning schedule before she has another track session at night.

And finally she can ‘sometimes’ enjoy a day off on Friday while her weekend training regime varies.

“I think I should do okay

considering I made the final of the national open 400 m

And when asked why she chose 400 m as her preferred distance she explained it all started because she used to run the 400 m flat.

Caitlin Hawks

“I liked hurdling and the 400 m distance so my former coach in Shepparton suggested I put them together and make it my event,” she says.

“And I’ve stuck with it ever since.”

Thankfully Caitlin has only had one major injury since she kick-started her athletics career (“touch wood”) which was a fall during a race last year which resulted in some awfully skinned knees.

hurdles last year.”

“It happened at just a regular club meet and I stacked at the third hurdle from the bend and scrapped all the skin off my knees,” she said.

Caitlin admits she has been lucky on the injuryfront but she also acknowledged she gets nervous competing in the 100 m event.

“At least with the 400 m you have time to prepare

“But in the 100 m they come up so quickly.”

This season, which starts in October, will be Caitlin’s first in the open division, but she’s not fazed by her future competitors, even if they have had more than half a decade experience on her.

“I think I should do okay considering I made the final of the national open 400 m hurdles last year,” she said.

And is that selection in the Commonwealth Games team within reach?

“I’d like to think so,” she said.

But she knows she will have to run a lot faster, cutting three seconds off her PB has simply made cutting the next three — or five for the Games record — is where it really gets hard.

7 | Echuca-Moama LOCAL SPORT 2015–16

Caitlin does this year round with barely four weeks off — usually over May.

and know the hurdle is coming,” she said.

CAMPASPE AQUATIC & LEISURE SERVICES LEARN TO SWIM

• Invest in a skill for life!

• All ages and abilities from 6 months

• Swim and Survive Program • Life Saving Victoria and Austswim Accredited

ECHUCA WAR MEMORIAL AQUATIC CENTRE • Heated Indoor Pools • Personal Training • Kids’ Parties • Health Club

• Occasional Care • Memberships and casual passes • Group Fitness

• Aqua Aerobics • Learn to Swim • Steam Room

Contact EWMAC or visit our website for more information including Summer programs and events: Corner of High and Service Streets, Echuca, 3564 Phone: (03) 5480 2995 Website: www.campaspeaquatics.com.au

8 | Echuca-Moama LOCAL SPORT 2015–16

RICHRIVER JUNIORGOLF

For ages 6 to 16 held every Sunday morning (excludes school holidays).

Time: 9.30am–10.30am Cost: $10 per session The Rich River Sunday Juniors Program includes: - Practice fairway games & drill working on full swing - Chipping and putting games & completion drills - Pitching and bunker shots

Please contact our friendly Golf Pros today on 03 5481 3372 or email proshop@richriver.com.au

Twenty Four Lane, Moama NSW www.richriver.com.au

COME & TRI IT! Splash & Dash training every Wednesday ... Come and introduce yourself!

WANTING TO GET FIT WITH A GROUP OF LIKE-MINDED INDIVIDUALS IN A FAMILY FRIENDLY ENVIRONMENT? Every Wednesday night from October the club offers the “Splash & Dash” events which will introduce you to triathlon.

for some friendly advice, or call the numbers below. Club members will be more than ready to assist you on your first outing!

Come along and introduce yourself to the crew at the events and ask

Not too confident about one or the other of the three legs? Then get

OCT

some mates together and come along as a team.

No need for flash gear, just a bike, bathers and runners. It’s a great way to keep fit and meet a new bunch of people. See you there!

Echuca Moama Tri Calendar 2015-2016 season NOV

DEC

JAN

FEB

MAR

7th - Echuca Pool (200 / 2.4)

4th - Winbi (300 / 12.6 / 2.4)

2nd - Winbi (300 / 12.6 / 2.4)

6th - Moama Pool (200 / 16.5 / 2)

3rd - Winbi (300 / 12.6 / 2.4)

Cohuna Bridge to Bridge (TBC)

14th - Echuca Pool (200 / 2.4)

11th - Winbi (300 / 12.6 / 2.4)

9th - Winbi (300 / 12.6 / 2.4)

13th - Moama Pool (200 / 16.5 / 2)

Bridgewater Triathlon (TBC)

2nd - Winbi Scratch Training (200 / 30 / 4.8)

18th - Yarrawonga Olympic Distance, Sprint, Aquathon

15th - Shepparton Challenge Half Ironman (1.9 / 90 / 21)

16th - Winbi (300 / 12.6 / 2.4)

16th - Echuca Triathlon (Sprint) (700 / 21 / 4.8)

10th - Winbi (300 / 12.6 / 2.4)

9th - Winbi (300 / 12.6 / 2.4)

21st - Echuca Pool (200 / 2.4)

18th - Winbi (300 / 12.6 / 2.4)

23rd - Winbi (300 /12.6 / 7.5)

17th - Wharf to Winery River Swim

17th - Winbi (300 / 12.6 / 2.4)

16th - Winbi (300 / 12.6 / 2.4)

28th - Echuca Pool (200 / 2.4)

25th - Winbi (300 / 12.6 / 2.4)

26th - Benalla Triathlon (Sprint) (700 / 21 / 4.8)

20th - Moama Pool (200 / 16.5 / 2)

Horsham Triathlon (TBC)

20th - Melbourne Ironman

27th - Winbi (300 / 12.6 / 2.4)

24th - Winbi (300 / 12.6 / 2.4)

18th Annual Echuca Triathlon Comprising of a river swim of 700 m, bike ride of 21 km and a 4.8 km run this race will be hotly contested with both individual and team entries.

Located at Hopwood Gardens, you can come along and see the athletes transition from swim to bike to run around the heart of the Port Precinct.

Enter as an individual or get a team together for a fun filled afternoon of racing!

SPONSORED BY:

Steve Loader: 0408 380 858 Steve Gray: 0427 038 762 Haydn O’Neale: 0407 359 499

E: echucamoamatriclub@gmail.com W: www.echucatriclub.com

9 | Echuca-Moama LOCAL SPORT 2015–16

Come and join in the atmosphere of this year’s 18th Annual Echuca Moama Triathlon Saturday afternoon on the 16th January.

BOWLING FACES AN UPHILL BATTLE

10 | Echuca-Moama LOCAL SPORT 2015–16

The upper and lower verges of what could be dubbed the western frontiers of Victoria and NSW meet on the Murray River, as do many of the district’s lawn bowlers.

And Ben Carter writes that like the colonial western song goes, it’ll be a case of ‘‘heading them out and cutting them in’’ on the Campaspe Valley competition greens this summer.

The Riverine Herald caught up with representatives from local clubs to discuss how they see the sport going at present and where they see it going.

RH: How do you think the sport is going in the region in recent times from your perspective — forwards or backwards and why?

BARRY BRENNAN, SECTION CHAIRMAN, MOAMA BOWLING CLUB: “I believe the sport is declining in the region, membership numbers of clubs are declining and participation rates in events is falling. This is probably due to the fact that there are few younger members joining clubs and existing members are ageing. Plus there are a lot of bowls events on during each season, and with fewer people to play it (is) harder for them to be successful.”

RICHARD CALDOW, PRESIDENT, CITY OF ECHUCA BOWLING CLUB: “It is decreasing in numbers everywhere throughout Australia, which of course includes us locally. Last year there were 100 fewer pennant players than the year before. (It’s)

still largely older people, but increasingly younger people are playing. It’s going forward with more colourful game clothing and bowls — and also the introduction of new formats.”

RH: Looking ahead to the coming summer pennant season, are you confident of success at the top level or not, and why might that be?

RC: “Of course we are. We were close last year and with continued improvement of our current bowlers with maybe one or two new bowlers, plus a more professional approach to training, we will improve.”

BB: “The coming pennant season should be another successful season for Moama, but with the changes to the structure of pennant this season — 12 players per side and 14 rounds — it is hoped the teams will be more even and the competition stronger. Depending on which players move between clubs in the district the season could be very interesting.”

RH: What else has to be done between now and October to prepare the club for major pennant

competition? Do players simply carry on, week-in week-out over winter or are there formal training sessions?

Caldow noted that his club would be engaged in extensive pre-season practice, while Brennan expanded on the likely schedule for Moama.

BB: “We normally have two practice matches against clubs from outside the district and this will probably happen again, and maybe a practice match between our own teams. We do not normally have formal practice times. Some players play all year round, some travel north for the winter to bowl and some have a holiday.”

RH: What does it take to oversee and manage everything going on at a bowls club these days in what has become a year-round sport?

RC: “A lot of time and commitment, and it is increasing. It also requires good planning and people management skills.”

BB: “There is a lot to do at this time of the year or earlier to organise the next season’s program at the club and fit it in with the other clubs’ events and district events, but at Moama we have an administrator to carry out these tasks.”

RH: In the digital age, does more technology

necessarily make an administration position such as yours easier or harder to do?

RC: “Yes, but not that many bowlers have the necessary information technology skills and in terms of communication, many of our bowlers still do not communicate by email.”

BB: “The technology available today makes the administration of bowls easier by having draws for events done by computer, mailing lists available and emailing of invitations and entries for events.”

RH: What’s the best part of being a senior bowls club administrator?

RC: “Seeing a happy, harmonious and successful club.”

BB: “I did not take on this position for the ‘best part’. I do not seek the honour and glory of being chairman. I took on the position because I thought that I might be able to offer something to the club.”

RH: What’s the worst part of your role?

BB: “The criticism by members about what should and should not happen in the club.”

RC: “Sometimes dealing with unhappy people is very challenging, and a constant challenge is

finding resources to run a club, especially one with no poker machines and one that is very dependent on volunteers and sponsorship.”

RH: How do you and your club go about building a specific identity when bowls clubs don’t always have all the merchandising and nickname awareness in the public eye that might go along with footy, for example?

Brennan simply stated that Moama already has a strongly-developed club identity, but Caldow acknowledged the issue in broader terms.

RC: “Again this is a big challenge. Marketing experience is very hard to find in a club relying so heavily on volunteers.”

RH: Finally, what makes your club a great one in itself and such a good example of the standards expected from the sport?

RC: “We pride ourselves on being a friendly club with wonderful greens.”

BB: “The Moama Bowling Club is a great club to belong to. The benefits for the members are extremely good, the club has been a very successful club over many years with many pennant wins and many players having individual success at district and state level.’’

Sportswear by

Clubwear by quality suppliers

Embroidered or printed to your requirements

New additions

SUPPORTING LOCAL CLUBS FOR OVER 75 YEARS

198–200 Hare St, Echuca, Ph: 5482 1364 sales@echucafashioncentre.com.au

11 | Echuca-Moama LOCAL SPORT 2015–16

WHERE FASHION & SPORTS COLLIDE

TOP SHOTS 1

OF 2014–15

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4

3

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5

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BOUNCE INTO SQUASH If you’re looking for a fun, high energy spor t, why not try squash?

12 | Echuca-Moama LOCAL SPORT 2015–16

• Burns off calories while Squash is a racquet game also improving flexibility that can be played at any and sprint speeds (due to age. It is easy to learn and the fast-paced nature of and rules ed there are modifi squash). size every suit to ent equipm • Improves hand-eye and skill level. Squash can co-ordination. be played for leisure or as a competitive sport.

• Develops the strength and power of muscles, notably One of the great benefits of to easy leg and arm muscles. squash is that it’s ely relativ it’s and get started • Furthers concentration and Competition Days cheap. Echuca Moama mental strength.

Sunday: “Come Try” Social mor ning Squash Club Inc is a social Monday: Social night you holds tantly which Most impor and friendly club Tuesday: A-grade Competition will have FUN doing it! regular weekly comps that Thursday: B-grade Competition cater for all standards.

Please note we run in accordance to the school term. Competitions do Playing squash can have a echuca-moama not run during the holidays. number of positive health and fitness benefits on your body. Some advantages are: Cour ts address Echuca Sporting Complex – College Dve. club • Improves aerobic fitness For all enquiries please call Mike . and cardiovascular fitness Mangiameli 0407 805 751

s uash

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12

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1. Emma Barnes — Ski Racing selected to compete at World Titles in NZ in April. 2.

Ben Hall and Dearne Tabone — preview the EMCC hosting a mountain bike event. 3. Kale Edwards. 4. Christine Fleming — women’s club champion. 5.

Junior cricket. 6. Lukas Edwards — MMA fighter. 7. Donna Gaskin — Cisco Delago spike. 8. Andrine and Erik Holt-Crossman. 9. Echuca V Shepparton United seniors — Jordan Ives. 10.

Echuca United V Tongala A-grade netball Worksafe Game with Melbourne Vixens coaches — Renee Campbell. 11. Derek Southern — young Rich River tennis player. 12. Indoor Cricket — Damien and Shane Cocks. 13. LBU V Mt Pleasant seniors — Matthew Gretgrix. 14. U16s Echuca V Kyabram — Cooper Barber.

Photography by: Jayme Lowndes, Luke Dempsey, Geordie Cowan, Bruce Povey and Laura Buckley.

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KICK IT, PUNCH IT, LIVE IT!

CKHAM’S WI

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Wickham’s Martial Arts is dedicated to enhancing the confidence and well being of our community by teaching focus, harmony and balance through Martial Arts.

Classes in:

Muay Thai Kickboxing Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Krav Maga Wik Fitness Women’s Kickboxing Zen Do Kai Karate Little Dragons Women’s Self Defence Wickham’s Martial Arts Centre offers you a total program of self-defence, fitness and family fun through a comprehensive martial arts curriculum.

We welcome to our team Kru Kiw Muay Thai-Kickboxing trainer

14 | Echuca-Moama LOCAL SPORT 2015–16

Whether you are interested in our children’s programs, senior self-defence courses, competitive fighting or health and fitness training we’ve got a program to suit everyone.

302 fights, 230 wins, 40 draws and 32 losses

ASK ABOUT: Skill for Life Anti-bully program | Weapons training Personal training | Assistant instructor program

HONESTY, INTEGRITY AND RESPECT

Martial Arts Centre T R A I N T O D A Y, T R A I N F O R L I F E

81 Service St, Echuca. | Mob: 0418 505 049 Email: info@wickhamsmartialarts.com | www.wickhamsmartialarts.com

THE HEART OF NETBALL

Echuca District Netball Association EDNA offers the netball experience for all ages with competitions staged all year round. Association netball provides a positive introduction to netball ensuring enjoyment and participation regardless of skill level. Coordinated by accredited coaches ensures a quality experience for all participants.

COMPETITIONS: Tuesday Night Senior, Wednesday Night Mixed, Spring Junior Saturday Net Set Go / Primary / Senior.

COACHING: Coaches are supported and encouraged to attend accreditation courses conducted by Netball Victoria from foundation through to elite level hosted by EDNA.

REPRESENTATIVE: Players are eligible to try out for selection as an EDNA representative player.

Selections are held in November. Representative teams compete at association tournaments in May/June and attend zone finals. Opportunities exist for a player to be talent identified by Netball Victoria at the Zones and invited to the Academy for development coaching. Association players may tryout for selection into a regional team.

Further information can be found on our website or contact the netball office.

Office Hours : Phone: Address: Email: Website:

Mon, Thurs, Fri: 9am–3pm Tues and Wed: 9am–5pm.

5480 1725 High Street South,Echuca edna1@iinet.net.au edna.org.au

UMPIRING: A career in umpiring begins from age 12. Beginner umpires are supervised by experienced mentors. As an umpire’s knowledge and skills develop, there are further opportunities to aspire to gain a C,B,A badge.

2015-2016 Events Calendar NOVEMBER

REPRESENTATIVE TEAM TRYOUTS

Selections for 2016 teams will be staged on Sunday, November 15, 22 and 29 this year.

11/U, 13/U, 15/U and 17/U players are invited to attend. Eligible ages are, as at 31/12/2016.

Times: 11s & 13s ..... 9.00am – 11.00am 15’s & 17’s ... 6.00pm– 8.00pm Selection criteria and enquiries 5480 1725.

NIGHT COMPETITIONS

SENIOR: Afternoon – Players in Year 7 to veteran enter their own teams.

MAY

Annual Association and Primary School Tournament staged.

Commencing February (Summer) / **May (Winter) / September (Spring) Tuesday: Senior Ladies Wednesday: Senior Mixed **Winter comp played in stadium

WEDNESDAY: (After school) Players aged eight to school Year 9 are eligible to enter teams.

APRIL – AUGUST

NOVEMBER

SATURDAYS NET SET GO: 6–7 year olds skills-based program targeting co-ordination, ball skills

SEPTEMBER

Representative team selections for players wishing to represent EDNA in 2017.

15 | Echuca-Moama LOCAL SPORT 2015–16

FEBRUARY – MAY – SEPTEMBER

PRIMARY: Morning Primary School Players aged 7–12 participate in a structured program, which encourages the development of their skills. This module guides players to advance to new levels, as they progress with their game.

VARIETY THE SPICE OF SUMMER There’s always the chance an Ashes year will bring a surge in interest for the great game of cricket, but Ben Car ter repor ts some would

say Goulburn Murray Cricket Association is thriving even without the international attachment granted to the game every two years.

GMC past president Jon Varcoe said it was the mix of formats the district offered to players making the sport as popular as ever.

With 80-over and 45-over days in A-grade, 40-over contests in B and C-grade, and 36 the golden number for D-grade, there really is something for everyone — from the social hit cricketer to the ultra-serious willow-wielder.

Then, if you’re interested in something even quicker, there’s the midweek evening Twenty20 series.

“The game is growing here,” said Varcoe.

“It’s really popular with kids and adults (alike).

We have a good mixture of cricket and the association’s put in a lot of effort to making the competition as successful as it can, subsidising all clubs to have qualified coaches and all umpires are qualified, too,” he added.

16 | Echuca-Moama LOCAL SPORT 2015–16

“We run camps for all our junior cricketers and also have strong representation in rep cricket, as well as Bendigo and Melbourne country weeks for the seniors.

“You’re probably likely to get a few more supporters to the Twenty20 in the evening with a barbecue and drinks available and under lights but the players themselves enjoy the different formats.”

Varcoe said he expected Kyabram Fire Brigade, Bamawm-Lockington United and Rochester United to be the leading recruiters ahead of season 2015–16. Tongala and Moama were also boosted by imports last summer.

“The other thing that was a great success last

summer was the T20 Blast, a competition for under 10s where all clubs supplied a team and they played every Sunday for eight weeks at the one venue.

“All the juniors wear coloured clothes and play a modified T20 format. That will grow again next season.”

For the record, Kyabram Fire Brigade would arguably have to be the team to beat.

The fiery combination are the dual A-grade champions after burning Moama at Rochester in the senior final in March.

They also hold the D-grade title with a win over Stanhope.

And made the deciders in the B-grade (losing to Northern United) and C-grade (losing to Echuca) competitions.

But it will be Rochester United getting the first strides of a trophy run when they enter the annual Cricket Victoria Twenty20 Cup against the best club teams from across the state’s major metropolitan and regional associations. Bamawm-Lockington United were the defeated finalists in the shortest form of the game last summer, with the next Northern Rivers play-off scheduled for November 27.

Varcoe said the GM T20 series is scheduled to start mid-November and run for up to five weeks to the end of December.

“Everyone gets put into groups and plays three games each, then there’s a final,” he added.

Twenty20 matches are usually played on Thursday nights.

GET O T E IM T R E T T E B O N IS E R E TH

T E K IC R C L A C O L IN D E V INVOL

Goulburn Murray Cricket

Cricket has been an established team sport for hundreds of years and is one of the most popular games in the world.

Goulburn Murray Cricket is dedicated to supporting and improving our local cricket, with an emphasis being placed on developing our junior cricketers.

Children playing cricket learn cooperation and other social skills, while building a sense of pride and accomplishment when their team wins. Even adults can enjoy the opportunity to foster friendships outside of the office. Victory is all the sweeter when shared!

BAMAWM-LOCKINGTON UNITED Paul Colbert colbert078@gmail.com 0413 456 345

GIRGARRE Dean Shay dshay2109@gmail.com 0418 598 712

ROCHESTER UNITED Brendan Martin rochesterunitedcc@outlook.com 0419 325 505

COLBINABBIN Bill West wjwest37@hotmail.com 0428 520 444

KYABRAM FIRE BRIGADE Justin Hooper Juzyhooper@hotmail.com 0431 647 949

RUSHWORTH Stephen Kealy ske40730@bigpond.net.au (03) 5856 1816

COOMA Russell Barrett russell@knightskyabram.com.au 0438 942 705

MOAMA CRICKET CLUB Brian Harland moamacricket@hotmail.com 0418 581 860

STANHOPE Graeme Luker stanhopecc@gmail.com 0428 475 469

ECHUCA Jo Hinks echucacc@hotmail.com 0409 853 094

NORTHERN UNITED Anthony Hogg kerryhams@gmail.com (03) 5884 3276

TONGALA Brendan McGrath brendan@bmwelding.com.au 0448 503 070

ECHUCA SOUTH Allan Holder aholder1@bigpond.net.au 0408 348 031

ROCHESTER TIGERS Brad Major brad.major@majorsiga.com 0409 841 300

Sponsors: Bennett’s Intersport Coolabah Turf Criterion Hotel Rochester Hip Pocket Workwear JV Property Services The Cal Echuca Circulating: Kyabram, Tongala, Stanhope, Girgarre, Merrigum & surrounding areas

W: http:gmc.vic.cricket.com.au E: goulburnmurraycricket@gmail.com P: Cam Kervin 0438 468 013

B U L C T E K IC R C A C U H EC GMC CHAMPION CLUB

Echuca Cricket Club The Echuca Cricket Club was established in 1991 and has its home ground at Echuca’s main sporting venue, Victoria Park in Crofton St. Season 2015–16 will see the club fielding senior teams in A, B, C and D-grade, with junior teams in the under-12, under-14 and under-16 competition. The club also runs the popular In2Cricket program and the very popular T20 Blast under the supervision of experienced senior cricketers.

B, C & D-grade senior teams made the finals last season with C-grade taking out the premiership, and we also won the U16’s premiership. Echuca Cricket Club achieved high levels of individual success across the club, with strong representation across all senior and junior representative sides.

Echuca Cricket Club yet again took out the prestigious Goulburn Murray Cricket Team of the Year. This is the third straight year that our club has been awarded with this honour (after also taking the title in the last two seasons of the Campaspe Cricket association).

The club now boasts a top-notch training facility, with four new synthetic nets, improved centre wicket area and an electronic scoreboard for playing days.

Brendan Prendergast has been reappointed as senior coach for another season. There is a very good mixture of youth and experience at the club and we look forward to another strong season on and off the field. The club is affiliated with Cricket Victoria which provides its members with pathways into representative cricket.

President Tim Hawker – 0417 558 440 | tim.hawker@ihgroup.com.au Secretary Jo Hinks – 0409 853 094 | echucacc@hotmail.com Treasurer Rob Owen – 03 5482 2493 | 23 Darling St, Echuca 3564 Senior Coach Brendan Prendergast – 0409 564 284 brendan.prendergast@lockwoods.com.au Website: www.echuca.vic.cricket.com.au

THE MOAMA CRICKET CLUB Ongoing success at Moama

The Moama Cricket Club will field teams in A, B, C as well as a D-grade for the 1st time in senior cricket. Once again we will have two teams in each of the under-16, under-14 and under-12 age groups in season 2015–16. Our very successful MILO In2cricket and MILO T20 blast will once again run and continue to grow.

Please come and share the success with us!

Anthony McMahon

Our facilities

In conjunction with the Murray Shire, our new curator and our hard working committee of volunteers Moama Cricket Club boasts the best facilities in the district.

18 | Echuca-Moama LOCAL SPORT 2015–16

An immaculate outfield, well prepared wickets, electronic scoreboard, new upgraded training facility and superb spectator areas all contribute to the excellent playing and viewing experience. All our coaches are accredited to ensure our players are given the best possible opportunity to develop their skills as part of successful teams.

Paul Jacobs A-grade coach

Perricoota Rd, Moama When – September to March Training – A,B,C & D-grade: Tuesday & Thursday Juniors Wednesday Contact: Seniors – Brian Harland 0418 581 860 Juniors – Barry Moyle 0428 709 903

Cam Parker

Ph: (03) 5482 5223

THE RIV’S ECHUCA-MOAMA

R A E Y E H T F O M A TE Selections based purely on number of bests and goals kicked until time of publication.

EARL HANDY UNITED

What do you think?

CONTACT US ON TWITTER @RIVSPORT OR ON THE RIV’S FACEBOOK PAGE.

RYAN PRENDERGAST

BART PHILLIPS

UNITED

ECHUCA

BACKS

RUCKS

JADE PUMPA

SCOTT BEATTIE

BEN WELCH

MOAMA

ECHUCA

MOAMA

DANIEL THORP

RHYS ARCHARD

ROWAN PRIEST

MOAMA

MOAMA

UNITED

ANGUS GRIGG

JORDAN FLORANCE

TYLER JONES

MOAMA

ECHUCA

MOAMA

LACHIE COLLINS ECHUCA

FORWARDS

KANE MORRIS

DUANE HUESTON UNITED

INTERCHANGE ASH KIRCHHOFER

ECHUCA

GUY CAMPBELL

UNITED

MATT POLLOCK

UNITED

JOSH EDGAR

ECHUCA

MOAMA

SIMON BUCKLEY

LACHIE SCHULTZ

ECHUCA

MOAMA

E C N A H C E H T P U S S A P ’T DON TO GET IN TO TOUCH

Moama Echuca Touch Footy Moama Echuca Touch Football Association is headed for a big season this summer with keen interest already shown by old and new teams in the competition which is played at Moama Recreation Reserve’s Brick Alley on Monday evenings.

The competition is affiliated with the NSW Touch Association and is entering its 33rd year. The competition is run in two divisions being A and B-grade mixed.

The A-grade competition is played at a cracking pace. There are six players on the field for each team at any one time and substitutes are essential.

The mixed competition is made up of males and females with four females and two males on the field.

Touch Football has its roots in rugby league but it does not have the physicality or the contact. The game can be extremely fast and skillful and is a great way to keep fit.

It can be a great preseason option in readiness for your winter sport. The game is for all ages with a spread in the competition from 12 to over 60.

Some teams are made up of families and friends and even teams from other sports. The Association always welcomes new teams and players and will slot individuals into a team where possible.

The aim of our warm-up games is to gauge the interest in the competition and also to coach the new players on the basics of the game in readiness for the competition.

So if anyone is looking for a game please get in contact with us or turn up in the first few weeks from September 7 and make yourself known.

The competition is very social with a BBQ and a cold drink on hand at the completion of the games. So why not go give touch a go!

Season kick off The season will kick off with four warm-up games on Mondays starting on September 7 from 6.15 pm. Teams will need to register by October 5 with the first round commencing on October 12.

The competition will consist of 16 rounds allowing for a three-week break over the festive season culminating in a finals series on March 14, 2016.

Touch footy fast facts • The Moama-Echuca association is affiliated with NSW Touch Football.

• Like rugby league, the aim is to score a try by placing the ball in the try zone.

• Teams can contain up to 14 players, with six on-field at any one time.

• Games run for 2 x 20-minute halves with a five minute half-time break.

• Each attacking team has six ‘touches’ in which to score a try.

Looking for a game?

Come along to the Moama Recreation Reserve in the first few weeks from September 7.

For more information about the sport visit www.nswtouch.com.au www.touchfootball.com.au

Juniors The Association also runs a junior competition for under-12s on FRIDAY evenings from 6.30 pm during Term 4. There will be two come-and-try nights from October 9 with the season kicking off on October 24.

Contact For a ticket to your new summer sport contact: Brodie Goodsell Phone: 0427 851 595 or E: moamaechucatouch@y7mail.com W: www.moamaechucatouch.sportingpulse.net

MFNC – A FAMILY CLUB Moama Football Netball Club The Moama Football Netball Club has a proud history in the Moama area, being founded over 100 years ago.

We have always been committed to providing a positive sporting experience while developing skills and encouraging sportsmanship, participation and success in a family environment.

Being a non-profit organisation we rely on our many sponsors and encourage family participation in a huge variety of areas. There are many ways you can be involved.

Our club has had many successes over the years, most recently: Premiership Winners for 2011 in the Reserves and under-14 football teams, and in B-grade and 15-&-under netball teams.

Club contact details:

Moama Recreation Reserve, Kirchhofer St, Moama www.moamafc.com.au Postal Address: MFNC, PO Box 35 Moama, NSW 2731 Sponsorship Contact: Jon Power 0429 806 055

AUSKICK: Primary school age.

Encourage participation and skill development.

Robert Hogan 0401 294 573 JUNIOR FOOTBALL: U12 (2 teams) Goulburn Campaspe Junior Football League.

U14 & U17 Murray Football League.

All coaches fully accredited.

Emphasis on participation, development of skills, enjoyment and improvement. Parent involvement encouraged. Caters for all levels of ability. Integration with senior footballers.

Robert Hogan 0401 294 573

NETBALL: Grades: A, B, C, C-reserve, 17&U, 15&U, 13&U, 12&U. Home games held at MFNC. Accredited coaches. Player Development opportunities.

Affiliated with Netball Victoria.

Anna Marshall 0417 503 511 SOCIAL EVENTS: Annual Black & White Ball, Run 4 Fun event, $100 Draw Raffle, Training night dinners, social events, B&F Vote Count and Presentation Night, Sponsors Day Luncheon, Ladies Day, junior carnivals and more…

SENIOR FOOTBALL: Senior Team and Reserves Team.

Professional coaching with excellent facilities. Access to Sporties Gym. Affiliated with the Murray Football Netball League and Victorian Country Football League.

Simon Maddox 0408 526 952

EFNC

A STRONG LOCAL HISTORY Echuca Football Netball Club

netball club provides competitive netball and professional coaching, commencing with our Baby Bomber under-15s right through to our A-grade.

This year, our club will again participate in finals action in September. We have set clear goals to achieve the ultimate September success by appointing quality coaches, implementing professional training regimes and bringing our players, supporters, sponsors and community together in a welcoming club environment which places high value on having fun. We welcome new people to

become members and enjoy the benefits of our club.

Based at Victoria Park, we will have new fully lit netball courts, new oval lighting for night games and training and have commenced fundraising towards a new multi user facility to replace our current club rooms.

Our 2016 season will commence with pre-season training in November to prepare for a successful new year in the Goulburn Valley Football and Netball Leagues.

Location Victoria Park Oval, Crofton Street, Echuca

21 | Echuca-Moama LOCAL SPORT 2015–16

The Echuca Football Club, now known as the Echuca Football Netball Club, was founded in 1876 and has since been an integral part of our local community.

Known as the Murray Bombers, our club has a strong community base run by a band of volunteers and is made up almost entirely of local players. The club is focused on the development of local sports people within a professional and safe environment.

Our club has many sporting programs which include Auskick, junior and senior netball, junior and senior football. Our

NEVER TOO OLD

WHY NOT JOIN...?

Echuca Masters Football Club EMUs Every Wednesday Evening from 6.00pm the “Old Fellas” get together for a light run and follow it up with dinner a beverage or two and a yarn about stories of old ”... Nah! ... were not THAT OLD!... some of us are ONLY 35ish! ...” but down at Echuca South Recreation Reserve (United Clubrooms) we catch up.

Coach: Paul Lavars 0400 683 676 President: Toby McCoy 0429 176 298 Vice President: Peter Spencer 0439 800 193 Secretary/Treasurer: Nikki Cohen 0419 573 258 Team Manager: Steve Oliver 0407 966 825 Club Administrator: David McPhee 0457 532 569

In 2014 with the development of two teams (Over 35s and Over 45s) it has led to further expansion of the player base and requirement of more followers, assistants and players and after success in Geelong To get involved check out our facebook page www.facebook.com/EchucaMasters Contact Toby McCoy 0429 176 298 or Paul Lavars 0400 683 676

FUN FOR ALL THE FAMILY Come and be par t of the family friendly, fun activities.

22 | Echuca-Moama LOCAL SPORT 2015–16

Echuca Moama Little Athletics is a friendly, relaxed environment where children are encouraged to get active and do their best and all the family can get involved. Athletics is the foundation for all sports and a great way to keep fit and healthy as well as meet new friends.

Our summer season begins on Saturday, October 10, and we run, jump and throw until March 2016. (With a break during school holidays). The centre meets each

Saturday morning at Jack Eddy Oval, Perricoota Road, Moama starting at 8.45 am for a warm up.

Affiliated with Little Athletics Victoria there are many regional and state events that athletes can attend such as the Team Relays, Multi event competition, Track and Field and also cross country in the winter.

For further information contact: President: Tim Fulton 0447 335 171 Visit the LAVic website www.lavic.com.au

Information Morning Saturday, September 12 at Jack Eddy Oval from 9.30am–11.30am Register online at www.lavic.com.au

in 2013 at the Australian Masters Games after amalgamating with Albury-Wodonga’s Murray Crays Superules side in both 35s and 45s Divisions (45s Gold, 35s Silver) proved the champions held within the club.

With a great camaraderie culture the Echuca Masters is a great place to meet new people and keep fit with some members coming from as far as Pyramid Hill and Yarrawonga to play on the team, with a social calendar of activities many members are also associated with other local clubs which is encouraged to build relationships.

WIMBLEDON ON THE MURRAY Echuca Lawn Tennis Club’s grass courts might receive the same wear-and-tear as Wimbledon’s during its Grand Slam over the Easter long-weekend. But the club would not have it any other way. Erin Lyons spoke to ELTC’s tournament director Ian Sinnett about the club’s annual Easter tennis tournament, its 90-year history and why it receives more than 700 entries each year.

Easter long-weekend is peak season for the twin towns, with holiday makers everywhere.

Some come to spend time on the water, others to visit family, or to simply get-away.

But hundreds of them, and their families and supporters, are here for one thing, and one thing only, the Echuca Lawn Tennis Club’s annual tournament.

The club receives more than 700 entries for the three-day event and attracts players younger than 10 to regulars now in their 70s.

As it is the tournament ties up 17 courts for the weekend. Expansion might mean borrowing courts in people’s backyards, and that wouldn’t really be a solution.

Sinnett said the entry figures have been relatively the same during the past few years and something he notices is the turnover of players.

“There are people who have been coming for 20 years,” he said.

“But then we also get a lot of new ones.

But there is one noticeable trend in the profile of entries.

hands on deck when it comes to planning one of the town’s biggest sporting events.

“There’s not too much to do aside from organise entries and do the draw before the event,” he said.

A lot of families are drawn to the tournament, which is a positive for the club, according to Sinnett. “But during is where it gets really busy.”

“We pride ourselves on making sure it’s a familyoriented event,” he said.

Recently the club has paid for a community group to help out on match days.

“People love it.”

Last year it was the Echuca-Moama Border Raiders soccer club who lent a helping hand and previously it was the Relay For Life group.

The most popular events are the C and D-grade senior divisions, while Sinnett is also impressed with the number of people who are good enough to play at open and A-grade levels.

“We’ve got enough really good players who can play in the top grades to make it interesting,” he said.

“It’s really good as a spectator to come down and watch some really good tennis.”

The tournament also attracts a lot of metropolitan players who often don’t have the opportunity to play on grass courts.

“We get a lot of good feedback about the courts,” Sinnett said.

“People come up to me and say ‘wow they are so hard and fast’.

“A lot agree they are some of the best grass courts they have ever played on.”

It is also a great source of income for the twin towns because holidaymakers are spending money in the local pubs, restaurants and on accommodation for the four days.

“People spend a lot of money in town,” Sinnett said.

“And we work very closely with local traders too, to help fuel our tournament.

“We spend almost up to $30 000 on local trade.”

And, most importantly, the tournament isn’t for the faint hearted, and Sinnett agrees he needs all

“We really appreciate the help we receive,” Sinnett said. “And the members we have here are always fantastic.”

Next year, Sinnett is hoping to introduce a computerised system which creates the tournament draw rather than doing it manually.

“At the moment, creating the draw requires a lot of skill and organisation,” he said.

“And the Crossman (Sarah and Andrew of Rich River Tennis Club) family have been amazing in helping put that together.

“We get a lot of good

feedback about the cour ts” Ian Sinnett

“We really couldn’t do it without them.”

All in all, Sinnett agrees the entire weekend is really profitable for the club and after 90 consecutive years in the running, he confesses he hopes it has many more to give.

“I hope we can keep it going,” he said.

“It’s a real feather in the hat for the club.”

23 | Echuca-Moama LOCAL SPORT 2015–16

Tournament director Ian Sinnett said the numbers of entries has reached “its peak” and though they would love to increase it they don’t have the courts or the time to make it work.

“It’s not always the same people coming to town.”

TENNIS...

GIVE IT A SHOT! Campaspe Tennis Association The Campaspe Tennis Association is a collective of tennis clubs in Echuca and its surrounding district.

Competition is played each Saturday during the summer months, October through March. The competition involves clubs such as Colbinabbin, Echuca Lawn, Echuca South, Echuca Village, Elmore, Lockington-Bamawn, Rich River and Rochester.

Junior teams competition is played Saturday mornings with the children playing in graded competitions.

Senior competition commences at 1 pm with teams comprising of four men and four women competing in three graded sections.

Contact: CTA Secretary Leanne Trewick on 0447 326 049.

Echuca South Tennis Club

Echuca Lawn Tennis Club

17 Excellent Lawn Tennis Courts Our club offers a well established, friendly facility set in tranquil bushland. We offer a wide variety of competitions and options to play tennis at any level.

Regular Events Saturday teams tennis (starts October), Thursday ladies competition (starts October), Tuesday twilight tennis competition (Spring and Autumn), weekend social tennis, Friday night junior coaching and round robin events and Wednesday night junior coaching.

Annual Tournaments Easter tournament (this event attracts 300 to 400 competitors annually) ladies tournament.

Please contact any one of our office-bearers for further information.

President Secretary

Brian Gledhill 0418 780 142 Phil Higgins 0427 503 875

Treasurer

Chas Sinnett 5482 1994 Andrew Crossman 5480 9690

Coach

Echuca South Tennis club prides itself on being a welcoming family-orientated club.

We have excellent facilities at the Echu ca College (Butcher Street) tennis/hockey complex boasting 12 synthetic grass courts. The dual purpose courts have a rubber underlay that softens the boun ce to play like natural grass with consistent boun ce.

Members enjoy Saturday afternoon comp etition with teams in all grades of the Campasp e Tennis Association. We also enjoy the social aspect of the game with club functions throughout the year.

We are keen to further develop our youn ger members and will have junior teams playi ng competition tennis in the Campaspe Tenn is Association on Saturday mornings.

Existing and new members very welcome.

Our coach Alenka Hubacek, a former professional tennis player with a wealth of tennis knowledge, conducts coaching clinics at our courts after school.

If you are interested in coaching (all ages welcome) give Alenka a call on 0425 705 174 or find her on Facebook (Alenka Hubacek Tennis Coac hing) or talk to any of our committee members belo w.

All past, present and new members are all welcome at our training nights that run on Thur sdays from 5 pm during the tennis season. For any information about the club please contact any of our committee members.

President Daryl Poole 0418 992 056 Vice President Chris Potter 0408 317 919 Jay Galvin 0438 318 810 Secretary Donna Glen 0429 877 315 Treasurer Tanya Godfrey 0407 942 077

Rich River Tennis Club

The complex at Rich River Golf Club Resort boasts nine floodlit synthetic grass tennis courts.

The Club’s emphasis is on developing junior tennis both from a competition and coaching point of view.

Competitions Wednesday night junior teams competition is run each school term from 4.30pm.

Monday night mixed teams competition consists of three women and three men. The competition is run each school term and commences at 7 pm.

Wednesday night men’s competition is a team format, consisting of four men. This competition is run in Terms 2 and 3 through the winter and commences at 7.30 pm.

Ladies social tennis is played every Wednesday morning during Terms 2 and 3 from 9.30 am.

Winter squad program Rich River is a member of the Campaspe Tennis and Goulburn Murray Lawn Tennis Associations played during October-March each year.

Tennis coaching lessons are available all year round with Tennis Australia qualified coach Andrew Crossman.

President & Coach Andrew Crossman 5480 9690 Darren Short 0433 542 549 Vice-President Sarah Crossman 5480 9690 Secretary

Want to improve your game?

Crossies Tennis Coaching is available all year round!

• Private & group coaching • Beginners to advanced • Professional re-string service Lessons are available at Rich River Tennis Club, Echuca Lawn Tennis Club or Crossies’ home.

Andrew Crossman Phone 5480 9690

(TA Certified Club Professional Coach)

E V E I H C A O T E L AB ANYTHING It is vital people with intellectual disabilities are given the same opportunities in life. And that is something the Echuca-Campaspe Special Olympics group prides itself on.

Erin Lyons sat down with ECSO chairperson Elaine Hamilton to discuss the benefits of sport for our disabled athletes.

The Echuca-Campaspe Special Olympics group is focused on transforming the lives of people with an intellectual disability through sport.

Not only does it help build the gross and fine motor skills of its athletes, it also promotes social inclusion.

And, of course, personal development.

All ECSO athletes love to bring home gold, or claim top spot on the podium at their respective events.

However, if you asked them why they love playing sport, they usually respond with something along the line of “making friends” or “having fun”.

26 | Echuca-Moama LOCAL SPORT 2015–16

Take budding Echuca basketballer Krystelle Lloyd for instance.

At the time of writing, Krystelle was in the US representing Australia at the Special Olympics World Games— a huge achievement for her and the club.

However the teenager’s main objective is to meet new people and gain independence and confidence.

Echuca-Campaspe Special Olympics chairperson Elaine Hamilton said other than helping the athletes reach their personal bests they also have the chance to get active.

‘‘It gives everybody the opportunity to learn new skills and make new friends,’’ Hamilton said. ‘‘We have about 41 athletes under our wing who now have those opportunities.’’

People with an intellectual disability are often ridiculed, misunderstood, isolated or simply ignored.

However Hamilton also said with the understanding and support of Special Olympics they discover the skills that allow them to improve their health, develop self-confidence and earn happiness. ‘‘It’s all about social connectedness and getting to know people in their own community,’’ she said. ‘‘And it offers them a chance to showcase their abilities, not disabilities.’’

Athletes can compete at a local, regional, state, national and even international level through the program.

Hamilton said the highlight of the organised competitions are the look on the athletes’ faces when they complete an event. ‘‘I just love seeing their faces,’’ she said. ‘‘No matter what, win or lose, everyone comes home happy.

‘‘It’s all about social

connectedness and getting to know people in their own community.’’

Elaine Hamilton

‘‘They are always rewarded for doing their best.’’

Like most athletes, they have a hunger to achieve and they are super competitive, no doubt about it.

But it’s a different kind of competitiveness, according to Hamilton. ‘‘There is a sense of competitiveness in the athletes, but it never overrides their friendship and camaraderie with other athletes,’’ she said. ‘‘If someone falls in a race they always stop to help them up before carrying on with the event.

‘‘They really care about each other and no matter where you’re from they support each other.’’

Hamilton said there are always ‘‘high-fives all round’’ on competition day, which is just ‘‘awesome to watch’’.

Swimming, bocce and ten-pin bowling are played at the regional summer games while athletes compete in golf, equestrian and basketball during winter.

And for the first time, Hamilton is hoping to

introduce netball into the program. ‘‘Carmel Beck (coach of the Echuca-Moama Rockettes netball side) is heading up a Special Olympic netball squad,’’ Hamilton said. ‘‘It is available for boys and girls and we are hoping to get a good response for that one.’’

Most of all, Hamilton acknowledges how lucky the ECSO group is to have so much support in town.

The club is also still calling for more athletes and volunteers to join in on the fun.

Echuca Campaspe Special Olympics – personal development through sport Combining the transformative power of sport and a holistic approach to athlete well-being.

Echuca Campaspe Special Olympics strive to create a better world by fostering the acceptance and inclusion of all people especially those with an intellectual disability.

Supporting a better life for people with an intellectual disability through the power of sport, team work and friendship.

For enquiries or to volunteer contact local Special Olympics chairperson Elaine Hamilton 0437 801 944 echucaspecialolympics@gmail.com

Join in today • Aquatics • Basketball • Bocce

• Equestrian • Netball • Tenpin bowling • Golf

27 | Echuca-Moama LOCAL SPORT 2015–16

Echuca Campaspe Special Olympics is one of the many Special Olympics programs around Australia transforming the lives of people with an intellectual disability through regular sport, competition and personal development.

Our focus is on helping all people with an intellectual disability reach their personal best, regardless of their skills.

OF THE YEAR The Echuca-Moama Sportstar recognise outstanding sporting Echuca-Moama Sportstar of the Year is in its 28th year. The list of nominees boasts an impressive level of achievements ranging from regional right up to international competition in a wide variety of sports.

2014 Winners: Junior Jayden Gulson & Senior Brady Threlfall

JUNIOR & SENIOR SPORTSTAR: The Junior and Senior monthly winners are awarded to an individual who has achieved outstanding results at club, regional, state or international level. Monthly winners receive a dinner voucher from the Moama Bowling Club and are then eligible for the title of Junior or Senior Sportstar of the Year.

COACH OF THE YEAR: Coach of the Year is awarded to an individual who has achieved outstanding contributions in respect to their role as Coach. They must be a role model, communicator, and instrumental in helping develop athletes to their full potential. They work to maximize the social, intellectual and physical wellbeing of athletes.

Since the first annual Sportstar dinner held at the Moama Bowling Club in 1988 an incredible 250 Senior and 200 Junior sport stars have been nominated for monthly awards recognising their sporting achievements.

TEAM OF THE YEAR: Team of the Year is presented to a team who has achieved outstanding results at club, region, state or international level. The team must have displayed teamwork, dedication and sportsmanship at all times.

SPIRIT OF SPORT: This award is in recognition of those who work tirelessly to help promote and conduct local sporting events and competitions. A person who gives for the benefit of the sports club, made extraordinary contributions, fosters a positive focus on personal development with the club and demonstrates excellence and pride in their club.

ENGAGE WITH US:

www.twitter.com/RivSport

Proudly sponsored by

of the Year Awards achievements in our region.

Left: Team Of The Year – Echuca District Netball 17’S Centre: Spirit Of Sport – Nikki Cohen Right: Coach Of The Year – Michael Gulson

OUR YEARLY WINNERS RECEIVE: Senior Sportstar $2000 travel voucher & $500 prize money Junior Sportstar $500 for training Coach of the Year $500 travel voucher Spirit of Sport $500 prize money Team of the Year $500 for training/development Spirit of Sport will be selected monthly and three finalists will be invited to attend Awards night where the winner will be announced, Coach and Team of the Year award nominations are collated throughout the year.

Finalists will be selected and invited to the Sportstar awards night.

www.facebook.com/RiverineHerald

HOW TO NOMINATE: Nomination forms are available at the Riverine Herald office or online at www.riverineherald.com.au/sportstar.

CONTACT: For more information contact Jennifer Dwyer on 5483 0503 or sportstar@riverineherald.com.au ADDITIONAL CONTENT ONLINE: Visit www.riverineherald.com.au/sportstar for: - more photos & videos - read more on this month’s winners - the history of Sportstar - online nomination forms

Premier Bowling Events Echuca-Moama’s premier entertainment venue, Moama Bowling Club continues to host Australia’s premier bowling events for men and women.

Aug 30th – Sep 1st 2015 – $33,000 – Ladies Premier Pairs Classic Sep 26th & 27th 2015 – Ladies 5-a-side Oct 25th – Oct 28th 2015 – $40,000 – Men’s Prestige Pairs Classic Nov 25th & Nov 26th 2015 – Moama Open Mixed Singles Dec 21st & Dec 22nd 2015 – Men’s Summer Pairs

For all information on these and other bowling events contact the Bowls Department (03) 5481 3777. Open from 10am daily.

6 Shaw St., Moama NSW 2731 Freecall 1800 806 777 www.moamabowlingclub.com.au ABN. 58001046939

ECHUCA-MOAMA SPORTING CLUBS AQUATIC CENTRE: Echuca War Memorial Aquatic Centre Corner of High and Service Sts, Echuca, 3564 5480 2995 www.campaspeaquatics.com.au EWMAC

ATHLETICS: Echuca Moama Little Athletics Centre Jack Eddy Oval, Perricoota Rd, Moama Nikki Cohen: 0419 573 258 Echuca Moama Little Athletics Centre

BASKETBALL:

Echuca Football & Netball Club Vic Park Oval, Crofton St, Echuca Beth Crossman: 0408 356 114 Echuca Football Netball Club Echuca Masters Football Club (EMUs) Paul Lavars: 0400 683 676 www.echucamasters.com.au Echuca Masters Football Club Inc. Moama Football & Netball Club Moama Recreation Reserve Simon Maddox: 0408 526 952 www.moamafc.com.au Moama Football Netball Club

Echuca Moama Squash Club Echuca Sports Complex Mike Mangiameli: 0407 805 751 Echuca Moama Squash Club

Rich River Golf Club Resort 24 Lane, Moama, NSW, 2731 5481 3333 www.richriver.com.au Rich River Golf Club Resort

TENNIS: Campaspe Tennis Association Leanne Trewick: 0447 326 049

LAWN BOWLS:

CRICKET:

Moama Bowling Club 6 Shaw St, Moama 1800 806 777 www.moamabowlingclub.com.au Moama Bowling Club

Echuca Cricket Club Vic Park Oval, Crofton St, Echuca Jo Hinks: 0409 853 094 echucacc@hotmail.com Echuca Cricket Club

Crossies Tennis Coaching Andrew Crossman: 5480 9690 Echuca Lawn Tennis Club Vic Park Oval, Crofton St, Echuca Brian Gledhill: 0418 780 142 www.echucalawntc.com

Rich River Bowling Club 24 Lane, Moama, NSW, 2731 5481 3333 www.richriver.com.au Rich River Golf Club Resort

Echuca South Cricket Club High St, South Allan Holder: 0408 348 031 Aholder1@bigpond.net.au Echuca South Cricket Club Goulburn Murray Cricket Cam Kervin: 0438 468 013 goulburnmurraycricket@gmail.com Bendigo Bank Goulburn-Murray Cricket Moama Cricket Club Moama Recreation Reserve Brian Harland: 0418 581 860 moamacricket@hotmail.com Moama Cricket Club

Echuca South Tennis Club Butcher St, Echuca College, Echuca Daryl Poole: 0418 992 056 Echuca South Tennis Club

MARTIAL ARTS: Wickham’s Martial Arts Centre 81 Service St, Echuca Matt Wickham: 0418 505 049 www.wickhamsmartialarts.com Wickham’s Martial Arts Centre

MEMBER FOR PARLIAMENT:

Rich River Croquet Club 24 Lane, Moama, NSW, 2731 5481 3333 www.richriver.com.au Rich River Golf Club Resort

SPECIAL OLYMPICS:

Echuca & District Netball Association Echuca Netball Complex (High St, South) 5480 1725 www.edna.org.au

Rich River Tennis Club Rich River Golf Club Resort, Moama Sarah Crossman: 5480 9690 www.richriver.com.au Rich River Golf Club Resort

Moama Echuca Touch Football Moama Recreation Reserve Brodie Goodsell: 0427 851 595 www.moamaechucatouch.sportingpulse.net Moama Echuca Touch Football

Echuca Campaspe Special Olympics Elaine Hamilton: 0437 801 944 echucaspecialolympics@gmail.com www.specialolympics.com.au/echucacampaspe Echuca Special Olympics

FOOTBALL & NETBALL:

Echuca Village Tennis Club Jodee Shead: 5482 6244

TOUCH FOOTBALL:

Peter Walsh MP 496 High St, Echuca 5482 2039 Peter Walsh MP

CROQUET:

SPORTSWEAR: Echuca Fashion Centre 198–200 Hare St, Echuca 5482 1364 sales@echucafashioncentre.com.au

SQUASH:

GOLF:

Stubberfield Group Sports & Entertainment Centre High St, (Echuca South) Anthony Matthews: 5480 6903 echucabasketballstadium@bigpond.com Echuca BasketballAssoc

SPORTING EQUIPMENT: Intersport Bennett’s 132 Hare St, Echuca 5482 6661 www.bennetts.intersport.com.au Intersport Bennett’s

TRIATHLON & MULTISPORT: Echuca Moama Triathlon Club Steve Loader: 0408 380 858 Steve Gray: 0427 038 762 Haydn O’Neale: 0407 359 499 www.echucatriclub.com Echuca Moama Triathlon-Club

Junior Sport with Peter Walsh MP • • • • •

These are kids This is a game The coaches are volunteers The umpires are human There are no sheep stations involved

Peter Walsh MP 496 High Street, Echuca 3564

Tel: 5482 2039 or 1300 467 906

Authorised by Peter Walsh MP. Funded from Parliament’s Electorate Office and Communication Budget.

31 | Echuca-Moama LOCAL SPORT 2015–16

PLEASE REMEMBER

summer

YOUR SPORTS SPECIALISTS ALL YOUR CRICKET GEAR...

Northern Victoria’s most comprehensive range of cricket gear, all of the leading brands including Puma, Gray-Nicolls, Kookaburra, Asics, Newbery, Spartan, Gunn & Moore, County, New Balance, Masuri, Platypus, Paceman and Albion.

Bat repairs available along with our EXCLUSIVE bat-rolling service.

IS TENNIS YOUR GAME?

All the big brands • Head • Wilson • Nike TRY OUT A • Babolat • Yonex • Adidas DEMO TODAY! Electronic racquet re-stringing service available

day! o t o m e d a t u o y r T

ALL THE LATEST SWIMWEAR...

All of the latest in fashion & performance swimwear from Speedo, Funkita & Funky Trunks.

Sizes and styles for all ages.

Echuca – 132 Hare St Kyabram – 161 Allan St Deniliquin – 320 Cressy St

people sport to the

Phone: 03 5482 6661 Phone: 03 5852 1911 Phone: 03 5881 7372

bennetts@intersport.com.au www.bennetts.intersport.com.au