Leeton students part of Riverina state AFL championship victory

Parkview Public School’s James Rourke and Jaxon Ryan and Leeton Public School’s Jhi Grundy and Jayden Broadbent were part of the Riverina team that took out the state championships late last week. 

The foursome, along with their team mates, were able to defeat Mackillop in the final, which went right down to the wire when Riverina won by just a single point. 

Parkview Public School principal and NSWPSSA AFL convener Travis Irvin couldn’t believe the game that unfolded before him.

“As NSWPSSA AFL convener it really was the most remarkable title I can remember in my 18 year involvement,” he said. 

“Both boys produced some excellent football during the week, with James playing in a midfield and defensive role, while Jaxon was used primarily has a key forward.”

What made the victory even more remarkable was the fact Riverina were able to recover from a difficult loss to Mackillop on day one of the competition. 

Jhi said winning the grand final was a huge highlight. 

“It was heaps good … beating Mackillop was really good because they had beaten us by a fair bit (in round two),” he said. 

Leeton Public School assistant principal Catherine Tabain was thrilled with the effort. 

“We couldn’t be more proud of Jhi and Jayden and what they achieved during the week,” she said. 

“When the news came through on Thursday we were at our athletics carnival and as it was announced the whole school just went up in a huge cheer for them. 

“It was fantastic to see.”

For Jayden, the victory was one thing, but he also enjoyed learning new skills. 

“It was good to meet new people too,” he said. 

“It was a really fun experience.”

Championship scores

Day one

Round one

Riverina 3.3.21 d Sydney West 1.6.12

Round two

Mackillop 8.8.56 d Riverina 1.0.6

Day two

Round three

Riverina 4.4.28 d CIS 0.2.2

Quarter final

Riverina 8.6.54 d Sydney North 1.3.9

Day three

Semi-final

Riverina 3.5.23 d CIS 2.1.13

Grand final

Riverina 3.7.25 d Mackillop 3.6.24