Swans On Screen
HISTORY IN RED AND WHITE
2023 RFNL SEASON
Apr 15 MCUE (h) Apr 22 GGGM (a) Apr 29 bye May 6 LW (a) May 13 NI (a) May 20 TP (a) May 28 CR (h) Jun 3 CGP (h) Jun 17 WT (a)
Jun 24 LW (h) Jul 1 bye Jul 8 MCUE (a) Jul 15 TP (h) Jul 22 CR (a) Jul 29 GGGM (h) Aug 5 NI (h) Aug 12 CGP (a) Aug 19 WT (h)
Finals - Aug 26 QF Aug 27 EF Sep 2 SF2 Sep 3 SF1 Sep 10 PF Sep 16 GF The Man on the Fence
Women AFL Ladders Player Stats Record Swans Awards RFNL Awards Midweek Spooners podcast-Harry Rowston
PLAYER TRANFERS
IN: Henry Delves (Ainslie), Jack Hanna (Gumeracha, SA), Alec McCormick, Alex Page, Rhys Pollock and Dean Simpson (Queanbeyan), Daniel and Luke Peruzzi (Coleambally), James Treweeke (Ainslie).
Out: Todd Argus and Mark Bennett (Coleambally), Jamie Best (Queanbeyan), Tom Bartter, Ryan Best and Will Ellis (Barellan United).
THE FINAL WORD - By "The Man on the Fence"
SO, another footy season has ended and for those who follow the Griffith Swans it has ended in frustration and disappointment. Just as the prize of senior premiers seemed in our grasp it was cruelly snatched away to leave us with it all to do again next season.
However, despite the set-back, we have achieved a great deal and, backed by our excellent home support, we have turned on a brand of football at the Exies Oval well worthy of a higher status.
One of the reasons for success in 2023, (as regards their final league placing), a total of 29 players were used in the first team, the joint lowest total over this year eight-year period. This relatively small figure showing there to have been a more settled team in 2023 than in all but one of the last eight years, is backed up by the facts that only four players left the club at the end of the 2022 season.
These numbers are the lowest recorded over the last few years; in the seven seasons preceding last season, while on average, 8 new players were "blooded" during the season's programme.
All these figures point to the fact that Griffith's team during 2023 comprised more players of at least one year's experience with any other of the last eight years. These facts and figures give an insight into club president Paul Rogerson, coach Greg Dreyer and policy of team building, which obviously contributed to Griffith's relative success in 2023.
However, no pipedreams; only hard work will achieve success and we have to have the right people in the right places to see the necessary steps are taken. Well, that's about all for this season, except to say, "Enjoy the summer break", and whether you are staying or leaving "Good luck for next season". Up the Swans! Read more on .... "The Man on the Fence" click here
COLLEGE DREAM - By Cal Holroyd
SWANS player Jay Summers will be missing the next few seasons, as his formidable skills have landed him a spot playing American football for a US college. Summers has landed himself a special international student scholarship to play gridiron for Snow College, a college in Utah after covertly attending a scouting event in Melbourne - keeping it on the down low even from his teammates.
Summers came first in the country in both the vertical jump and third in the 10-yard dash, cementing him as a formidable wide receiver in the eyes of US colleges. "There was no football scholarship left, but they got me an international student one," Summers said.
The journey to this point hasn't been easy either, with few opportunities to get into American football and Summers almost gave up, but his passion kept him going. "I've always loved American football. I just fell in love with it at seven or eight years-old," Summers said. "Since then, I was just watching, throwing and catching by myself. "I almost gave up around year 10 since there was no real pathway."
He'll be taking off to start at Snow College on January 6, but being so far from home has presented a few nerves. However, in between games and training he's looking forward to meeting new people, experiencing the world and getting a college degree.
"Leaving home will be a big thing, but there's a lot more over there as well."
He's currently planning to study communications and rhetoric but said that may change once he's there. Once he's done his two years at Snow College, he dreams of moving onto Louisiana State University - like idol Odell Beckham Jr - but promised to come back and visit often.
"I will miss Australian football, I'll miss Griffith Swans," Summers said. "They've been a great team and a massive support. "I'll try and come back as much as I can."
Like many sporting codes in the United States, gridiron is highly competitive in the terms of making it to the top level, it is also one of the most lucrative sports in the world. For now, Summers plans to find his feet in Utah and chase his dream from there. (The Area News - Friday November 3, 2023).'
POLLOCK CLAIMS BEST AND FAIREST IN BIG YEAR FOR THE SWANS - by Jimmy Meiklejohn
RHYS Pollock capped off a strong year at Griffith winning the Swans best and fairest in a close count.
Pollock polled 42 votes to beat home Nathan Richards (37) and Jack Rowston (34) while Alex Page was named best in finals. The midfielder was honoured to win the top award, however, noted that he'd rather have the team success than the individual accolade.
"Yeah, I suppose it's nice to get a bit of recognition for this season," Pollock said. "But from a team point perspective we are obviously a bit disappointed in the grand final as team success comes first. "The individual accolade is a bonus but it's the team stuff that we are after."
The Swans stormed through to the Riverina League grand final after notching up victories against Ganmain-Grong Grong-Matong and Turvey Park before then falling to the Bulldogs in the decider by 31 points.
Roughly six weeks have passed since the grand final defeat and Pollock said the group have now processed what occurred at Narrandera Sportsground. "I think straight after it was just disappointment and almost frustration because I think we are a better side that what we displayed on grand final day," he said. "The weeks afterwards then gave us time to process it and try and move on, but with 'presso' being a bit down the track it's sort of brought it back up again. "We've accepted it and we've got to move on in a sense, but there is some disappointment there and we feel that we probably should've served up a better performance than what we did."
It was a stellar first season for Pollock in the Riverina League and he was rewarded for his efforts with a spot in the Team of the Year. Pollock said that he thoroughly enjoyed playing in the competition this past season and that he was glad he could string together some consistent footy. "I loved playing out there," he said. "I wasn't really sure what to expect I suppose in terms of my own performance or anything like that. "I wanted to play some consistent footy and help provide a bit of leadership and sort of help some of the younger midfielders."
Pollock will return to Queanbeyan next season alongside Page, Alec McCormick and Dean Simpson for the Tigers centenary celebrations in 2024. Being a Tigers junior, Pollock said that he was looking forward to getting back to his home footy club for what should be a massive year of celebrations. "'Being the home club and having the centenary is something to look forward to, there's been a fair bit of time and effort with plans for next year. "So it is definitely something exciting and we are looking forward to it."
While the quartet eventually made the decision to depart the Swans after just the one season, Pollock revealed that it was far from easy to depart Griffith. "It is quite a special club. "Not only the playing group but also Rogo (Paul Rogerson), Fifty (Greg Dreyer), and Sammy D (Daniel) and even just the families, the community and the volunteers. "They made us feel like we had played out there out whole lives and they made it very easy to fit in there." (The Daily Advertiser - Tuesday October 31, 2023).
DREYER PROUD OF SEASON DESPITE LOSS - by Jimmy Meiklejohn
GRIFFITH coach Greg Dreyer says he is immensely proud of the Swans' season despite falling short in the Riverina League grand final to Turvey Park. Last year the Swans record just the five victories while this season they finished with 10-1-5 record before going on to record impressive finals wins against Ganmain-Grong Grong-Matong and the Bulldogs.
While falling short of the premiership, Dreyer said he was still immensely proud of the Swans' efforts to qualify for the grand final. "Oh yeah of course," Dreyer said. "I mean we had five wins last year and I think we only had five losses going into today. "I'm very proud. I mean they've worked hard but we were outplayed, and they were just too good today. "Whether it was that inexperience or the occasion I don't know, but we'll bounce back pretty hard I reckon. "There was 18 locals and I think there would be at least 15 go again next year and we've got more coming through. "So, we'll learn from it, and we'll get better."
The Swans got off to a hot start and had the first two goals of the games through James Girdler and Alex Page which saw them open up an early 12-point lead. However, the Bulldogs then kicked the next four goals of the contest and the Swans never regained back the lead.
Dreyer agreed that they started on the right note, however admitted that the Swans were unable to nullify the Bulldogs run and spread.
"I felt that we probably went away from the right effort areas a little bit," he said. "Like we didn't man up and we trying to get forward of the footy too early. "They are very well drilled, well coached and they are out of the back and away they go. "They like to spread and go sideways, and we knew that they did everything we talked about, but we just didn't handle the situation well enough."
Page was outstanding for the Swans in defeat and narrowly missed out on being named best on ground after a four-goal performance.
(The Area News - Monday September 18, 2023). Full grand final details and match report
MORRISSEY RELISHING CHANCE AT FIRST SENIOR GRAND FINAL - by Jimmy Meiklejohn
SOME footballers can go through their whole career without playing in a single grand final however for Griffith's Bailey Morrissey he will get the opportunity in just his 13th first grade game. The 16-year-old made his first senior debut at the start of June and now three months later is preparing to play in what could be a drought breaking premiership win for the Swans.
Morrissey said that he and the rest of the side were excited to be playing in Saturday's grand final against Turvey Park. "Yeah, I'm really looking forward to it as are all the other boys," Morrissey said." We're really excited."
The young forward is only playing his third full season of Australian Rules however he already has quite the impressive resume which includes winning the 2022 leading goal kicking award in the under 17.5s competition.
Morrissey started this season in the underage competition kicking 20 goals in his first six games before being given the nod to making his senior debut against Collingullie-Glenfield Park. It was an impressive senior debut for the teenager as he kicked two goals. The youngster feels that he's now secured his spot in the side and has gained more confidence with every game. "I was a bit nervous in my first game, " he said. "But all the pressure sort of dropped off me as I started playing a bit more and the boys started realising that I'm not just a fill in."
The Swans hold a 2-1 advantage this season against the Bulldogs this season and Morrissey believed they could also get the job done today in the decider. "Yes, I am confident that we can get it done if we can keep playing like we're playing," he said. "I think it's just going to be who kicks the straightest and it's going to be a hot day so who's fitter on the day."
Finishing outside of finals last year, Morrissey agreed that it's been a stellar effort to qualify for the grand final and noted the Swans had potentially exceeded expectations this season. "Yeah, it is," he said. "I don't think anyone really expected us to go this far this year, but we've put the work in the pre-season, and it's paid off." (The Daily Advertiser - Saturday September 16, 2023).
ROWSTON HOPEFUL OF ENDING 20-YEAR WAIT - by Liam Warren
CAN the Swans end their 20-year wait for the first grade Riverina Football League premiership? Captain Jack Rowston believes they can. After having a bit of a slump in the middle of the season, the Griffith side found their stride and knocked off the top two sides in the competition to head into the grand final at the first opportunity.
Rowston feels that his side has shown in the finals series already that they have what it takes to claim the flag "Definitely confident, you don't get into a grand final without being a good footy side," he said. "We have done the hard work all year, starting with three nights a week during the pre-season.
Now it's just about getting over that last hurdle, and hopefully, the boys can get up for it."
There are some similarities to this weekend and the last time the Swans were able to claim the flag, namely the opposition. The Swans were able to pick up a 73-point win over the Bulldogs in the 2003 grand final, and that game featured Rowston's dad, Phillip, who kicked a goal and was among the Griffith's sides best.
Rowston said it would be a special feeling to lead the next Swans side to bring home the title. "It probably doesn't make too much of a difference, but if people look into those things, then it could be a bit of a good omen," he said. "Obviously, he has won one, so it would be nice to pick up one as well. It would just be a good day for the club in general, it's been 20 years, so we are really looking forward to it."
While the Turvey side finished the season as minor premiers, the Swans skipper is coming into the game knowing that past records go out the window on Grand Final Day. "Once you get to the grand final, it is about who wants it more on the day," he said. "I was part of the sides that lost in 2018 and 19, and it doesn't matter how much talent you have in your side, whichever side come out and wants to win it the most, they are the ones that win in grand finals. Anything can happen on grand final day."
With the temperature expected to reach the 30s on Saturday, it will be a warm end to the season, but with the make-up of both sides, Rowston doesn't think it will have too big an impact. "We have a young fit side, and so do Turvey, so I don't think the heat will worry us too much," he said.
(The Area News - Friday September 15, 2023).
FOLEY STOKED TO PLAY IN FIRST SENIOR DECIDER - by Jimmy Meiklejohn
GRIFFITH defender Sam Foley says he is stoked to be playing in his first senior grand final this weekend against Turvey Park. Foley cruelly missed out playing in the Swans 2018 grand final loss against Collingullie-Glenfield Park through injury while in 2019 he was playing reserve grade.
However just a short few years later, the Swans will again play in the decider and this time around Foley is ready and raring to go. "I'm stoked," Foley said. It's just been a completely different build up just knowing that you are in it. We've had that week off and it's just been really exciting."
The Swans were the recipients of a week off after defeating Turvey Park in the second semi final to win their way straight through to the decider. Given their last bye was in round 11 at the start of July, Foley believes the week off has been massively beneficial.
"I think we ended up playing 10 weeks straight," he said. So as much as we were sort of rolling, it's nice to give everyone a bit of a spell just to get their bodies right."
The Swans currently hold a 2-1 advantage following their three contests against the Bulldogs so far, however not one of those wins has been greater than 21 points.
Foley thinks Saturday would be another close contest and agreed that both teams look to play a similar brand of football. "We know they play a similar style to us," he said. "They like to use the wide ground, spread and use that extra handball. The three times we've played them we're stuck with them for about three quarters and then someone has sort of gone ahead in that fourth quarter. I expect the same thing."
Temperatures at Narrandera Sportsground are expected to hover around the 30 degrees during the first-grade final which will test both teams' fitness levels.
Foley however had no concerns about the warmer conditions and claimed that he had never seen a Swans outfit in better physical condition.
"I've never seen a Swans side so fit," he said. "They just love doing extras and they are all obviously young and they are just machines. They are a lot fitter than me when I was their age definitely. While only 23, Foley is one of the elder statesmen of the team having made his senior debut back in 2016.
(The Daily Advertiser - Friday September 15, 2023).
WE'RE READY'; GRIFFITH HOPE TO END MCUE A GRADE REIGN - by Tahlia Sinclair.
WITH three netball teams and their first-grade football all vying for premierships this Saturday, there's a good feeling around the club at the Swans. Georgia Fuller said the vibes among not only the A grade playing group, but across the whole club as they look to bring home four premierships on Saturday.
Having fallen short in last year's preliminary final, Fuller said the side is cherishing the opportunity to play in a grand final, knowing the opportunity doesn't come around often. "We've got three netball sides in grand final and our footy side as well, so the vibe around the club is great, everyone's pumped up," Fuller said. "It's sort of a reward for all the effort not just from this year but over the past few years, so it is definitely exciting."
"I think we were definitely disappointed last year; we've come close for the last however many years and it's not easy to make a grand final, we're very appreciative of that. "Now we're here and we're in this moment, it's not over yet, we've got a lot of work to do on the weekend and we'll be going in as hot as we can because we know grand finals don't come easy."
While excitement continues to build around the club, Fuller said the side is doing what they can to keep some normality in their game preparations. Maintaining their regular Tuesday gym and Thursday court sessions, Fuller admitted there has been plenty of excitement still despite sticking to their usual routine. "We have our last training (Thursday), we've kept the week like how we've trained all year, we've done the same sort of thing as usual, I'm sure Joh has some court specific stuff planned but we're just continuing to work through our basics," she said. (The Daily Advertiser - Friday September 15, 2023).
B AND C GRADE NETBALL SIDES CHASE FLAGS - by Liam Warren
THE Griffith Swans will be hoping to make a strong start to their grand final day when their lower-grade netball sides take to the court on Saturday in Narrandera. It has been a strong season for the C and B grade sides, who will be looking to finish their 2023 seasons with premierships that have been a long time coming for the club.
For C Grade, it will be a case of closing out what has been an undefeated season so far in 2023. The Swans have only dropped a single point in the C Grade all season, which came in the form of a draw against this week's opponents, Coolamon. Outside of that 34-all draw in round 14, the Swans have been hard to catch in the competition and will go into this weekend's as favourites to take home the flag, which will be their first since 2010, when they defeated Leeton-Whitton 40-36. The Griffith side will head in with confidence, knowing that they were able to take a 41-32 win over the Rovers in the Qualifying Final to advance to the decider.
The B Grade side has been fighting with Turvey Park for the top position all season, and the two will face off once more on the final day of the season. The two regular season fixtures saw both sides take a win off each other before the Swans were able to secure passage into the grand final with a 42-32 win in the Qualifying Final. If they were able to bring home the flag, it would be the first one in B Grade since 2006. (The Area News - Friday September 15, 2023).
GRIFFITH GETTING BEHIND THE SWANS - by Jimmy Meiklejohn
GRIFFITH assistant coach Sam Daniel says the town is abuzz ahead of the Swans' appearance in the Riverina League grand final this Saturday against Turvey Park. The Swans will play in their first decider since 2019 and are looking to claim their first senior premiership since 2003 when strangely enough they defeated the Bulldogs by 73 points.
The majority of the Swans side are locals and Daniel feels that a senior premiership would mean quite a bit to the community. "It's huge for the town," Daniel said. "I mean generally it is anyway, but because we've got so many local junior players in the side it's their friends and the whole town is just abuzz at the moment."
The Swans enjoyed a week off after overcoming the Bulldogs in the second semifinal a fortnight ago and Daniel believed that the break came at an ideal time. "I think the week off couldn't have come at a better time for us, " he said. "We had 10 weeks straight of really high-quality football against good sides and we had a few niggles as well. "Generally, I'm not the biggest fan of a week off before the grand final but in this circumstance where the boys are at it's been really handy for us."
Having a bye before a big final hasn't been all that successful so far this finals series with both Ganmain-Grong Grong-Matong and the Bulldogs going down after entering a clash after a week off.
Despite a trend forming, Daniel felt the Swans could buck it and backed them to be ready to go on Saturday.
Alec McCormack injured a hamstring in the semi final win against the Bulldogs and despite initial fears he might miss the clash, Daniel revealed he was more likely than not to take the field. "He's looking pretty good," he said. "He'll go through a fitness test tomorrow night, but it's come along better than expected."
The Swans played in back-to-back grand finals in 2018-19, however weren't able to get the job done in either decider. There is only a small fraternity from those sides still playing and Daniel believed that the pain from those losses shouldn't be a major motivator ahead of Saturday's contest. "It is for me as I played in both of those," he said. "But I think we've only got four or five guys from these teams and the rest are 19–20 year old's and they've got no fear. "I don't think that has any impact on our group as a whole."
The Swans have been boosted this season by the inclusion of Queanbeyan quartet Rhys Pollock, Alex Page, McCormick and Dean Simpson who have added a fair bit of experience and class to the Griffith side.
Daniel thought the quartet's inclusion had been massive and more importantly they've fitted in like they were Griffith locals. "They've been excellent," he said. "I think sometimes you can get travelling recruits that feel like travelling recruits and then you get ones that feel like locals.
That's really the way they've been, they've slotted in like they've lived there their whole lives.
"Great people and really good for a young group in terms of mentoring and showing what's it's like to prepare when you are a good senior player whose played at a higher level. "They've just been fantastic for our group and Henry Delves has been the same." (The Daily Advertiser - Thursday September 14, 2023).
RICHARDS EXCITED BY THE CHANCE TO END THE SWANS' DROUGHT - by Matt Malone
GRIFFITH ruck Nathan Richards struggles to put into words what it would mean to play a part in ending the club's 20-year premiership drought. The talented big man was there in 2019 when the Swans gave up a half-time lead before going down to Wagga Tigers in the Riverina League decider.
Four years later, Richards will be back on grand final day and is hoping to play a leading roll in Griffith's first premiership since 2003. "Yeah it's 20 years this year. It would be unreal just thinking about it just now, it would be huge," Richards said. "We've had our chances in previous years, we had two in a row (2018-19) that we probably backed ourselves to win it and this year, with this side, still full of locals, a lot of young juniors that we can continue to build on, it would be huge. Words are hard to describe what it would actually feel like to bring one back to the club."
Richards was just 20 and in his first season back at the club in 2019. While it was four years ago, the lessons learnt that day remain strong in his memory. "I think what we learnt, and me especially, from the last grand final was the game's not over until it's over" he said. "I think last time we were up a couple of goals and after that the ball didn't bounce our way, they got a bit of a run on and we couldn't finish so it's really just quarter by quarter, contest by contest, don't take anything for granted this week."
Richards, a Griffith junior, has been with the club since that day. He was forced to take on a senior role sooner than most as the club went about a quick re-build.
Pretty well once that was finished and we lost the grand final, we blooded a heap of kids through and they've come on leaps and bounds over the last two or three years," he said. "This year the team is different. In 2019, I was a young guy, I was young but I was 20. And I'm only 24 now and I'd be in the top five or six older guys in the team we're such a young team.
"The kids that started playing at 16 are now getting onto their 50th senior game as 18, 19-year-old's and while they're young, they've play a lot of junior grand finals and the patch that have come through, they've won them just about every single year so they know how to win them.
"We 're a real good group, everyone is really excited and we've really had to earn it this year, it's been real good comp and it's crazy how things can swing, We had three or four losses in a row and then to come and beat Tigers last round and really build some momentum coming into finals and knock over Ganmain and Turvey and go straight in was huge for our confidence."
Richards has enjoyed a strong year in the ruck for the Swans and has been a pivotal part on their run to a grand final. He's happy with his efforts but not satisfied just yet. "I had a pretty slow pre-season because I sliced my hand open at the end of last year, so I didn't really get to get into full pre-season training until February," he explained.
"I knew we were going to have a really good group ... I just knew there was a lot of good blokes around me if I could do the work and get the ball where they wanted it, we could go a long way so yeah. I'm really happy but the job's not done."
He will go up against Sydney-based former VFL ruck Antony Forato from Turvey Park in Saturday's decider at Narrandera Sportsground. He knows the importance of that encounter.
"It's really going to be a battle in there," he said. "He's a very good ruckman and their midfield is also extremely handy so we just know going in as a midfield group that if we can win it out of there, that it's going to go a long way towards helping us secure the win."
The Griffith group watched Sunday's preliminary final together and were impressed by the Bulldogs' efforts coming from 39 points down to win. "For them to come out and kick five or six straight in the last quarter was massive ... that's the sort of thing we know that they're capable of." (The Daily Advertiser - Wednesday September 13, 2023).
MUNRO TAKES HOME BEST AND FAIREST MEDAL - by Tahlia Sinclair
IN JUST her first full season playing in the Riverina League, Johannah Munro has won the Riverina League Netball A grade best and fairest medal. The Griffith defender joined the club midway through the 2022 season and took on the playing coach role in 2023. Munro polled in all but three she played this season, earning a massive 32 votes across 16 games. Still in finals contention, Munro said last week that she loved playing with the Griffith side and is hoping to take them through to this year's grand final.
Alongside runner up Ash Reynoldson (MCUE, 29 votes), Munro sailed through the votes with third placed Tameka Scott (Collingullie-Glenfield Park) earning 19 votes. An ex-professional player, Munro has lifted the Griffith program to another level, working not only with the A grade side but enjoying involvement with the whole club. Not only taking home the medal, but Munro was also named both keeper and coach in the Riverina League team of the year.
It was a successful evening for the Swans, with Isabella Cavallaro named Kathryn 'Foxy' Bechaz medallist as best and fairest under 17's player. In the B grade competition, Swans Lyndzi Cornale was joint medal winner with Turvey Park's Charlotte Niuila after they each polled 16 votes throughout the season.
Also sharing a medal were Mischa Garrod (Turvey Park) and Sophie Edmunds (Mangoplah-Cookardinia United-Eastlakes) who after collecting 24 votes were named joint A reserve best and fairest players.
In C grade count, Wagga Tigers' Lucy Howard was awarded for her outstanding season.
Ganmain-Grong Grong-Matong Emily McPherson received the rising star award. McPherson played 10 games in her first year competing in the Riverina League A grade competition, juggling Lions games with representative duties.
Alongside Munro, eleven players were named in the team of the year, with six of the nine clubs represented. Munro was joined by fellow Swans Georgia Fuller (captain) as wing attack, Jenna Richards (interchange), Collingullie-GP playing coach Olivia Jolliffe (vice-captain) in goal defence, Hannah Finemore. Mangoplah-CUE's Ash Reynoldson, Phoebe Wallace and Ash Moller were named on the court in wing defence, centre and goal shooter, Shannon Russell on the bench.
Sarah Hillier (Coolamon) was named in goal attack, Jess Allan (Wagga Tigers) and Prue Walsh (Ganmain-GGM) were named interchange. (The Daily Advertiser - Thursday September 7, 2023).
FINALS VICTORY PROVIDES BOOST - By Jimmy Meiklejohn
GRIFFITH captain Jack Rowston believes the Swans 15-point Riverina League qualifying final win will provide a real confidence boost to his young side. Going up against reigning premiers Ganmain-Grong Grong-Matong, the young Swans outfit outclassed the Lions in three of the four quarters to set up a semi-final clash with Turvey Park.
It was a huge statement on the big stage from the Swans and Rowston believed the win would generate some nice momentum heading into the clash against the Bulldogs. "The back end of the year we probably didn't play as well as the first half," Rowston said.
"It's probably not so much coming of age because their a long way to go but just a nice confidence boost to show the boys that we are good enough. "Ganmain are one of the best sides in the comp and we've beaten them twice now, it was just a real confidence booster to just let the boys know that we are definitely good enough to compete with the top teams."
It was an impressive performance from the Swans who burst out of the blocks early kicking the first four goals of the game. There were a few numbers of Swans players who played in their first senior final on Saturday and Rowston said that he was proud of their performance in such an important game. "They didn't let the big stage get to them and everyone stood up," he said. "There were no passengers, and you wouldn't say anyone was a real standout for the day as it was a real big team effort.
"We didn't rely on the likes of Rhys Pollock and Nathan Richards and these types of blokes, everyone played their role and played really well, and it was pleasing." Bailey Morrissey and Patrick Payne had fantastic games for the Swans with Morrissey finishing with two important goals while Payne played important roles both down the back and up forward.
Rowston said that he was impressed with the pairs performance and noted they are amongst the younger members of the Griffith team. "They are blokes that are still at school and for them to stand up in big finals it shows the character of those two blokes," he said. "They just take it in their stride and just play footy."
The Swans face another big test this weekend against Turvey Park and Rowston is expecting a tough challenge against the Bulldogs. (The Area News - Friday September 1, 2023).
TOSCAN GLAD HE PLAYED ON AS ELUSIVE PREMIERSHIP BECKONS - by Matt Malone
LONG-SERVING Griffith footballer James Toscan was virtually retired at the end of last season.
His mind was all but made up, the club knew it but a conversation with coach Greg Dreyer at the end-of-season presentation night planted enough of a seed for him to play on.
The 33-year-old is glad he did as he prepares to line up in a second semi-final clash against Turvey Park at Narrandera Sportsground on Saturday. "Last year I was thinking about retirement pretty hard," Toscan revealed. "Dreyer, I had a bit of conversation with him at 'presso' night and he twisted my arm.
"Yeah, I'm glad I did play again. It's been a pretty enjoyable year. I've missed a few games in the middle of year with work but I think I've played five or six in a row now."
Toscan is a life member at Griffith. He's played 229 games for the club and is a former captain and assistant coach. He said the emerging crop of young talent at the club has helped bring out the best in him. "In all, the young guys have rejuvenated me a bit, I suppose," Toscan said. "They're a really good bunch of young blokes. "Me and Greg started with the young group three years ago and to see what they're doing now, it's pretty good."
A premiership is about all that is missing from Toscan's C.V. "That's always been the ultimate goal.
It would be nice to do it," he said. He played in the Swans back-to-back grand final defeats in 2018 and 2019 and believes this year's group has a different feel about it. "It's definitely younger," Toscan said.
"Back then we had some older heads that hadn't played many finals but this current group, they've won grand finals all through their junior footy and a lot of them played in our 17's flag, so they've got no fear, really."
Toscan has played just about everywhere for Griffith during his career. At the moment, he's back enjoying life as a forward and has returned 21 goals from 14 games. He is enjoying it in attack.
"It's good. We've got a bit of connection with Henry (Delves) now," he said. "It probably took a little bit to develop but with Henry and Patty Payne it takes the load off when you've got a couple of bigger fellas. "It is nice getting the second or third tall."
Turvey Park and Griffith have enjoyed one win apiece over the other this season. Toscan only played the second time around, when Griffith won at home, but recognises the two teams have a lot of similarities. "I played them at home about six weeks ago. They've got a pretty similar list profile and the way they play too, they want to run and carry, similar to us," he said. "We're obviously really looking forward to it, we think we can give it a shake." (The Daily Advertiser - Wednesday August 30, 2023).
GRIFFITH SWANS WEEKEND FINALS WINNERS - SENIOR & RESERVE GRADE
CONLAN IS EXCITED AHEAD OF FIRST SENIOR FINAL - By Jimmy Meiklejohn
GRIFFITH defender Nicholas Conlan is excited ahead of what will be his first senior final on Saturday when the Swans take on Ganmain-Grong Grong-Matong in a qualifying final. Conlan is in his second year of senior football and has been reliable contributor off half back for the Swans this year.
Saturday's contest against the Lions will be one of the biggest of Conlan's young career and he admitted that he has some mixed feelings ahead of the qualifying final. Conlan will be most likely not be alone in terms of feeling nervous as only roughly half the team has experienced finals in the past.
With so much inexperience throughout the side, Conlan agreed that guidance from the leaders would be absolutely crucial on Saturday. "It going to be very important because we've got a lot of players that haven't experienced finals yet in seniors. So having them using their voice and showing us how to prepare that's going to be massive for our success I reckon," Conlan said.
The young defender said it was going to be a tough contest against the reigning premiers who enter the clash after dominating the second half of the season which saw them win seven straight games.
The Swans were able to get the job done over the Lions earlier in the season and Conlan believed they absolutely had a chance to end GGGM's winning streak. "I reckon we could get it done. Hopefully, that's the plan anyway and you can't come in not confident."
The midfield battle has proved pivotal both times the two sides have met so far this year and Conlan believes that getting on top in the middle would go a long way to claiming victory. "I reckon it's going to start with the midfield," he said. "'Pressure up the ground and then stopping their easy entry going forward. "It's pretty much based around our defence I reckon and how we use the footy coming into our forward line as well."
Narrandera Sportsground offers a lot of space to get their run and carry up and going and Conlan agreed the extra space could prove beneficial for the Swans this weekend. "Yeah, I'd say it would," he said. "I feel like we match up well in the in and under and then I feel like we've got that outside play as well that we can go to and the bigger ground makes it a bit easier to do."
Conlan hasn't been shy to take the game on this year coming off half back and admitted that he was looking forward to having some added space to work with this weekend.
(The Daily Advertiser - Thursday August 24, 2023).
DREYER BACKING HIS SWANS TO BOUNCE BACK INTO A TOP-THREE SPOT - By Jimmy Meiklejohn
GRIFITH coach Greg Dreyer is backing the Swans to put a tough month behind them as they look to secure a top three spot.
The Swans host Wagga Tigers on Saturday in what is a crucial match for both sides as the result will have massive finals ramifications.
A spot in the top three is potentially available for both sides while the Tigers need a win to ensure they plays finals football.
The Swans have dropped three out of their last four games however Dreyer is confident they can turn it around this weekend at the Exies Oval. "We had a good chat and haven't been far off the mark," Dreyer said. "We hit the front again there in the last quarter so maybe it's a bit of confidence thing. "It's been a tough six weeks I think but we've had a pretty good week and had a good chat about what's ahead of us."
The Swans look likely to welcome back key defender Alec McCormick for the important clash against the Tigers after he missed Griffith's loss on the weekend to Collingullie-Glenfield Park. McCormick missed the contest with a slight knee injury however Dreyer believed that he should be right to go for Saturday's clash.
Dreyer also believed that Taine Moraschi would be returning for the clash which will provide the Swans with a big boost. Moraschi has performed strongly for GWS Giants in the VFL over the past couple of weeks and Dreyer was looking forward to hopefully having him back in the side this weekend.
Best case scenario for the Swans would see them finish third and face either Turvey Park or Ganmain-Grong Grong-Matong in the first week of the Riverina League finals. However, if results don't go their way they will find themselves playing in an elimination final at Robertson Oval against either Tigers, Coolamon or the Demons. (The Daily Advertiser - Friday August 18, 2023).
INJURY FORCES DANIEL TO HANG UP THE BOOTS - By Jimmy Meiklejohn
GRIFFITH assistant coach Sam Daniel has retired with immediate effect. Daniel injured his knee in the Swans' loss to Ganmain-Grong Grong-Matong and after receiving scans late last week he had his worst fears confirmed. "My playing days are over," Daniel said.
"I'm retiring immediately, I've got a torn ACL, torn PCL and a torn calf just to throw on top of there. "There's no rush to get surgery because I won't be coming back to footy. "I did it 10 years ago in my other knee and it's hard enough to come back when you are 22 let alone now so that's it for my playing days." It's a devastating finish for Daniel who will now have to sit out the Swans' upcoming finals campaign where they are likely to be a top contender for this year's premiership.
Daniel said it was disappointing to be missing out but believed that he has come to terms with the news better than what he'd anticipated.
I don't know if it's a bit of age or that I'm still assistant coach, so I'm still involved in some aspect. "I'm handling it a bit better than I thought I would but maybe it hasn't hit me yet.
"We've still got a very good opportunity to win it and hopefully it's a Bob Murphy situation like when the Bulldogs won it."
Daniel has enjoyed taking on the assistant coaching role and even got the opportunity to be stand-in coach for three games. With his playing days now set to be behind him, Daniel confirmed that coaching would be something that he would definitely look more to get involved in.
"It's something that I really enjoy," he said. "I really enjoy watching particularly the younger kids that come through around 19 to 20 into first grade, helping them develop and seeing the results of that is something that I really enjoy. "Coaching is something that I will definitely pursue if given the opportunity I guess."
Daniel played a total of 106 senior games for the Swans and noted there was a couple of highlights that clearly stood out.
"Down here certainly those two grand finals that we got to," he said. "It still probably burns me that we didn't win at least one and then probably the last three years having a different playing group as it really invigorated my love for footy again.
"Just coming through with different groups and watching them turn into really talented footballers has been awesome. "Then the 2012 NEAFL flag with Queanbeyan sits right at the top I'd say."
Daniel was hoping his injury would provide the group with a bit of inspiration and he was hopeful that they would make the most of the opportunity presented to them. "I hope our boys I guess use it and don't take this year for granted and the opportunity we've got," he said.
"You're playing career goes very quickly so I hope they just use it to try and get the best out of themselves and have a real crack this year. "I've been here for nine years and played in some real good football sides and I'm going to retire without a flag for Griffith. "I had opportunities, and we didn't take them, so I just want them to realise how hard it is to do, and you really have to get the most out of yourself to win those flags."
Daniel's retirement means that only six members of the 2019 Griffith grand final side remain in Jack Rowston, James Toscan, Charlie Cunial, Nathan Richards, Kahlan Spencer and Daniel Peruzzi. (The Daily Advertiser - Thursday August 10, 2023).
SWANS WANT STRONG RESPONSE AGAINST EAGLES - By Jimmy Meiklejohn
GRIFFITH will look to respond strongly this weekend after suffering back-to-back defeats which has seen the Swans drop to fourth on the Riverina League ladder. The Swans host Narrandera this weekend at Exies Oval and will have Greg Dreyer back at the helm after serving his three-game suspension.
With only three rounds to go until finals, Dreyer said it was important to get back to business against the Eagles. "It's another important game," he said. "It seems like every week you've got to really turn up which has been great. "The competition is strong and close, so we've got to get ourselves building now after that bit of a hiccup with the two losses and we want a bit of momentum.
"We've got to play well, and they'll be tough Narrandera even though they haven't won a game. "They've got some classy players and we want to bounce back after two losses we've had in a row. "We need to have the right attitude, turn up and be consistent this week."
Despite going down to Ganmain-Grong Grong-Matong and Coolamon, Dreyer was relatively pleased with the performance put forward and believed the Swans weren't too far off the mark. "We hit the front against Ganmain and got back to even against Coolamon," he said. "So, we were playing okay and obviously you go away and have a review and there's things we aren't happy with. "But I don't think we are two far off it to be honest and they are two very good sides mind you."
The Swans were forced to play out the majority of the contest against the Lions with only two players on the bench following a knee injury to stand-in coach Sam Daniel. Dreyer was unsure of the extent of the damage but said the club would have more of an idea later in the week. "He's hurt it and done a good job of it, it's quite swollen and I think he's got a scan on Thursday to see the extent. "The initial consultation with the doctor was that it was not structural so it might not be too bad. "But who knows as there is a lot of swelling so we really don't know the extent until he has his scan and gets the results."
The Swans will finish off the regular season with games against Collingullie-Glenfield Park and Wagga Tigers following the clash with the Eagles. Despite slipping to fourth for the time-being, Dreyer said the Swans were still determined to do everything in their power to push for a top-three finish and a crucial double chance.
"We still want to make top three and if we win all three of our games it probably puts us in that position."
(The Daily Advertiser - Thursday August 3, 2023).
SWANS TURNING PINK FOR CAUSE - By Liam Warren
THE Griffith Swans will turn pink this weekend in support of the Griffith Breast Cancer Support Group.
The Swans will host their annual Pink Day when they play host to Ganmain-Grong Grong-Matong at Exies Oval on Saturday, with funds being raised on the day for the Griffith Breast Cancer Support Group.
It is a cause that hits close home for Swans committee member Joel Spencer. "There are a few people at the club who have gone through breast cancer," she said. "I was pretty lucky because they found mine early, so I didn't have too much to do with the support group.
But between the Support Group, Can Assist, and the McGrath Foundation, they can all benefit from days like this. It's awesome."
Both the first grader footballers and A Grade netball will turn pink this weekend with the match-worn dresses and jumpers to be auctioned off after the game. There will also be raffles during the day with a grand prize of one-night accommodation at The Gem and a $200 voucher for dinner at The Bull & Bell.
It wasn't just for the senior club getting involved with Swans junior sides also playing on Saturday and will be having a pink-themed dress-up day with donation boxes around the ground.
All the senior footballers and netballers with be sporting pink socks, with all the donations going towards the support group. The action will get underway at Exies Oval with the Swans under 15's side facing off at 9am before the senior club sides take centre stage. (The Area News - Friday July 28, 2023).
SWANS OUT TO BOUNCE BACK AGAINST LIONS - By Jimmy Meiklejohn
GRIFFITH will look to bounce back strongly this weekend as they host Ganmain-Grong Grong-Matong at Exies Oval.
After entering round 14 in top spot, a 23-point loss to Coolamon saw the Swans drop to third on the Riverina League ladder.
With so little separating the top few sides, Swans' stand-in coach Sam Daniel knew the importance of getting back in the winners list on Saturday against the Lions. "You say the same thing every week that you need to win this weekend," Daniel said. "It's certainly no different this weekend and obviously Ganmain are flying, and they are now on top. "So, it's another huge game but it's been that way all season."
The Swans handed the Lions a rare 65-point loss at Ganmain Sportsground when the two sides met back in round two, however Daniel was well aware Griffith would welcome a completely different Lions outfit to Exies Oval this weekend. "I think it will be a vastly different side to what we played early on," he said. "Ganmain have played the same way for 10 years as they're hard at the footy, skilled and got really good marking options so we are expecting a really tough contest on this weekend.
One of these marking options is Lions' captain Ben Walsh who has enjoyed a successful two-week stint up forward which has seen him kick 13 goals. Jacob Olsson will return from suspension to face the Swans and it'll be interesting to see how the Lions line up on Saturday.
The Swans' back six have been outstanding this year and Daniel knew they would have to be at their best to nullify the influence of the pair.
"We will certainly have plans. But we will have to wait and see how they line up as well," he said. "Obviously Ben Walsh is a star of the competition and probably just as dangerous in the back line as he is forward so we will certainly have to come prepared."
The loss to the Hoppers over the weekend was the second time that the Swans have gone down to Coolamon this year.
Coolamon are the only side that Griffith have not defeated this season and despite their 2-0 record Daniel dismissed the thought that they were the bogey side. "No, I don't think so," he said.
Daniel described the game against the Hoppers as finals like and said that the experience of contests like that were invaluable for the young Swans' side. "We're a core group over the last two or three years that haven't experienced what finals are like," he said.
"To have this three-week block is invaluable for our young guys to get the taste of what it's going to be like, providing we make it of course. "We are only six points from being out but that's finals as well and you go into the weekend with that level of pressure and expectation.
"So, to continually do that over the next few weeks will hold our group in good stead." (The Daily Advertiser - Wednesday July 26, 2023).
RIGHT DECISION TO SIGN WITH GRIFFITH, SAYS McCORMICK - By Jimmy Meiklejohn
GRIFFITH'S Alec McCormick is having a solid first year in the Riverina League and admitted that he's enjoyed the change of scenery at the Swans. McCormick was one of four players from Queanbeyan to sign with the Swans for this season and admitted it's a move he feels was the right one. "Yeah I'm loving it," McCormick said. "It's always a bit nerve-racking going somewhere new and trying something different.
"I'd been at Queanbeyan my whole life so it wasn't as easy decision to make, but I think I made the right one. "I'm really enjoying my time as are the other boys and it's a nice change."
A victory over Turvey Park last weekend saw the Swans jump to first on the Riverina League ladder which is a vast improvement on their 2022 season. McCormick believed that the Swans had both exceeded and not exceeded his expectations leading into the season. "Yes, you could say that, but then again no," he said. "I knew a few of the boys and then I knew what we could bring and there were some boys coming back from representative stuff. "So I thought we could have a really good shot at it."
Griffith head to Kindra Park this weekend to face Coolamon which gives the Swans a chance to rectify the Hoppers back in round seven.
An astonishing 61-turnovers from the Swans that day resulted in the Hoppers grabbing a 33-point win at Exies Oval and McCormick confirmed the side was keen to make amends. "The team has been very defence driven," he said. "That was something that let us down the first time we played them. "But we've made a few tweaks and the coaches have got stuck into the boys about defence."
The Hoppers kicked 12.10 (82) in that contest which has been the biggest score the Swans have conceded so far this season. Griffith have actually conceded the fewest points of any Riverina League side this season which is a terrific accolade for the Swans back six.
McCormick has played a key part of that success at centre-half-back and admitted it didn't take him long at all to gel with the other defenders at the Swans. "It was sort of instant," he said. "I met the boys and probably half a game of footy was all it took us to get a bit of cohesion. "We are super comfortable together and it feels like we have been playing together for a long time."
The Swans have arguably been the most consistent side this season however McCormick believes there is still room for improvement. "I think we can always improve," he said. "But for us it's about closing the gap between our best and our worst. All teams have lapses and it is just about minimising the mistakes." (The Daily Advertiser - Friday July 21, 20213).
STICKING WITH SATURDAY - By Matt Malone
THE Riverina League grand final will remain on a Saturday. AFL Riverina (alias Wagga) made the decision to maintain a Saturday grand final for the Riverina League decider this season, despite dwindling crowd numbers in recent years. The AFL Riverina board considered a switch back to Sunday, but the grand final would have clashed with other major sporting events no matter what day it was held.
It will remain a clash with the popular Ag Races at Murrumbidgee Turf Club in Wagga, an event that has drawn crowds of around 6000 people.
But a shift to Sunday would have meant going head-to-head with the Group Nine grand final in Wagga.
AFL Riverina settled on Saturday, September 16, with the grand final to be again held at Narrandera Sportsground.
AFL Riverina chairman Michael Irons said club support of a Saturday grand final was the major factor behind the decision.
"The indications from clubs were that Saturday was preferred," Irons said. "Obviously there is potential clashes on both days so that was unavoidable. "We haven't taken the opportunity to review the data from previous years to consider the Saturday v Sunday but we needed to move forward with a decision and with the clubs preferring Saturday we've gone ahead with that."
Narrandera Sportsground will be the host venue of majority of Riverina League finals. The elimination final and preliminary final, both Sunday games will be held at Robertson Oval, Wagga. The remainder have been pencilled in for Narrandera.
Last year's grand final crowd was the lowest in 16 years and gate figures have been low for some time. Irons said AFL Riverina will review the Riverina League grand final at season's end. "We'll take the opportunity this off-season to review that and discuss with clubs," he said. (The Daily Advertiser - Wednesday July 19, 2023).
COACH BAN - By Jimmy Meiklejohn
GRIFFITH coach Greg Dreyer has been handed down a three-week suspension by AFL Riverina tribunal.
Dreyer was found guilty of umpire abuse after engaging with an official (umpire Coggin) during the third term of the Swans' nine-point win against Mangoplah-Cookardinia United-Eastlakes on Saturday.
After first getting shown a white card, Dreyer was then shown a red as per Coaching Box Card System that was introduced across all AFL NSW-ACT Leagues this season.
It is a costly blow for the second-placed Swans who will now be without Dreyer for the important run of games that include Turvey Park, Coolamon and Ganmain-Grong Grong-Matong.
Griffith president Paul Rogerson said the club was accepting of the tribunals findings and that they were hoping to move forward from the incident. "As a club we are just really keen to move on from Saturday's incident," Rogerson said. "We don't condone umpire abuse at all as a club and Greg is really remorseful for his actions on Saturday.
"We are really comfortable with the way the tribunal was handled and we are looking forward to Sam Daniel stepping up over the next three weeks in Greg's absence."
Assistant coach Sam Daniel has been confirmed to step up in the role over the next three weeks and Rogerson confirmed he would have some assistance to help him in the position.
"He will have some extra assistance off the field," he said. "The other assistant coaches will step up off the field but Sam will be obviously stepping into the head coaching role over the next three weeks in Greg's absence."
As part of the suspension Dreyer cannot enter the coaches box or Swans rooms pre or post-game however is still over to attend games in a non-official role.
Rogerson confirmed that Dreyer would continue to be in attendance over the next couple of weeks but would be watching from afar. "Greg will certainly be attending the games in a non-official capacity and watching from the sidelines, " he said. Dreyer will be able to retake the reins in round 16. (The Daily Advertiser - Friday July 14, 2023).
GRIFFITH SWANS FLY HOME TO BEAT MANGOPLAH-CUE 11.13 (79) TO 11.4 (70)
GRIFFITH PREPARE FOR TOUGH MONTH AHEAD - By Jimmy Meiklejohn
GRIFFITH is gearing up for a tough month ahead that all begins with a trip to face Mangoplah-Cookardinia United-Eastlakes this weekend. The Swans have soared up the Riverina Football League ladder in 2023 and currently sit third after a successful opening half of the season.
However the next month will determine just how strong their premiership credentials are with games against Goannas (away), Turvey Park (home), Coolamon (away) and Ganmain-Grong Grong-Matong (home).
Griffith coach Greg Dreyer said his side was looking forward to the challenge ahead of them and believed how they performed would determine whether they consolidate a top three finish. "It's going to be exciting," Dreyer said. "We try and break the season down into blocks and we've got the top four in the next month so that's what we are concentrating on. "Playing well each week then repeat onto the next one and see how we come out of it. "We are trying to cement a top three spot, so this will tell us well and truly."
The Swans and Goannas had a draw when the two sides clashed back in round one and Dreyer was predicting a tough challenge this weekend at Mangoplah Sportsground. "They'd be disappointed after that loss last week and I feel they're a top five side so they'll respond," he said.
"We've got to be on in all aspects and you've got to defend against these sides and can't let them get a run on. "Our defensive play is important, and you've also got to be able to use it well as last time we played them it was a draw and I think we kicked 6.11. "This time of year, teams are looking for momentum into finals, so you've got to be consistent across all aspects of your game."
The Swans look likely to be boosted by the return of assistant coach Sam Daniel and young midfielder Kahlan Spencer who both missed the win against Leeton-Whitton back in round 10.
Dreyer thought Spencer was more than likely right to return against the Goannas while Daniel would undergo a fitness test later in the week. (The Daily Advertiser - Thursday July 6, 2023).
ACTION AT EXIES OVAL FROM GRIFFITH SWANS 18.16 (124) - 2.2 (14) VICTORY OVER LEETON-WHITTON CROWS
SWANS FACE RIVALS - By Liam Warren
THE Griffith Swans will look to head into their bye off the back of three straight wins when they take on Leeton-Whitton in the Western Derby at Exies Oval. The Swans have re-found their form in recent weeks after back-to-back defeats and will want to head into their final seven games of the season with momentum. "We had that loss to Turvey and then Coolamon, but I have been talking to them about their consistency because this is the hard time of year when it gets colder," Swans coach Greg Dreyer said.
Have Leeton and then the bye, and it's about trying to build a bit of momentum over the last seven games."
It is shaping up as a close contest with the Swans, who sit in second, and the sixth placed Mangoplah-CUE are separated by just four points heading into the second half, and Dreyer knows his side can't afford to take any game lightly. "When you consider that sixth place is only a win behind, it is going to be very tough," he said. "Very happy with the first half of the year to go through with just two losses and a draw."
One of the keys to their strong final half of the season has been Rhys Pollock, who sits atop the Player of the Year count for the Riverina Football League. Pollock polled four votes in Griffith's win over Wagga Tigers at Robertson Oval on Saturday, and it was enough for him to get back in front by three votes ahead of Tigers' Jock Cornell.
Dreyer has been impressed by not only how Pollock, but the rest of the recruits have fitted in at the club. "All the boys that have come into the group have been no trouble at all, they are all good blokes and good players as well," he said. "They get on well with everybody, so it has been great to see how they have settled in."
While the last meeting between the two sides resulted in a one-sided scoreline, Dreyer isn't expecting a similar result this weekend. "That was a wet and windy day, and we probably got on top of them early, but I don't expect that to be the case this time round," he said. "They are a reasonable side, and they will be looking to perform well against us. (The Area News - Friday June 23, 2023).'
SWANS TAME TIGERS AT ROBERTSON OVAL ON A SATURDAY DEVOID OF HOME SUPPORT
SWANS FEROCITY OFF THE BALL SECURE NETBALL VICTORY - By Liam Warren
THE Griffith Swans have rebounded quickly after their first defeat of the season, coming away with a 45-37 win over Collingullie at Exies Oval.
It was a tight opening before a couple of turnovers forced by the Swans in the mid-court, and defence had them out to a 4-goal lead at the first change. The Swans were again able to make a strong start to the second term, but the Demons fought back hard in the late stages to see the sides locked at 21-all at halftime. The turnovers by their defenders were becoming the signature of the Swans' game as they were able to score points from the breaks to take a five-goal lead into the final break. While it was an even start to the final quarter, the Swans were able to break away one final time to secure a 45-37 win over the Demons.
Coach Jon Munro was pleased with the way her side reacted after losing their first game of the season last weekend to Coolamon.
"It was another tough game, and we knew it would be coming into it," she said. "We had to stay focused and go back to what our strengths are, which is our ball movement. I was pleased to be able to grind that game out and recover. "Last week, we probably dropped off a bit in the second half, so it was nice to be able to maintain throughout.
Munro said her side was focusing on their pressure off the ball as much as they could and was pleased to see that come into practice. "That is the big focus for us, that one-on-one pressure and staying in play as much as possible so that we can force the pressure and the turnover," she said. "We had to work really hard, and I think we did that really well."
Jenna Richards had a strong performance in the shooting circle scoring 32 goals of the Swans' 45 goals, and the Swan's coach continues to be impressed with her consistent improvement. "She has been getting better throughout the season, and I have loved watching her develop," she said. "She's such a strong and dependable player for us."
It was an impressive weekend across the court with yet another clean sweep, the Swans third of the season.
A reserve was able to come away with a 49-25 win over the Demons, which keeps them well and truly in the hunt for a top-three positions, just currently just three points behind Turvey Park. B Grade has stayed just a win behind Turvey Park after 39-16 victory, while the C Graders have maintained their unbeaten start to the season with a 50-17 win. The Under 17s rounded off the day with a 48-9 win to stay equal second. (The Area News - Friday June 9, 2023).
A CLEAN SWEEP AGAINST COLLINGULLIE FOR GRIFFITH ON SAMMY DANIEL 100TH SENIOR GAME AND SWANS LADIES DAY.
SWANS AIM TO FLY - By Allan Wilson
THE Griffith Swans will have a crack at redemption following their loss to the Coolamon Grasshoppers at Griffith on Saturday.
While Griffith managed to kick the first three goals, confidence got the better of them and allowed the Hoppers to swiftly head the side within the first quarter. Things didn't change much from there, with Coolamon remaining in front to finish 82 to 49. Griffith best players were Nathan Richards, Nicholas Conlan, James Girdler, Patrick Payne, Dean Simpson and Taine Moraschi.
Swans coach Greg Dreyer said poor execution and kicking was the key issues on the field for his side, and the team will need to regroup and take on Collingullie with a different attitude this weekend. "We turned the ball over too easily, not necessarily from pressure but from poor execution and bad defence," Dreyer said. "We've had a good chat about this. Our focus will now be on intensity. "Coolamon have had a slow start this season and had several players out on Sunday. They were in a position where they desperately wanted a win. "I think we took them for granted, especially when we started off in front. For some reason we just stopped, and they got ahead.
"This weekend we have everything to do with how we approach the game, which is to treat the opposition like they are a top side."
Dreyer believes the upcoming fixture will be an opportunity for his side to turn things around. "Collingullie are always tough, but they are in a similar situation to what Coolamon were. They haven't had the best start, so they are going to be desperate to stay in touch with the top five," he said. "We need to focus on our abilities - that will be key at training. We need a better approach and if we are going to compete, we need to be consistent each week. (The Area News - Friday June 2, 2023).
POLLOCK READY FOR HUGE TEST - By Jimmy Meiklejohn
GRIFFITH will travel to Maher Oval on Saturday looking to get a gauge on exactly where they are in the Riverina League hierarchy. The Swans have been one of the surprise packets through the opening five rounds and look to be one of the main contenders for this years premiership.
Midfielder Rhys Pollock has been the major reason for their early season success and one could argue that he has arguably been the Swans best player alongside ruckman Nathan Richards.
Currently sitting second on the ladder, Pollock said the group was looking forward to taking on Turvey Park on Saturday. "I think there is a fair bit of excitement with a real test this weekend," Pollock said.
"I think it will be a real indication of where we sort of sit as a club with this Turvey Park game and a big 2-3 weeks after that as well. "There is certainly a lot of excitement and we're really looking forward to a big challenge this weekend for sure."
Pollock said there hasn't been any secrets to their great start to the year and instead credited coach Greg Dreyer for implementing an exciting, fast flowing game plan. "I guess we are all just really happy to be playing together," he said. "I think we've gelled together really well and there is obviously a lot of young talent that has come through the Griffith program over the last few years.
"They are all hitting their straps and I think we are just a pretty young team that is playing an exciting brand of football which 'Fifty' (Dreyer) is really encouraging as well."
The Bulldogs have also started the year in good form with their only blemish being a 23-point loss on the road against the Lions. The two teams are playing a similar brand of football this season and Pollock believes that will ensure that Saturday's contest should be a pretty good spectacle. "It seems to be the general consensus that we are playing a similar brand. It should make an excellent game," he said.
Richards has also enjoyed a stellar start to the season and been giving the Swans mids first use of the footy around stoppages. Pollock said Richards isn't shy to boast about his start to the season and added that he has been playing a major part in their early season success.
"If you asked the big fella he'll let you know," he laughed. "But it makes our job a little bit easier when we've got a ruckman like Nath who's extremely good in the ruck craft at gets creative with his taps. It's good to have a big man in the middle that you are quite confident in."
Pollock came across from Queanbeyan over the off-season alongside Alex Page, Dean Simpson and Alex McCormick. He said that they have all enjoyed their first taste of the Riverina League and credited the club for making them feel so welcome which has resulted in the quartet playing some pretty good football.
"It's obviously been really exciting do far," Pollock said. "I guess it's probably been a bit of the unknown in terms of coming from the Canberra comp where you are used to knowing how you are going to go each week. I think we are liking the fact that we haven't got a true indication of how we are going to go and how the comp has started the first five rounds it's still hard to get a bit of a handle on.
But overall, it's very exciting and we're very happy with Griffith so far. I know they've made us comfortable and very welcome at the club and we've gelled well with the team and the boys. It's been a really positive environment to be part of and you're in that kind of environment it starts to reflect on your footy as well."
(The Daily Advertiser - Friday May 19, 2023).
SWANS READY FOR DERBY CHALLENGE - by Liam Warren
THE Griffith Swans will be coming into the Western Derby fresh but know they will have to be careful of a Leeton-Whitton side coming into the clash with confidence. The Swans will make the short trip down Irrigation Way looking to continue their undefeated start to the season, but the Crows are coming into the game in search of back-to-back wins, having picked up their first win since 2021.
Coach Greg Dreyer knows his side will need to be ready to face a tough test regardless of the contrasting starts to the season. "Griffith and Leeton love to play each other. They had a good win against Narrandera, and everyone had sort of written them off completely," he said. "We certainly haven't proved anything yet, and Leeton always lift for us. We have had some tense battles over the last couple of years."
There will also be a sense of occasion for the clash with the Crows side set to feature four-time Hawthorn premiership player Grant Birchall. "That should get a decent crowd, and he isn't too long retired," he said. "He will be a very good player. Our forward-line played very well against Ganmain, but he will be a different calibre to anyone they would have gone against."
Dreyer has stressed that his side needs to prepare for this game as they would any other as they hunt for consistent four-quarter footy. "Most of the stuff that we have talked about is how we prepare ourselves, and regardless of who we are playing against, you have to prepare yourselves well," he said.
"It is as much mentally challenging and having the right attitude as it is physically preparing. "We had a lot of lapses in our play last year, so we are really trying to work on our preparation as a whole and playing four-quarters of footy; this is our challenge at the moment."
Off the back of the win over Ganmain, the atmosphere around the group has been good, but Dreyer stressed his side still has work to do. "We have had a good couple of weeks of training, and the vibe around the place has been pretty good," he said.
"To beat Ganmain at Ganmain was a nice reward after the preseason and last couple of years, but its only two games into the season. I think Ganmain losing as they did against Tigers may have given us a better idea of where we are sitting." (The Area News - Friday May 5, 2023).
SWANS END GOANNAS UNBEATEN A GRADE NETBALL RUN - by Tahlia Sinclair
GRIFFITH have handed Mangoplah-Cookardinia United-Eastlakes their first loss in over 12 months.
In a tight round one game, the Swans held on by a goal to win 43-42. Coach Joh Munro said they had their work cut out for them and were pushed to the last second by the 2022 premiers. "It went up and down, we were sitting three or four goals behind most of the game and then we'd come back and get level and then they'd go ahead again," Munro said. "It was just a great, hard-fought tussle from both teams, and we worked very hard at it and were up at the end of the game."
Momentum ebbed and flowed through the game, with turnovers helping each side have runs on the scoreboard. Before the season start Munro spoke with her side about playing four quarters of netball and pushing themselves to the final whistle.
With hopes to see improvements on utilising turnovers and capitalising on their centre passes this season, Swans have started their year responding well to their new coach. "We spoke about the fact Mango have some great defenders, and they love to turn the ball over, so how do we try and minimise their impacts as much as possible," she said. "That required us to do the work and keep the ball nice and short and sharp and low to the ground, and it takes a lot of work and commitment to do that.
"I thought our attack end did that really well, they did a lot of work just bringing the ball down and being really disciplined to then feed it into the goalers." Georgia Fuller had a strong game in wing attack, while Tahlia Quinn provided good pace in the centre in her debut A grade appearance.
Griffith last win over MCUE was in round three, 2021, when they also defeated Goannas by a goal.
Munro said focusing on the game at hand and not giving Mango the win before they took the court. "We were always aware it was going to be a really big challenge, but I was really confident in what we'd done in the preseason and really confident in the girls' implementation of it," she said.
Munro said the round one win has provided them with a solid foundation heading into the season.
It was a strong start to the season for the lower grades as well. The under 17's got the good times rolling with a 42-30 victory and the C Graders were able to keep up the momentum going as they picked up 21-goal victory. B Grade made it three wins from three games to start the day with a 41-27 victory before the Swans A reserve fell to a 43-39 defeat. (The Area News - Friday April 21, 2023).
GRIFFITH RECRUITS SET TO DEBUT AGAINST GOANNAS - by Jimmy Meiklejohn
GRIFFITH looks set to unleash their four Queanbeyan recruits in their round one clash against Mangoplah-Cookardinia United-Eastlakes this weekend. Swans coach Greg Dreyer confirmed that Rhys Pollock, Alex McCormick, Alex Page, Dean Simpson and the returning Henry Delves from Ainslie should all be right to go against the Goannas.
It has been a long pre-season for the Swans with Dreyer confirming there was a lot of excitement within the group ahead of the clash at Griffith Ex-Servicemen's Oval. "They all trained well last night," Dreyer said. "Everyone's keen and has put in a good pre-season, we are all well and truly ready to go."
The Swans have performed strongly in their trial matches and Dreyer expects that he will have some headaches in the next day or two as he confirms his line-up for round one. "We had a discussion last night but will finalise it on Thursday," he said.
"The Giants boys have got a game over the weekend, and we have got to wait to see who gets picked there. "But other than that, it's just finalising the last couple of final positions."
The Swans are more than likely to have Jay Summers, Taine Moraschi and Patrick Payne miss the clash against the Goannas with the trio expected to be selected for the GWS Giants Academy in the Coates Talent League.
There is a far bit of excitement building following a successful off-season for the club that has included Harry Rowston's debut for the Giants and one of their most successful recruitment periods in recent years.
Despite the excitement, Dreyer confirmed that they were trying to focus on their job at hand and close the gap to the top sides after finishing seventh last year. "We have just gone about our business," he said. "But we had a reasonable finish to the year and that was exciting for supporters. "We then made some good signings and then Harry, but we've just tried to put our heads down and train hard. "We are pretty aware there is still a bit of a gap to close, I think everyone is keen to go but there is a lot of unknowns."
While a lot of attention will be on how the recruits transition into the side, a fair bit of the Swans improvement will come from their junior core.
The Swans will have a number of their under 17 premiership players making their transition to senior football this season while there has also been a number of young players having a great crack in pre-season looking to take their football to the next level in 2023 including Nick Conlan, Jack Rowston, Kahlan Spencer and Sam Foley. (The Daily Advertiser - Thursday April 13, 2023).
GIANTS TO ROLL DICE WITH FIRST ROUND PICK
GREATER Western Sydney will unveil one of their prized first-round draft picks when academy graduate Harry Rowston makes his AFL debut against West Coast tomorrow at Optus Stadium.
Originally from Griffith in southern NSW, Rowston was at the centre of bold play from Sydney at last November's national draft before joining the Giants.
The Swans had a pick swap proposal rejected by their Harbour City rivals as they sought to swoop in to snatch Rowston, and then make a bid on him.
The bid was immediately matched by GWS, who had first call on Rowston and were eager to secure the prolific midfielder, who spent years in their junior academy.
"It was pretty exciting," Rowston recalled on Friday. "The Giants told me they were going to match the bid whenever it came. "It took a little longer than I was hoping, and I got a little bit nervous, but it was absolutely surreal."
At pick 16 overall, Rowston was one of five Giants selections in the first two rounds after they took key forward Aaron Cadman at No. 1.
Cadman has also been earmarked for an early-season debut but is yet to force his way into the GWS forward line, Harry Himmelberg, Jesse Hogan and Jake Riccardi sitting above him in the pecking order.
Rowston became the first Giants player to debut under new coach Adam Kingsley, who led GWS to victory over Adelaide in his first game at the helm.
"I haven't slept all week," Rowston said, having been told of his selection by captain Toby Greene at Friday's team selection. "To finally know, I couldn't be happier."
Kingsley hopes to keep his unbeaten start alive against West Coast at Optus Stadium on Sunday.
(The West Australian - Saturday March 25, 2023)
SWANS' RECRUITS IMPRESS IN OPENING TRIAL - by Matt Malone
GRIFFITH coach Greg Dreyer believes the Swans have been "lucky" with the quartet of Queanbeyan footballers that have headed to the club. Griffith got their first look at their recruits under match conditions at Gumly Oval on Saturday in a pre-season trial game against East Wagga-Kooringal.
The Swans finished the game full of running to win by about four goals.
Rhys Pollock, coming off a best-on-ground performance in the AFL Canberra final, led the charge.
"The recruits we've got this year are really professional," Dreyer said. "They've got themselves fit and they're doing all the right things, they're a good bunch of blokes. "I think they've had a bit of luck there, I think they're going to be really good for us this year."
With a number of players unavailable with cricket and Giants commitments, the Canberra recruits shone on Saturday. Talented youngster Kahlan Spencer also impressed, as did James Girdler and James Toscan.
"I was pretty happy actually. It's been a long pre-season, we don't start until the 15th so it's nice to get a game in," he said. "I don't know what East Wagga were like, but I know this time last year they really gave us a good flogging last year. The fact we could complete a bit this year, it was a good hit-out."
Griffith have been training since December and Dreyer was happy to see that shine through against the Hawks. "We did two nights in December and three nights since January," he said.
"I think that helped us against East Wagga because we kicked five goals to one in the last quarter."
The Griffith cricket season does not finish until April 1 so with that in mind, the Swans will play their second and final trial game against Hay on Sunday, April 2.
Dreyer is happy with how training has come together at Griffith since the club's most successful recruitment campaign in a number of years. "We're in a good spot with numbers. Socially, things have been pretty good, and I see the Canberra boys are turning up in the right condition and frame of mind," he said.
"We've got a bit of a gap to catch up, so I have to say but we're quietly confident we can win some games." (The Daily Advertiser - Tuesday March 21, 2023).
