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1991 SEASON
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GRIFFITH CLUB NOTES

GRIFFITH NOTES: "Riverina Football Record" April 14, 1991 - No. 1

Well, it doesn’t seem that long since the football season finished, and it is to be hoped the Griffith Swans will be able to play those couple of extra weeks this season. Les Parish is back to lead the troops in the fight for the flag, in which he says is his last season and with the added strength in the club and not too many losses everyone is gearing up for a good year.

We would like to take this opportunity to welcome all the new players to the club and there’s no doubt that you will have a happy and social time around the Swans camp.

Roy ‘Rooster’ Agresta is back again at the helm as president, but this season Mary Collins has relinquished the secretary’s position after many years in the saddle and Greg ‘Sam’ Wade has taken up the reins,

Allan Parr will be coaching the reserve grade side, taking over from Kevin Kirkpatrick, who led the lads for the past two seasons, and Terry Bennett is back in charge of the younger brigade.

Since we haven’t had a chance to date, the Swans would like to congratulate Turvey Park on its win in the grand final again last year and also the executive members of the RFL, who again have given their time for the betterment of football in the area.

It is to be hoped that Turvey Park is looking after the trophy they have held onto for so long as the Swans don’t what it scratched when they pick it up this year.

Today sees the start of the round and a bit of history as Griffith is the first club to take on Narrandera since it decided to play Saturday football.

Three wins today to set the club off on the right foot for the season and after we have a couple of social drinks with the Narranndera boys – don’t forget who our sponsors are in Griffith on the way home.

GRIFFITH NOTES: "Riverina Football Record" April 21, 1991 - No. 2

Three wins from three attempts is a good way to start the season for the Griffith club, but one win doesn't make a season and players, on last week's form, will have to get to the grindstone if the club is to make an impact this year.

The Seniors had a big win against Narrandera and it was good to see the new addition to the club Chris Conlan sit up and be noticed, while Ricky Burdett, Peter Casey, Jamie Reid and Jamie Bennett picked up the encouragement awards sponsored this week by Ian Wade. The two oldest players on the paddock in Victor Hugo and Les Parish had the most to say in the match with seven goals each and it looks like 'Salty' is going to sit back this year and let the young blokes do the work up the ground.

A nice gesture from the Narrandera club, which presented Chris Conlan with a mug for the night for being the best player on the ground for the opposition.

In the Reserves, three new players to the club picked up the $10 each in Mal Irvin, Colin Cassidy and David Irvin. Coach Alan Parr couldn't fit all the players in the side last week, but it is to be hoped that they don't drop their bundle, and fight for a position in the side.

Terry Bennett was a few players short for the Thirds, but as always, T.B. raised the numbers and the boys had a good win against Narrandera. Best players on the day were Tony Butcher, Jason Vaccari, Edward Knight and Brent Hathaway.

We welcome East Wagga-Kooringal to the Ex-Servicemen's Oval today and hope that both sides can get through injury free.

GRIFFITH NOTES: "Riverina Football Record" April 28, 1991 - No. 3

Well two wins from two starts, maybe not the most convincing, but the points on the board.

Firstly, TBs 3rds: Terry has his young charges coming along quite nicely. Having his first season, young ‘Dermott’ Brent Hathaway only knows one way home that that straight through the tall timbers (didn’t the oldies love the after-match report). Eddie ‘Eagle’ Knight once again showed why he is under the careful eye of the selectors. I could name the entire side, but it was a well-disciplined effort, so just keep up the good work.

The No. 2's strengthen by the return of the ‘Condo Kid’ had a convincing win. We have no idea what they have fed him out there but what a 'pissa' B.O.G. - good support from Peter King (too young to be married) and Mal (don’t miss a drink) Irvin.

Thanks very much to Les Wilesmith on his continues support.

The 1st XVIII, everyone tells you, they have a long way to go, why are they playing him, they're not good enough, etc, etc.

We all know these things (especially when we’ve all coached VFL sides), but let’s weigh it up, what game are we up to?

Our new players are just starting to settle in, plus we may just happen to have the odd player to come back. To me it's only early days yet. B.O.G. to Paul Biron, a sterling effort (if only he didn’t make silly bets). Salty would be still looking for him.

Good to see Shane Ruyg start to come into his own as well as ‘Digger’ Gee. Good effort fellas! Just remember – 2 out of 2 aren’t bad.

Also, thanks from Elaine to all those who helped at Kyeamba Smith Hall at short notice last week. Much appreciated – also thanks to Wagga Warehouse.

GRIFFITH NOTES: "Riverina Football Record" May 12, 1991 - No. 5

Our trip to Coolamon to the annual 'Grasshopper Bowl' was most successful. Our budding young Anne Sargents pulled off a remarkable win in a hard-fought netball encounter against all odds which saw them celebrate well into the night.

T.B's boys in the Under 18's got the day off to a fine start taking the bacon home in the early match. Graham Foley was B.O.G., Tony 'Abdula' Butcher was awarded the socks with Glen Collis winning the monetary award but if any Geelong official were at the game, they could have been forgiven thinking Gary Ablett had been reincarnated in Kennie O'Driscoll body as young Ken kicked five big ones in a performance only one G. Ablett himself could have emulated.

The Second-grade game was won well with Rod Vio moving down from the half back line to kick a few goals while Mattie 'Ziggy Haley' Signor moved like a seasonal professional supported by David 'Left' Overs who was everywhere. Leon 'Russel' Stow once again played a serviceable game While David 'The Lip' Irvin bopping up in all the right and wrong places. Captain 'Coca Cola' Parr has the boys in superb form and a few stars on the way back makes for an interesting few night at the selection table in a few weeks to come.

Finally, the First grade, well I reckon 'Pictures' Parish showed the boys the 1970 VFL Grand Final on video before the game because they certainly played just like Carlton did when it defeated Collingwood some 21 years ago rein acting the dismal first half and then fighting back in the second half to win the game. Gerard Toscan had a red hot go in the ruck as did Darrell Collins at full forward and the man in the Bruce Doull attire Ian Geddes showed the younger players on the field how it is done. One player who heeded Ian's advice and turned in a blinder was Greg 'Fifty' Dreyer.

GRIFFITH NOTES: "Riverina Football Record" May 26, 1991 - No. 6

Good morning how is you, it’s good to see, three out of four wins against Turvey from the Swanies.

Our netballers had a red-hot go, outclassed their opponents, came away with the points, and leading the way in what a superb effort was Rachel ‘Fifty's significant better half' Neville, Karen ‘Coke’ Evans, and evergreen Jenny Jefferies winning the coaches award.

Terry’s adolescent Third Grade dudes once again proved too strong for the depleted Bullpups outfit winning a percentage boosting encounter. Graham ‘Axle’ Foley played superbly and deservedly won the award with Paul Rovere, ‘Butch’ Butcher and ‘Dripper Dude’ Reid all having outstanding games.

The Second Grade allowed the opposition a too big a lead and their gallant effort in the last half of the game wasn’t enough to peg back the margin. This side has the unenviable honor of recording the club’s first defeat in any grade this year but with some players on the way back from injury the side can only be strengthened in the weeks to come. Barney ‘back in the USSR’ Dalgarno won the coaches award with Mal ‘I walk 500 miles’ Irvin and Leon ‘Headbutt’ Stow, also playing well the boy Browne put on a performance that might see him fly to the USA to join Jeff Fenech entourage in Las Vegas.

The First-Grade win was welcomed by players and supporters alike with a certain player who has a jumper number between nine and eleven reportedly doing a cartwheel after the game. After another slow start the side had to come from a 30-point deficit at half time to win in commanding fashion with Jamie ‘Shandi’ Bennett and Chris ‘Conrad’ Conlan playing well and backing up the boy Toscan who battled hard all day as did boy Parish. The game also saw welcome returns to first grade for ‘Splashdance’ Collins and Andrew ‘Going to the Chapel’ Romagnolo. This week we have our closest (distance wise) game so let’s make it our greatest win. Up The Swans!

GRIFFITH NOTES: "Riverina Football Record" June 2, 1991 - No. 7

The dismal overcast weather seemed to reflect the mood of dismay which overcome our glorious Swanettes netball side after their unexpected loss last Sunday. The game was evenly poised after the third quarter, but the Leeton side was able to run away with a win in the last stanza of play in what had been a close game up till then. Once again, the experienced play of Jenny Jeffrey saw her rewarded with the Best and Fairest Award and Nicole Hathaway a close second. Jan Collins collected a point for her good performance.

Terry's tenacious terriers turned in a timid performance with their kicking going everywhere but through the goalposts and some undisciplined action saw Jason Vaccari receive his marching orders while young Tony Butcher and that 'one cool dude' Dipper Reid had outstanding games.

The Second-grade side had a Darrell Eastlake kind of win 'Huge'. The combined team effort produced one casualty in Col 'Blackmail' Cassidy, who left the field with an injury after booting five goals. The game also saw the return of the 'Tim Watson' of the Swans, Robbie Owen. Once again Leon Stow and David Overs put in huge games to be amongst the best players along with an ex-Under 18's champion Adrian 'Parramatta' Pavese.

The First grade also won a very scrappy encounter with several scuffles marring play throughout the game. Peter 'Erica' King showed some true form with Shane 'isn't that Daryl Somers' Ruyg who put in a polished performance with eight goals and 'splash dance' (Greg Collins) who took charge of the ruck for most of the second half. 'Tee Shirt' Burdett bonded the backline together while Mark O'Connor spent most of the game soaring up where eagles fly and wasn't eligible for the best on ground award. Peter 'Kid' Casey put himself in every physical encounter which came his way, while Greg 'Fifty' Dreyer showed how he is maturing as a footballer playing a serviceable game in defence.

GRIFFITH NOTES: "Riverina Football Record" June 16, 1991 - No. 9

Not since trumpets agogo have the Swans inflicted such a merciless crushing defeat on the Wagga Tigers. The win was bittersweet revenge after the Tigers had halted our finals campaign last year.

The boy Splashdance was among the cavalcade of best players along with ‘Kellie Bennett’s’ brother Jamie. Darrell Collins and Pete ‘Kid’ Casey ably backed up by the boy Parish who shone the exuberance of a teenager and Peter ‘Boxer’ King who continued his sizzling form. Shane ‘HSS’ Ruyg contributed six fine goals in a goal kicking frenzy afternoon.

The Second Grade also had a good win with Mr. Parr’s side showing good results from his astute coaching methods. Peter McDiarmid won the socks with Jason ‘Chuck’ Norris taking the umpires award. The side had good players all over the ground with that suave Irishman Gerry Gallagher blasting his way out of the backline all day and Colin ‘Casanova’ Cassidy, a cut above the rest while ‘Bomba’ Browne was making his presence felt after a week enforced rest.

Terry Bennett’s Bertoldo Bakeries boys were as hot as fresh bread in the early game with Paul Rovere reveling in the windy conditions and Brent ‘Fat Cat’ Hathaway also stamping his mark on the game as did Paul Woolnough, but it was pretty boy Angus Paterson who caught the supporter's eye. Our thanks must go to Bertoldo Bakeries for their support of the Under 18s.

The netballers went against the trend and unfortunately were not in the winning circle on Sunday night. Karen ‘Kola’ Evans, Rachel ‘Fifty’ Neville and Jan Collins battled hard all day and won the awards, while Nicole Milne didn’t succumb to the temptation of a second pie prior to the game and had a R.H.G. red hot go, playing in wing attack.

GRIFFITH NOTES: "Riverina Football Record" June 23, 1991 - No. 10

All the leaves were brown, and the sky was grey, as we left for Ganmain with several key players out injured unable to play, our undefeated title was to vanish on that miserable winter's day. It was our first taste of defeat for the '91 year and we hated it. Paul 'Cheech' Biron kept going all day and was named our best player for the day in the damp dark dressing rooms which seemed to reflect the post-game mood. Les Parish was again at his tireless best as the Peter King 'Pin'.

The Under 18's also came down to earth with a thud with only 19 of the lads able to make the long trek to Ganmain.

This didn't stop young Fordie 'Mustang' (Craig Ford) of a performance, and Damien Hill and Angus Patterson tried hard all day, but the bright light of the otherwise dull day was the fearless inspirational game by John Davies.

The Netballers suffered jet lag from the one-and-a-half-hour trip and despite a gallant team performance the massive Ganmain side outmuscled the weary Swanettes out of the game.

Well, our only bright spot of good news was Mr. Parr's undoubted coaching performance in recording our only win for the day. Leon 'Bite Size' Stow and young Grant Cameron picked up the (Reserve Grade) awards and should be thankful to have such a masterful coach. Go Swans Go!

GRIFFITH NOTES: "Riverina Football Record" June 29, 1991 - No. 11

With Carlton’s magnificent victory over the West Coast Eagles still fresh in their minds the lads did a similar job of demolishing the local Eagles. Les ‘Pictures’ Parish played yet another blinder I’m told with big Gerard Toscan commanding the ruck duels and James (TW) Bennett, Damien ‘Dazza’ Scott and Ian Geddes also collecting awards.

Ian’s game must have been pleasing as it was his first game back in First Grade after injury and travel commitments have kept him out of the side for a number of weeks. Brendan ‘S.M.D.C.M.D.’ Browne and Mal ‘Vern’ Irvin also forced their way back into First Grade.

Country football equivalent of David Parkin, Allan ‘Harmesy’ Parr coached the Twos to yet another win in which we saw Mick ‘Moose’ Murphy make a comeback alongside Gerry Gallagher and recently engaged ‘General’ McAlister in the backline also in comeback modes were Mick Thompson and the Tony Shaw of Griffith, Peter ‘Hoot’ McGrath. The man who can cook and sew and make flowers grow Leon Stow also had a serviceable game.

Congratulations go to Belinda and Robbie Owen who became proud parents last week and as a gesture the Seconds award money went towards helping Robbie celebrate.

Terry’s U18s failed by a point to snatch victory but with a number of players unavailable it was a terrific effort from the lads to get so close in a game which Jason ‘Stonie Lowe’ Vaccari, Tony ‘Butchie Boy’ Butcher, Brent ‘F.C.’ Hathaway and Brad ‘Ten Ton’ Hammond all had games they will not easily forget. Stop Press: The netballers also recorded a very good win.

GRIFFITH NOTES: "Riverina Football Record" July 7, 1991 - No. 12

Our match against East Wagga-Kooringal was played in cold and blustery conditions. Damien ‘The Weethalle Warrior’ Scott won the towel with fellow Messner Street in resident Shane ‘Bart’ Ruyg kicking a bag full of goals in a ‘Lockett’ style display. The club’s answer to Bernard King, ‘Stowie’ finally made his first-grade debut. Young Les Parish showed no effect from the marathon seven-hour training run on Tuesday last having more possessions that Imelda Marcos. Paul and Rick also showed some good form and turned in a blinder with ‘Kellie’s Brother’ James (T.W) Bennett booted five goals.

The Two’s field a formidable side and with Malcolm ‘Jimmy’ Irvin leading the won a torrid encounter. Mick ‘Jimmy’ Murphy was at his stunning best at centre half back ably backed up by David ‘Jimmy’ Overs in a pocket. Although recording a good win it was very plain to see the side was lacking the inspirational leadership of none other than ‘Wally Lewis’ of Griffith football Brian ‘Mr. Stickers’ Corner.

With half the U18 side locked away in a 16th century monastery high in the Kosiosko mountains for most of the week the lads did well to record a win in the early match. There was little or no sign of the ‘Jetlag’ from the long two-hour trip to the big smoke and it must have been pleasing for coach Terry to see all the lads actually getting themselves out of bed, dressing and travelling over to Wagga without the wake-up call some had refused to answer on previous weeks.

GRIFFITH NOTES: "Riverina Football Record" July 14, 1991 - No. 13

I woke up this morning there were no tears in my bed. They’d suspended a man we’d come to love. They’d may have well shot him in the head. Oh yeah, they’d cut Les Parish down. Sometimes I think this League is one big prison yard and some of us are prisoners and some of us are guards.

Coolamon provided a tough encounter with a hard bruising game resulting in a good reward on the scoreboard. James ‘Kellie’s brother’ Bennett received the top award after sizzling performance. A gourmet effort from chef extraordinary ‘Stowie’ earned a second place. Tosco, Panch and Mark ‘Okanelie’ O’Connor also played well.

The Seconds game saw Mr. Parr’s lads off to a slow start but finished on very strong and it was Simon Henderson’s turn to take the money award this week to help him, and Christine celebrate the arrival of their new baby. Now Parrie has only 36 players to go.

Paul Rovere did a Tony Lockett and finish with six goals in a one-sided affair. Butchie Boy, Jason ‘Stewie Lowe’ Vaccari, ‘Birthday Boy’ Fat Cat Hathaway and 'Dippa Dude' Reed all put in fine games.

Who was the well-known footballer who went to sleep lying in a bed of stubbies and woke up lying in a bed of shaving cream having ‘defiled’ overnight?

GRIFFITH NOTES: "Riverina Football Record" July 21, 1991 - No. 14

Our excursion to Maher Oval was one of our most successful for a good number of years with our fabulous netballers emulating the Australian team and recording a great win in cold and windy conditions to cement a spot in the top four of the ladder in what could only be described as a good team effort.

Terry's "Travelling Wilbury's' notched up a gutsy win to consolidate top spot on the ladder. Young Hilley (Damien Hill), Butchie Boy, 'Axel' Foley and Jason 'Stewie' Vaccari got more involved in the action than Axel from Guns 'n Roses would at a concert. The win had well-wishers and supporters mobbing Terry's house till the wee hours of the morning.

Alan Parr's Second Grade lost the plot somewhere in the blood and the mud and the tears and paid a terrible price with the four points and a chance to sit on top of the ladder all gone. Young Mal Irvin and the great General (Brett McAlister) suffered injuries and were forced from the field. This allowed Brian 'Mr. Stickers' Corner to slot into the fullback position and play as if he was a reincarnation of the great Geoff Southby. Colin Cassidy 'Ziggy Marley' Signor, Davey Overs, Mark Tyndall and Chris 'F-F' Files won the awards as no one became a dad this week.

In what a noted supporter called 'the best win of the year' First Grade clinched a win to enable the side to have a 3-game buffer over Turvey Park on the ladder. Andrew 'I'll be home soon' Romagnolo, Shane 'Lover Boy' Ruyg and Darrell 'Pin' Collins all kicked three goals apiece. Ricky 'Bird' Burdett was no 'pillon' passenger in the side playing close to his best game for the club since landing on the doorstep as a young skinny lad from the Barellan back blocks.

GRIFFITH NOTES: "Riverina Football Record" July 27, 1991 - No. 15

After months of solid training sweating his way through young Parr’s torrid training sessions. At times training three times a week his warped mind and lean mean body were really just breathlessly waiting to be chosen then on a cold Friday night it happened the selectors had finally noticed him and instantly a ‘star was born’ Christian Files had been chosen to make his First-Grade debut.

In a game which saw James ‘T.W’ Bennett having more possessions than Imelda Marcos and his ‘Disco dueting double’ Shane Ruyg also contributing with five goals the pair emulated their Friday night performance. Peter ‘I always sing in the shower after training’ King wasn’t ever too far from the action and Rick ‘Virgil’ Burdett again put in his usual solid game. ‘Capt. Insult’ Wayne Botcher also put in a big one and about time too.

In the ‘Bs’ the sides first half effort was overshadowed by a lacklustre second half. Young Adrian Pavese contributed well kicking seven goals and giving just as many away to his teammates like Colin Cassidy who was in superb form and Joe Joe Agresta who bobbed up in everything. Gerry ‘Gags’ Gallagher worked hard all day in the backline repelling anything that came near him.

The ladies Netball saw young Evans win the Mug again and the lady does put it to good use. The win was particular pleasing as earlier in the season the ladies lost the encounter at Leeton.

Fresh from Butch’s ‘Tom Hafey’ workout after training on Friday, the U18s recorded a resounding win. Big Ben Dalnevo won the award with Wade High’s answer to James Dean, ‘Dippa Dude’ also playing a leading role. Congratulations go to young (Chris) Conlan who was selected in the NSW State side on Monday last.

Social butterflies' pencil in the following dates in your diaries using a HB pencil of course: August 1st – Movie Night; August 17th – Infamous ‘No Talent’ Night; October 12th – Presentation Night.

GRIFFITH NOTES: "Riverina Football Record" August 4, 1991 - No. 16

Protected from the miserable weather the Netball ladies adjusted quickly to the indoor court and with a fine game from Jan Collins were able to record a brilliant win.

Meanwhile outside the Arthur Murray of the club, T.B. spurred his depleted charges to a gutsy win. Ben Dalnevo was a good contributor and Butchie boy played his usual hard game. Terry declined an offer to stay overnight in Wagga as he had booked a place with the Mormon brothers to do some door knocking in Hay.

Parr's Patriots needed to take a good hard look at themselves at half time before coming out and getting up to record the second victory for the day. A few South African police and one good dog in the rooms before today's match should ensure the lads come out in the right frame of mind. Jason 'Chuck' Norris six goals was the highlight of the day and a terrible injury to young Brian Corner saw the team reduced to 19 men but a fine game from 'Young Page' made up for Mr. Stickers absence.

In the Firsts the game we had to win 'over there' was won and won well with worthwhile contributors from everyone. Young 'Romo' the disco queen produced a 'plugger' type performance to snare five big ones. Some players were seen performing best on the floor stunts after the game at the nightspot which is also a brand of cereal, and the manager has assured me they will be performing along with Elvis, Buddy Holly and Janis Joplin at the upcoming 'No Talent Night' on August 17.

This week we play the biggest event since the Ali-Frazier tiff in Manilla' some years ago.

GRIFFITH NOTES: "Riverina Football Record" August 11, 1991 - No. 17

Some people have sold their souls for rock n roll others have donated their bodies to science, but Darrell Collins elected to sacrifice his body to the Griffith Football Club and on Sunday he was justly rewarded when he played his 200th game for the club only a few before him have given so much for the club and memories of the No. 5 jumper he has made famous will live long after he has hung up his boots.

And what a day it was with a record crowd larger than you’d find in the Cricketers Arm Hotel on a Grand Final Day watching Les lads won a thrilling encounter which saw the side playing with only 18 men after ‘Jimbob’ injured his hand and Ricky ‘Virgil’ Burdett his shoulder. Mick Murphy, Botcha ‘I gotcha’, Brendan ‘I feel good’ Browne controlled the backline while Romo, ‘Ocker’ and ‘Pin’ had the forward line sewn up and Tosca and Chris Conlan running riot in the rucks.

The Seconds celebrated ‘Malibu’ Irvin’s 23rd birthday with a crushing win led by a brilliance performance from ‘Splash’ Collins who was all over the ground, delivering the ball to Colin ‘Jakovich’ Cassidy who kicked seven goals almost equaling Digger ‘Fat Boy’ Gee best for the year effort of eight.

The toughest and most physical encounter had to be the netball match our girls played in. Despite being battered and bruised by the rough house tactics, the girls to their credit skillfully played on, to record a gritty win in a game where best on the ground took a new meaning.

A spite tough game also was played in the U18s ‘Axel’ Foley, Dippa (until injured), Woolie’ the Commodore Kid’, Paul Rovere and Fordy all had splendid games and after the lads had recorded numbers at training last Friday all can only auger well for the months ahead.

Today we wish Roy Agresta a happy birthday as we soar to greater heights with a win over the Eagles.

GRIFFITH NOTES: "Riverina Football Record" August 18, 1991 - No. 18

You've seen Jakovich, you have seen Lockett and you might have seen Daicos kick a goal from the forward pocket. But when you see Perry in action it'll knock your eyes out of their sockets. Yes, it was young Alan Parr who led by example and steered the Seconds to a gutsy win and speaking of guts and determination you couldn't go further than young Tony Butcher and Scotty Collis who after playing their hearts out in the Under 18's game made their Second-grade debuts.

The lads from Terry's stable of footballers acquitted themselves admirably and along with Mark 'Tyndo' Tyndall, Mal 'Malvern Star' Irvin and Ian 'BJ and DJ' Cohen transmitting live from fullback played a winning tune. It's nine o'clock on Thursday as the selectors shuffle in.

There's a silver haired Collingwood supporter next to me saying I'm short of players on the back flank and wing. That was the gloomy scenario as the 'Young Ones' depleted by injuries, to the likes of superstar 'Dippa' Reid and work commitments had the numbers down to the wire but again to their credit the lads rose like a 'Phoenix' on the occasion. Butch, Murph 'the Smurf', 'Wheels' Poolie were the best players.

The 'Golden Girls' of netball kept the flag flying high with a spectacular win continuing a winning streak.

The Firsts escaped with a draw and some not-so-great shots for goal cost us dearly. Matty 'Ziggy' Signor, young Peter King, young Mick Murphy all played well as did young Les Parish and young Gerry Toscan.

Don't forget tonight's 'No Talent Night' with a special guest appearance by Elvis Presley. Yes, it's that time of year again. So be there at the ground after tonight's social.

GRIFFITH NOTES: "Riverina Football Record" August 25, 1991 - No. 19

Shock horror last week as our wonderful netballers lost their first game after a ten-game winning streak but while most people were looking for Elvis Presley on Friday the netball side was ‘desperately seeking Karen’ but this did not deter Nicole Hathaway and Sandra Cone from playing great games and getting amongst the best players.

Young Ronnie Whittaker was BOG in a marvellous game which kept the U18s on top of the ladder. Eddie Knight, young Murph and Hully also shared the honours.

The Second Grade with a much better side on paper that the week before got away to a slow, lethargic start before cleaning out the cobwebs and going on to win by a good margin. Roy ‘Woy Woy’ Rinaldo, Peter McFeast, Chris ‘F-Patrol’ Files, James Reid and Grant Cameron were the best players.

The ‘Legend’ kicked seven deadly goals and Leon Stow, Bruno Mancini’s right-hand man, was best on ground. The lad's kicking was ‘way out of bounds’ which detracted from a strong win.

Congratulations go to the U15s for winning their grand final on Saturday.

The No Talent Night really packed out the hall after Saturday's game and the crowd had no need to be nervous. A ‘Pavese’ better known as half of the super Mario brothers act, showed how multi-talented he is. Bopping up as lead singer in the Big Sow and the 7 Piglets act. But the night belonged to ‘Hux’ one of our most costly imports from Sydney who all year claimed to come from the North Shore area of Sydney but let almost everything else out of the bag revealing he hails from Oxford Street, Paddington after wearing his mardi gras costume on Saturday night. This week its over to the green playing fields of Coolamon as we try to jump clear of the hoppers.

GRIFFITH NOTES: "Riverina Football Record" September 1, 1991 - No. 20

Our trip to Coolamon resulted in four handy wins on a ground which we generally have to struggle to win four points. Paul Biron, try as he did was unable to lift his fellow team mates to play with as much endeavour as he showed, and only Darrell Collis and Joe Agresta showed any serious efforts to follow young Biron's example.

The Two's resembled comeback city on Memorial Day as we saw Darren 'The Terminator' Prest back on deck after a long layoff with a knee injury. Presty was back to his normal best ready to tear anyone in half who ventured within his range. The match also saw Wayne 'Spanna' Spencer return to the field and immediately was in the thick of things with his cheeky style we've come to expect from the boy. But it was young 'Frogga' Files who left his mark with seven 'Longmire' goals in otherwise what was a dull day for the travelling coach young Mr. Parr.

Jason Vaccari served up the Under 18's with two great 'plugger' goals. Brent 'Fatcat' Hathaway played an inspiring game ably assisted by Paul Woolnough, Edward 'Guitar Hands' Knight and Ronald 'Jedi' Whittaker.

The netballers finally found their answer to Tony Lockett. Karen Evans and overcame a determined opposition to return to the winner's circle with a fine win.

Rooster (Agresta) advises that anyone interested in joining the power walk group which now is up to three can join the boys at the Hotel Victoria on Friday Night and briskly walk to meet up with the selection committee at the Bowling Club one hour later.

GRIFFITH NOTES: "Riverina Football Record" September 8, 1991 - No. 21
Riverina Football Record No. 21 unavailable

GRIFFITH NOTES: "Riverina Football Record" September 15, 1991 - No. 22

This week we commence our '91 finals campaign with all three sides participating as well as the netballers who showed the way last week recording a good win in Wagga in the First Semi-Final. The huge number of players at training has made the selectors task a hard one indeed and with only twenty spots in the team everyone is going all out to produce their best form.

On behalf of Roy 'BBQ' Agresta and his hard-working committee we wish all our sides in the finals the best of luck.

Our Club Vote Count was held after the last game at home with the popular Hillston 'time' traveller and part time comedian Peter King taking out the First-Grade award from Jamie Bennett. The 'Bugle Boy' from Barham, Colin 'Kid' Cassidy took the Second-Grade award and nuggety rover Tony Butcher cleaned up in the Under 18's. Karen Evans was left speechless when told she had won the Netballers award.

A tough close encounter with Turvey Park in the last match was just what the side needed and with the weeks rest will be able to go into today's match in the right frame of mind. The Second-Grade side played four quarters of good football against Turvey Park to snatch top spot and go into today's match brimming with confidence. The Under 18's also finished minor premiers and will meet Ganmain-GGM today.

Splashdances' Travel Service has given all clear for the Presentation Night to be held on October 12th.

GRIFFITH NOTES: "Riverina Football Record" September 29, 1991 - No. 24

It has been a long time since we have had a 1st Grade side in the grand final, but oh how sweet it is. After trying for almost twenty years, we have finally reached the big one. Les Parish must take a lot of the credit not only for the club's on-field performance, but also for the club's promoting the game at all levels, will most certainly reap awards for the club in years to come. Another tireless worker who must be thanked for is Mr. Roy Agresta and the committee who have put in countless hours of work for the club, and for the supporters who make it all worthwhile.

Terry Bennett's Under 18's play in their second grand final in three years and the young lads have done the club proud this year. The 2nds and netballers were eliminated in the preliminary finals last week, but it was a marvellous effort to get so far after a sluggish start to the season. A lot of hard work by everyone associated with the club has gone into having the two sides play off for football's ultimate prize. I'm sure the players have the best wishes of the whole City of Griffith with them as they run onto the ground today. Post Grand Final Social will be held at Griffith Ex-Servicemen's Club. All supporters will be welcome as celebrations will go till the wee hours of Monday morning.

President's Grand Final Message

It gives me great pleasure to be president of the Griffith Australian Football Club, but I am only a small cog in a big wheel which has got the Swans this far in the competition.
Les Parish has done most of the work over the past three years to get the side to the Narrandera Sportsground today and if any a man is deserving of a premiership, it is Les. He has put many hours into the three teams and lifted the club from the bottom of the ladder to be premiership contenders, as well as the work he has done with the juniors throughout the Riverina.
He, along with Allan Parr, who coaches the 2nds and was prepared to travel from Wollongong every week after being transferred in his work, and Terry Bennett, who has the future of the club in the Under 18's grand final today.
To the girls who worked so hard to make the netball grand final, only to go down by four goals to East Wagga last week, thank you for putting Griffith to the fore.
Secretary Greg Wade has worked hard all year and spent many long hours for the club, and Marty O'Donnell has kept the finances in check. We have only a small committee this year, but those who have been on it have worked hard to fill all the gaps and to all the people, I thank them.
Last, but not least, the women's auxiliary, who have kept the canteen going and like last year, has lessened the financial burden on the club.
The players have done everything that has been asked of them, and for that the Griffith Football Club has become one big family.
Finally, I would like to thank all supporters who have travelled to cheer our teams today and have stuck through the season, and hopefully football is the winner today and both sides come through the match injury free. Roy Agresta.

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