Pioneers at Robina scoop host of awards

ROBINA’S excellence in developing its women’s football program was on show when the club collected a range of individual awards at the AFLQ Community Football Awards on Saturday.

At a gala presentation night at Brisbane’s Royal International Convention Centre, four members of the club’s inaugural women’s side were recognised after the Roos’ remarkable debut season in QWFA Division 2 South.

Women’s coach Joel Ralph collected the QWFA Coach of the Year award for his efforts in guiding the team to a grand final berth.

Only a handful of players in his Roos squad had kicked a Sherrin before pre-season training began in December.

Team captain Hannah Blaine polled the most votes for the season to earn the QWFA Division 2 South best and fairest award.

The award capped off a stellar season for Blaine, who also won the Pride Cup Best on Ground medal on July 28, and the best on ground medal in her team’s grand final loss to Morningside on August 26.

Tall forward Sarah Ellis took home the QWFA Leading Goal Kicker medal, having booted 31 goals to share the award with Morningside’s Mary Ross.

Ellis proved a headache for opposition sides all year with her skills in both the ruck and in front of goals.

Player and committee member Sally Crosswell was recognised as QWFA Volunteer of the Year for her efforts in organising the first Pride Cup for AFL in Queensland.

Robina is adding a second women’s team and a colts team in 2019. Anyone interested in joining the club can register at robinaroos.com.au.

Coomera’s Nathan Hogg was named the QFA division two best and fairest, while Southport player Dillon Lewis won the QFA Colts Maroon title.