Lily Leighton wins Industrials’ best and fairest
The Dusties Youth Girls footy team wrapped up its year with a presentation night last week.
The girls celebrated an outstanding year in which they reached the preliminary final. They went down to Traralgon who dominated all season, and predictably won the grand final.
Coach Mark Leighton gave an emotional and heart-warming speech to the girls and their families, thanking them for the effort, support, dedication and enthusiasm given throughout the season.
He spoke of the immense pleasure in coaching the team and pointed out the improved skill and ability of all the players. He was very proud to present the awards.
Best and fairest was won by Lily Leighton with 106 votes and highest goal scorer. Luka Butters was runners-up with 59 votes.
Most consistent player went to Charlotte Waller. Most determined to Kira Wilson. Most improved was Georgia Keeble.
The coaches award went to Molly Schuurmans. The peer award, voted by all the players, went to Paige Hill for being an all-round great team player.
Two 50-game medals were awarded to Charlotte Waller and the Dusties captain Bella Whelan. Bella, Eden Nooy and Paige Hill were awarded their jerseys as, being top age, they will leave the club. The trio will be greatly missed as they have been pivotal members of the Dusties team.
Bella Whelan gave a brief speech thanking the coaching team for their commitment and dedication to the team week in, week out. They are coach Mark Leighton, assistant coach Matt Vickery, team manager Mel Jinnette and first aid Scott Keeble. Thanks also went to Cooper Leighton as boundary umpire and water boy Fraser Leighton.
The Dusties Youth Girls are looking forward to returning next year with the aim of taking it all the way to the grand final.