The Sunshine Heights Under-12 football team celebrated a remarkable victory overcoming a season of challenges to secure the premiership in an intense grand final showdown against Point Cook Centrals.
The season began with just 15 registered players, all of whom were bottom-age Under-12s, with five still eligible to play in the Under-10 division. Each week, the team relied on a rotating roster of additional Under-10 players, balancing the squad’s needs with fixture dependencies. Despite this, Sunshine Heights only lost one game throughout the season.
Among the young roster, four players were completely new to football, having never played the sport before. Yet, the team’s spirit, determination, and adaptability carried them through, culminating in a memorable grand final performance.
As the players ran onto the field, they were greeted by an enormous grand final banner that read, “One heart, one team, one dream. Go Dragons!” The atmosphere was electric, with an overwhelming turnout of parents, grandparents, friends, senior players, and even local school members rallying behind the team.
The game itself was a nail-biter. Heavy winds played a significant role, keeping the scores low and making each possession a battle. Defender Carter Rangi was instrumental in keeping Point Cook Centrals from extending their lead, while Luka Soklevski and Mason Rangi pushed forward tirelessly, helping Sunshine Heights inch closer to a breakthrough. When the final siren sounded, the game was tied at 33 points apiece, forcing the match into overtime.
With two additional five-minute quarters on the clock, Sunshine Heights’ training and fitness proved decisive. R. Greto and L. Soklevski kicked crucial goals in overtime, securing a 17-point victory and sending the Sunshine Heights supporters into celebration.
Final scores:
Sunshine Heights 7.8 (50)
Point Cook Centrals 5.3 (33)
The best-on-ground medal was awarded to Carter Rangi for his outstanding defensive work throughout the game. The victory capped off a season filled with hard work, resilience, and the joy of community support.
After the match, coach Robbie Greto and his son, team captain Robbie Greto Jnr, proudly held the premiership cup aloft, with Carter Rangi, Luka Soklevski, and Mason Rangi sharing a moment of triumph as key players in their team’s success.
It was a grand final to remember, and for Sunshine Heights, it was a testament to the power of teamwork and persistence.
