70 determined NCS students from Years 5 and 6 launched themselves into 'Aussie Rules' AFL games with energy and team spirit last Thursday. This was for the annual AFL Auskick Paul Kelly cup, held at Artie Smith oval Bomaderry. The teams - 2 girls teams, 2 boys teams, and a mixed team, competed against students from Nowra Anglican College, Kangaroo Valley Public and St Michaels Nowra. On reduced pitch fields, students were positioned in defence, mid or attack thirds, and had to mark a player to intercept hand balls and kicks. We had also practiced 'bear hug' tackles which many students performed confidently and appropriately. Well done! The day aimed to reinforce the rules and sportsmanship of the game. The players had the perfect opportunity to practice their handball passes, drop kicks, marks and tackling. The teams also experienced the thrill of kicking 6 pointers through the centre poles, or a 'behind' through the side poles for 1 point. Referees from Bomaderry High school were fair and patient with the young players, many of whom have never played in competition before. Many teams were able to warm up, assign positions and share time on and off the field by their own leadership. This showed fantastic sportsmanship and awareness of one another. A special mention to the girls team 'The Giants' and the mixed team 'The Rats' who made it to finals. The mixed team went on to win their final convincingly against Kangaroo Valley. An awesome effort!
