Knockout draws huge crowd in Walgett
Story by Tricia Duffield
A massive and very vocal crowd packed out Ricky Walford Oval in Walgett on the weekend, to see Brothers United take out the Men’s grand final and the Gingie Tiddas finish victorious in the women’s grand final in the Walgett Aboriginal Connection Rugby League Knockout.
Walgett hosted the finals after winning last year’s Knockout and proved yet again they are a league powerhouse in the west. Runners up in the men’s was BSM, going down to the powerful Brothers United.
Walgett Aboriginal Connection Event organiser Rikka Lamb said the entire community rallied around the teams and the competition attracted players and supporters from all corners of the western region.
The Walgett Knockout has been held across the state for the past 16 years, a testament to the strength and depth of rugby league and the exceptional talent of indigenous players.
“There were 16 men’s teams, three women’s and multiple junior teams from under 7s through to under 11s,” Rikka said.
“There was a great crowd which was good considering it was a hot day; all the teams brought plenty of supporters with them, and we had teams from Dubbo, Coonabarabran, Collarenebri, Pilliga, Moree and beyond.
“It’s one of the biggest competitions in western NSW and it’s great to have such wide support for rugby league,” she said.
“The quality of the football in the Knockout was outstanding, the crowd was loud and it was an enjoyable day all round. Thanks to all the teams who travelled and participated, and thanks to the partners and sponsors who jumped on board,” Rikka said.
The Player of the Knockout for the men’s competition was Elias Kennedy, and Player of the Final was Ty Sutherland. Best forward was Joe Wade and best back was Sonny Bill Walker.
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