Opinion

AS we move from the winter to summer sporting seasons, it’s timely to acknowledge the many dedicated Fassifern people.

We are so fortunate to have a diverse range of players, officials, coaches, referees and umpires, along with volunteers and fans committed to their sports.

Recent finals in rugby league, soccer and netball highlighted the ever-loyal and hardworking contingent involved in weekly competitions.

Photo: LYLE RADFORD

The  Fassifern Bombers senior club, led by president Paul Roderick (pictured), faced major injury challenges this season but still maintained commendable team spirit.

Coaches Wayne Finch and Shane Gillett did outstanding jobs overseeing their A-Grade and Reserve Grade teams with so many players unavailable.

Cary Cobbin was justifiably proud of guiding his women’s team to the South East Queensland Community competition finals in only their second season.

The Bombers’ players and support staff, based at Hayes Oval, were also fantastic to deal with enduring testing seasons.

Experienced people like grounds manager Stewart Towler are an essential part of the Bombers’ organisation.

The Bombers junior club, led by president Jess Gill, celebrated multiple achievements including the under-13 and under-15 girls’ teams making finals in elite South East Queensland competitions.

The Bombers’ under-18 boys won their Division 2 grand final to cap a successful season.

Throughout the year, the Bombers juniors were regularly involved in community events, highlighting the club’s importance in the region.

Former president Tim Ryall continues to make a valuable contribution in his current role as secretary.

In my 40 years covering sport, the Bombers have been one of the most professional and helpful clubs to work with.

Photo: LYLE RADFORD

So too have the people at the Boonah Soccer Club, led by president and coach Nick Nordstrom (pictured).

The club based at Coronation Park continues to grow with a number of teams making finals in recent weeks.

Brumbies’ coaches like Ben Oppermann and  Zack Mayne-Earl stepped up, encouraging their junior and senior players.

Karen Lather was a valuable club contributor.

Photo: LYLE RADFORD

Fassifern Netball Association (FNA) president Amanda Dover (pictured) and her photograph-taking committee colleague Sonya Gibson have led the way in highlighting major successes.

That included hosting this year’s successful Scenic Rim Challenge Carnival and the recent grand finals at the Boonah courts.

FNA’s junior development focus and support for umpires is commendable.

Photo: LYLE RADFORD

Fassifern Tennis Association president Maz Verrall (pictured) is one of a kind in terms of never-ending enthusiasm and her love of sport.

She continues to provide positive leadership encouraging more people to enjoy the social and health benefits of playing tennis.

With summer nearly upon us, Fassifern sports fans have plenty to look forward to including the return of Bushrangers cricketers chasing more finals’ glory.

The Fassifern vigoro senior and junior competitions are also back, rich in tradition and with strong family connections.

It is those wonderful family links across many sports that help make such an important impact in the region.