A combined team of students from Gravesend Public School and Croppa Creek Public School – affectionately known as Gravo Creek – has secured a spot in the top eight teams in New South Wales after making a remarkable run in the Small Schools Knock-Out Touch Football competition.
Gravo Creek will now head to Penrith next month to take on teams from across New South Wales.
The touch footy team was formed earlier this year when both schools invited students to trial for the competition.
What followed was a powerful display of teamwork, skill and unwavering determination across three hard-fought matches.
Gravo Creek kicked off their campaign with a commanding 11-3 win over Delungra Public School, who were praised for their sportsmanship and warm hospitality.
Their second match was a much tighter contest against Gum Flat Public School.
Despite the pressure, Gravo Creek held strong and came away with a solid 7-4 win.
In their third match, Gravo Creek faced Kentucky Public School at Inverell High School.
The game benefitted from top-notch facilities and the expertise of referee Kearni Reynolds, with a well-run and competitive match.
Rising to the occasion, Gravo Creek delivered a dominant 14-4 win.
The impressive victories have earned the team a place in the state finals, to be held in Penrith on September 23.
Gravesend Public School principal Jackie Todd said coaches and staff from both schools have expressed immense pride in the players’ efforts and achievements.
“This is a fantastic result for a small team made up of two rural schools,” Mrs Todd said.
“The kids have trained hard, supported each other, and represented their communities with pride.”
Croppa Creek principal Michael Sky spoke highly about the broader benefits of the collaboration.
“The success of the combined Croppa-Gravesend touch team is a credit to the students, parents and staff,” Mr Sky said.
“By combining our schools, we’re able to create opportunities for our small-school students that we otherwise wouldn’t have.
“The chance for our younger students to be involved and tap into their potential is invaluable,” he said.
Gravo Creek has also been fortunate to secure the support of Liliana Reardon, who has dedicated her time to train the team, and share her extensive knowledge and experience.
Her guidance has been instrumental in preparing the players for higher-level competition.
Coaches Amber Barnett, Kay Rolfe, and team manager Katie Gillan, are excited to see what this spirited team can achieve in the big smoke.
“The way the draw has landed means if we win our first game – which won’t be an easy feat – we could potentially face off with another local team, Yetstar,” Ms Barnett said.
“They’ll be formidable opponents. The strength out in this region – even if some teams don’t make it through – is right up there with the best competition you’ll find in this knockout.
“It’s great to see other small schools come on board with the Small Schools knock-outs this year, and we hope the competition keeps growing.”
With the state finals on the horizon, Gravo Creek is gearing up to take on the best small schools in NSW – with heart, gusto, and plenty of school spirit, Ms Barnett said.
