12/06/2026
🏆 OPEN’S SENIOR STATE TITLES 🏆
Coaches Write-Up by Chelsea Luke👇
As we return home from State Titles, I wanted to take a moment to reflect on what has been an incredibly challenging, rewarding and memorable campaign for our Opens team.
While the results did not fall our way this weekend, I could not be prouder of the group of athletes who represented our association. We opened the carnival with a hard-fought draw against Lismore before facing a series of tough opponents throughout the remainder of the competition. Despite the scoreboard not reflecting the effort invested by this team, their character never wavered.
Throughout every game, these athletes displayed grit, determination and resilience. They continued to compete until the final whistle, refusing to give up regardless of the situation. When things became difficult, they stayed connected, supported one another and continued to play for each other.
This team has shown courage in adversity, commitment to improvement and a willingness to keep showing up, even when the challenges seemed overwhelming. Those are qualities that cannot be measured on a ladder but will serve them well both on and off the court.
A sincere thank you must also go to our parents, families and supporters. Thank you for your encouragement, your sacrifices, your travel, your support and your trust throughout the season. Your commitment to these athletes allows opportunities like State Titles to become possible, and it is greatly appreciated.
To the athletes, thank you for representing our association with pride, passion and sportsmanship. The results may not tell the full story of your journey, but your effort, resilience and growth certainly do. ♥️🩵
A huge thank you to our sponsors Inverell RSM Club, Trident Energy Services, The Union Inverell, New England Chiropractic, Level Electrical & Air Inverell, Sweaney Street Laundromat and Inverell Laundry. Your support played a vital role this season, and we are incredibly grateful to have local businesses that invest in community sport.
I am incredibly proud of what this team achieved together, and I have no doubt that the lessons learned this season will help shape future success.
Thank you for an unforgettable season! 🫶
📸 Photo credit: Sherrie Finney
