10/06/2026
Always proud of our players, last Saturday was no exception as nine of our boys represented the association in the DFA V NWFA representative game.
In the senior game after an arm wrestle for the first three quarters the NWFA managed to kick away in the last and run out 35-point winners.
Nathan Radford was named captain of the DFA seniors, and his leadership was evident for all to see. Natters won a mountain of footy and was in everything all day. He was instrumental in winning the footy either at stoppages or in open play setting up play around him.
Joel Millhouse continued on his merry way in big games and won the Parker Medal for the DFA best player. Roaming all over the field Milly was a constant link up player through the middle of the ground and was able to set up many forward entries throughout the day. Winning the contested footy all around the ground Milly was rightfully rewarded for his efforts.
Taylor Nash was instrumental across half back and once again was at his combative best. Throwing his body into every contest with no thought for his own wellbeing. He was able to spoil in the air and then attack once the ball hit the ground. Nashy took plenty of intercept marks and was one of the better players on the day.
The DFA Under 23 team started strongly and ended up running out 83-point winners.
Ash Crawford was named captain of the under 23 side and controlled the backline all day with his voice and leadership. He ensured his teammates up the field were aware of where their players were positioned and instructed the backline players when to run. Taking several strong marks Crawf was a pillar that proved too difficult for the NWFA to pass.
Jakobi Maney played in a variety of positions throughout the day. Whilst it can be difficult playing multiple positions Jakobi provided run and carry when he got his hands on the footy. He was able to find space on the vast Wivenhoe ground and used the ball well when delivering to his teammates particularly to our forwards.
Jonty Watkins resumed in his familiar role across half back. With his versatility Jonty was used in a couple of different roles and not only shut down the stronger marking forwards he also managed to keep the much smaller forwards in check. Running in straight lines with a hard nose edge he hit the footy hard all day and was an integral part of other backline.
Aydn Martin started in the ruck and gave the on ballers first use of the ball all day. The start of the game was crucial, and Marto cracked in as he does and ensured he set the tone for the remainder of the day. He was a strong threat in the air around the ground and drifted forward when required to prove a strong aerial presence. He covered the ground with ease and was one of the better players on the ground.
Alex Wynwood was a strong marking target all day and finished off his work with 5 goals. Winning possession at stoppages the midfielders’ eyes lit up as they seen Truck leading with intent and directly at them. With strong marking and accurate kicking, he was influential for the entire day and was a major reason the result margin ended the way it did.
James Collins played a running role on the wing and half forward. He’s pressure was great and his pace caused problems for his opponents on various occasions. Jimy found himself out in the open spaces on numerous occasions providing a run and carry option for his teammates. Ever the opportunist he finished off his day in the last quarter with a goal and will gain valuable experience from the day.
It’s an honour to represent your own club and community but to represent your association and wider community is something that these players will hold close to their hearts. As a club we couldn’t be prouder of not only your playing performance on the day but the way you all conduct yourselves.
To be picked to play in these games is a reward for hard work and dedication and you all did yourselves and our club extremely proud.
We’re extremely glad to have you all at our club ⚪️🔴⚫️
Grub