2024 TERRITORY CUP!
The Katherine Clontarf Academy hosted the 2024 All Clontarf Territory Cup during Week 8 of Term 1 for all senior Clontarf Academy Members across the Top End. Clontarf Carnivals are a vital part of our program, as they provide strong incentives for our Academy members to excel in school. To participate in these carnivals, Academy members need to put in their best effort at school, make good choices, and embody the ‘Clontarf Spirit’ in all that they do.
The HRS Bloods played three preparatory games in Darwin against our Darwin-based Academies at Casuarina Senior College, Palmerston Senior College, and Taminmin College. Winning all three games, the Bloods headed to Katherine full of confidence, ready to face these teams for a second time as well as teams from West Arnhem and Katherine. Due to flooding along the Stuart Highway, teams from Tennant Creek and Alice Springs were unable to make the trip north.
It was a massive day of football with the first game starting at 8:30am and the last game finishing under lights at 7:00pm at Katherine Nitmiluk Oval. The HRS Bloods played excellent team football throughout the carnival, winning all four of their games for the day and finishing at the top. Playing in the Clontarf Spirit, the HRS Bloods comfortably overcame Palmerston Senior College and West Arnhem/Taminmin. Their game against Casuarina Senior College was thrilling, with Max Rogers (Year 12), Robin Wesley (Year 12), Sonny Smiler (Year 10), and Mazlan Patrick (Year 10) consistently winning the ball, controlling the game, and securing the win in a tough contest.
The closest game came against the home team, Katherine, and it was a nail-biter. Trailing for most of the game, the Bloods pushed harder for longer and ultimately emerged victorious. Jaren Sambo (Year 10) and Xavier Green (Year 11) took some big marks with Xavier playing well in the ruck all day. Max Rogers, Robin Wesley, Sonny Smiler, and Mazlan Patrick had another great game, while Tylar Raymond (Year 10) was the best forward, scoring spectacular goals from all over the ground only as Tylar can. Hank Huddlestone (Year 11) had a solid carnival on the wing, and full-back Rahiri Bedggood (Year 12) was a force in defence, reading the ball well and relieving pressure with long kicks down the line.
It was another great campaign for our senior Academy Members and a fantastic opportunity for the Bloods to showcase their football skills.
We look forward to more opportunities like this as we move into a busy Term 2 with more exciting camps, activities, and incentives planned.
Duane Von Senden
Academy Director
