Sport
16 June, 2026
Junior Magpies return from break in flying form
The Maryborough Football Netball Club’s junior football teams returned to the field after the King’s Birthday Long Weekend, headlined by strong performances from their under 10s and under 14s.
The under 10s enjoyed the advantage of playing at home at Princes Park on Saturday when they took on a strong Eaglehawk outfit.
Despite giving away size across the ground, the young Magpies displayed plenty of determination and teamwork throughout the contest.
Harry Smith was influential through the midfield before pushing forward to hit the scoreboard with several goals. Oscar Bilton also impressed with his ability to find the football and continually put himself in good positions around the ground.
Coach Mick Noonan was delighted with the continued improvement and development shown by the squad as they continue to build their skills and confidence each week.
Maryborough’s under 12s travelled to Marist College on Saturday to face Maiden Gully in what proved to be a challenging contest.
The home side started strongly and maintained control for much of the day, with their accurate finishing in front of goal proving a major factor.
While the Magpies worked hard and created opportunities, they were unable to capitalise on the scoreboard.
Charlie Bucknall was outstanding in and around the contests, continually winning hard posses-sions for his team.
Knox Parkinson found plenty of the football on the wing and provided strong run and carry, while Jarrod Beer battled hard in attack and never stopped competing.
Despite the effort, Maryborough went down 13.1.(79) to 4.8.(32).
Maryborough’s under 14s travelled to North Bendigo on Sunday knowing a victory would strengthen their position inside the competition’s top three.
From the opening bounce, the Magpies were in complete control. Connor Day-Lock dominated in the ruck, giving his midfielders first use of the football and setting the tone for the day.
The forwards made the most of their opportunities, with Hardy Heathcock, Alfie Boyes, Jordy Adkogen, Charlie Ward and Day-Lock each finishing with three goals. Charlie Wilson also contributed strongly with two majors.
Defensively, Noah Thomson and Charlie Jardine were outstanding, creating a wall across half-back and continually applying pressure to stop North Bendigo’s forward move-ments.
Maryborough’s relentless effort and unselfish football saw them run away with an emphatic 119-point victory.