Football
20 August, 2025
Giants make history in grand-final showdown
On Saturday August 10 the Grampians Giants wrote a new chapter in their club’s history, stepping on to the field as their first ever grand final in nine years of competition.
For an all-abilities football side built on community spirit and inclusion, this achievement was about far more than a scoreboard.
It was about what’s possible when people of all-abilities are given the chance to play, belong and compete at the highest level.
With a full side and a passionate group of travelling supporters making the journey to Warrnambool, the Giants arrived at Friendly Societies Park determined to embrace the occasion.
Coach Gary’s pre-game message captured the essence of the day: “Give it your all, play for each other, and don’t forget to have fun.”
Warrnambool, the defending champions, were equally determined to keep their crown.
Having previously been edged out by the Giants earlier in the season, they knew this would be no easy match.
This was a celebration of inclusive footy where athletes with the diversity of all abilities and special skills come together and share the field to celebrate the spirit of sport.
The game in quarters:
- Q1: The Roosters came out strongly, putting early pressure on the scoreboard and leading 2.2 (14) to 0
- Q2: The Giants responded with grit and determination. Strong co-ordination and relentless pressure saw them close the gap, with the score at half-time 4.3 (27) to 3.2 (20) still in the Roosters' favour
- Q3: The third term saw Rooster’s edge ahead again, capitalising on key opportunities to lead 6.7 (43) to 4.3 (27)
- Q4: The Giants never gave in, restricting Warrnambool to just one goal in the final quarter. Despite their best efforts, the final siren saw Roosters take the win 7.8 (50) to 4.7 (31).
Charlie Blake, Ashton McKinnon, Keefe DeGroot and Lachlan Lee each slotted a goal to keep the Giants in striking distance throughout the match.
The Giants’ effort was built on the contributions of a committed squad:
- Lachlan Lee (c) led from the front, inspiring teammates and adding a crucial goal.
- Charlie Blake worked tirelessly in attack, converting under pressure.
- Ashton McKinnon brought energy around the contest and hit the scoreboard.
- Keefe DeGroot was a strong presence up forward, making his goal count.
- Ryan Pulham, Tom Fleming, Sky Ralph, Brandon Micallef, Matthew Joy, Lei Calantog, Dan Quixley, Lachlan Drane, Hayden Quaife, Denny Coone, Tavis Starick, Chris Rolph, Nathan Elford, Thomas Parker, Simon Crow and Lucas Ralph all contributed to a performance that reflected resilience, unity and determination.
From their first bounce of the season to their first grand final appearance, the 2025 campaign has been a landmark chapter for the Grampians Giants.
This milestone will inspire current and future Giants, showing that the journey matters just as much as the result.
While the scoreboard didn’t swing their way, the Giants left the field with heads held high.
All of us at the Wimmera Regional Sports Assembly are incredibly proud of the Grampians Giants.
The Giants have shown that when opportunity meets determination, history is made and inclusion wins every time.
Wimmera Regional Sports Assembly would like to thank all those who are involved for their presence and support.
Special thanks also to the sponsors, volunteers, coaches, families and carers who continue to make these rounds possible.