Football
12 July, 2025
Respect, Resilience, and Remembrance at FIDA
The FIDA Western Conference rolled into Warrnambool for Round 4, with players from Wimmera Whippets, Grampians Giants, and South Warrnambool Roosters taking the field in another fantastic display of community spirit, inclusion, and on-field passion.
Despite the winter chill, everyone had a day filled with moments of connection, courage, and competition, watched closely by a strong turnout of local supporters, especially from the Roosters' home crowd.
Match 1: South Warrnambool Roosters def. Grampians Giants
Final Score: South Warrnambool Roosters 5.10 (40) def. Grampians Giants 1.0 (6)
The Roosters came out firing early, posting three goals and seven behinds in the first half.
The Giants fought back strong to maintain control throughout the game and managed a strong second half, capped off by a goal from Lucas Ralph.
Despite the loss, the Giants showed fantastic on-field communication and a real sense of unity, signs that the group is growing in confidence each week.
Notable Rooster contributors included Jackson Kennedy, Scott McKay, and Fred Knowles.
Before the second match commenced, players from all three clubs gathered for a heartfelt tribute to Russell Holmes, a beloved former Grampians Giants player and coach.
Russell’s legacy as one of the early champions of inclusive sport in the region was honoured with a moment of silence, reflecting the deep bonds formed through FIDA football.
Match 2: Grampians Giants def. Wimmera Whippets
Final Score: Grampians Giants 8.4 (52) def. Wimmera Whippets 4.1 (25)
In one of the most exciting contests of the day, both the Giants and Whippets showcased sportsman spirit and skill.
Giants captain Lachlan Lee led from the front with three goals, supported by Lei Calantog (2 goals) and solo efforts from Ashton McKinnon, Dan Quixley, and Sky Ralph.
The Whippets responded with goals from Lachie Young (2), Alfred Muller, and Matthew Schmidt — showcasing their continued improvement week-on-week.
Match 3: South Warrnambool Roosters def. Wimmera Whippets
Final Score: South Warrnambool Roosters 8.3 (51) def. Wimmera Whippets 1.1 (7)
The Roosters again showed their class with dominant ball movement and attacking pressure.
But this game wasn’t just about the scoreboard.
With just minutes to go, Whippets player Tracy Taylor thrilled the crowd with her goal, drawing cheers from players and supporters.
It was a special moment that captured the essence of the day — joy, encouragement, and team spirit.
Goal scorers for the Roosters included Tommy Leembruggen, Scott McKay, Tim Baulch,
Jake Thomas, and Callum Moffit.
Regional All Abilities Netball League Update
A fantastic Round two of RAANL was also held in Ballarat on Sunday.
The Wimmera Whippets Netball team showed great determination, going down narrowly to Ballarat Bulldogs 16–15 and later to Warrnambool Stringers 21–7.
Whippets v Bulldogs
In a close fought contest the Whippets and Bulldogs went goal for goal for most of the game with intercepts and goal accuracy ultimately deciding the game.
Jess Sorrell and Graham Manwaring provided run and connection through the centre with Indya Baulch and Rachael Werner teaming up well in the circle.
Whippets v Stingers
The Stingers started strongly, gaining the lead early.
Despite the efforts of Ella Massey and Andrea Cartwright the Stingers were able to control the game and maintain the lead, taking out the victory.
Congratulations to Rachel Werner, awarded the Uniting Wimmera Player of the Day.
WRSA extends its sincere thanks to all the carers, coaches, umpires, drivers, and supporters who make each round of FIDA possible.
A warm thank-you also to Warrnambool City Council for hosting and Warrnambool City Netball Association for their continued support of inclusive sport.
The Western Conference now turns its attention to Ararat for Round 5, to be held on Saturday, July 27 at Alexandra Oval.
The upcoming round offers more opportunities for players to connect, compete, and celebrate what All Abilities Inclusive sport is all about.
For more information about WRSA’s inclusive sport programs, visit www.wrsa.org.au or call (03) 5382 4599.
