Football
29 May, 2025
Whelan shines in big Laharum win
Laharum responded to last week’s loss with a big win over Rupanyup on Saturday in round seven of the Horsham District Football Netball League.
The final result saw Laharum defeat Rupanyup 31.18 204 to 2.1 13.
Coach of Laharum Robbie Miller scored the first goal before his side raced out to a 56-7 lead after the first quarter.
The mountain men continued their output throughout the game, scoring at least 47 in each quarter while keeping Rupanyup to just two goals.
Teenager Chase Whelan was one of the best on the ground for Laharum, booting an impressive nine goals.
Joining Whelan amongst the best players for Laharum was Brodie Mines, who added six goals of his own, while Elliot Kelly and Ryan Timmins impressed for the losing team.
Miller believes the commanding performance stemmed from a team-first approach.
“It was probably a bit of everyone doing their role,” Miller said.
“No one played selfishly, everyone had team-oriented thoughts first, and that was really evident.
“We played open football, blokes went up for the ball well, we were structured at stoppages, and we brought each other into the game."
Whelan’s nine majors takes his season goal count to 23, making him one of the league’s most dangerous attacking players.
The impressive performance comes after Whelan was recently selected to represent School Sports Victoria’s Under 15 boys' football side to compete in the School Sport Australia Championships in Moreton Bay, Queensland, in late July.
Miller spoke highly of Whelan’s maturity and ability.
“He (Chase) is beyond his years, age-wise, and he’s a genuine, young kid that just loves his football,” Miller said.
“He’s got extraordinary football talents, so every time he’s available for selection, we grab him.”
– MACKENZIE BOOK