The BUDs managed to keep their unbeaten record intact, despite some close games. Gary “always delivers” Howe, Charlie “can’t stop that” Stockton, Darren “the destroyer” Taylor and Peter “hit me harder” Simmons led the way with punishing runs and defence.

The “Red Train” could not be derailed, with Harry Martin and Phil McGuigan unstoppable through the middle of the ruck. New boy Danny “goodnight” Knight proved a valuable asset and will be one to watch next year. Just shows you do not need good knees to play Golden Oldies, just a dream to turn up. Remember always follow your dreams.

Ian Smith played like a man half his age (which would still qualify him for Golden Oldies!), Trevor Sinclair and Noddy Bastick had their usual solid games, while Jack “Seiko” Gordon and big Allistair McMillan ran like spring chickens. “Bruiser” Beaumont (all the way from Dorrigo) organised the play from half-back, and Drew “looks and plays like Peter Garratt dances” Martin who travelled from Dubbo to debut for the BUDs. All in all a great all round team effort.

A big thankyou to all our sponsors and helpers on the day. In particular, Coopers and Bello Golf Club (particularly Kevin McMahon), Paul Warman for the brilliant refereeing display, the Bello footy club and cooks Waz Yule, Michael Trist and Gabby Bastick at the bar and our local media organisation the Courier-Sun Newspaper.

All players are reminded there is a contingent heading to Evans Head on October 17 and camping overnight. All interested players please contact Ian Smith or Darren Taylor.

For all those who missed it, remember it all happens again next year. You don’t get too old to play; you get old because you stop playing!

Paul “Zip Zip” Bastick