The Bellinger Valley Braves (16s) brought home fantastic results from the John Martin Country Championship Tournament Division 2 held in Newcastle over the long weekend.
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The boys played three games in their pool against Albury Cougars, Central Coast Waves and Gosford City Rebels, making the quarter final, which they won against Illawarra Hawks 37:33.
The semi-final against neighbouring association Coffs Harbour saw another win, taking the Braves through to the grand final against Lithgow Lasers, which they won 37:30.
The boys went through undefeated to bring home the title after some hard, tough and physical games. They had to dig deep and focus with lots of team work and leadership on display.
Finn McIntyre received the MVP (Most Valuable Player) Award, being a dominant player and doing much to control the game overall.
Finn told the Courier Sun that it was a great tournament and the team played really well throughout.
"Our best game was probably the semi against Illawarra ... that was the toughest match. After that one we just kept getting stronger," Finn said.
He said he was surprised with his MVP accolade, although many would agree it was well-deserved.
Finn's mother Sue said her son was a very passionate player, who led by example and always gave more than 100 per cent.
Coaches Nicole Howarth and Shane Dunlop said "the boys showed great defence and played to their full capacity ... they really gave everything they had when the pressure was on".
Preparations are now underway for Division 1 teams for the next round of NJL in Tamworth. Division 2 teams have the home round in Coffs Harbour at the end of the month.
