Sport
2 September, 2025
U14s rugby league champs
Under 14s are Group 14 Premiers!!! To say we are proud is an understatement.
By coach Graham Bugmy
The Gilgandra U14 Panthers have poured every ounce of determination, grit, and heart into every game this season - ultimately finishing undefeated in 2025 and crowning their efforts with a spectacular 48–20 triumph in the Group 14 Junior Rugby League Grand Final over Coonamble on Saturday, August 23.
Every weekend, this group of young men left nothing in the tank.
Their relentless attack, unwavering defence, and sheer team spirit carried them from one dominant performance to the next, culminating in a grand final that was as thrilling as it was decisive.
This enduring strength showcases Gilgandra’s deep-rooted passion for rugby league and its thriving junior development.
Supported by a tight-knit team of parents, managers, and volunteers - the squad’s cohesion, discipline, and sportsmanship have shone all season long.
Under 16s brave in defeat
By coach and Gilgandra Junior Rugby League and Netball (GJRLN) president Ash Hazelton
The U16s travelled to Coonamble on Saturday to take on the undefeated Bears in the grand final. After finding touch off the opening kick-off, it was the perfect start. Four tackles into the game, Peter Peters had scored his first try under the posts and converted to take the lead 6–0.
It wasn’t long before Peter was over again under the posts to make it 12–0, and five minutes later Jack Gibson put Peter through a gap on halfway, allowing him to race away and score his third try of the first half. We took a very commanding lead into the break.
Unfortunately, the Coonamble Bears came out of half-time much stronger than they had started the game.
After going set for set in the early stages, it was Gilgandra who made back-to-back errors, gifting field position to the Bears. They soon made us pay, scoring three tries in a five-minute period to level the scores.
With 10 minutes to go, the Bears took a penalty goal to take the lead for the first time in the match.
From there, there was no looking back, as they had all the ball and momentum heading into the final stages.
Unfortunately, we were unable to hold them out as they scored a try on the sideline and, with a great conversion, took an eight-point lead.
