It has been a long wait for Kyneton Tigers’ women footballers but they have cemented their spot in the grand final in the RDFNL Women’s League for the first time ever!
The team established in 2014, have had many years of struggle and heartache. For the first two years playing, they didn’t win a game and were on the receiving end of 100-point floggings on a regular basis.
“The team had heart, but if I am being honest, it was hard to turn up on wet and miserable winter mornings knowing we were in for a tough match, week in week out” player and team coordinator Natalie Korinfsky, who has been part of the team since its establishment.
“We have come a long way since those days, it has taken finding the right coaching group, strong leadership and a committed playing group to get us to where we are today.”
The Tigers moved from the AFL Central Victoria Women’s Competition last year after they just missed out on finals due to an administration error with the players points system due to another team’s mistake. This meant points were given to another team, which pushed the Tigers out of finals contention through no fault of their own. The club appealed the decision, but it was ultimately upheld by the league.
Shortly after, the RDFNL put in a pitch with the Kyneton Football Netball Club to bring in a brand-new Women’s league in the local region, hoping Kyneton might be one of the first teams to join.
After an extensive review with the coaching staff and players and meetings with both leagues, the Tigers decided to take a chance on being part of the RDFNL and haven’t looked back.
“It was a very contentious issue; we had a few players wanting to stay with the Central Vic league, but the vast majority could see the potential with starting fresh with the RDFNL,” Natalie said.
“The RDFNL put together very appealing proposal offering to video all of our games and provide player statistics to support overall development of our club.
“We felt like they were making a real commitment to building a strong league from the start and ensuring all teams were well supported and resourced.
“The team is so excited; it feels like all of the hard work has finally paid off. Our coaches have been a huge reason why we are so successful.
“Their ongoing commitment to ensure we play good footy and can run out a game has kept us in a strong position all season.”
The Tigers haven’t looked back since and head into the Grand Final undefeated after beating second placed-Melton Bloods in the Semi Finals.
Kyneton FNC will host a free afterparty event back at the Kyneton FNC Social Rooms from 8pm with entertainment provided by DJ Curtis, everyone welcome.
RDFNL Rookie Me Women’s Grand Final
Kyneton V TBD
Gilbert Gordon Oval, Woodend
Saturday August 5, 5.30pm
Entry:
$10 Adult
$7 Concession
Under 17 Free
