Bellingen Football Club is celebrating a remarkable weekend of success, with three of its junior teams crowned 2025 North Coast Football (NCF) champions.
The U12 Division 1 boys, U14 Division 1 girls, and U14 Division 1 boys each secured victory in their grand finals, bringing home three titles in one day – one of the best results ever achieved by the club.
The U12 boys kicked off the celebrations with a convincing 4-2 win over Coffs Coast United Lions, showing composure and some amazing footwork to find the back of the net, along with a strong defensive effort. Two goals came from the boot of team captain Emile Simmonds, while Harley Thorn left the crowd speechless in an amazing display of footwork to score in spectacular fashion, while Luka Kenny swapped out his goalie gloves in the second half to score and put the game beyond doubt.
The U14 boys followed with a 3-1 triumph over their rivals the Woolgoolga Dolphins, producing attacking football and a strong passing game that proved too much for their opponents. Orville Daley came away with two goals, one of which came off a stunning assist from Oscar Papandrea, while Hunter Lynch-Gale continued his strong season with a Grand Final goal.
In a nail-biter, Bellingen FC’s U14 girls held their nerve to seal a 1-0 victory thanks to a decisive penalty goal by Bella McKay.
Our U16 Division 1 girls also made it through to the Grand Final match and fought hard but were narrowly beaten by Boambee Eagles 2-1.
Bellingen FC President Pete Barron said the triple championship was a proud moment, made even more impressive given the challenges the club faced this season.
“This result is incredible when you think about the fact we didn’t even have a home ground this year, with Connell Park out of action due to major upgrades,” he said. “Our players and coaches have shown real resilience, and the support from families and the community has been outstanding.”
Despite training and playing away from home, the young Bellingen teams proved their determination and teamwork, cheered on by passionate black-and-white-clad supporters – the largest Bellingen crowd turn-out in Grand Final history!
“This is a fantastic reward for the commitment of everyone involved in the club,” Pete Barron added. “It shows what a strong and united community Bellingen FC has become.”
The triple championship will be celebrated at this weekend’s Presentation Day, capping off what has been a season to remember.
The U14 boys defeated rivals the Woolgoolga Dolphins
The U12 boys scored a grand final win over Coffs Coast united.