LEADING Nelson Bay FC coach Craig Watling experienced a memorable season with his Zone League 2 reserve grade side in the Newcastle Football competition in 2023.

Despite a Grand Final loss to rivals Cooks Hill United, the astute mentor can reflect on a campaign that netted the club a minor premiership title and an imposing record that featured an incredible 80 goals.

Watling’s charges won seventeen and drew one of their 20 matches during the season – only to succumb to the experienced ‘Cookers’ in a quality championship decider.

Those meritorious feats were officially recognised at Nelson Bay FC’s Senior Presentation Night at the Salamander Hotel when the Zone League 2 reserve grade team scooped the pool with several awards.

Watling’s high performing squad received the Outstanding Team Award trophy for their superb efforts with striker Kean Thomas sharing the Outstanding Achievement Award as the Zone League 2 Golden Boot winner – netting an impressive 32 goals for the season.

Other team members honoured were accomplished goalkeeper Chad Watling, who claimed the club’s Golden Gloves Award and stalwart sweeper John Graham – winner of the Peter Hamshaw Award for his tremendous dedication and commitment on and off the field.

Nelson Bay FC’s Club Person of the Year was Vice President Rhys Gebuehr for his tireless work behind the scenes as the Equipment Officer, Referees Coordinator, game day set up and pack up while juggling his playing commitments with the Zone 2 Reserve grade side.

Club Secretary Amber Grosser was also recognised as an Outstanding Achievement Award recipient for her non-stop work and completing the Northern NSW Women in Football Leadership Program and obtaining her Football Australia C License.

Emerging Under 17s player Krystal Sampson received the Elaine Donnelly Award for helping her side win the minor premiership and also devoting time as a club referee and volunteer helper.

Nelson Bay FC President Todd Giles told News Of The Area the club enjoyed “a high level of success during the 2023 season”.

“All our trophy winners were deserved recipients and proved outstanding ambassadors for the club,” Todd revealed.

The Club will introduce a new initiative in 2024 by selecting Development teams from Under 9s and upwards and expressions of interest are now open for players and coaches in all grades.

Nelson Bay FC will undertake a sponsorship drive and are keen to liaise with potential sponsors.

For further details email nbfc.sponsorship@gmail.com.

For football inquiries check the Nelson Bay FC Facebook page or email nelsonbayfootballclub@gmail.com.

By Chris KARAS