Weekly news

2023 Grand Final Preview: Burke, Barbour and Whiddon

September 1, 2023    ·    Tim Cullen    ·    Weekly news

Short and sharp edition this week as we preview our Grand Finalists:

– Burke – 1:20pm

– Barbour – 11:40am

– Whiddon – 10:15am

All at Concord Oval

Burke Cup

After a well deserved week off due to their major semi final win against Hunters Hill, this group of men are chomping at the bit. The only thing in their way is a fired up Drummoyne team who have only been one step behind Colleagues all season. Our Burke men have led the way this year playing some magical rugby and have one more opportunity to show the rugby world their moves. Expect a tough and exciting game so good luck fellas.

Line up:
1. Hugo Mactier
2. William Rudkin
3. Hugh Macrae
4. Scott Miller
5. Richard Harvey
6. William Yeo
7. Oskar Mitchell
8. Robin Allen
9. Jack King
10. Andrew Roche
11. Campbell Duff
12. Ralph Mitchell
13. Sam Ridley
14. Charlie Woodhouse
15. Fin Nockles
Res Edward de Haan
Res Rhys Semenaia
Res Max  Duncan
Res Will Allen
Res Jack  Lamph
Res Hugh Green
Res Jeremy  Steven
Res Ricky Webb

 

Coaches

Sam Deans

James Robins

Charles MacDonald

Barbour Cup

Taking the colts comp by storm this group have trained the house down over the last few weeks, getting enough blokes to training to fill two teams. They are capable of playing some expansive rugby and you can expect nothing less tomorrow. Led by two wise heads Minu and Woody, this Barbour team will give it everything this weekend against Forest. So far this season we are 1-1 with Forest so the stage is set for an ultimate decider.

Line up:

1. Patrick Connelly
2. Charlie Clift
3. Nathanael Robinson
4. Ed Taylor
5. Fred Braddock
6. Charlie Rutledge
7. Archie Hyles
8. Henry Rourke
9. Tom Forsythe
10. Fitz Bowman
11. Alex Ranson
12. Sam Bragg
13. Nick O’Neil
14. Charles Weston
15. Dougal Lane
16. Jack Smith
17. Simma Underhill
18. Tommy Munro
19. Archie Miller
20. Orlando Maule
21. Michael Walker
22. Sam Crow
23. Max Kirkwood
24. Charles Dight
25. Toby Smith

Coaches
Pete Minucos
Ben Wood

Whiddon Cup

If you’ve followed closely this year you might be scratching your head thinking how this group of hard Whiddon men defied the odds and ended up in the Grand Final. After the finals was cut from 6 teams to 4 in 2023 the equation was simple, win. The wombats have done exactly that over the last few weeks and are excited to run out this weekend. Last week they ground out a tough Drummoyne team in the semi’s to book a spot in the big dance. Head down to Concord or tune in on Cluch TV to watch all the games live.

 

Line up:
1. Ted De Haan
2. Juan Condon
3. Max Cusack
4. Tom Wickham
5. Fred Regan
6. Mike Bentley
7. Zac Hrstich
8. Isaac Meincke
9. Wiley Anderson
10. Ollie Cowley
11. Will Lembke
12. Isaac Gulliver
13. Toby Cooke
14. Billy Neville
15. George Mallat
16. Rhys Semanaia
17. Donald Ritchie
18. Howard Moon
19. Harry Merriman
20. Elliot Cook
21. Jack Courtesy Bus Williams
22. Will McGregor
23. Crutch Hennessey

Coaches:
Nick Fletcher
Andrew McKillop

Upcoming events

Grand final 2nd September – Concord Oval

Download the NSW Rugby TV App

This year, all Kentwell, Burke, Whiddon, Judd and Barbour Cup matches will be available live and on-demand via NSW Rugby TV app. Click here for full details.

Anyone can tune in to watch the games live or catch replays and highlights throughout the week.

2023 Club Champions are finals bound

August 26, 2023    ·    Tim Cullen    ·    Weekly news

What’s in store

  • Wrap up of ladies day 2023 and results vs Blue Mountains
  • Hoff the great hits 200 games and Mike Bentley braves game 100
  • Team by team finals insights
  • This weekend’s action at Concord

P.s if this email has been forwarded to you, please subscribe for all future editions.

Ladies day – 2023

There was magic in the air on the morning of 5 August 2023 as we set up for the annual ladies day, unlike most Saturday mornings this magic was mixed in with some overcast clouds that threatened to shake the day up. The men from the mountains arrived in droves, hiring a bus to cart a full contingent of teams from 5ths to 1sts + colts.

With 150+ tickets sold the day began with a bang as the Sutherland Cup team ran riot to open the account, followed by convincing wins by Judd, Colties and Burke. Whiddon had a big task on their hands but came away victorious to secure a place in finals. Unfortunately Kentwell could not keep the winning streak going and went down in a very physical game to the second place Blue Mountains.

Once the rugby finished the party started and our very own Will Harris owned the night with a great performance on the guitar. Follow this link to watch a video of the day. //www.instagram.com/reel/CvmJK8rge2s/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igshid=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==

Andrew Pahoff passes 200 games

This weekend against Waverley Andrew Pahoff or “Hoff” will run on for his 200th game. A massive achievement for a renowned member of the Colleagues Community. He leads on the field with his actions and words contributing heavily to the sucess of the Juddies this year. Goodluck this weekend Hoff and that’s for everything you’ve given this club.

Mike Bentley braves 100 games

This weekend in a do or die semi final against Drummoyne Mike Bentley will run out for his 100th game as a Blue Giant. This barnstorming kiwi pops up wherever he is needed and has been a welcomed member of the Whiddon Cup team this year, leading the way with strong carries and defence. He’s also joined the committee this year and has already helped pull together some fantastic initiatives. We look forward to what the future holds but no doubt we’ll see you down at Blue Giant Stadium next year.

Around the grounds

As the crowds rolled out of Blue Giant Stadium and the goal post pads were packed away one last time this season it was time to say goodbye to Saturday sport at our beloved Woollahara oval. Nevertheless, there is still a few jobs to do with all teams in contention for a premiership (apart from Kentwell).

Kentwell

Unfortunately after a slow start to the season but at times showing immense courage and bravery, our Kentwell men did not make the top four in order to qualify for finals. 2022 was always going to be hard to follow yet the boys at the top did a terrific job of leading the club on and off the field. They matched it with the best in Kentwell, taking down Hunters Hill (who finished first this year) yet let a few close games fall through their hands. Everyone has been extremely proud of the way these men fought this year with such a young team and we look forward to what lies ahead.

Burke

The theme has been consistent all year, along with the form of our Burke Cup team winning the last regular season game 25-5 against an improved Blue Mountains to finish minor premiers for 2023. Last weekend they took to the field for their major semi final to see who books a place in the grand final. Points came early to a composed Colleagues team, however late in the game Hunters Hill clawed their way back but didn’t get close enough, our men winning 29-23. Best of luck in the grand final fellas, everyone will be cheering you home.

Barbour

A roller coaster season (that seems to be the usual case with the Colleagues Barbour cup team) is coming home with a wet sail. Needing very specific results to go their way and margins to be exactly what they need, this team has blast onto the scene in the finals. The momentum began with a thumping win over Blue Mountains 71-0. The for and against points ensured they scraped into finals and they made the absolute most of it, dusting Drummoyne 22-7 in a great game. Good luck this weekend against St Pats.

Whiddon

Although finals looked unlikely mid season, the team found another gear winning all games aside from Mosman to book third place on the ladder. This result was bittersweet as the opponent they were to face in week one of the finals was Mosman. Wary of the size difference between both teams Colleagues adapted an expansive game plan that saw our little general George Mallat run in a hatrick. The game was finished by a try of the year contender where the majority of the team had hands on the ball at some stage to go 80 meters to score. Good luck this weekend against Drummoyne.

Judd

Juddies all in all had a great season finishing second on the ladder to book a spot in the major semi final against top spot Mosman. These whales rolled out a strong outfit but Colleagues were the first to score sending shock waves through Balmoral. From here it was a grind for our Juddies who held in there but could not overpower the Mosman outfit, going down 19-27. These men face a fired up Waverley team for a spot in the big dance this weekend.

Halligans/Sutherland

The shapeshifting Colleagues Halligan Cup team ran out for a top of the top of the table clash with Lindfield on the 12th August to decide who takes home the Halligan Cup. Lindfield had been strong in our previous encounter and maintained their solid defence and postive attack to come out winners 0-26.

Not to worry as this side has been picked in the top 4 of the Sutherland cup and faced Blue Mountains for the second time in three weekends, coming away winners 29-13. Their next task is against Mosman who went down to Waverley in the semi and will be looking to bounce back. Good luck this weekend lads.

This Saturday v Semi finals week 2

Sutherland Cup

Judd Cup

Whiddon Cup

Barbaour Cup

Round 13 and week 1 finals results 2023

Click here for the full sweep of results, team lists and highlights throughout the season.
Peter

Round 13 vs. Blue Mountains

Semi finals week 1

MJ Bale jumpers and retro jerseys still available

A fresh shipment of merch has arrived from MJ Bale and a limited number of retro cotton Colleagues jerseys are available. Please reach out to Toby Cooke on 0438 144 874 with your size and preferred pickup option if you are interested.

Grey MJ Bale jumpers $55

ISC cotton Colleagues jersey $95 (not numbered)

Upcoming events

Round 2 finals 26th August – Concord Oval

Grand final 2nd September – Concord Oval

Download the NSW Rugby TV App

This year, all Kentwell, Burke, Whiddon, Judd and Barbour Cup matches will be available live and on-demand via NSW Rugby TV app. Click here for full details.

Anyone can tune in to watch the games live or catch replays and highlights throughout the week.

Round 11 Update

July 14, 2023    ·    Tim Cullen    ·    Weekly news

First Blue rinse and an exciting run home to the finals for the Giants

A wholesome third edition of the 2023 newsletter:

  • Preview an age old rivalry with Mosman
  • Tim ‘Marto’ Martin laces up for game number 200
  • Around the grounds
  • Ladies day 2023 – saving the best for last – 5th August
  • New merch available for newsletter subscribers

P.s if this email has been forwarded to you, please subscribe for all future editions.

Mosman

This weekend we host our friends across the bridge for a full day of rugby. Mosman are bringing 7 teams over (6 grades and 1 colts) for a jam packed day of rugby. We will have the BBQ running from game one and the cocktail bar will be in full swing until the final whistle.
To ensure all players and supporters can get out to watch the Wallabies in time, we have brought forward the game times of Barbour, Burke and Kentwell. See the full schedule of games times below.

Tim ‘Marto’ Martin laces up for game 200

Tim “Marto” Martin will play his 200th game for Colleagues this Saturday.

An alleged country boy from Willow Tree (despite his RM Williams never having seen dirt from further west than Woollahra Oval 2 or further North than Union Street North Sydney), this bullocking second rower started his Colleagues career all the way back in 2002, when electricity was first being discovered.  Playing for the Colts that year, the team lost the vast majority of their games, not necessarily due to Marto’s influence (but certainly not necessarily not due to Marto’s influence).  However from the ashes of defeat, the next year Marto played in the victorious 2003 Barbour Cup winning Colts Team, the first time Colleagues had ever lifted that trophy.  During the Grand Final, Marto made his first and last ever linebreak for Colleagues.  The night after the win, Marto and the Barbour cup suffered the same fate – both seen lying broken on the floor of the Empire Hotel at 3am.

From there Marto went from strength to strength, playing every single grade for Colleagues* over his 200 appearances.  His career highlights include:

  • Winning the 2017 Premiership with Whiddos.
  • Not being asked whether his brother was available to play instead, in at least 5 of his 200 games.
  • Playing overseas in London in 2012-2015, where he told everyone he was a First Grade player back in Australia.
  • In 2003, getting a foot tattoo of the logo of the Colts Sponsor pub.  Unfortunately for all concerned, while the venue has since been destroyed, the tattoo lives on today.

So congratulations Marto on your 200th game, and we hope you’ll hang around for another 200!

*Not Kentwell – feel free to ask him about it

Around the grounds

As we stare down the end of the season with three competition games to go there is a undeniable buzz around the club that 2023 still has a lot more to offer.

Round 11 sees the Maginficent Men defending Blue Giant stadium against Mosman.

 

 

 

Kentwell

Our top grade side is currently sit in 4th place with Blue mountains leading the Kentwell pack, setting up a tasty finish at home for ladies day. This team have turned the season around from a rough start to defeat heavy weights Hunters Hill and Waverley. In the last two weeks they held Forest scoreless 38-0 to top off a great Blue Rinse, however could not overcome a determined St Pat’s, going down by one point, 24-25.

Burke

Onwards and upwards for this group who put Forest to the sword 50-5 and got home against St Pat’s 28-8. Some injuries and player unavailability hasn’t stopped the Burke train from steaming ahead. Massive test this weekend against Mosman as always, so be sure to keep an eye on Burke over the next few weeks as they head into finals.

Whiddon

The Whiddon resurgence has commenced, with their backs against the wall two weeks ago and desperately needing to string a few wins together in order to reach finals, the wombats answered the call, knocking off Forest in a heart in mouth finish, 22-23 and St Pats 32-0. The match up of the weekend arrives this weekend against Mosman. Not only will this keep the finals dream alive, it’s a great indication of how far these men from the den have come (or have to go).

Judd

The men from 4th grade bounced back from their first defeat in 2023 against Waverley to get the chocolates over Forest 34-0 and St Pats 46-5. This weekend will be a huge test for Benny Abrahams’ men as they reach the business end of the season.

Halligans

The last few weeks has thrown everything at our Halligans, facing equal first place Lindfield and doing Division one proud they won 15-12. Since that the men have had convincing wins against Hills and Sydney Harlequins. Make sure to swing by Woollahra oval this weekend at 9.45 to clap on Tim Martin for his 200th game.

Barbour

Uni holidays have proven to be even more of a pain this year in a post covid world. Despite being heavily depleted for numbers, the fellas knotched up a win against Forest 24-21 but couldn’t match top of the table St Pats 31-5.

This Saturday v Mosman – Round 11

Woollahra Oval #2 and #3

  • 9.45am – Halligan Cup Marto’s 200th
  • 10:45am – Judd Cup
  • 11:40am – Whiddon Cup
  • 11:40m – Barbour Cup (WC#3)
  • 12:45pm – Burke Cup
  • 2:00pm – Kentwell Cup

Round 9 and 10 results 2023

Click here for the full sweep of results, team lists and highlights throughout the season.

Round 9 vs. Forest

Round 10 vs. St Pats

Team of the week – Round 9 and 10

Round 9 vs. Forest

Round 10 vs. St Pats

Ladies day 2023

Arguably the ladies day of all ladies day’s is around the corner on the 5th August. We are hosting the men from the mountains and have a few surprises in store for what will be a cracking day. Be sure you grab your ticket as soon as the event goes out and we’ll see you there.

MJ Bale jumpers and retro jerseys available

A fresh shipment of merch has arrived from MJ Bale and a limited number of retro cotton Colleagues jerseys are available. Please reach out to Toby Cooke on 0438 144 874 with your size and preferred pickup option if you are interested. Club will be open all day this Saturday for anyone who wants to buy.

Grey MJ Bale jumpers $55

ISC cotton Colleagues jersey $95 (not numbered)

Upcoming Home Matches and Events

Home game vs Mosman Saturday 15th July – Woollahra No.2 Oval (Special Argentina themed weekend with early game times to allow for travel to the Wallabies v Pumas).

Ladies Day v Blue Mountains – Saturday 5th August – Woollahra No.2 Oval

Watch the Ladies Day video here

 

Download the NSW Rugby TV App

This year, all Kentwell, Burke, Whiddon, Judd and Barbour Cup matches will be available live and on-demand via NSW Rugby TV app. Click here for full details.

Anyone can tune in to watch the games live or catch replays and highlights throughout the week.

Massive thanks to our partners

Round 8 Update

June 23, 2023    ·    Tim Cullen    ·    Weekly news

Top grades topple Waverley as we reach halfway in the season

A jam packed edition of the newsletter including;

– Long lunch and old colleagues day wrap
– Mid season pulse check
– Season outlook with ladies day around the corner

P.s if this email has been forwarded to you, please subscribe for all future editions.

Long lunch and Old Colleagues day wrap

2023 Colleagues long lunch did not disappoint with a full house down at Cockle bay. Thank you to everyone who came down and we hope you enjoyed the day as much as it looked like you did. The jersey calcutta was once again a big hit and we’ll keep you in the loop with who’s on top in the next few weeks.

See you at the 2024 long lunch!

Big thanks to our speakers (L to R): Ian Robers, Tom Bowman and Richard Harry.

Jerseys on display at the 2023 calcutta.

Full house at the 2023 long lunch.

Mid season pulse check and the first blue rinse of the year over Hunters Hill.

As we reach the halfway point in the season we have some players scratching their heads thinking wow that was fast and others hoping to body will hold up for the remainder of the year. The last four rounds have seen some incredable performances from the boys across the grades. This is no more evident than in the Club Championship standings with Colleagues sitting in top spot for the division one in 2023 and second place in the Cowboy Cup.

Round 9 sees the Maginficent Men defending Blue Giant stadium against Forest.

Kentwell

Currently sit in third place on the ladder below Hunters Hill and Blue Mountains. Since last time we spoke the 2022 premiers have had wins against Forest, Hunters Hill and Waverley but could not keep up with a physical Drummoyne and went down for the second time this year. The team has flipped the critics the bird over the last few weeks, providing some quality team tries for all supporters home and away. We’ll keep you up to date with how this close knit group grow into finals.

Burke

This lot has gone from strength to strength this year with assistant coach James Robins putting it down to great team morale and post game celebration rituals. Burke have notched wins against Forest, Hunters Hill, Drummoyne and Waverley to sit pretty at the top of the ladder. Be sure to pencil in 2pm each Saturday to watch these gentlemen do what they do best in the lead up to the finals.

Whiddon

The wombats have managed just one win against Hunters Hill over the last four rounds with losses to Forest, Drummoyne and Waverley. They have been impacted by injuries in higher grades but like the animal they are, this team will dig deep right up to the end of the year so do not write them off.

Judd

The rampaging juddernauts remain at the top of the ladder with Mosman close behind. The team has dominated at scrum time but were shocked by a surprising Waverley outfit who won 7-0 last weekend. Despite water bottles being a luxury for our Judd cup team, the men are set for great things over the rest of the season.

Halligans

Our mighty Halligans are in red hot form at the moment winning their last four games, including a clinical display of rugby against Waverley that put a big target on their back for the rest of the year. These men are the first ones to arrive and set up then usually the last to leave and we look forward for what the remainder of the year holds.

Barbour

The youth of Colleagues have been impressive over the last four rounds with wins against Hunters Hill, Drummoyne and Waverley (forfeit) but could not hold off a strong Forest group. This weekend will be a big test after a long weekend turned into a long two weeks with Waverley unable to field a team last weekend.

Radford

With great sadness we note the end of the Radford cup competition for 2023 with Colleagues sitting tied second after two wins against Drummoyne, two losses to Wakehurst and a draw with St Pats. We thank everyone for their efforts this year and wish you all the best in Europe over the uni holidays.

This Saturday v Forest – Round 9

Woollahra Oval #2 and #3

  • 9.50am – Halligan Cup (WC#3)
  • 10:45am – Judd Cup
  • 11:40am – Whiddon Cup
  • 12:45m – Barbour Cup
  • 2:00pm – Burke Cup
  • 3:15pm – Kentwell Cup

Round 6, 7 and 8 results 2023

Click here for the full sweep of results, team lists and highlights throughout the season.

Round 6 vs. Hunters Hill

Round 7 vs. Drummoyne

Round 8 vs. Waverley

Team of the week – Round 5, 6 and 8

Round 5 vs. Forest

Round 6 vs. Hunters Hill

Round 8 vs. Waverley

Upcoming Home Matches and Events

Home game vs Forest Saturday 24th June – Woollahra No.2 Oval

Home game vs Mosman Saturday 15th July – Woollahra No.2 Oval (Special Argentina themed weekend with early game times to allow for travel to the Wallabies v Pumas).

Ladies Day v Blue Mountains – Saturday 5th August – Woollahra No.2 Oval

Watch the Ladies Day video here

 

Download the NSW Rugby TV App

This year, all Kentwell, Burke, Whiddon, Judd and Barbour Cup matches will be available live and on-demand via NSW Rugby TV app. Click here for full details.

Anyone can tune in to watch the games live or catch replays and highlights throughout the week.

Grand Finals

September 16, 2022    ·    Tim Cullen    ·    Weekly news

Kentwell and Barbour play for the title

With the cancellation of the 2021 season, it feels like a long time between drinks for Colleagues Rugby and Grand Final day at TG Milner. After 14 rounds, two washed out trials, two wet weather weekends, and multiple trainings in the pouring rain, the sun is out for the big dance.

Bring Back Barbourella

Colleagues look to bring Barbourella back to BGS for the 6th time, after victories in 2003, 2005, 2006, 2015 and 2019. Skipper Charlie Woodhouse, in his 3rd season in sky blue, leads a number of bolts who have been working toward this for years. A minor premiership season and a heart stopping semi final win (with 14 men) sees the lads 70 minutes away from glory.

The two matches between Colleagues and Waverley were split 1-1 with the road team getting the biscuits each time. Both teams come in with improved sides and red hot form, with neither team having lost since that last encounter in June. It’s shaping up as a classic Barbour Cup decider.

Kentwell Cup 

In what’s been building since a semi final loss to Drummoyne in August 2020, the Woollahra Colleagues Rugby Club has not seen a hungrier, more determined group of senior players, hell bent on taking out the Kentwell Cup premiership.

Unlike their colts counterparts who will be going for their sixth premiership title in 10 years, these Kentwell Cup players will be out to claim the club’s first title in 11 years or second in 25 years. That’s a long time between drinks.

After season ending injuries to regular starting backs Luke Brown (12) and Connor Size (15), the squad has pulled together a dominant season taking out the Minor Premiership (first since 1984) with a commanding points differential over next best Waverley.

Whilst there are many great players and characters in the Kentwell squad, it is hard not to mention Dan Kelly as he looks to finish his playing career with a much deserved win.  The boys don’t need much to get them up for this game, but the chance to send DK out with a Kentwell premiership will be a real motivator.

Colleagues Rugby Pathway Alive and Well

The Colleagues rugby pathway is alive and well, and the proof is in Kentwell Grand Final pudding with 14 players in tomorrow match day squad hailing from the Blue Giants colts program. In fact, eight of the starting Kentwell Cup side have won three separate Barbour Cup premierships between them, and they couldn’t be further apart.

The most recent was in 2019 (pictured) with Jock McGregor, Charlie Crawford, Jack Lamph, Ralph Mitchell, Scott Miller and Stu McLean beating Mosman for the colts title. Four years prior to that, in 2015, now halfback Joe Sangster played on the wing to beat the Whales again. You then have to go back to a time before Facebook and Instagram, when Dan Kelly kicked his Barbour Cup side to the 2003 premiership over Old Iggies. In fact, when Dan Kelly was drinking Crown Lagers out of the Barbour Cup trophy in 2003, tomorrow’s Barbour Cup Grand Final fullback Sam Bragg was just a 12 week old foetus!

Such is the strength of the Colleagues colts, four of them will be sitting on the bench for the Kentwell Cup team tomorrow. Loosehead prop Will Smith, flanker Oscar Cheal, utility half Matt Wilkinson and pacy winger Campbell Duff will be backing after, hopefully, after only a few premiership tinnies following their colts Grand Final just before midday.

Thank you linesman. Thank you ball balls. Thank you Dan Kelly

Announced as his last game for Colleagues in a decorated club and subbies representative rugby career across 20 years, Dan Kelly will play in his last game tomorrow, a Grand Final – no less, 19 years after his first.

After finishing high school on the NSW north coast in the mid 1960s 😉, it took DK a few years to get down to the glitz and glamour of Sydney’s eastern suburbs for a trot with the Colleagues Colts in 2002. The following year, Dan’s leadership as captain, direction around the park and superior kicking game took the Blue Giants young guns to victory in the 2003 Grand Final against then powerhouses Old Ignatians.

In his over 200 games for Colleagues Dan has appeared in three Kentwell Cup Grand Finals; going down to Drummoyne in 2004, capping off the incredible “5 from 5” Colleagues Premierships in 2011 and then falling agonizingly short in 2016 against Mosman in the last play of the game. In 2014, DK won the Kentwell Medal, awarded by the referees as the best player in the first grade competition. From 2011 – 2017 Dan played 14 games for the NSW Suburban Rugby Rep side, captaining the side for five years.

It hasn’t been all smooth sailing for the flyhalf, however. DK has overcome multiple setbacks including a fractured cheekbone, multiple hamstring tears and in 2019 what appeared to be a career ending ruptured Achilles tendon. Testament to the man, his determination and resilience, the then 37 year old bounced back from this crippling injury to finish the 2020 season in Burke Cup.  He then returned to the Kentwell team in 2021 and continued this form into 2022, where he will again run out tomorrow and represent Colleagues as the Kentwell #10 in what will be his 4th Grand final for the club across a decorated career spanning two decades. Congratulations on an outstanding career DK, go well, and thanks for the memories.

Grand Final Kick Off Times

TG Milner Sportsground Vimiera Rd, Marsfield 

  • 11:40am – Barbour Cup
  • 3:00pm – Kentwell Cup

Preliminary Finals Scores

Top 5 Tries – Preliminary Finals

5. The Pigs – Barbour Cup

4. Jack Lamph – 7 – Kentwell Cup

3. Will Yeo – 5 – Burke Cup

2. Everyone – Barbour Cup

1. Andrew Roche – 15 – Kentwell Cup

Click here to watch on Instagram

Photos of the Finals

Tex Smouha-Ho

Scott Miller

Will Yeo

Lachie Terbutt

Will Lembke

Jeremy Steven

Download the NSW Rugby TV App

This year, all Kentwell, Burke and Barbour Cup matches will be available live and on-demand via NSW Rugby TV app. Click here for full details.

Anyone can tune in to watch the games live or catch replays and highlights throughout the week.

Thanks to our Partners

All Blue Giants into Preliminary Finals

September 9, 2022    ·    Tim Cullen    ·    Weekly news

All Blue Giants into Preliminary Finals

After an incredibly tense day of Qualifying Finals last Saturday, where only four points separated the Burke, Whiddon and Judd Cup matches, every Colleagues team will run out in a Preliminary Final this weekend at Woollahra No.1 Oval.

Coming in as underdogs in every game, the Blue Giants had to pull out every trick in the book to get the win, with Whiddon’s Adam Carberry and Burke’s Andrew Roche putting in clever grubber kicks to get through the defensive line to score crucial tries securing their team the lead. You can see these tries and a few more in our Top Tries of the week.

Starting tonight and for the first time since 2016, every Colleagues team will have the chance to play for a Grand Final appearance, but only Kentwell and Barbour will be coming into the match as the higher ranked side.

Barbour start the weekend off at Woollahra No.1 tonight at 7:30pm when they take on Knox Old Boys. The Colties proved too strong for the KOBs in round 9 winning 27-5.

In what is becoming a new top of the table grudge match for Subbies and the Eastern Suburbs, Colleagues will play Waverley in Burke, Whiddon and Sutherland Cup tomorrow, with Waverley likely to feature in the Grand Finals of Barbour and Kentwell against our lads should (when 😉) we also progress.

 

Tomorrow our Kentwell Cup team, fresh from the week off and their Minor Premiership (first since 1984) win over Drummoyne, take on usual suspects Mosman for the chance to book a ticket at the big dance. The Giants pack is back to full strength with No.8 Charlie Crawford returning from injury, but the backline will be without club favourite and winger Jack Murphy who will miss the game with a mild shoulder injury. His place will be taken by in form Burke outside back Sean Anese.

Burke Cup

Whiddon Cup

Judd Cup

This Weekends Matches

Woollahra #1 – Friday 9th September

  • 7:30pm – Barbour Cup v Knox

Woollahra #1 – Saturday 10th September 

  • 9:30am – Sutherland Cup v Waverley
  • 10:40am – Judd Cup v Blue Mountains
  • 12:00pm – Whiddon Cup v Waverley
  • 1:30pm – Burke Cup v Waverley
  • 3:15pm – Kentwell Cup v Mosman

Team Lists Preliminary Finals

Click here for the full set of club team lists for this Saturday.

Kentwell Cup

Burke Cup

Barbour Cup

First Kentwell Minor Premiership since 1984

Well done to the Colleagues Kentwell Cup team for securing the club’s first minor premiership in the top grade since 1984. The boys know the job is not done and is gunning for the Kentwell Cup trophy, not held by the Blue Giants since 2011.

Top 5 Tries – Qualifying Finals

5. Will Lembke 14 – Whiddon Cup

4. Patrick Aboud 11 – Judd Cup

3. Adam Goodman 2 – Barbour Cup

2. Jack Turkic 11  – Burke Cup

1. Adam Carberry – 13 – Whiddon Cup

Click here to watch on Instagram

Upcoming Home Matches and Events

Semi Finals Week 2 – Sat 10th September – Woollahra No.1 Oval

Grand Final – Sat 17th September – TG Milner

Cocktail Party – Sat 15th Oct – Cabana Bar Sydney

2022 Jersey Calcutta Results

1st Place – 12 points – Jersey No.2 – worn by Oliver Stump (pictured)

Equal 2nd Place – 9 points:

Jersey No. 6 – worn by Stu McLean & Aidan Brown

Jersey No. 7 – worn by Jack Lamph

Jersey No. 12 worn by Nic Clancy, Ralph Mitchell & Connor Size

Jersey No. 15 worn by Connor Size and Ethan Miller

Download the NSW Rugby TV App

This year, all Kentwell, Burke and Barbour Cup matches will be available live and on-demand via NSW Rugby TV app. Click here for full details.

Anyone can tune in to watch the games live or catch replays and highlights throughout the week.

Thanks to our Partners

Message from the Club President

August 16, 2021    ·    Tim Cullen    ·    Old Colleagues, Weekly news

Good afternoon All,

It is with great sadness and frustration that we can confirm what we have all been expecting, our 2021 season has been abandoned.

Equally frustrating is that the NSW Suburban Board have advised that for the first time since 1945, no premierships, Club Championships or individual awards will be awarded.

As a Club, we will work to get everyone together as soon as feasibly possible once lockdown restrictions are lifted.

I can’t thank everyone enough for their tireless efforts and hard work in getting our Club into the commanding position we were in after 8 rounds of rugby. I also can’t begin to express my disappointment for everyone involved. 2021 was certainly proving to be a very successful one for the Club and we will be sure to celebrate this appropriately when the opportunity presents.

To our sponsors for 2021, we are extremely grateful for your ongoing support.

If the Club can be of any assistance to our players, supporters or sponsors in anyway, please reach out to me directly.

Until we can catch up, please stay safe, stay at home and look out for each other by phone, text or a fitness session if possible.

Regards,

Cam

Thanks to our Partners

Round 8 recap & COVID update

June 26, 2021    ·    Tim Cullen    ·    Weekly news

COVID update

By now you will all be aware that Woollahra is among 4 LGAs under stay at home orders for the next week.

As such, NSW Subbies have made the decision to call off all of this weekend’s games.

We will await further updates next week and keep you all updated as we know more.

Round 8 recap v Mosman

After a beautiful winter’s day at BGS the week prior, Rawson Oval turned on a typically miserable day as the Magnificent Men headed over the bridge to take on arch rivals Mosman.

As always, it was a tough day across the grades but the Blue Giants emerged with some hard-fought victories in atrocious conditions.

To kick off the day, Sutherland Cup suffered their first loss of the season as they went down in a grand final rematch, however they’ve retained their place in the top 2.

The Judd boys claimed a tough 15-7 win to push them ahead of Mosman on the table and to within striking distance of the second-placed Waverley.

Whiddon also went down for the first time this season but they remain first equal on top of a very congested ladder.

In what is often a grand final rehearsal, Barbour Cup went down 18-5 in a valiant effort despite being low on cattle as a number of regular reserves lined up for Radford Cup in their semi final.

Burke Cup continued their resergance, grinding out a 12-7 win as the conditions were at their worse thanks to a howling wind and torrential rain. The win moves the team clear of Mosman in second-place.

By the time Kentwell took the field, Rawson Oval more closely resembled the mud baths that many of the Mosman players frequent during the week.

Despite the awful conditions, Colleagues’ skills shone through with some great interplay and passing – including a cracking try for the Front Row Club as Bushy charged over from anywhere between 15-60 metres out, depending who you ask.

The win ensured Kentwell stayed undefeated with an 8 point buffer atop the leaderboard.

Elsewhere, Radford Cup came up against #1 ranked Manly Savers in their knockout semi final. Despite a gallant showing, Manly proved too strong and the boys unfortunately couldn’t progress to the final.

Hats off to the team for a great year (so far) and we look forward to seeing you get redemption in the back half of the season.

Halligan maintained their #1 ranking with a domaint 25-0 win over King’s Old Boys and the fellas are looking good for another spot in the semis this year.

Old Colleagues Corner

From the archives – “Cowboy Cup”

The Cowboy Cup is named in honour of NSW Suburban Rugby Union Life Member, Ian “Cowboy” Ross.

“Cowboy”, who is well known to older Old Colleagues, was the long time leader of Hunters Hill Rugby at at time when they dominated the Kentwell Cup.

During that period (late 70s early 80s), games between Hunters and Colleagues were epic battles.

The 1980 Grand Final is regarded by Old Colleagues as the toughest ever played and heralded the changing of the guard with Colleagues taking no prisoners (the game included several red cards and one broken jaw) while disposing Hunters Rugby.

The Cowboy Cup is an inter-divisional competition based on club championship points from all club grades and finals series results.

The Mosman Whales have won this comp for the last three years, while the Colleagues Blue Giants are yet to win the cup in its 10 years history.

In an interesting twist of fate, the club currently sits just 51 points behind Hunters Hill in second place in the standings.

Please send any Old Colleague bits to tim_b@bigpond.net.au.

Tries of the Round

Three Colleagues players feature in this week’s Tries of the Round on Cluch TV.

Check out the link here to see Burke Cup’s Robin Allen, Barbour’s Digby Cooke and Kentwell’s Sam Bush crossing the chalk.

 

NSW Rugby TV

This year, all Kentwell, Burke and Barbour Cup matches will be available live and on-demand via NSW Rugby TV on the Cluch TV App.

Anyone can tune in to watch the games live or catch replays and highlights throughout the week.

Round 8 v Mosman

June 18, 2021    ·    Tim Cullen    ·    Weekly news

Blue Rinse recap v Forest

On a glorious early winter afternoon at Blue Giant Stadium, the Colleagues men put on a cracking show to record another Blue Rinse and head into the mid-season bye with all teams inside the top 4 and four grades at the top of the ladder (Kentwell, Whiddon, Sutherland and Halligan).

Sutherland got the day off to a flier with a strong 38-7 victory as they kept their perfect season in tact.

Judd continued their resurgence with the second consecutive 50 point victory to set up a huge clash against defending premiers Mosman this week, where a victory could push them to #1 on the ladder.

Whiddon remained unbeaten and on top of the table after another bonus point win. With a few stalwarts back on deck, and the coach whisperer Les Goh starting to make his mark, this side is looking more formidable by the week.

Barbour won it the hard way with a tough 17-14 victory in a rematch of last year’s semi final. They too have set up a big clash in what is a rematch of last year’s final and always a firey fixture.

Burke Cup got their season back on track with a much-needed win to consolidate their place in the top 2.

And in the last match of the day, Kentwell capped off a faultless first half of the season with another 40-point scoreline that seems to be becoming the norm. It has been some years since we’ve managed a round unbeaten in the top grade so hats off to all players and coaches for a great achievement.

While the display on Woollahra No.2 was fantastic, arguably the match of the round took place over on No.3 where our Radford Colts needed a bonus point win and significant points differential improvement to progress to the semi finals.

Coming up against defending champs Chatswood, the boys put in a sublime display of running rugby to claim the chocolates and advance to the knockout round against Manly this week. Good luck fellas!

Halligan consolidated their spot atop the table with a convincing 25-0 victory over King’s Old Boys.

Old Colleagues Corner

Long Lunch recap – 200 Blue Giants enjoyed a fantastic afternoon at Dockside Cockle Bay.

Special guests included Owen Finnegan, Andrew Mehrtens and Lennie Pascoe (Pascoe’s putting divots in the green fame) MC was Judd Cup premiership winner Andrew Swain of Fox Sport. Plenty of laughs, great to see reunions of many of the 2011 premiership teams. (Where do ten years go?).

Plenty of Old Colleagues backed up the next day at headquarters to see the Kentwell side put on a second half masterclass to put the Dirty Reds away.

Rumour has it that Woolies sales of Berrocca were through the roof on the Sunday!!

Saturday 5th June 1970 Kentwell Cup team reunion – many of the 1970 Kentwell Cup premiership team were treated to a lavish catered lunch in the Club House during the games against Forest Rugby.

Red wine flowed and so to the talk of the size of their G.F. win against Newington in 1970.

The Blue Giant Kentwell team were presented their jerseys prior to their warm up by Colleagues who had worn the sky blue so proudly some 50 years ago. A great afternoon and the Kentwell didn’t disappoint putting on 80 mins of running rugby for the 1970 team Colleagues legends.

The Kentwell team wore black arm bands in memory of Roger Smith who played with many of the Old Colleagues who attended the day.

Old Colleague bits can be emailed to tim_b@bigpond.net.au

Round 8 v Mosman

Mosman @ Rawson Oval

  • 09:50am – Sutherland Cup
  • 10:45am – Judd Cup
  • 11:40am – Whiddon Cup
  • 12:45pm – Barbour Cup
  • 2:00pm – Burke Cup
  • 3:15pm – Kentwell Cup

Keile Park

  • 12:45pm – Radford Cup v Manly Savers

Elsewhere

  • 2:00m – Halligan Cup v Wakehurst
  • 10:00am – Radford Cup II v Randwick III

Kentwell Team List

NSW Rugby TV

This year, all Kentwell, Burke and Barbour Cup matches will be available live and on-demand via NSW Rugby TV on the Cluch TV App.

Anyone can tune in to watch the games live or catch replays and highlights throughout the week.

Round 7 v Forest

June 6, 2021    ·    Tim Cullen    ·    Weekly news

 

Round 6 recap v Knox

Image

Colleagues enters the final round of the first half of the draw with all teams inside the top 4 and four grades at the top of the ladder (Kentwell, Whiddon, Sutherland and Halligan).

Last weekend, Sutherland and Juddenjoyed a gift 5 competition points after Knox forfeited both fixtures.

It was left to Whiddon Cup to get the day off to a good start and the defending champs duly obliged with a 31-0 win to remain unbeaten.

Barbour Cup continued their resurgence with a 69-0 win as they move up to third place on the ladder.

After a strong start to the season, Burke Cup have faultered over the last two weeks and they went down to a spirited Knox side last Saturday. They’ll be looking to bounce this weekend against a tough Forest side.

Kentwell Cup continued their unbeaten start to the season with a 40-14 win as they moved four points clear at the top of the table. The top grade will be looking to finish off a 7/7 first half to the season against 7th place Forest.

Elsewhere, Radford Cup claimed a big 63-0 win over Balmain and they’ll need a bonus point win this weekend to secure their spot in the top 4.

Halligan Cup bounced back from their lost to our Convicts brothers with a tough 10-5 win over Lindfield.

Round 7 v Forest

Waverley @ Woollahra Oval No.2

Woollahra No.3

  • 11:30am – Radford Cup v Chatswood
  • 12:50pm – Whiddon Cup v Forest

Elsewhere

  • 2:00pm – Halligan Cup v King’s Old Boys
  • 11:45am – Radford Cup II v Sydney University

Kentwell Team List
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50 year Kentwell reunion

We look forward to hosting a 50 year reunion this Saturday down at Blue Giant Stadium.

15 of the side will be coming down for an exclusive lunch in the clubhouse until 3pm, then they will join the crowd on the balcony to cheer the boys on!

NSW Rugby TV

This year, all Kentwell, Burke and Barbour Cup matches will be available live and on-demand via NSW Rugby TV on the Cluch TV App.

Anyone can tune in to watch the games live or catch replays and highlights throughout the week
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