The Frenchville Sports Club took centre stage at their annual night of nights.
Over 200 of Rockhampton’s best sports players, special guests and regional dignitaries filled the Frenchville Sports Club Function Centre last Saturday night for the 2023 Frenchville Sports Club Sports Awards.
The awards night seen each of the Club’s 9 sports and their members recognised for their achievements throughout 2023.
Club Chairman Graeme Brady OAM said, “Each of our 9 sports and their sports people have seen some tremendous achievements throughout the year so it was great to be able to celebrate those all together under one roof”.
“For over 75 years now, your Club has not only fostered and celebrated sport in Central Queensland, but we’ve also assisted our community widely. Each year we contribute over 1 million dollars back into our local community. That’s more than three times the state average, which is a remarkable achievement, and we thank you, our members, guests and sponsors, for helping us make this happen.” Mr Brady OAM said.
The Club also paid tribute to two founding members, Jack Robinson, & Club patron Mrs Merle Black who both unfortunately passed away in 2023.
"Jack Robinson who was a cornerstone of our Club since its inception. As a founding member of Frenchville Sports Club, he etched his name in the histories of the Frenchville Soccer Club as a member of its inaugural team. Jack’s commitment, skill and sportsmanship not only helped propel the team to success but also set the standard for generations of players to come"
“Merle was also a founding member of the Club and was Club Patron for over 15 years. She was a very active supporter and volunteer of the Club throughout her life, and in recent years, was an avid visitor to the Club, always taking great interest in members, staff and various activities of the Club."
"It is people like Merle and Jack who have been and continue to be the back-bone of our Club." Mr Brady OAM said.
See below our 2023 Sports Awards winners.
Commencing in 2009 this award is provided to encourage and enthuse young people to become involved in officiating in their favorite sport.
Winner: Noah Weeks – Frenchville Pioneers Rugby Union
Noah has contributed significantly to Frenchville Pioneers, serving as a junior ref for four years and advancing to senior refereeing over five years. Holding Smart Rugby and Level 1 refereeing accreditations, he actively participated in refereeing junior and pathways fixtures in 2023, including the Junior State Champs and women's RCL club competition. Noah extended his impact by mentoring new junior refs on Friday nights, showcasing dedication to player safety, effective communication, and fair and unbiased interactions with players, coaches, and fellow officials. His willingness to assist, even on short notice, reflects his commitment to the sport.
Nominees: Joseph Munsel, Jemima James, Tyla Ganter, Noah Weeks, Hudson Trotter
Noel was a long standing Board member and Frenchville Sports Club Chairman for many years. He was involved in a number of sports with his wife Fae and sons David and Paul.
Winner: Paige Poustie – Frenchville Scorpions Softball
Paige's impressive softball journey includes playing for Frenchville Scorpions under-13 and under-16 teams, Rockhampton under-14 girls, Capricornia 10-12 years girls, and recently being selected for the Queensland 10-12 years girls and Queensland Country under-14 girls squad. As the youngest member, Paige contributed to Rockhampton's under-14 girls winning the Presidents Cup and being named the best country team at the 2023 Queensland Championships. Her pitching skills led Capricornia to victory in the School State Championships, earning her a spot in the 10-12 years Queensland team at just 11 years old. Paige's commitment to training, particularly in pitching, has elevated her game at both club and representative levels.
Nominees: Maddison Barclay, Scott Thomson, Billy Stephenson, Oliver Bloomfield, Indy Harmsworth, Paige Poustie
As you know, Brian unfortunately passed away in 2019 and Merril continues the long term commitment that both she and Brian had to the Club in encouraging and supporting many junior sports people in a range of sports.
Winner: U16 Boomers – Frenchville Roos Football
The FQPL U16 Boomers had a stellar season, playing 21 games with 15 wins, 3 draws, and 3 losses. They triumphed in the major semi-final against Clinton and secured the Grand Final championship with a 2-0 victory, showcasing true Frenchy spirit. The players' dedication, teamwork, and character, coupled with strong parental support, defined their success. Ending the season as minor premiers with 45 points and 60 goals, this remarkable team, with a combined 123 years at Frenchville Sports Club, concluded their junior careers on a high note.
Nominees: Frenchville Jaguars (u18 Girls), Division Two Team Under 14 Cricket, FQPL U16 Boomers, B Grade Frenchville Rockwheelers Wheelchair Basketball, Frenchville Netball Koalas, Frenchville Rugby Union U16, Frenchville Softball Inferno Under-16 Team
The Black family have been involved in Frenchville sport from day one of the club, a remarkable achievement of over 75 years. Mrs Merle Black sadly passed away in 2023 but was our Club patron for over 15 years.
Winner: Rockwheelers Representative Team - Frenchville Rockwheelers Wheelchair Basketball
All members of the Rockwheelers teams are competing at the Sunshine Coast this weekend so can’t be with us tonight but Stu and Liz from the Rockwheelers committee will accept the award on their behalf.
The wheelchair basketball team had an outstanding 2023 season, securing gold at the Classics Qld State Championships in May, the Sunshine Coast Spinners Tournament in January, and the Southern Challenge in September, their first time competing in the latter. Additionally, they clinched the top spot in the CQ Challenge in Gladstone in August. This remarkable achievement marks the first time the team holds the 1st position in all regions for QLD for an A Grade team, showcasing their dominance. The team's commitment to training, positive promotion, sportsmanship, and community involvement has garnered praise and appreciation from other teams and events.
Nominees: Frenchville Netball Cougars A Grade Women, Frenchville Cricket Falcons A Grade, FQPL U23 Premier League, Frenchville Rockwheelers Wheelchair Representative Team, Frenchville Hockey Division 2 Men, Frenchville Netball Ponies A Res, Frenchville Pioneers Rugby Women’s 7's, Frenchville Softball B Men Jets
Merv was a former president and patron of the club. He was heavily involved in the funding arrangements to finance the first licensed clubrooms here in the late 60s and early 70s. Merv was involved in the legendary bottle drives that saw semi-trailer loads of bottles trucked to Bundaberg every couple of weeks - a great club supporter and a true gentleman.
Winner: Shane Crouch – Frenchville Scorpions Softball
Shane has been a dedicated softball coach for eight years at both club and representative levels and is the current President of Frenchville Scorpions. His coaching achievements include leading the under-16 Frenchville Flyers to a grand final and guiding the Rockhampton under-14 boys to a state silver medal. Shane's significant role extends to coaching the Queensland Country under-14 boys, achieving a silver medal at the Australian Championships. His commitment, recognized in a CQ Today article, emphasizes fostering a positive, inclusive environment. Shane's multifaceted contributions exemplify his impact on Frenchville Softball and Queensland softball at large.
Nominees: Luke Greany, Brent Hartley, Rick Davies, Jenny Anderson, Amanda Goody, Shane Crouch
Maree was involved with sport at the club for many years and was also a director on the board. She donated this trophy to honour players who may or may not be a “star” player. Every team needs players who are reliable, enthusiastic and perform week in and week out to get the job done.
Winner: Nicholas Crouch – Frenchville Panthers Basketball
Nicholas played for various teams, including Frenchville Scorpions A Grade Men and representing Australia, Nicholas showcased outstanding leadership by coaching under-16 and under-14 teams to success in the Queensland Championships. His pivotal role in Frenchville Scorpions' Rockhampton Softball’s A Grade grand final win and contributions to the Rockhampton Open Men's team highlight his excellence. Nicholas' infectious attitude, commitment, and mentorship make him a credit to the club, embodying outstanding team spirit. His international participation in the USA and Canada elevates him as one of Rockhampton's elite softball players, with aspirations for continued success in 2024.
Nominees: Amy Daley, Joe McGahan, Natalie Creamer, Adam Schreiweis, Ally Weaver-Hill, Alenna Whipp, Nicholas Crouch
This award was named after Duncan in 1999. He was a cricket tragic who was heavily involved in junior cricket within our club and Rockhampton cricket. Duncan, as his name suggests, fell in love with the game in Victoria after emigrating from Scotland.
Winner: Darren Metcalfe – Frenchville Roos Football
Darren served as Vice President of the Frenchville Roos in 2023 and played a crucial role in the football club. He was the first to arrive for home games, managing tills, opening changerooms, and setting up the field. Committed to ensuring smooth game day preparations, his dedication extends to events like the Terry Kennedy Carnival and the Senior 6-a-side Carnival, significantly contributing to their success. As Senior Football Vice President, Darren goes above and beyond, even serving as the residential bus driver for away games, transporting teams to Bundaberg and Gladstone. His selfless contributions make him an indispensable and valued member of the club.
Nominees: Ryllee Janes, Travis Applewaite, Darren Metcalfe, Steve Zammit, Ben Lodewikus, Tess Campbell, Sam O'Brien, Sharnee Pakleppa
Francis Brady was the Club’s first treasurer in 1954 and Jessie was the first female appointed as a Director (a position she held for 30 years). They both promoted junior sports with the vision that a strong junior base would provide players for the senior teams.
Winner: Maya Allsop – Frenchville Roos Football
Maya's soccer journey showcases remarkable progress, transitioning from the U13/14 community team to the U16 community team. Her exceptional work ethic is evident in relentless dedication to training. Noteworthy achievements include a crucial role in the FQCC TSP team, representation in the Capricornia state team, and a scholarship for trials with Euro Football Star in England. Selected for the FQ State U16 girls team and a formal invitation to train with QAS exemplify her rising status. Despite declining international opportunities, Maya's representation in Borneo as the sole female player for the Australia Academy of Football highlights her global impact, cementing her as a rising star in soccer.
Nominees: Elijah Girdler, Riley Mansfield, Maya Allsop, Ellie Bloomfield, Neisha Lauga, Summer Laurie, Riley Mansfield
Francis Brady was the Club’s first treasurer in 1954 and Jessie was the first female appointed as a Director (a position she held for 30 years). They both promoted junior sports with the vision that a strong junior base would provide players for the senior teams.
Winner: Hayden Gillett – Frenchville Scorpions Softball
In 2023, Hayden excelled in softball at club, state, national, and international levels. A pivotal player for Frenchville Scorpions A Grade Men and Rockhampton Open Men, he contributed to the A Grade Men's grand final victory. Representing Victoria in Under-23 Men's, Hayden serves as Vice-President of the Rockhampton and District Softball Association, coaches the Rockhampton under-18 boys' team, and is a Racing Queensland steward, showcasing his commitment to talent development, integrity, and respect within the softball community. His stellar performances in the USA and Canada solidify him as one of Queensland and Australia's elite softball players
Nominees: Jessica Lorraway, Logan Whitfield, Timothy Zimitat, Sarah King, Mark Chirio, Grace Gabriel, Grant Burchmann, Hayden Gillett
