IN what was a disappointing loss, the Wauchope Blues 18's went down to the Port Macquarie Sharks 15-6 in this year's Group 3 grand final.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
It was an admirable turn around for the Sharks though; three years ago they were struggling through a player crisis and had difficulty fielding a team.
Coach Wayne Grant admitted that year was a rebuilding phase for the team.
The following year the Sharks made it all the way to the finals but were knocked out.
But this year they've improved again, winning the title and impressively going through the year undefeated.
Joe Gaynor and Blake Ryan scored tries for the Sharks at Lank Bain Complex. Ethan McKenna kicked three goals and a field goal.
Grant said although the side will lose many players to reserve and first grades next year, the 18s will once again be strong.
"There's about seven players who will go up to reserves and first but the rest can play on another year," he said.
"And under 16s was very strong again this year so the team will get some more from that."
Grant said he was hopeful of retaining the majority of players still eligible for under 18s next year but was unsure on his own future in the coaching role.
"I'm still undecided if I'll take the team on again next year," he said.
"I'll probably make that decision over the next couple of weeks."