AFL GAMES played locally may have ceased since the disbandment of the Nambucca Valley Lions side … but some dedicated players have continued to take the field, playing for the Sawtell Saints.
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When the (Nambucca) side lost 15 players to university and jobs out of town leaving only half a side for pre-season, the remaining players made the decision to head north.
Several players across three grades – first, reserve and under 18s – have travelled to Sawtell for the past four years and on Sunday they will take part in the 2015 AFL North Coast grand final.
The side is heading into the match hoping to retain the shield after last year’s 33-point win over Coffs Swans.
“This year we’re undefeated after 15 games,” player/coach Jimmy Angel told the Guardian.
“We’re very confident with the team we have that we can make it a clean sweep – but anything can happen in finals.
“It’s a shame there’s no Nambucca team anymore to contest the competition, but due to lack of numbers, it just hasn’t been possible.
“One day we’d all like to see the Nambucca Valley team revived, but for now we’re just happy to be able to keep playing.”
Sawtell Saints will face off against Port Macquarie on Saturday at Coffs Stadium.