Hay Lions Roar with Pride
By Jade Auldist
The Hay Lions and the Woorineen Tigers battled it out in the Pride Cup on a scorching Sunday afternoon, at the Hay Number 2 Oval.
Lions, a team comprised of talented individuals who are new to AFL, but seasoned in their love for sports, delivered a performance that will be etched in local memory.
Before the game, Hay Lions Juniors had the privilege of participating in a clinic hosted by none other than Courtney Wakefield from Richmond Tigers. A golden opportunity to learn from one of the greatest in the AFLW.
The event also embraced the importance of mental health awareness, as Wellways organisation delivered a speech, promoting their program 'Thought Talk Tackle.'
The Dykes on Bikes added a unique touch to the coin toss, with their leader, ‘T Rex’ driving a representative from Wellways into the middle of the oval, marking the official beginning of the game.
The atmosphere was electric, adorned with LGBTQIA+ flags, rainbow balloons, and umbrellas that illuminated the crowd. Beyond the field, this Pride Cup served as a platform for education and understanding within the community. Once the game kicked off, the tackles were fierce, and the goals were nothing short of spectacular.
Samantha Harrison kicked the first Gaol for Hay, realising her dream from the night before. Hannah McGufficke’s impressive defensive tackles kept the team in the game, while Ruby Cattanach, Emily Hill, and Lucy Shea dominated the midfield with strategic positioning.
Trish Jamieson and her daughter Hannah Jamieson contributed significantly, securing another goal in the second quarter. Lucy Shea and Skye Lilburne continued the momentum with goals in the third and fourth quarters, respectively. Skye Lilburne’s exceptional performance in the ruck showcased her high jumps and strategic moves to control the ball. Despite the Woorineen Tigers scoring multiple goals, sportsmanship prevailed, and the teams exchanged players every quarter, with Hay’s own Grace Auldist demonstrating her skills on the opposing side.
Grace kicked three goals and two points, all guided by the mentorship of Courtney Wakefield in the forward line. Young talents Emily Shea, Poppy Barnes, Hannah Edmonds, and Jade Doidge played pivotal roles in sustaining the Hay Lions' energy throughout the game.
Lani Houston, aka J.Lo, proved to be a defensive powerhouse, thwarting numerous scoring opportunities with her agility and side steps. Trish aka ‘Dolly’ led the forward line with gusto.
Cassie Pearson's resilience in the backline, Christie Webb's unwavering support, and Kirsten Hutchings's leadership, even while playing for the opposition, highlighted the diverse talents within the Hay Lions.
Ella Harrison, Emily Caughey, Emma Johnston, Katie Howard, and the comeback player Teagan Morrison, who hadn't laced up her boots since under 14s football 20 years ago, showcased the enduring skill and passion that define AFL players.
A heartfelt thank you goes to all the remarkable women who stepped up to represent the Hay Lions.
Despite the challenges of the yellow grass, hard ground, hot weather and the morning-after party fatigue, their resilience echoed the spirit of Hay – tough, resilient, and ready to face any challenge.
Special appreciation goes to Linda Stewart and Kerry Barnes from the committee for their unwavering support, and to the Rainbow on the Plains board for hosting a fantastic festival which concluded with a Pride Cup celebration of inclusion for the Hay Lions.
The Pride Cup not only celebrated the love of the game but also embraced the spirit of unity, acceptance, and strength within the Hay community. Cheers to the Hay Lions for an unforgettable display of courage and sportsmanship.
Pictured are Grace Auldist and Rylah Bunyan, warming up with Courtney Wakefield before Courtney’s clinic. Image: The Riverine Grazier/Kimberly Grabham.
