UPDATE: The Hume League’s Grand Final on Saturday at Walbundrie generated an impressive $55,000 in gate receipts, matching attendance figures from previous years. With adult admission set at $18, excitement was palpable as players and fans enjoyed a pristine playing surface, which has become a highlight of the league.
League President Phil Bouffler expressed his enthusiasm about the turnout, emphasizing the competitive spirit that characterized the finals series. “The gate takings were pretty much lineball with the past couple of seasons,” Bouffler stated. Despite initial concerns about weather conditions, the league benefited from strong participation, with 11 of the 12 clubs competing in at least one grand final.
The day proved unforgettable, with record sales of 1,500 programs quickly selling out. “We apologize to anybody who missed out, but we will have to order more next year,” Bouffler added, underlining the event’s popularity.
With an average winning margin of just 14 points across six finals, the competition was fierce. The grand final saw Osborne triumph over Holbrook by 25 points, the largest margin of victory. Bouffler noted, “Even in the grand final, at three-quarter-time, the match was still up for grabs.”
The excitement extended beyond senior matches, with junior grand finals exhibiting remarkable talent and closely contested games. The netball finals were equally thrilling, with the last two matches decided by a single goal.
The league also celebrated the success of hosting two Sunday finals, which helped alleviate congestion at the Walbundrie Oval. “People haven’t stopped raving about how good the ground looks now,” Bouffler remarked, highlighting the efforts put into maintaining the venue.
Amid discussions on event management, Bouffler affirmed the league’s commitment to a single club catering model during finals. “We prefer each club to have one final every second year,” he stated, praising Brock-Burrum for their exceptional catering job this year.
As fans continue to talk about the thrilling matches and the community spirit fostered through the finals, Bouffler concluded, “People just want to come and see a great product which the league provides… it’s as simple as that.”
Stay tuned for further updates on the Hume League as they embark on next season, promising more competitive matches and community engagement.
