2025 SANFL U18’s Grand Final – Coaches Report

2025 SANFL Under 18 Grand Final – West Adelaide vs Sturt

Sunday, September 14 – Adelaide Oval

Final Score: West Adelaide 2.12.24 to Sturt 12.9.81

On Sunday, we faced Sturt in the Grand Final at Adelaide Oval. The boys were excited for the occasion, and our week of preparation and training had been strong.

The game opened at a high tempo which was expected. While our intent and endeavour were excellent, we at times struggled to compose ourselves around ground balls and handballs. This allowed us to gain territory on occasions but not convert it into high-quality scoring chains. Sturt, on the other hand, capitalised on their ball movement to lead at quarter time.

In the second quarter, we gained the ascendancy at stoppages, but weren’t able to maximise our use of the ball, often playing into Sturt’s hands inside our forward 50. This made it difficult for our forwards to generate genuine opportunities.

The third quarter was again marked by hard work and effort from our group. We created scoring chances, but couldn’t capitalise, which left us unable to apply scoreboard pressure despite our effort.

In the final term, we looked to lift our ball movement tempo through the middle of the ground, taking on more risk. However, it wasn’t sustainable and Sturt were able to finish the game strongly and secure the result.

While we didn’t get the outcome we wanted, this season was a significant step for our program and a reflection of the development across our zones. The future is bright for the West Adelaide Junior Program.

A special congratulations also goes to our U16s, who earned a double chance and went on to claim the premiership—a great reward for their hard work and a credit to the players and coaching staff.

Best Players: Lincoln Pitt, Josh Goldie, Oliver Charlesworth

Goals: Oliver Charlesworth and Tahi Brain

Thank you to everyone involved.

Russell Godson

U18’s Coach and Talent Manager (Male Programs)