Saturday 25, 2015 – marks the 100th anniversary of the Gallipoli landing and it was also significant day for Balikpapan as it was the 70th anniversary of the Australian allied forces that fought for the liberation of Balikpapan from the Japanese Forces in 1945. ANZAC Dawn Service was held at the Pasir Ridge and followed with breakfast at the Novotel Hotel.
Every year one of the highlights of the day was the ANZAC (AFL) Cup competition and this year it was the clash between the visiting Jakarta Garudas vs Borneo Bears. In 2014, the two teams also met and it was the first time the Borneo Bears (AFL) Club won the competition, so the boys were really training hard and focus on retaining the cup. According to coach, Shane Kruger, there has been a tremendous increase in number of participation from local boys attending training every Tues and Thurs afternoons. Because of this, and the need for the new young boys to have a feel of the game, we had to make up 2 teams to play in between the main clash for the cup competition. This has also shown a significant “love of footy” in Balikpapan.
In the final it was quite a tough clash as both teams were head to head in points but came to the last whistle the Borneo Bears kept on tight to the cup for the second year in a row. Yes we’ve made it and Congratulations again to the Borneo Bears!!!
During the award night, before the cup presentation, a few players were acknowledged of their great achievements both on and off the field. Rizal – Jakarta Garudas was a first runner-up and Noor – Borneo Bears was presented with a Best player.
The Club would like to acknowledge the presence of the officials from the Northern Territory Football Club, Waratahs, Darwin for making it to Balikpapan. Gary Smart and special thanks to Tim Weatherald of having to umpire both matches on Saturday. Waratahs defender Jake Smart and forward Lachlan Collihole, for the great effort in sharing your skills and tactics of the AFL to the boys. This is a beginning of a new endeavor for the club and we are looking forward for the continuing relationship between the two clubs. Doug “Footscray” Hawkins for your sound advise and Gary Buckenara for your unwavering support for the club is much appreciated.
Last but not the least to our committed coach, Shane Kruger, a big THANK you for your unlimited support to the boys. We value what you and your family have contributed to the club for past years and All the Best for the future.
Yes we’ve made it and looking forward to another year of great achievements and great footy for AFL in Borneo!!!!!
Tom Comerford
President, Borneo Bears Football Club