The team’s 56-point win over an established Division 3 side is sure to fill them with confidence. Mathers was particularly pleased with the team’s ability to execute what they had been working on during preseason. “The girls played with typical Gems enthusiasm and showed off some slick skills and ball movement patterns that we practiced to death during preseason, resulting in a convincing win over UTS.” The Gems provide a great opportunity for girls to make their AFL debut, and the club welcomed nine new players who made their club debut in the win. Four of those players were also playing their first game of AFL. Arachi Park had a standout performance and was awarded best on ground, while Hayley Kenzler led the charge with three goals.

The Men’s Division 3 team, known as the “Golds,” had a closely contested game in wet conditions against Inner West rivals, the Newtown Breakaways. The opening game turned into a scrap early on, with Newtown looking more energetic and up for the contest. The Students struggled to make the most of their opportunities, but they stuck to the task and made their debut coach proud as they got things clicking in the second half. “Newtown looked hungrier early, while we wasted the few opportunities we had. As the game opened up in the second half, we spread the ball a lot better, linked hand passes, and looked the better team. We stayed patient and finally hit the scoreboard when it mattered most.” Jack Ventura Gleeson was awarded best on ground, while Gabriel Bass-Tracey capped off a good performance with a goal. Edser expressed his relief and enjoyment after securing the win and quickly turned his attention to the team’s lofty goals. “It’s a different feeling coaching, a mixture of relief and enjoyment compared to the soreness and bruises associated with playing. Our goals are to have a red-hot crack at the flag in a very winnable comp. That said, results are the byproduct of respecting the Guernsey and looking after our teammates on and off the field.”