They are found in every corner of country Australia. Sometimes quiet, sometimes loud but always committed to the reserve grade lifestyle.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
or signup to continue reading
They come in all shapes and sizes, with buzz cuts and mullets and they love nothing more than a zinger box and a few tinnies after a game.
I am of course singing the praises of the reserve grade footballer, more specifically the Mittagong Lions second grade side.
In an otherwise disappointing year for the senior club's sides, the reserves are into the Macarthur Conference Second Grade Grand Final against Camden Rams on Sunday (September 11).
But far from just rocking up and getting the job done each week, the Lions have put together a very well balanced side and coaching staff.
"Without a doubt the reserve grade side are our clubs shining light for season 2022. From the start they were always going to be in or around the top three and they've certainly delivered," president Matt Aiken said.
"Personally I think the key to Reggie's success was the mix of our talented youth with some really good experienced players.
"You've got the likes of Jack Lake and Jack Philips playing along Jake Mercieca and Jake Isedale. Big wraps to the co-captain/coaches which worked really well in Regan Economos and Simon Reid, that was a master stroke too.
"Without a doubt Timmy Townsend is the most important player and standout for the year in Reserve Grade. You can see he is really enjoying his footy, he shows up every week. He is a class act.
"All the boys set a goal to be where they are so kudos to them. The club can't wait to see them win it on Sunday."
Aiken said he was expecting a big crowd for the occasion against the Rams, a club the Lions share a lot of history with.
"It will definitely be a big crowd," he said.
"Apart from Camden having a tonne of other teams in the grand final we've our own loyal supporter group that will make the trek to the stadium.
"The boys in our eyes have already got the keys to the town, they've made us all proud. Just 70 minutes of footy to go before the silverware is back at the Lions Den.
"We have the utmost respect for Camden and lots of history, it was only five years ago we beat them in a grand final. The pressure is all on them, they're undefeated, and a loss on Sunday means a season wasted.
"My prediction Lions win by 12! 18 to 6!"
Macarthur Reserve Grade Premiership Grand Final - Sunday, September 11
Mittagong Lions vs Camden Rams
KO: 1.15pm
Venue: Campbelltown Sports Stadium
Did you know the Southern Highland News is now offering breaking news alerts and a daily email newsletter? Keep up-to-date with all the local news: sign up below.
