The Greta Branxton Colts are hopeful coach Todd Edwards’ “Midas touch” will also lead to Hunter Valley Group 21 glory in 2025.
And, if his opening stint at the club is anything to go by, that success might come sooner rather than later.
Following an impressive off-season, the outfit claimed the Scanlon Shield at the weekend.
After drawing 12-all with the Muswellbrook Rams, Greta Branxton knocked over the Singleton Greyhounds 16-10 to set up a showdown with the former in the grand final.
On that occasion, the Colts ran away with the match 30-12.
It bodes well for the organisation, which was pipped 18-10 by the Scone Thoroughbreds in the 2024 Group 21 decider, moving forward.
“Things are looking really good,” president Michael Irvine said.
“We’ve got a much bigger club this year… we’re fielding 22 junior teams, which is five more than last season.
“It’s great because we’ve invested a bit into that program.
“Senior wise, we’ve picked up Todd, who’s a highly-respected mentor in local circles.
“He’s also a premiership-winner with the Cessnock Goannas in Newcastle Rugby League (NEWRL) and former representative mentor with the Rebels.
“So, having him on deck has helped us retain our players and attract a few new ones.
“That culminated in us taking out the Scanlon Shield, which was fantastic for the club.
“Across the board, everything’s really positive.
“It’s important for Greta Branxton to be strong.
“We’re a community club, and with the growth in the area, we are not only giving people somewhere to play but something they’re a part of, too.”
Following several lean years, the Colts have bounced back in a big way.
An appearance against Scone in the September finale reinforced that message.
“We went through a tough period,” Irvine told the Newcastle Weekly.
“But, the previous administration, headed by my predecessor Andrew Grieve, did a great job.
“They brought Brady Hammond, a local junior, back to the club.
“That really helped to kick things off and we’ve travelled in the right direction under him.
“We’re now in a good spot to grow even further.
“Thankfully, we retained most of our playing squad from last season and just added a couple of guys in key positions.
“Even better, we’ve got eight local juniors in our first grade side.
“One of the blokes, second-rower Flynn Mitchell, debuted in 2024 and ended up playing in the grand final.
“He re-signed and had a really good game at the weekend.
“So, from a club perspective, it’s terrific for our youngsters to know they can progress through the grades and play in the firsts in a pretty strong competition.”
Greta Branxton will start its quest to go “one better” this year against the Denman Devils on Thursday 24 April at Greta Central Oval.
“We’ll host firsts and reserves that evening to kick off the long weekend,” Irvine said.
“Denman, under the guidance of Phil Williams, will be a good test for the boys.
“So, we’d appreciate some support at home.
“It’s going to be an interesting season.
“Scone is always strong while Singleton’s the team everyone is talking about, with ex-NRL star Kerrod Holland back there.
“In saying that, I think every side’s improved across the board.
“But, Scone and Singleton will be up there again.”
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