For just the third time in the city’s history, Maitland is celebrating premiership triumphs in two elite codes.
In 1969, the Maitland Pickers and Maitland Blacks, along with the Maitland Magpies, claimed titles.
The league and union boys achieved the same feat 14 years later.
Now, four decades on, the Pickers and the Blacks are the toast of the town again.
With Matt Lantry’s outfit knocking over the South Newcastle Lions 46-10 in Tooheys Newcastle Rugby League (Real NRL), and then the St Marys Saints 32-10 in the NSW President’s Cup, and Luke Cunningham’s team toppling the Merewether Greens 32-26 in Hunter Rugby, 2023 has been a big season for the Maitland clubs.
To top it off, the Pickers went back-to-back in both competitions, while the Blacks broke a 24-year drought.
So, to honour those outstanding feats, Maitland City Council hosted a rare Civic Reception for the players, coaches and support staff on Thursday 26 October.
Each member of their respective squad was presented with a medallion, too.
“It’s been 40 years, 1983, since Maitland won both trophies,” mayor Philip Penfold said.
“In fact, the Blacks hadn’t claimed a premiership since the last century.
“So, it’s an important occasion for us to acknowledge.
“We don’t usually do these types of things.
“But, when we have multiple premiership top-ranked teams, men or women, achieving for the city, it’s right that the council recognises it.
“And, it’s been a great year for Maitland.”
Cr Penfold was quick to credit other sports as well.
“There’s been a lot of success in basketball, netball, football, in junior grades and other age divisions,” he told the Newcastle Weekly.
“It’s fantastic knowing we have such a talented pool of sportsmen and women, boys and girls in the region.
“But, seeing what the Pickers and Blacks have done [in 2023] should inspire them to chase their dreams.
“Both clubs excelled in elite company.
“They did a sensational job for the people of Maitland… and we’re really proud of them.
“Each wrote their own story.
“The Pickers have been at the top for the past three or four years and continue to back it up.
“They’ve had stability with Matt [Lantry]… that success begets more success.
“It would be a brave man to think they’ve finished their domination.
“The Blacks, on the other hand, have worked tirelessly and it finally paid off by breaking a long-standing drought.
“It was interesting to note they both faced Merewether-based teams in their grand finals.
“So, it’s always nice to stick it to Newcastle,” he added with a laugh.
Council’s general manager Jeff Smith also congratulated the clubs on their glory, stating the victories were “massive for Maitland and its people”.
“We’re a proud sporting city and these two historic organisations have deep roots in the community,” he said.
“We are thrilled for the teams, their players, their families and their fans.
“As well, with the Mustangs reaching the NBL1 East final to Maitland hosting the Netball NSW Senior State Titles earlier this year, we’re just a thriving town for all kinds of sport.”
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