The Kiama Quarriers Football Club (KQFC) will conclude an impressive year with grand finals for two of their men's teams on September 20 and 21.

Of the six teams, four KQFC squads advanced to the semi-finals held on September 15. The teams included the men’s over 45’s, the men’s all-ages, the women’s over 30’s and the women’s all-ages.

Unfortunately, both women’s teams, who play in division 1, were unsuccessful in their pursuit of a grand final. The women’s all-ages team lost 2-0 in a competitive match against Fairy Meadow United FC, while the over 30’s team lost against Albion Park 6-1.

The over 45s men’s team, playing in division 2, faced Woonona, a team they had previously faced twice, resulting in a 0-0 draw and a 2-1 win for Kiama.

It was a fast-paced game with Kiama holding the ball well and dominating the play. s the match progressed, fatigue set in for both teams, but Kiama capitalized on their opportunities, scoring two unanswered goals in the second half to secure a 2-0 victory.

Whilst the men’s all ages team, who play in division 4, managed to stun the minor premiers, Coniston, pulling off a remarkable comeback from behind to win 5-4. 

The team had lost both regular season games against Coniston and when the score got to 3-1 Coniston’s way - it seemed like the semi-final would follow suit.

But goals to Bryeson Lloyd, Adrian Meta, Conor Plataniotis and Ethan Summers brought the score to 5-3. ​​The Quarriers managed to maintain their lead, even amidst a brawl that resulted in a red card for a Coniston player, ultimately winning 5-4.

KQFC Secretary Nerissa Peterson says of the team, “They came in fourth and they beat the top team, and I think there were a few top quality additions to that team this year and when you get a couple of good players they lift the whole team and you attract more players.”

Kiama Quarriers men's all-ages team. Photo source: Nerissa Peterson.

The Quarriers used to compete in the district league but now play in the community league and Peterson says this change in competitions has contributed immensely to the club’s success in 2024. 

“We’re in the community league and I think that has just made everyone very happy. We’ve had big turnouts at social events, and we’ve become quite a family orientated club. Everyone is playing just to be a part of a team sport and for the enjoyment of it. I think a happy team makes you more successful,” says Peterson.

The men’s over 45’s will play Gerringong in the grand final on Friday, September 20. The all-ages men’s team will play their Grand final on Saturday, September 20 against Woonona.

Peterson is quietly confident that both teams will rise to the occasion and take home the glory for the Kiama Quarriers.

“I think they’ve both got good chances to win. The all-ages team defeated the minor premiers so I think they feel like they can beat anyone and the over 45’s have been strong all year,” says Peterson.

Additionally, the RMB Kearns & Garside Lawyers 6-A-Side summer competition will kick off on October 10 at the Kiama Quarry Sports Complex. This relaxed social competition is open to the men’s and ladies’ teams, with one more men’s team still needed. Interested parties can contact Secretary Nerissa Peterson at [email protected].