Echuca-Moama Rockets played three matches in the Football Integration Development Association Northern Conference at Echuca South Recreation Reserve last weekend.
Echuca-Moama Rockets hosted five other sides for round three of the Football Integration Development Association Northern Conference last Sunday at Echuca South Recreation Reserve.
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The Benalla All Blacks, Wangaratta Merriwa Magpies, Goulburn Valley Stars, Wodonga Bulldogs and North Albury Hoppers all visited Echuca for a day that saw nine games played.
Each team took part in three matches in the round-robin format, the Rockets facing Goulburn Valley, North Albury and Wangaratta, coming away with one win from the three matches, which came against the Hoppers.
It was the first time the Rockets have hosted a carnival in 2026, with the side now having won three of the nine total matches this season.
“All the guys are playing well and trying to do their best, and the main thing is they're coming off the ground with a smile, and they're loving their footy, so that's what it's all about,” Rockets president Graeme Glanville said.
“There was a fairly big crowd there, so it was really good, all there cheering them on and they're enjoying the day.
“It was a beautiful day weather-wise as well, and some great footy played.”
Ben Trevena’s team started its day against the Stars, losing 2.4 (16) to 4.1 (25) in a well-fought battle before beating North Albury 3.3 (21) to 0.1 (1), the Rockets then finishing their slate with a tight 2.1 (13) to 2.2 (14) loss to Wangaratta.
But the results are very much secondary, with the primary goal of all-abilities football to ensure participants are enjoying themselves and engaging in the strong social aspect the sport provides.
“They get along really well, they're trying to look after each other and help the ones that aren't able to get to the ball as well as others, and they're trying to include them into it and get everyone a touch of the ball and move it around,” Glanville said.
Such is the strong teamwork being built within the side that one player — who is in a wheelchair — was able to score two goals on the day.
Riverine Herald journalist Matthew Kappos attended to capture the action between the Rockets and North Albury at Echuca South Recreation Reserve.
James Anderson with the big kick.
Callum Charteris with the ground-ball get.
Krystelle Lloyd watches the ball onto the boot.
James Anderson and Hopper Noah Shahi chase after the ball.
Sophie Ryan with the kick.
Nathan Moore looks for a teammate.
Callum Charteris looks to dispossess Jeremy Ramage.