2008 saw a great squad of predominately first year 18's and they did a magnificent job under the guidance of former Lions coach, Kevin Tate and St Clair's Barry King-Smith. Unfortunately they missed out on a finals berth but in the last couple of games played inspiring footy to test the top teams with a thrilling win over grand finalists, Sothern Sharks.
In 2009 the 18's exceeded their deeds of the previous years in making the preliminary finals. The eventual Premiers, Sydney Uni, who strung together 18 consecutive wins to take the title, were littered with AFL scholarship players. Uni coach, Tim Barling commented after his team had beaten the Rams by 99-66 ilate in the season "It was easily our toughest match. Penrith shoiuld be applauded for their great effort and sportsmanship." After gaining a forfeit on the day when Manly had to forfeit due to not having the minimum number of players, a "social match" was played in which the Rams gave their quality players to the Manly team. The club received a letter from one of the Manly players parents congratulation the Rams for their gesture and great sportnship and discipline. The 18's of 2009 gained the respect of all teams and certainly went a long way to changing the culture of the Penrith Rams as they move into a new exciting era.
In 2010, the Under 18's team came under the guidance of former Lions coaching staff, Craig Sharp and Geoff Payne. In a magnificent season, the team went through undefeated and won the Grand Final by a massive 81 points defeating Holroyd-Parramatta with Lions legend Matty Payne taling out the prestigious Hart Medal for the Best and Fairest in the entire Sydney AFL 18's competition. Ben McGovern also took out the leading goalkicker for the series. On the back of this incredible performance, Penrith were promoted to the elite Premier Cup for 2011 and will be coached by Rob Murie, Dave Nolan and Michael Walker and again managed by Rob Swarbrick.
The First Grade team, coached by Kevin Tate, made their first Grand Final appearance in 19 years but unfortunately could not emulate the feats of the Under 18's in going down to Moorebank. However, Penrith were rewarded with promotion to Div 2 in 2011, the only "non-premiership" winning team to be promoted. Geoff Payne and Craig Sharp have moved up to take over the reins of the senior side in 2011
All players who have finished their junior careers are encouraged to be a part of the "New Look" Rams in 2011
To be a part of it, contact Greg Corless on 0412 579 061 for full details or email Greg at greg@penrithrams.com.au
Last Modified on 24/12/2010 07:57