Sport
8 October, 2025
Leps’ under 17 girls take title
LAST month, the Innisfail Leprechauns’ under 17 girls team claimed the FNQ rugby league premiership after they defeated Cairns Kangaroos 18 -8 in the grand final at Barlow Park, Cairns.
Innisfail’s try scorers: Shiloh Babsek, Kayden Plumb, Arianna Martin and Aaliyah Edwards. Goal: Lillee Barba. Northern Pride under 17 player of the final: Marley Whap.
After last year’s heartbreak of losing the premiership in the final minute, the under 17 team went into this year’s final determined to go one better.
Captain and halfback Brydee Spry along with her five-eighth Lillee Barba led the team to a successful end of season win against and premiership title.
Innisfail headed into the final with injury concerns, but this did not deter them.
During the first half the Innisfail Leprechauns demonstrated strong defence which saw them with a 14-0 lead at the half-time break.
The talk on the field throughout the game from Brydee Spry and Kayden Plumb always kept their defence intact.
Throughout the game, Innisfail forwards Arianna Martin, Shiloh Babsek, Wasada Lui and Delila Clark ran strong off the halves and broke through the opposition’s line of defence.
Kangaroos refused to give up and posted two quick tries early in the second half.
Leprechaun’s hooker Marley Whap put her body on the line when she ran down Kangaroos full back Megan Trezise to save a try and came away with Player of the Final award.
Team support and playing as a team were the two main keys that coach Jo Spry set for them throughout the season.
Throughout the season, the Innisfail Leprechaun under 17 team bonded well throughout the season which culminated with the ultimate achievement of claiming this year’s premiership title.
The team wished to thank Michael Spry (Leaguesafe), Tanya Pensini (First Aid) and Kylie Barba (Manager), as well as team sponsor Michael Spry Painting.