Troy Ramsey was awarded best clubman for the Emus for his efforts on and off the field. Photos: Supplied
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It was the night of nights for the Echuca Moama United Masters Football Club, celebrating its 40th season and one of its most successful, with a presentation night at Echuca Workers.
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The club celebrated its enduring success as an organisation by granting two life memberships to Francis O'Brien and Rob O'Connor, as well as several awards for off-field and on-field contributions.
In the best-and-fairest count, voting takes place across all games, with player tallies grouped into over-35s and over-45s categories.
In the over-35s, smooth mover Josh Hunter polled well early, earning himself a nice 20-vote lead to Gary Davis and Phil Arnott after the first three rounds of the year.
The race started to tighten up through the middle rounds, and mid-season recruit Leigh Owen stormed home in the last five rounds to almost snatch the title.
Hunter finished the count as a deserving best-and-fairest winner, edging out Owen and Davis in the top three positions. Justin Voss was awarded most consistent after his solid year in the ruck, while Mark Battiscombe deservedly received the coaches award.
The over-45s followed a similar path, with Kelvin Nye getting out to a flying start ahead of Craig Danswan and Troy Arlow in the early rounds.
Francis O'Brien was all smiles as he was awarded life membership to the club for his continuous support and engagement.
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There were some fast finishes from Mark Van Poeteron, Lucas Walker, Paul Elso and Francis O’Brien with Nye managing to hold on to his early lead and conclude the count five votes on top.
Lucas Walker was awarded most consistent for the over-45s, and Paul Elso's stellar rise as a masters’ footballer was acknowledged with the coaches award.
Troy Ramsey’s tireless efforts over a number of years saw him recognised with the prestigious best clubman award, while Jon Beech was recognised with the trainer's award for his dedication to rehabilitation.
The 2025 coaching group was announced with Mark Van Poeteron confirmed to continue as head coach with Justin Voss as assistant and over-45s mentor.
It was another fantastic evening to celebrate the club's people and achievements, in particular the efforts around supporting men’s wellbeing and mental health.
Training doesn't stop for the Emus, with sessions every Wednesday at 6pm at Echuca South Recreation Resver until Christmas.
New players and well-wishers are always welcome, and the club will hold its AGM after training on Wednesday, November 13.
