Owls 2025: A Season to Remember
As we head into the biggest weekend of the year, it’s time to take a moment to reflect on what has been a phenomenal 2025 season for the Uni-Norths Owls. From premiers to colts, women’s rugby to suburban grade, every team has played their part in shaping a season full of growth, grit, and incredible club spirit.
1st Grade – “Team First” Mentality
Head Coach Lachie Creighton couldn’t be prouder of his men:
“We’ve had 44 men take the field for 1st Grade and another 20 who’ve all had a profound impact on the growth and development of our squad. Whilst 23 will get the opportunity to wear the jersey, 2025 has and will be known for the ‘Team First’ mantra.
Five Owls juniors will take the field in the Grand Final, something you don’t see often in Canberra rugby. We’re one goal short of where we want to be, and there’s one job left to do.”
Premier Women’s XV – Peaking at the Right Time
Coach Andrew “Ziggy” Balmaks reflects on a season of resilience and renewal:
“2025 has been a season of rebuilding for the Premier 15s women and we are peaking at the right end of the season. With five Wallaroos out and several Brumbies Women returning late, it’s been brilliant to see new faces step up and three returning players bolster our squad.
These impressive women have built great team structure and have each other’s backs. They’ve booked their place in the big dance and are ready to give it a red-hot crack!”
2nd Grade – Entertaining to the End
Coach Jason “Plugga” Smith on a bittersweet finish:
“Second Grade’s 2025 season came to an end on Saturday in the prelim, going down 15-19 to a determined Royals outfit. For the second year in a row, we fell just one game short of the big dance.
But ‘The 2s’ — a mix of loyal stalwarts and rising talent — were the only team in the comp to beat every other club this season. That’s something special.”
Colts – Building the Future
Coach Jas Lincoln highlights a season of development and connection:
“The Colts Green team worked incredibly hard from the get-go, leaning on the support of the Colts Blue squad to grow together on and off the field. Making finals was a direct result of leadership, teamwork, and standout individual performances.
These boys are the future of our club. They’ve built lifelong friendships and shown enormous skill and sportsmanship. The future is bright.”
Women’s 10s – Rising Stars
Co-Coach Joel Garbutt celebrates an inspiring campaign:
“This year started with plenty of new faces eager to learn, and many of them went on to secure frequent starts in the Premier 15s. Led by captain Rachel, the 10s dominated, securing the City Minor Premiership well clear of second place.
We fell to a strong Cooma side in the semi, finishing third overall, but Bec and I couldn’t be prouder of the effort and growth these girls showed.”
3rd Grade – Minor Premiers on a Mission
Co-Coach Chris Linden praises his squad’s work ethic:
“Over 40 players pulled on the jersey this year, each contributing to securing the minor premiership and a third straight Grand Final appearance.
Rain, hail or shine, this group has turned up to build their fitness, sharpen their skills, and push each other further. They’ve grown as players and people, and we couldn’t be prouder.”
4th Grade – Resilient and Relentless
Co-Coach David “Daisy” Creagh reflects on a gutsy season:
“2025 was another strong year for 4s, making it through to week two of finals before falling short of the big dance. We faced challenges — especially with depth in the backs — but uncovered some quality players who’ll be big assets for the future.
The team vibe was brilliant from the start, highlighted by a stunning comeback win over Wests in the final round and a never-say-die fight against Royals in the prelim.”
Suburban Green (5th Grade) – Growth and Grit
Coach Lachie Hird celebrates the Canberra Suburban Green’s development:
“2025 was a fantastic year of growth, resilience, and team spirit. Many players stepped up to higher grades while others backed up for multiple games — a true sign of their dedication.
The culture is thriving, on and off the field. A special highlight was seeing all the coaches lace up and join their players — CSC Green at its finest.”
Suburban Blue (5th Grade) – Setting Standards
Coach Rob Krauss on a memorable Colts Blue campaign:
“Colts Blue did so much more than make the finals. In a comp full of seasoned warhorses, our young lads took down heavyweights like Hall, ADFA, and RMC, and pushed Batemans Bay to the edge in two epic battles.
During uni breaks and with injuries stacking up, they pulled together, playing for each other and the club. Cus and I couldn’t be prouder — the future of the Owls is in safe, silky hands.”
One Club, One Dream
From Premiership pushes to developing future stars, 2025 has been a season built on unity, growth, and heart. Across all grades, the Owls have shown what makes this club so special, community, connection, and a fierce passion for rugby.
As we head into Grand Final weekend, one thing is clear: the Owls are flying high.
Check out the fixtures for this weekends Grand Final clashes: https://uni-norths.clubland.au/fixtures/