Football

17 September, 2024

De Graaf's breakout year

Laharum's Hayden de Graaf was adjudged best on the ground with a massive game in the midfield, providing Laharum with plenty of drive in Saturday's grand final win over the Swifts in the Horsham District Football Netball League reserves grand final.

By Chris Graetz

Hayden de Graaf (left) with coach Daniel Down.
Hayden de Graaf (left) with coach Daniel Down.

De Graaf came to the club in 2022 from Fairpark in the Eastern Football Netball League. He played seven games in 2022, five in 2023, and in 2024, he had a breakout year for the club, playing 14 games. He was named one of the best on 12 occasions.

He said it was an incredible feeling following the match.

"It's pretty awesome, especially coming from last year when we had 11 blokes playing and had to borrow players," he said.

"This year, we have had lots of numbers, and it's been a massive turnaround.

"I haven't won a flag since the under-14s, so it's a big weekend. It's always good being the underdogs, as we had nothing to lose."

"The wet conditions helped and the players played better in the wet and it's a great feeling."

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