NELSON Bay Football Club have enhanced their reputation as a soccer powerhouse in the Port Stephens region.
With six grand final championship victories in this year’s Newcastle Football Community inter-district junior and senior competitions, the Bay are basking in success.
Fifteen of the club’s 23 community competition teams qualified for the 2026 semi-finals, with 11 progressing to grand final deciders.
Nelson Bay FC’s six championship triumphs highlight the strength of the club across multiple age groups.
Demonstrating strong leadership in her first season as president, Amber Grosser told News Of The Area that the Bay had experienced one of their most successful seasons – both on and off the field.
“Our players achieved superb results, our volunteers once again stepped up and the club continues to be a force throughout the junior and senior grades,” Ms Grosser said.
“As a player in the over-30 Women’s competition, having a home grand final at Tomaree Sports Complex was certainly a season highlight.
“The atmosphere created by our players, members and supporters showcased everything great about football in Nelson Bay.”
Leading the way were Nelson Bay FC’s under-13 Girls A Grade and Under 16 Boys A Grade junior teams that won minor and major premierships and the club’s Over 30 Women’s/02 and Over 35 Mens/03 lineups that also clinched championship doubles.
The under-13s defeated Merewether 3-1; the under-16s toppled Cooks Hill 2-1 and the over-35 Mens/03 combination edged out South Wallsend 2-1 in their grand finals at Myers Park Broadmeadow while the undefeated over-30 Womens/02 outfit rolled Nelson Bay’s over-30 Womens/01 side 2-0 in their trophy decider at Tomaree Sports Complex.
Nelson Bay FC’s Under 12 Girls and Under 18 Girls also tasted Grand Final success, downing Lambton Jaffas 2-1 and Kotara South 1-0 in their respective matches at Myers Park and Adamstown.
The Boys Under 15 A Grade side were crowned minor premiers and narrowly lost their Grand Final against Medowie FC 1-0 at Myers Park, while the Under 18 Boys finished runners-up to New Lambton and All Age Women A Grade to Hamilton-Azzurri.
Other Nelson Bay teams to qualify for the finals were the Under 12/01 and 12/02, 13/02 and 14/01 Boys, while the Zone League first grade men’s team reached the quarter-finals.
“As a junior coach, one of the most rewarding parts of the season is seeing young players develop their skills, confidence and love for the game. Watching our juniors grow each year is what community football is all about” Ms Grosser added.
“The success of our club is built on volunteers. From coaches and managers to committee members and canteen helpers, hundreds of volunteer hours go into making each season possible.
“We’re particularly proud of the growth of our female participation, both on and off the field.
“Having women represented across our teams and making up half of our committee demonstrates the inclusive culture we continue to build at the club.
“Our All Abilities Football Clinics were another highlight this season, with 13 participants enjoying the opportunity to learn and play football in a welcoming and supportive environment.
“While we’re proud of our on-field achievements, what stands out most is the sense of community at the club.
“Seeing players of all ages, families and volunteers come together each week is what makes Nelson Bay Football Club special.
“We thank everyone who contributed and look forward to building on that success in 2027.”
Nelson Bay FC will hold its AGM on Sunday, 1 November at Tomaree Sports Complex from 1pm.
By Chris KARAS
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