A historic day unfolded at the South Pine Sports Complex in Queensland, where Tasmania and VIC Metro were crowned national champions in the inaugural 2024 Toyota AFL Open across the inclusion and wheelchair divisions.

Tasmania Claims Back-to-Back Inclusion Titles

In a display of dominance under humid conditions and a blazing sun, Tasmania successfully defended their 2023 inclusion title, defeating South Australia by 50 points with a final score of 8.8 (56) to 1.0 (6).

  • Best on Ground: Joel Corbett was named best on ground for his outstanding performance.
  • Key Contributors: Kobe Arrowsmith, Craig Blaschke, and Blake Bonnitcha each kicked two goals.

Tasmania, AFL Open – Inclusion Title Winners 2024

After a tighter match earlier in the week, where Tasmania beat South Australia by 23 points, the team elevated their game for the grand final. They held SA goalless until the last quarter when Zac Georg-Dent scored SA’s sole goal.

Joel Corbett expressed his pride after the game:

“To go back-to-back, we’ve put in the work all year, so it is just unreal. We treat everyone the same; no one is better than anyone else. We just go out there and play football—we play to our values and respect everyone on the field.”

Western Australia Secures Third Place in Inclusion Division

In the playoff for third place, Western Australia defeated Northern Territory by 56 points, ending the game at 10.10 (70) to 2.2 (14). The match showcased the competitive spirit and camaraderie that define the inclusion division.

VIC Metro Dominates Wheelchair Division for Third Consecutive Title

In the wheelchair grand final, VIC Metro continued their reign by securing their third consecutive national crown, overpowering Tasmania with a decisive 82-point victory, finalizing the score at 18.8 (116) to 5.4 (34).

  • Outstanding Performers:
    • Sebastian Welsh was unstoppable, kicking an impressive 10 goals.
    • Ryan Smith contributed significantly with 7 goals.
  • Best on Ground: Hayden Auber, in his first national championship appearance, won the Kevin Faulkner Medal.
  • Leading Goal Scorer: Sebastian Welsh topped the charts across Division 1.

Vic Metro Afl Open – Wheelchair Title Winners 2024

VIC Metro Captain Teisha Shadwell praised her team’s unity and effort:

“I think with a team like Metro, we play as one. We’re connected, we work together, and play for each other—it’s really great to get a win like that. This isn’t a game of individuals; it’s a team game, and I need to thank everyone who made this victory possible.”

Looking ahead, Shadwell set her sights on breaking records:

“With this being our third title, we can aim for [South Australia’s record] and beat that—let’s go for five!”

Queensland Takes Third in Wheelchair Competition

In a tightly contested battle for third place, Queensland edged out VIC Country with a final score of 13.5 (83) to 9.4 (58).

  • Clutch Performances: Dan Van Den Hoek and Josh Boyle combined for four goals in the final quarter, sealing the victory for the home team.

A Milestone Event: Inclusion and Wheelchair Championships Unite

This year’s Toyota AFL Open was particularly special as it marked the first time both the inclusion and wheelchair national championships were held together under the new format. Over a decade in the making, this unification showcased the AFL’s commitment to inclusivity and provided a platform for athletes of all abilities to shine.

Highlights of the Event:

  • Sportsmanship and Camaraderie: Players celebrated not just their own successes but also those of their peers, embodying the true spirit of the game.
  • Inspiration for the Next Generation: The event served as a beacon of inspiration, demonstrating that passion and dedication transcend all boundaries.

Congratulations to both Tasmania and VIC Metro for their remarkable achievements. Their victories are a testament to hard work, teamwork, and the unifying power of sport.