Coldstream Football Netball Club’s senior women’s team entered Saturday’s Division 3 grand final as the clear underdogs, taking on an undefeated Heathmont side that had looked untouchable all season.
But the Cougars refused to be overwhelmed by reputation, delivering a hard-nosed, spirited performance that pushed the premiership favourites to the limit.
While Heathmont ultimately held on to claim the flag, it was Coldstream’s courage, commitment, and character that left a lasting impression on the Quambee Reserve crowd and no one embodied that more than Sophie Stark, who was deservedly named Best on Ground.
In a contest dominated by pressure and contested ball, it was Sophie Stark’s fearless work in the midfield that stood out.
Time and again, she put her body on the line, drove her team forward, and set the tone with her work around the stoppages.
Her performance wasn’t just outstanding on the day, it was a fitting reward for a season of relentless effort, consistency, and heart.
Facing a side that had beaten them three times already in 2025, Coldstream knew the odds were stacked.
But they didn’t flinch.
With key contributions across the ground including from forward stars Abbey Broughan and Maddy Stark, and midfield engine Ella Herrmann, the Cougars matched Heathmont for intensity and pressure in a way few teams had managed this season.
Even as Heathmont’s experience began to tell late in the game, Coldstream kept fighting.
Every contest, every tackle, every effort showed the resilience of a team determined to make their mark.
While the scoreboard may not have fallen in their favour, Coldstream’s 2025 campaign has been a breakthrough year.
From building a strong team identity to making a grand final against the most dominant side in the competition, the signs for the future are overwhelmingly positive.
With stars emerging, leaders like Stark setting the standard, and a finals-hardened squad ready to go again, Coldstream’s women’s program is positioned for long-term success.
This year, they showed they can take it up to the best. Next year, they’ll be aiming to be the best.
