Canberra 2026 Queanbeyan Cup - U17.5 Squad
Kilmore’s U17.5 squad headed to Canberra for the 2026 Queanbeyan Cup and delivered a weekend that was bigger than football, a genuine step forward in standards, connection, and belief.
From the moment the group arrived, the boys set the tone. Professionalism in the way they prepared, warmed up, and supported each other stood out immediately. Against quality opposition from across the ACT and NSW, Kilmore showed they belonged on this stage.
Across a super-hot weekend, the group produced patches of exciting, high‑pressure football. Our ball movement improved game by game, and the defensive work rate especially in transition was a clear highlight.
Competitive in every match, pushing well‑established clubs. Improved structure as the weekend progressed, particularly around stoppage. Leadership emerged naturally, with several players lifting in big moments.
Resilience under fatigue, finishing the carnival stronger than we started. While results weren’t the primary focus, the boys proved they can match it with strong interstate talent and adapt quickly to new conditions.
The trip wasn’t just about football — it was about building a group. The boys represented Kilmore with maturity and respect everywhere they went. Their behaviour at the hotel, during travel, and around the host club was consistently praised.
No issues, no excuses.
Everyone bought in.
Everyone supported each other.
A taste of higher‑level competition. A clearer understanding of the physical and mental standards required. A shared experience that will carry into preseason and the home‑and‑away season
Most importantly, it showed that Kilmore’s youth program is heading in the right direction — developing players who compete hard, learn fast, and carry themselves with pride.
We want to thank all parents and families for their support. Coaches and staff who gave up their weekend. Our hosts in Queanbeyan for their hospitality and the players, who represented the club with class. Lastly a massive thank you to our sponsors Turf Force and Workers compensation & Risk specialists, without them this trip would’ve been able to happen.
Kilmore is building something real — and weekends like this prove it.
Go Blues 💙💙
