26 October 2023
Soldiers brought their A-game to the field during the Army Football Championships on Duncan Oval at Gallipoli Barracks, Brisbane, in October.
The competition lasted eight days and featured more than 300 players across 11 teams, including, for the first time, a representative team from the Timor-Leste Defence Force.
The championships are the largest sporting event within the Army, and Australian Army Football President Brigadier Malcolm Wells said it delivered a broad range of benefits.
“This competition is fantastic because it allows soldiers to apply their high levels of fitness and determination in a setting that is both professional and fun,” Brigadier Wells said.
“Sporting events like these are so important for encouraging retention and enhancing morale throughout Defence, and that’s not just limited to those playing.”
Joining the competition for the first time as Army’s youngest formation, 2nd Health Brigade claimed the women’s title, securing a narrow victory over 7th Brigade in the final match.
In the men’s draw, 7th Brigade retained their 2022 title in a strong performance throughout the tournament, amassing an unassailable lead on goal difference into the last game against 3rd Brigade.
Captain of the winning men’s team Sergeant Craig Brown, of the 6th Battalion, Royal Australian Regiment, said it was an incredible competition and was rewarding to take home the championship.
“It’s great to get involved with any type of sport. It’s a huge part of the Army and always has been,” Sergeant Brown said.
“It provides a really good opportunity to meet people from other units and brigades, and it gives you an immediate connection with them afterwards when you see them around barracks or on an exercise.”
