Under-17 Lakers coach Jye Smith received coach of the year. 

Kalkee’s John-Paul Macalinga received best player. 

Smith said the team was not expecting the award. 

“In a way I wasn’t expecting it, it was a bit of shock to get something like that,” he said. 

“In saying that, they are such a good bunch of boys on and off the field in the way they help out that I’m not surprised.” 

Smith said his team has had a good season. 

”Four years ago the Lakers barely had an under-17 side,” he said. 

“Last year we just missed out on the finals. 

“This year we made finals for I think the first time ever and managed to win.

“We were knocked out in the second final.” 

The Lakers defeated the Swifts in the elimination final but were knocked out by the Southern Mallee Giants in the semi-final. 

Smith said he has high hopes for the 2017 season. 

“Moving forward, hopefully next year we can play in the grand final,” he said. 

“I am very proud of the boys.” 

Smith said he loves coaching. 

“I love doing it and have put my hand up to do it again,” he said. 

“They are a great bunch and at this stage next year is looking good already. 

“We have had a lot of players around the Wimmera looking to join which has probably never happened before.”

Kalkee’s under-17 coach John Goldsmith said John-Paul was a joy to coach. 

“He is the captain of our team and has played on ball all year,” he said. 

“He is a great leader for the other boys. 

“He is fantastic to coach and takes everything on board. 

“He is well respected by the other kids and just an absolute pleasure to be around.”