The Maroubra Saints have capped off a landmark season, securing four premierships across the Sydney AFL junior competition and making history as the first stand-alone club to claim both the boys’ and girls’ top-age Division 1 titles.
Four Premierships, Five Grand Finals
The Saints celebrated premiership victories in the U17 Division 1 boys, U17 Youth Girls 1, U13 Division 1 boys, and U17 Division 3 Youth Girls. Their U13 Youth Girls 1 side also reached the grand final, finishing runners-up. In total, five Saints teams played on grand final day.
The U17 Division 1 boys produced a standout campaign. After finishing as minor premiers, they were beaten by Glebe in the qualifying final before responding strongly in the preliminary final with a 63-point win over South West Sydney. In the decider, they avenged their earlier loss to Glebe, securing the premiership by 23 points. Head coach Gerard Pignatelli, who guided the side, said the team’s determination and resilience defined their season. His son, Ben Pignatelli, was among the players who shone on grand final day.
The U17 Youth Girls 1 also finished the year on top, adding to the club’s historic double in the top-age divisions. Wins from the U13 Division 1 boys and the U17 Division 3 Youth Girls further underlined the Saints’ strength across multiple age groups.
Growth and Legacy
The success comes as the club continues to expand, now recognised as one of the largest junior AFL clubs in New South Wales. The Saints emphasise inclusivity and community spirit, values that have contributed to a steady rise in participation over the past five years.
The club has also built a strong reputation for player development. Current and former AFL players with Maroubra ties include Errol Gulden, Jordan Foote, Abe Davis, Indhi Kirk, Jack Buckley, and Ben Davis.
This season also marked milestones for club stalwarts. Coach Pep closed out 16 years of service, while manager Imby was recognised for a decade of contribution.
A Fitting Farewell
For many of the U17 boys and girls, the premierships doubled as a farewell to junior football, marking a memorable conclusion to their time with the Saints.
The club described the season as “an unforgettable finish for a very special team,” with four premierships ensuring 2025 will go down as the most successful year in the Maroubra Saints’ history.
Published 9-Sep-2025
