Lleyton Hughes
28 August 2025, 8:00 PM
A rained-out weekend brought an early end to Kiama Power’s 2025 season, but despite all three grades missing out on finals, the club is calling it a step forward in its ongoing rebuild.
Both of Kiama Power’s Premier Division teams - men’s and women’s - finished fifth on the ladder, just one spot shy of finals contention. The reserve grade side wrapped up their season in sixth place.
“It was a few rough seasons, with the men's first grade team averaging a 100-point losing margin for two years,” said committee member Anthony Grady. “So it was good to turn that around and be competitive again.”
A highlight of the season came in the form of individual accolades, with four players across the premier teams selected in the AFL South Coast Teams of the Year.
“We had Hamish Robertson and Josh Simpson named in the men's team, and for the women, Dakota Mason and Teneale Keene were both selected,” said Grady. '
“Our women’s coach, Arthur Chilcott, was also named coach of that women’s team of the year, which is a great recognition.”
In the league’s medal count, one of Kiama's new recruits, Jack Eastwood, made a big impression - finishing runner-up in the Best and Fairest despite only joining the club in Round 7.
“I think if he’d played a full season, he could’ve taken that award out,” Grady said.
Off the field, Kiama Power has worked hard to build a stronger club atmosphere and sense of community.
Kiama Power's Premier Division mens side finished one spot away from the top four. Photo: Kiama Power
“We're really proud of the culture we've built this year,” Grady said. “We had a lot of new players join the club - including some top recruits who were recognised at the league awards night or selected for representative honours.”
A major achievement for the club was securing more than 60 player sponsors - a number Grady says is almost unmatched in the league.
“We’re very proud of that,” he said. “It’s allowed us to put on more events for members, players, and supporters, which strengthens the connection between everyone at the club.”
The club also invested in growing its online presence, recently passing one million views on Instagram. Grady believes that’s been a key tool in attracting new players and sponsors.
“We like to think that if a new player is looking around, we’re now front of mind,” he said.
“And with that, it brings in new opportunities and partnerships that also benefit local businesses through sponsorship. It also gives people a chance to get to know the players behind the scenes, which really helps connect the community.”
Looking ahead to 2026, Kiama Power has its sights set on expanding its women’s program.
“Our biggest goal is to field a second women’s team next year - both a Premier Division side and a Reserve Grade team,” Grady said.
“Adding a second side will boost depth and performance, but more importantly, help grow the club culture by bringing more women into the fold. That’s a really important step for us heading into next season.”
While the on-field action has wrapped, the season isn’t over just yet. Kiama Power’s Presentation Night is set for Friday, 19 September, where players, coaches, and supporters will come together to celebrate a year of progress - both on and off the field.
NEWS