Twenty years of the Blues called for a celebration, and our team had plenty to celebrate, too: 38 registered players, the most in club history.

For our 20th anniversary, we swapped footy boots for flapper dresses, sharp suits and varying interpretations of roaring twenties glamour. The night kicked off in the fanciest condo we'd ever seen. Coach Woz pulled together their costume from pieces already in the wardrobe, while Lucia took out Best Dressed, setting a standard the rest of us could only aspire to.

Now for the club awards! The choices weren't easy, which is a great problem to have. Most Improved went to Tory, whose hard work, willingness to learn, shepherds and tackles earned recognition from the coaches.

Sharing Rookie of the Year honours were Myers and Nick. Nick made it to nearly every practice and travelled to exhibition tournaments to keep developing his game, while Myers added another achievement to an already impressive rookie season.

Despite an injury cutting her season short, Michelle finished on top as Leading Goal Kicker. We'll never know how many more she might have kicked…

Voted for by the players, the BNF recognises the teammate whose performances and contributions made the biggest impression on those playing alongside them. Fun fact: every round had a different player leading the BNF votes, making this year's count an exciting one to follow. Baker was the standout of the night, taking home both Top Defender and Best and Fairest. Her intercept marks and long boot made her return to the Blues a formidable addition to the defence.

The 5th Quarter Cup went to Darth, celebrating the effort they put into keeping the social side of the club going, from post-practice hangs to team nights out. These moments are a big part of what makes the Blues a community, not just a footy team.

For Blues Heart, Bruce was a deserving recipient, recognised for the dedication, generosity and countless contributions that often happen behind the scenes. Ash, Baker, Bracket, Fredriz, Leila, Mascot and Tory were also nominated, reflecting just how many people gave their time and energy to the club this year.

These awards celebrate individual contributions, but the Blues are built on the hard work, small moments and people showing up for one another throughout the season.

From awards to karaoke

The awards weren't quite the end of the night. We headed out for a night on the town, squeezing into a tiny karaoke room and taking turns belting out our favourites. Myers surprised everyone with her singing voice, while Woz and Katt's song choice might’ve showed their age, leaving a room full of confused Gen Zers wondering what they were listening to.

And Grace's rap selection? It might just have inspired an entirely new game plan for 2027. We're not saying it's a good game plan, but we're willing to give it a go.

Thank you

A big thank you to Othership, Academy of Lions and Kula Yoga Annex for helping us celebrate our awards night and recognise our 20th season.

The awards night also featured delicious cake from Nadège Pâtisserie and drinks from Harmon's Craft Brewing and Something in the Water Brewing Co. We’re also grateful to our regular season sponsors, Portia Physio, Freya Athletic Therapy, Nice Slice and City Shred, for their continued support in helping us build the club and make footy happen. 

And to everyone who's been part of the Central Blues over the past 20 years, thank you for making this club what it is. With our biggest Women's+ squad yet and plenty of fresh talent coming through, there's a lot to look forward to in 2027.

Go Blues Go!