A five-year dream has come true for the Park Ridge Pirates.
The Pirates emerged as the AFL division two winners on Sunday, September 16, when the siren blared and the scoreboard showed the Beenleigh Buffaloes trailing 72 to 89.
Momentum shifted during the crucial season decider, with Park Ridge leading in the first quarter and one point separating the two sides at half time.
Club president Andy Colenso said a concerted effort in the second half made the difference.
“Our boys really got to the task and some of the older heads and better players got us over the line,” he said.
“There was relief when the siren sounded... it was a great moment to sit back and enjoy.”
Colenso said the win meant the Pirates would be promoted to division one next season, pitting them against clubs like Marocchydore, Caloundra, Noosa and Coorparoo.
“It is a difficult task for such a young club...we will now be taking on teams with outstanding facilities,” he said.
“We have got to recruit again and strengthen our player list. The goal is to be competitive in division one and set some goals.”