On 11 August, Melbourne Girls Grammar celebrated a remarkable achievement, claiming a fourth consecutive Herald Sun Shield premiership. More than just a title, the four-peat reflects the commitment, resilience and connection that underpin the MGGS football program.

From seasoned Year 12 leaders to emerging young Grammarians, every member of the team played a part in a campaign defined by hard work, determination and unwavering support for one another. Guided by a dedicated coaching team and united by a shared love of the game, the group once again demonstrated what can be achieved when individuals come together as a team.

After soaking up the moment and celebrating this extraordinary success, we spoke with players and coaches about the journey to the top, the memories they will treasure, and what this historic four-peat means to them.

Winning a fourth consecutive Herald Sun shield title is a massive credit to our coaching staff (Colin, Tennille and Emma), the Year 12s who played all four years, and the football culture that has really been engrained at MGGS.

Tuesday 11 August Grand Final was a fantastic spectacle of girls football and how far the game has come over the past decade. On the field there was individual brilliance with Claudia taking a million bounces and dominating everywhere, Grace’s cleanliness and tackling inside the middle, Lucy and Imogen in the ruck, Sofia and Jem patrolling the backline, Gigi’s fierce attack at the contest, Madi whipping through contests, and Georgia covering enormous territory whilst winning countless contests. Collectively, it was a match that exhibited The Melbourne Way and method we want to play.

Each year in this amazing run we have had outstanding Captains and Leaders guide the players through the campaign, this year’s group of Hanna (Captain), Imogen and Grace (Vice-Captains) were simply incredible. All playing higher level football but showed unconditional support to the school and football program. A truly heartfelt thank you to Han, Imi and Grace as well as Caitlin, Jem, Bondy, Charlie, Ruby, Ava and Georgia for carrying the torch when it was your turn and leaving the program in such an amazing position for continued success. Go Melbourne! — Anthony Bruhn, Head of Sport and Coaching

Winning our fourth consecutive Herald Sun Shield title was a fantastic achievement and a reflection of how well the team played. We maintained out structure throughout the game and played a very unselfish brand of football. While we have a squad full of superstars, I believe our continued success comes from how well we work together as a team.

We had a lapse in the fourth quarter, but I was incredibly proud of the girls for their ability to regroup, steady themselves and regain control of the game. Their resilience and composure under pressure was outstanding. It was one of the best games of school football I have seen and a fitting reward for a team that consistently puts the team first and support each other so well.

I would also like to acknowledge the incredible support we receive from the wider school community. Having so many past players, students, staff and families behind us made a huge difference. The energy, passion and encouragement from the Merton Army was outstanding and helped create a fantastic atmosphere on the day. Their support means so much to our players and was a special part of what made this achievement so memorable. — Tennille Nash, Physical Preparation Manager and Senior A Football Coach

What are you most proud of when reflecting on the season?

“I love talking girls footy”

I remember going into the Herald Sun Shield Grand Final knowing I had to make the most of every minute on the field. Playing with this team is such a special experience. Our connection across year levels has always been the highlight of school footy for me.

I was lucky enough to share the field with a whole band of fellow Year 12s, who all shared in the bittersweet feeling, but also with some gun Year 9s, who stood their ground despite being the youngest on the field.

I’m definitely most proud of our ability to play as a team. While some girls are competing at the top end of our sport and others are multisport state athletes, we have a way of connecting through a completely selfless style of play that sets us apart from any other team in the competition.

We all have our coaching staff to thank for building this team on the foundation of fun and connection, and this speaks for itself on the field. — Hanna, AFL Captain

I was super stoked with the outcome of the game, and to get the four-peat! I was so proud of all the girls and how hard everyone worked across all four quarters. The vibes on and off the field were electric. Everyone was getting around each other, celebrating the small things, and just having a good time.

It was a great competition, and Carey certainly fought all the way through, keeping us on our toes, especially in the fourth quarter. However, I had no doubt in my MGGS team to get the job done.

I wouldn’t have wanted to come back to footy any other way. I was super happy, felt so supported, and can’t wait to go again next year! — Claudia