North Pilbara Pythons have become the 2026 Nutrien Ag Solutions Men’s Country Championships Division 3 Premiers for the first time since 2023, after defeating Mortlock 11.8 (74) to 10.3 (63) in Perth.
After being behind at half time, the Pythons showcased their class to prevail in an emphatic 11-point victory, in a redemption match as the Pythons lost to Mortlock the day earlier by 12 points.
The championship ran from Friday July 10 to Sunday July 12, with Division 3 consisting of Mortlock, Hills Football Association, North Midlands, Central Wheatbelt and North Pilbara.
The Pythons started the championship off strongly with a 33-point win over Central Wheatbelt and a 15-point win over Hills Football Association.
They continued their form over the next day defeating North Midlands by 10 goals, however fell short in their first match against Mortlock by 12 points, before redeeming themselves in the grand final.
Coached by David Van Raalte, the championship squad featured a variety of players from the North Pilbara Football League, led by captain Ben Main and vice-captain Timothy Renton.
Assistant Coach Troy Newick said becoming division 3 premiers meant a lot to the team.
“The boys are bloody excited, it all came together in a bit of a rush and to go through the intensity of playing four games in two days and then the grand final, it all built up quickly,” he said.
“Collectively, the group came together and you could see the enjoyment they got from playing together.”
Newick said the second half comeback was built on lifting pressure and fast handball.
“The boys had shown all week that when the midfield works hard and everyone was cracking in, the whole team lifted, and we just said ‘have more of a crack’,” he said.
“We got a run-on and some of our excitement machines got out the back and kicked some unbelievable goals.
“His (coach David Van Raalte) messaging and motivation for the group was a real attribute and something we’ll continue to have next year.”
As the State’s premier representative country football carnival, the championships showcased the best players from across WA while reflecting the shared commitment of Nutrien Ag Solutions and Country Football WA to strengthening regional communities.
Newick said there has been a focus on building the reputation of football in the Pilbara.
“We’re trying to make Karratha the best place to live in the north-west, and having quality football and recreational opportunities really supports that,” he said.
The championships have been going since 1965, bringing together about 500 players, volunteers and regional communities for a memorable week of football.
Nutrien Ag Solutions has been in major partnership with the Senior Men Country Football Championships since 1974 and is one of the longest serving sponsorships in Australian sport.
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