It is fair to say wooden-spooners Northern Riverina Nomads have been flogged in the men’s first grade competition.
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Despite going down by double figures week-on week, it’s been a rewarding season for Nomads’ defender Tom Shuttleworth, 46, and his son, William, 15.
For Tom, playing alongside his son has been a dream come true.
“It’s a rare opportunity, not many people get to do it,” he said.
“It creates a stronger bond; it’s been fantastic.”
The Shuttleworths are one of three father-son combinations on the squad. Winning has been secondary, development and sportsmanship have taken priority.
“It’s no doubt we’ve been outclassed, and effectively we’re in the wrong grade, but everybody’s walked off the field happy,” he said.
“That’s the truth. Nobody’s walking off with their heads held in shame. It’s really refreshing, and a credit to the boys.”
Tom, who picked up the sport six years ago, views William as the expert of the family.
“If I could be as good as my son, that’d be great,” Tom said.
William, who also plays for the Wagga City Wanderers’ under 15’s and Henwood Park under 16 Leopards, is nominated for the Pascoe Cup Team of the Year.
