As we look toward our 40 year Anniversary in 2022, what better time to look back on the history of the Jets and see what it took to get us to 2022!
We encourage all past players and supporters to get around the Club and share our history as we continue to develop the future.
The beginning
From a BBQ late in 1981 attended by Joe Cortese, Graham Mumme, Peter E. Lennox, Paul Smith and Leo Bator, the East Canberra Jets were conceived. This meeting was followed by a gathering at the North Canberra Bowling Club where enough players committed to form a team for the 1982 season. From humble beginnings selling meat trays to purchase jumpers the foundation principal of the Club was to be a family orientated club where all could enjoy footy and each other’s company. Everyone was welcome.
Giralang oval became our first home ground and the colours of Navy Blue and Black were blended into the first team jumper. The Jets took on teams from across Canberra and the region in the Monaro Australian Football League (MAFL) 2nd Division.
How many of our first team do you recall? Who is missing from this line up?
As the season progressed the original jumper clashed with the likes of ANU and it was decided to move to an all white strip with black collar and blue sash. Anecdotally, the Club never lost a game for the remainder of the year in this strip. It also cemented the three colours as the Jets for the future.
Our Inaugural team went on to win the MAFL 2nd Division Premiership beating RMC Duntroon by 13 points at Narrabundah Oval. How many of this Premiership team can you name?