Fairley, Pierce Cap Off Stellar Season

Townsvile junior referees Ned Fairley and Hannah Pierce have capped off a stellar year of touch footy, named the Most Promising Junior Referees of 2021.

Announced last Friday night as part of Townsville Junior Touch Football's grand final presentations, both awards come off the back of twelve months of hard work for the two young referees.

The award is Pierce's second for the year, also taking home the TTRA's Most Valued Referee award for Townsville Touch Football's Winter Mixed competition where she regularly refereed the 'Happy Touch' All Abilities grade.

Pierce's contribution to the year's TJT competitions was deemed invaluable by the TTRA Junior Referee Coordinator, Denise Weier, and through her efforts stood out as the perfect recipient for the award.

"Hannah is an amazing young referee who always has a smile on her face. She's put in an awesome effort all year and we're so happy to recognise her with this award."

"She's been a standout performer all year, from Happy Touch to juniors, and she should be so proud of her efforts."

For Fairley, the award is the icing on the cake, after picking up his Level Three Referee accreditation at this year's Junior State Cup in July, followed by the Most Promising Male Referee award at the TTRA's Annual Awards Night in August.

Fairley's dedication to the sport, and towards refereeing in particular, isn't just limited to the junior season, also giving up his time weekly to referee in TTF's weeknight competitions; a contribution that will be sorely missed when he moves south to attend St Jospeh's Nudgee College next year.

TTRA President, Kerrod Hall, spoke highly of Fairley's contribution to both the senior and junior competitions.

"Ned is one of those referees that we depend on because we know he can handle whatever game we throw at him. He's gone above and beyond this year and has thoroughly deserved the rewards he's received."

"He will be a big loss for us next year, but our loss will certainly be Brisbane's gain."

"Both referees have a very bright future in this sport and we're looking forward to watching them grow in the years to come."