The team was assembled six weeks out from popular annual knockout, which has been running for more than 40 years.

This year’s knockout was held at Lakeside Oval, Raymond Terrace and hosted by Newcastle Yowies, who won the men’s title last year.

With minimal training and preparation, compared to their rivals, Kempsey United defied the odds and dominated their pool matches.

They played Coastal Dolphins and Turtle Divers in their first two games and scored two easy wins.

On paper their third encounter should have been their toughest as they were up against the reigning title holders, Mindaribba Sisters.

The opposition did not faze the players from Kempsey United, who were never in doubt and won 22-6.

Three wins ensured a spot in the grand final, to be played as two 30 minute halves, against host club the Yowies.

Nerves got the better of Kempsey United as Yowies ran away with the game in the first half leading 14-0 at the break.

The second half belonged to Kempsey United, who outscored their rivals but unfortunately ran out of time, going down 24-16.

Needless to say the players and supporters were ecstatic about making the final of the knockout.

It was the first time a women’s team from Kempsey entered the knockout in a number of years.

“The last team we entered was a Kristy Scholes Memorial side back in 2006,” player Adelia Vale said.

“It was stressful in the weeks leading up to the knockout, rushing around organising sponsors and jerseys.

“But the girls put in the hard yards. We didn’t expect to make the grand final and it was very exciting.

“It was a big effort by all the girls and it was like we brought the whole community together.”

Three players from Kempsey United were selected in the NSW representative squad, Tyan Smith, Simone Smith and Layley Gray.

The trio will travel to Newcastle for their first training run on November 23.

Players and supporters of the team would like to sincerely thank local business and groups who supported them.

It cost the team in excess of $10,000 to play in the knockout including uniforms, accommodation and nomination fees.

“We would really like to thank all our sponsors because none of it would have been possible without their help.”

The team are already gearing up for next year’s knockout and are keen to go one better.

They also want to compete at other events including the Ella Sevens early next year.

“We want to establish a committee early and take advantage of discounts available for uniforms,” player Tyan Smith said.

“We plan to hold different fundraising events around town and will be offering sponsorship packages to businesses.”