The 2026 Omeo District Football Netball League grand finals provided plenty of highlights at Bruthen Recreation Reserve last Saturday, and a nice slice of local football history as father and son Nigel and Oaklee Pearce both walked away with premiership medals — while wearing differing colours.
While rivalries ran hot across all grades on the ground, the Pearce household was split strictly along team lines.
Father Nigel Pearce lined up for Bruthen in the senior football decider, helping power the Bulldogs to a memorable premiership victory over Omeo Benambra.
Meanwhile, earlier in the day, his son Oaklee Pearce was carving out his own piece of glory for Omeo Benambra in the junior football grand final.
Oaklee put in a dominant performance to be named best afield, leading the Alpine Ranges to a 26-point victory over Lindenow South.
Despite playing for rival clubs, the pair celebrated a unique father-son double at the conclusion of the senior game.
On the netball courts, Omeo Benambra continued its recent dominance in “A” grade, securing a third successive premiership with a hard-fought victory over Swifts Creek.
The win marked an incredible 43rd consecutive match victory for the powerhouse squad.
Bruthen won a thrilling “B” grade clash over Omeo Benambra by two goals, while the Bulldogs’ under 17 netballers triumphed over Lindenow South.
