Aberglasslyn Ants have that winning feeling

After all, when it comes to naming a sporting side, ants is about as far as you can get from the usual Sharks, Dragons, Tigers and Warriors.

Trouble was, everyone liked it and the Aberglasslyn Ants were born ... er, hatched.

That was in 2017 when the club, formed to be part of the community, began with a ladies league Tag team.

Fast forward two years and there are now four teams - the ladies league Tag, a women's open rugby league team, an open women's netball team and a men's C Grade league team.

But here's the thing: we're now halfway through their respective seasons and all four teams are on top of their competitions.

Mick played a key role in forming the club in the first place, plays in the men's league team and coaches the ladies tag team.

He admits to being surprised at their results.

"I've got no idea what he secret is," he said. "Wish I did.

"The Ladies League Tag have only been beaten once in three years. And this season the men's league have lost one from seven, the ladies league team have won six and had a draw, the ladies tag side is unbeaten, and our netballers have won six from seven. It's incredible."

It's cetainly some effort from a club still finding its feet.

"We always wanted it to be a community club, where it was as much for women as men," Mick said.

"And that's what it is. We went for unusual colours, purple and blue, because we're different. And while we've grown, we don't want it to get much bigger because most of the work is done by volunteers and it takes a fair bit of time.

"We've probably got about 14 volunteers, and the vast majority of those are players.

"I think we have 32 registered tackle league women, 20 league tag women, 33 men league players and a dozen or so netballers.

"Some of the women, like my wife Jess, plays both tag and tackle."

Council has recognised the club's efforts by nominating it for a City of Maitland Medal. This is for volunteers who give their time freely for the benefit of their community.

"I only received the letter this week," Mick said. "We're all very proud because it sums up what we're all about."

It seems Aberglasslyn's ants not only have community spirit, but plenty of sting.