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The Road to First Grade at Northern Tigers: Olivier Beltran-Woodward’s Journey

From humble beginnings at West Pymble Football Club to making an impact in Northern Tigers’ First Grade squad, Olivier Beltran-Woodward has carved out a football journey defined by resilience, growth, and passion. In this interview, he reflects on the ups and downs of his path through the NPL ranks, the culture that drew him to Northern Tigers, and the team’s unforgettable season.

Where did your football journey begin?

My football journey began at West Pymble Football Club.

Please talk us through your football career before joining Northern Tigers Football Club, including where and how you started playing NPL football.

Between ages 13 and 16, I trialled with several NPL teams, including Northern Tigers, but I wasn’t selected. After a strong year with West Pymble U18s at 16, I signed for Dunbar Rovers U18s shortly after turning 17. I played with Dunbar Rovers in NPL2 and was retained the following year for their U20 squad competing in NPL3.

I had a solid season and earned the opportunity to play First Grade, contributing to Dunbar’s promotion to NPL2. The following season, I continued playing First Grade and was fortunate to sign for Northern Tigers at the end of that year. Since then, I’ve been lucky to be part of the First Grade team here at Northern Tigers.

When did you join Northern Tigers Football Club and how many seasons have you played for the club?

I joined for the 2024 season, and this latest season was my second playing for Northern Tigers.

What attracted you to join Northern Tigers Football Club?

It was a no-brainer for me. I spoke to some friends who had played or coached at the club, and they spoke so highly of the coaches, the intensity of the sessions, and the culture. They seemed to have all the pieces to be a top team.

I saw it as the best opportunity for me to develop as a player — with top coaching, a very professional training environment, and a great group of teammates.

What positions have you played this season, and how many goals have you scored?

I’ve played pretty much all my games as a striker. Unfortunately, I’ve been injured for about 10 weeks, but I still managed 5 goals and 5 assists.

What do you think has been the key to the First Grade team’s success this season, both in the league and the Australia Cup?

There are a lot of people this season’s success can be attributed to — probably too many to name.

First and foremost, I think our coaching staff invest a huge amount of time into giving us the best opportunity to succeed. From structuring sessions, tracking our running meters, and video analysis to recruitment — they’re a massive part of what we’ve achieved.

We also have a great group of players — a strong mix of youth players coming through and top-quality additions from elsewhere. Having that kind of squad creates a competitive environment that pushes everyone to be at their best. The standards are high, and the results speak for themselves.

The Waratah Cup semi-final win away at APIA was historic for the club, securing Northern Tigers’ first-ever Waratah Cup Final appearance. What was the atmosphere like, and did you believe a comeback was possible?

I think we went in believing we could win, and honestly, no one expected us to — which probably took the pressure off and gave the boys the freedom to just give it everything. Even when they took the lead, I still believed we could come back. It looked unlikely at that point, but I would never write us off.

What characteristics are Northern Tigers teams known for among their opponents?

Obviously, I never played for or against Tigers in youth, so I can only speak for the First Grade team. But from what I’ve seen and heard, people really respect Northern Tigers as a top club.

I’ve heard that we’re known for being willing to run all day and for having elite — but tough — training sessions.

There was even a rumour going around that we run a Bronco test after every session, and if we don’t pass, we can’t play on game day. I won’t confirm or deny that one… but we’re known as a hardworking team with all the quality to compete at the NPL1 level.

What do you like most about being part of the Northern Tigers?

It’s such a healthy mix of competitiveness and togetherness here. Getting to play the sport we love at a high level with a good group of people you can genuinely call your friends is something special. The club has been incredibly welcoming and made it an overwhelmingly positive experience for me.

What would completion of the Home of Football mean to the Northern Tigers Senior Men’s teams?

The completion of the Home of Football would be massive for us. I think it would legitimise us as an NPL1-calibre club. I believe we’re already there in terms of players and staff, but maybe not yet in terms of facilities. Having that home base would elevate everything to the next level.

PCA backs the Northern Tigers: a family business supporting grassroots football

Pipe Couplings (A/Asia) Pty Ltd (PCA) is proud to continue its support of Northern Tigers Football Club, backing the club’s junior pathways and the volunteers who make community football thrive.

Founded in 1972 and still family-run, PCA started out supplying pipes and fittings for Australia’s high-pressure gas networks. In 1988, they opened their own manufacturing plant, expanding from gas reticulation into PE (polyethylene) pipe and fittings used across gas, water, communications and fire applications. Today, the goal of PCA is the same as it was on day one: build safe, reliable infrastructure products that keep Australian communities connected. 

Alongside manufacturing, PCA also represent and distribute two trusted names in the sector:

  • Fusion (UK) – makers of electrofusion, spigot and other pressure fittings that join PE pipelines and components with precision.
  • Ritmo – specialists in the welding and fusion machinery that brings those pipelines together on site. 

PCA’s partnership with the Northern Tigers Football Club is now in its third year. For PCA, it is about more than putting a logo on a jersey. They believe in investing in local sport, supporting girls’ and boys’ programs equally, and helping young players learn teamwork, resilience and leadership from the grassroots up. 

“We are a family business and community is in our DNA. Supporting the Northern Tigers Football Club is a simple way to give back and help the next generation grow through sport.”

About PCA:

  • Established in 1972, Australian, family-run.
  • Manufacturer of PE pipe and fittings for gas, water, communications and fire.
  • Distributor of Fusion (fittings) and Ritmo (welding/fusion machinery). 

www.pca.net.au

Josie Wilson: A Northern Tigers Success Story from Grassroots Football to the A-League

Photo credit: Dan Ullman – Aptitude Photography

For Josie Wilson, her football journey has been defined by loyalty, growth, and a deep connection to the club she has called home since she was just 10 years old. Starting out at Lindfield Football Club at the age of five, her love for the game quickly evolved into a lifelong commitment, leading her through the ranks of Northern Tigers Football Club and all the way to the Women’s A-League with the Newcastle Jets.

Josie reflects on her 15-year journey with the Northern Tigers Football Club and what the future holds for women’s football in the region.

Where did your football journey begin?

My football journey began when I was 5 years old, playing for Lindfield Football Club.

Please talk us through your football career before joining the Northern Tigers including where and how you started playing NPL football. 

I started playing for Lindfield Football Club when I was 5 years old and played there until I was 11 years old. When I was 10, in 2010, I trialled for the Northern Tigers Development Squad (what it was called back then) and made the team. I’ve been at Northern Tigers ever since!

What attracted you to join the Northern Tigers?

Northern Tigers was my local representative club. I loved football and wanted to challenge myself, so that’s why I joined Northern Tigers!

When did you join the Northern Tigers and how many seasons have you played for the Northern Tigers?

I played my first proper season in 2011, for the u12’s. This is my 15th year playing for Northern Tigers.

How many years have you been in the Senior Women’s squad for the Northern Tigers?

I started playing in the Senior Women’s squad for Northern Tigers when I was 15. This was back when the Women were in NPL2, so there was a group of us that would play in the U16s team and then stay back to play in the Reserve Grade or First Grade team a few hours later!

The Women’s team have had some great success over the past couple of years including winning the Sapphire Cup last year. What do you put the success of the Senior Women’s squad to and what aspirations do the team have for the season?

We have had some great success over the past few years, including winning the Sapphire Cup last year, making the Sapphire Cup final two years ago, and making two NPL1 Grand Finals in recent years. I’d say the main thing that has contributed to our success over the years is the supportive and inclusive environment at the club. Northern Tigers is different because it prioritises creating a team of people that are playing for each other, instead of a bunch of individuals playing for themselves. That sort of environment is unique and is why I think we have been so successful over the years.

You have enjoyed personal success over the past couple of years playing for the Newcastle Jets in the Women’s A-League. What has that experience been like?

Stepping up into A League has been an awesome experience. It has definitely been challenging at times, training at a high level of intensity every day was quite a big jump at first, and the level of competition to get minutes on the field is tough. But I’ve been very grateful for the experience, I feel I have improved a lot as a player and have loved the challenge.

How important is the Northern Tigers as a pathway for local female aspiring players?

Northern Tigers is hugely important for local female aspiring players! It’s a competitive environment that provides a pathway for players to advance. Northern Tigers has incredible coaches that work together to support each other and the players, and the club fosters a great environment for players to grow and learn.

I had played at Northern Tigers for my whole career, and progressed through every age group, before making the A-League. Without Northern Tigers I wouldn’t have been seen by the A-League coach who brought me in!

What would completion of the Home of Football mean to the Northern Tigers Senior Women’s squad?

The completion of the Home of Football would mean a lot to the Senior Women’s squad, and to the whole club. There has been talks of Northern Tigers having proper facilities and seating for probably over a decade now. Right now, I think we are the only NPL1 club without proper seating.

As NSFA is one of the biggest football associations in NSW, and football is one of the most popular sports, it’s important that we can have the facilities to support the growth of the sport and the development of the younger players coming through. Having a proper place for spectators to sit and watch comfortably, along with having better facilities, would give us the professional environment that we deserve as an NPL1 team. 

What characteristics are Northern Tigers teams known for amongst their opponents?

We are known for having a really great team environment – we work hard, have fun, and play for each other and the club.

Supporting the Community with Quality Service and Genuine Care

Established in 2004, CCF Electrical Services is a small, family-owned business that has proudly provided high-quality electrical and data services to the local North Shore community for over 20 years. From new construction projects to repairs and upgrades, the company handles jobs of all sizes with professionalism and care – no task is too big or too small.

The team at CCF Electrical is committed to delivering work of the highest standard. They value strong teamwork not only within their staff but also in collaboration with their customers. By working together, they strive to achieve the best outcomes for every project and ensure long-lasting, reliable results.

CCF Electrical Services has a connection with the Northern Tigers that runs deep. As a club that holds sentimental value to the family – and now to their daughter – they deeply appreciate the Northern Tigers’ commitment to community, friendship, and personal growth. The company is proud to support the club through sponsorship and is grateful for the opportunity to give back to an environment that fosters such meaningful development for young people.

Together, they help build stronger communities – on the field and off.

Need electrical work? Contact Cameron Flaxman. 
Phone: 0423 452 875
Email: ccfelectrical@live.com
Website: www.ccfelectrical.com

From Grassroots to First Grade Glory: Jake da Silva’s Northern Tigers Journey

Jake’s football journey is one of talent, determination, and rapid progression. Starting at just 3 years old, he has climbed through the youth ranks to break into the Northern Tigers’ Men’s Senior squad as an 18-year-old. Jake has proven himself a fearless, hardworking player ready to make his mark on every game. Here, he shares his journey, experiences, and ambitions for the season.

Where did your football journey begin?

I started my football journey at 3 years of age playing a few games for my older sister’s team at Berowra Football Club. I officially started playing when I was 4 years old. I played up an age group in the U6s team at Berowra Football Club.

Please talk us through your football career before joining the Northern Tigers including where and how you started playing NPL football (please include your ages for moving Clubs).

I started at Berowra Football Club and played 2 years in the U6s. I then moved to Hornsby Heights Football Club for 2 years where I played up an age group in U8s with some friends. After Hornsby Heights Football Club, I got selected to play for the Northern Tigers when I was 8 years old playing in the U10s. I had a couple of friends that went to Northern Tigers the previous year and I wanted to take my football to the next level.

What attracted you to join the Northern Tigers?

My friends and playing at a higher level. 

When did you join the Northern Tigers and how many seasons have you played for the Northern Tigers?

I joined Northern Tigers in 2015, and I am now in my 11th season at the club. 

You have broken into the Men’s First Grade team as an 18 year old over the past couple of years. What has this experience been like and how has the adjustment been to playing senior football?

It is challenging but a rewarding experience. Training and playing the First Grade team has improved me as a player and showed me how different senior football is to youth football with the speed being much faster.

What do you put this season’s success of the Men’s First Grade team to and what aspirations do the team have for the season?

Aspirations for the season is to win the league and get promoted.

What positions have you been playing this season?

I have been playing CDM this season.

The Men’s First Grade team have been on a great run in the league and the Australia Cup – to what do you put the success of the team for the season to date?

The teams’ culture and we took the Australian Cup seriously this year.

The Waratah Cup semi-final win away at APIA was a historic occasion for the club qualifying the Northern Tigers for our first Waratah Cup Final. What was the atmosphere like for that match?

I knew the match was going to be a tough one for the boys with APIA doing well in their NPL 1 competition, but I knew if we were on our game that day we could come away with a result. The game was tense with it being 0-0 half time, then coming out in the second half going 1-0 up early. The game’s intensity was rising with APIA getting 2 goals back. We came back to 2-2 and we all had a lot of hope and when Kye scored the winner everyone was cheering and celebrating. 

What would completion of the Home of Football mean to the Northern Tigers Senior Men’s team?

Having a facility where we can play all our games, especially if we get promoted to NPL.

What characteristics are Northern Tigers teams known for amongst their opponents?

Always fighting till the last whistle.

What do you like about the Northern Tigers?

Northern Tigers have a good club culture and give young players opportunities