After a couple of tough years out in Yenda, the club is on the up and up which has culminated in the side’s first grand final appearance since 2010 which was against the same opposition in the Waratah Tigers.
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Between 2001 and 2010 the Blueheelers appeared in nine of a possible ten grand final and picked up six premierships, and they will be hoping their return to the final weekend of the season will see a return to the golden days.
The Yenda side was also able to pick up their first minor premiership since 2009 in a season when the Blueheelers have been the surprise package.
Co-coach Willie Lolohea said while it is great for his players to be in the grand final there is a more significant impact.
“The boys are really looking forward to Sunday," he said.
“It is awesome for not only the players and supporters but also the town itself. We aren't a big town. We will be taking the community out there when we run out on Sunday.”
They showed their cards early after being a late inclusion for the Paul Kelly knockout they were able to defeat the Black and Whites in the final with a 15-6 win.
The Blueheelers left it late to secure their spot in the grand final after coming from behind to secure a 23-22 win over Yanco-Wamoon with basically the last kick of the ball thanks to a Stephen Broome field goal from 35 metres out.
While Broome landed the decisive blow, it was a hat-trick to Jayden Conaghan which set the wheels in motion for the Blueheelers. Lolohea spoke highly of the centre's performance against the Hawks.
“He is incredible, and he has been one of our best signings,” he said.
“He has been there since the days were down on the ladder. He is starting to improve and show his potential as we knew he would. Unfortunately, he is leaving us next year.”
The co-coach pointed to a couple of players who he thought would make the difference.
“I’d say keep an eye on Stephen Broome and Chris Latu,” he said.
“But I think much like the Waratahs we are pretty strong right across the park.”
The staple of the Waratahs play this season has been their ability to force an offload and make metres through their second phase play, and Lolohea knows his side will have to alert.
“I know Kose (Lelei) is really good at it,” he said.
“He just finds a way to keep the ball alive so we will have to watch for it.”
Kick off is at 3.40pm on Sunday at Solar Mad Stadium
