Spotlight on the Men’s Over 30s: Experience and Intensity on Show

The match will feature a strong mix of experience, leadership, and athleticism, with both squads naming playmakers capable of taking control of the game and setting the tone for the evening.

For the Saints, longtime standout Mitch Lauder brings a wealth of touch football IQ to the line-up. A veteran of the Colliers Shield Men’s 1st Grade competition for more than 15 years and a multiple-time Queensland representative, Lauder is known for his sharp decision-making, elite passing game, and ability to dismantle defensive structures.

“Mitch has an unbelievable ability to find weaknesses and exploit them,” said Saints coach Dean Condon.

“He’s got every pass in the book — left, right, short, long — and he always picks the right option.”

Joining him is Joshua Hall, an accomplished multi-sport athlete who has played at the highest levels of AFL and NRL, and now brings that athletic pedigree to the touch football field. Hall, a former Australian high jump representative, played for the Gold Coast Suns before switching codes and joining the Penrith Panthers in the NSW Cup, where he scored 11 tries in 20 matches.

“Josh is just an unreal athlete,” Condon said.

“Quick, agile, and smart — he’s a nightmare to defend.”

But across the park, the NQ Defence Crocs aren’t lacking in playmakers either, with a trio of game-breakers ready to fire under the leadership of coach Matthew Griffiths.

Griffiths himself is one of the side’s key figures — a Townsville local and experienced touch footballer who reads the game exceptionally well and can own the seven and punish those who over-anticipate his move. With representative history at both local and Defence levels, he brings calm and structure to the Crocs’ attack.

Lining up alongside him is Lewis White, a rugby union convert with explosive speed and a sharp passing game on both sides. Though newer to touch football, White has adapted quickly and is expected to be a serious threat on the flanks.

And then there’s Benjamin Alderson, a no-nonsense competitor with a reputation for relentless effort and big-match performances. Described as fiery, physical, and fearless, Alderson has represented both Penrith and Defence at rep level, and many are tipping him as an early MVP favourite for the series.

“Ben’s the guy who will run himself into the ground for his team,” said Crocs player and Challenge organiser Damien Scott.

“He won’t give an inch, and that’s exactly what we’ll need out there on the night.”

The Men’s Over 30s match will open proceedings at 6:00pm, following a commemorative ceremony led by ADF personnel at 5:45pm, with the Women’s and Men’s Open matches to follow.

With a stacked line-up on both sides, this clash promises to be more than just a curtain-raiser — it’s a heavyweight contest between two proud communities that will set the tone for a night of elite touch football and deep respect for the ANZAC spirit.