Katanning’s Kade Stewart wins best-on-ground medal as strong WA Country side claim State game honours over SA

Katanning Wanderers midfield star Kade Stewart was rewarded for a brilliant performance on the big stage, guiding WA Country to an impressive State game victory over South Australia Country on Saturday. A stack of clearances, fierce tackling and two crucial goals from the former Hawthorn player secured the prestigious Terry House Medal as WA’s best player in the State clash. Stewart was one of three Upper Great Southern Football League representatives in WA colours, joined by fellow Katanning player Haiden Schloithe and Williams’ Simon Panizza. Ongerup Football Association veteran Luke Bairstow, who hails from Lake Grace-Pingrup, was also part of the successful 23-man WA outfit. “It was obviously very good feeling playing on Optus an unbelievable ground and facility, so it was a privilege,” Stewart said. “I haven’t had too many good results there in the past, so it was nice to get one this time round. “It’s always good to run out in a game like that with two other blokes representing your league, especially one of your own teammates and I’m very lucky to have been picked to play representing the Upper Great Southern. “It means a bloody hell of a lot to win the medal, to the coaching staff allowing me to do what I think I do best made me give it 110 percent right from the start. “But it seriously could have gone to any of the other 22 that pulled a jumper over their head. “I hope this is the start of seeing State footy back in force. “Talking to a lot of the other blokes, they’re playing country footy for the same reason you are, so it’s always good to hear them on the same track and continue to push country footy to be at its best.” WA enjoyed a brilliant start in the clash at Optus Stadium, the home side playing in front of family and friends piled on nine goals in a rampant opening half. They held a significant 34-point buffer at the long break and despite a strong fightback from the visitors, WA reclaimed the State Country Football Cup with a 15.8 (98) to 8.5 (53) triumph. Stewart played seven AFL games in two seasons with Hawthorn and spent time playing for his junior club Katanning, South Fremantle and Curtin Uni since moving back to WA. It was his first game of State country football for WA and the 26-year-old is enjoying an outstanding season for Katanning who are on top of the UGSFL ladder.