The CJ stands for Christopher John [Noble], who played three games for the Pythons during 2014 before he was killed in the tragic Rozelle blast in August last year.

As a mark of respect, the Pythons put aside Chris’ No.13 jumper at their awards night last year and, this season will present an inaugural trophy in memory of Chris to the side’s most inspiring player as voted by his team-mates.

It’s been a massive three weeks for the Canowindra side, who have negotiated three elimination finals matches, after finishing their regular season in fifth position before going on to earn a grand final appearance.

They’re undefeated from their past five outings, confidence is at an all time high and the whole town of Canowindra is rallying behind a side which now believes they can knock over the Blayney Rams and claim this year’s title.

Team manager Graham Rice highlighted Daniel Bowd’s efforts as captain-coach and says everyone playing for one another has brought the best out in them.

“Bowdy [Daniel Bowd] stood up as coach this season and has done a great job, he brought Adam Grant over from Orange, both those boys played a lot with Chris,” team manager Graham Rice said.

“We have CJ on all the jumpers and it means a lot to all of them, everyone’s gelled together really well.”

He added that the inclusion of some experienced players mixed with the core group, who have been there for several season’s, has also helped the Pythons play to their potential.

“Craig McKenzie has been great, Clayton Maynard and Phil Wilkins from Cudal have brought plenty of expericene, and have helped the younger fellas. Everyone’s just gelled really well,” he said.

The Canowindra Pythons tackle the Blayney Rams in the southern division GrainCorp Cup grand final at King George Oval in Blayney on Saturday at 3.15pm.