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| RUGBY LEAGUE NEWS DESK |  |
| Wednesday 31 st October '07 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Gymea Technology High School's under-13 rugby league team won the Adam Dykes Shield last month. The Gymea school went through the tournament undefeated in their six pool games before defeating Woolooware High School 20-18 in a closely contested grand final. They were coached by former rugby league star Alan Fallah, who played more than 100 first-grade games for Western Suburbs. Fallah said it was a remarkable effort from his team, considering only three players from the 20-man squad play rugby league on the weekends. "Being a small school it's hard to be competitive," Fallah said. "Instead of picking a rugby league team we pick athletes." The tournament is played over two terms with Lucas Heights, Engadine, Port Hacking and Cronulla high schools all featuring in the competition. The physical education teacher said the students had enjoyed their rugby league experience and predicated that a few future Cronulla Sharks players may be developing. "The students were dragging me out of the staffroom so we could train at lunch," Fallah said. "A couple of the boys are big and fast." |
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| Tuesday 30 th October '07 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
The Country Rugby League (CRL) has today appointed Laurie Daley as coach of the Country Origin team for 2008. Daley will take over the Country Origin head coaching position from Craig Bellamy, who was recently appointed as the NSW Wizard Blues coach. Daley, who played 23 State of Origin matches for NSW during a stellar playing career and was the Blues assistant coach from 2002-06, said he was looking forward to the challenge of his first senior head coaching role. “It’s an honour to coach the Country side,” Daley said today. “I have fond memories of playing for Country and it was always a proud moment to pull the jersey on. “To be coaching the side, particularly during the game’s Centenary year, is very exciting and I’m just honoured to be given the opportunity.” Daley’s appointment comes with the understanding from his employer in television network Channel Nine. CRL General Manager Terry Quinn said Daley’s experience as assistant coach for the NSW Wizard Blues and his knowledge of the game made him an easy choice. “Laurie’s got that aura about him, having played for his state and country, which we believe extends to his talents as a coach,” Quinn said today. “He is widely respected for his knowledge and analysis of the game, has had plenty of experience with elite representative teams in his time with the Blues, and is passionate about the Country jumper, so we are very pleased to have him on board as Country coach.” The annual City v Country Origin match is scheduled for Friday, May 2, 2008 at Wollongong’s WIN Stadium. |
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| BULDOGS PULL OF HUGE COUP Story By : Geoff Newling  GUNNEDAH Bulldogs have claimed a major rugby league coup by signing two of the best young players in Group 4 - Josh Schmiedel and Shane Wadwell. The two talented 20-year-olds played starring roles at their respective North Tamworth and West Lions clubs last season, Schmiedel at lock, where he shared an NBN/NDL Group 4 Player of the Year award with West Lions forward Gavin Jarrett, and Wadwell at hooker for West Lions. And it wasn't money that enticed them west to the Gunnedah camp. "We've been best friends for years but haven't played together since the Farrer 16s," Schmiedel said. "We wanted to play together but I didn't want to leave North and play with West and Shane didn't want to leave West to play at North. "I'm friends with Lonnie (Hatch) and Pete (Wenner, who played with Gunnedah last season), had a talk with them and then a meeting with Gunnedah on Friday and signed up. "It's a change for me. "I've played the last four years with North and won three first grade premierships. "It's a bit of a challenge and it might make the comp more interesting. "Gunnedah also have some good young juniors coming through and have signed a good captain-coach (Damien Connor). "I've won three premierships in a row and making it four at Gunnedah would be nice." Schmiedel and Wadwell join Connor in what has become a major build-up for the Bulldogs. Gunnedah Rugby League Football Club president Malcolm Walsh is ecstatic. "Josh came and saw us, we had a meeting here and signed them on Friday. "Both of them are very good young players with plenty of ticker. "Especially with Damien here now. "He was rapt with their signings. "And we have some great young kids coming through. "A lot of the Under 18s are playing in our first grade next year. W e've already signed Judd McDonald, Zac Gaynor, Zac Newcombe and Elliott Jones. "The Titans are looking at young halfback Matt Brown, from Coolah, and if he doesn't go he'll play with us too. Wife Leonie is the new secretary, replacing club stalwart Kevin Sheridan who is serving as one of the committee people. Darryl Campbell is the club treasurer. |
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| Monday 29 th October '07 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
 POMS BEAT KIWIS IN LEAGUE TESTStory By :  MAURIE Fa'asavalu and Sam Burgess scored tries on debut as Britain beat New Zealand 20-14 in the first rugby league Test series in Huddersfield. Samoan-born Fa'asavalu was a controversial selection for Britain but he put that behind him to score a first-half try while 18-year-old Burgess added a late score to seal victory for the hosts.
Gareth Raynor also scored for Britain while Shontayne Hape scored two tries and Paul Whatuira one for the visitors. Rob Burrow kicked four goals for Britain while Lance Hohaia managed just the one for New Zealand. Britain captain Jamie Peacock praised his team's strength of character in the face of the fierce New Zealand pressure. "We have been in that position and let leads slip, but we have improved over last few years and our character caught the Kiwis out," he said. However Britain have not won a series over the Kiwis since 1993 and Peacock did not want to get too carried away. "We need to keep going," he said. "It's good to win but there's no reason to celebrate yet." |
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| Friday 26 th October '07 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
 On Tuesday the 12th of September the Bishop Druitt College Coffs Harbour Under 15 Rugby League Team travelled to Cessnock to play Bankstown Grammar in Grand Final of the Joel Brown Cup. This is a statewide tournament with NSWCIS that was completed in 4 statewide pools over Terms 1, 2 and 3. The boys started nervously and conceded a soft try in the opening minutes. After settling down, Dane Atkinson finished off a nice backline movement to register our first points. Tries quickly followed to Andrew Yeung, Alec Duly and a wonderful set play from a scrum resulted in Scott Johnson slicing through. Another try to Dane set up a handy half time lead. 28-6. The second half was a much tighter affair with tries to Alex Jones and Alec Duly. Bankstown Grammar scored a consolation try at the end. Final Result 38-12. Dane Atkinson was named Player of the Match. This result capped off a highly successful year for Under 15 Rugby League. We had four representatives, Dane Atkinson, Scott Johnson, Felix Ettelson and Andrew Yeung in Pool A at the Under 15 National Championships in Adelaide, the greatest single school representation at U/15 Nationals in 2007. Andrew being the captain of the CIS side. We are now the Under 15 State Champions for CIS. All boys are to be commended on their behaviour, sportsmanship and performance. TAS teacher Mr Paul Driscoll was the coach and Mr Drew Kadwell was the manager. | NSW CCC | |
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 Seventeen players from Dubbo have been selected to take part in the 2008 Western Academy program. Trials for the squad were held in Dubbo at the weekend with 99 players staking their claim for the 44 spots on offer in the academy. Alan Arnold, Anthony Egan-Smith, Brad Spencer, Jake Josephs, Brody Chapman, Cameron Winters, Caleb Duncan, David Nicholls, Craig McLean, Dylan Hill, Josh Merritt, Kurt Fuller, Lionel O’Malley, Mathew Marks, Max Ray, Ryan Marlin and Thomas Smith were the Dubbo players selected after impressing selectors at the day-long trials. Country Rugby League development officer Steve McLellan said the trials brought together a very talented group of footballers. McLellan said the fact some of the boys travelled from smaller places like Trangie, Dunedoo and Cullen Bullen showed the dedication needed to be selected. “There was certainly some talented kids there in the trials and it is very diffcult when you have to leave some of them out,” he said. “Some of the guys picked themselves in the squad but by the end of the day we had about 12 guys battling it out for the last three spots. “That is when things get difficult because each of the selectors were very impressed by the talent on show.” The academy squad will come together for a two-day camp in Dubbo on November 3 and 4 before training together in Orange on November 17 and Dubbo on December 1. At this stage they will play in a curtain-raiser before the Canberra Raiders v Brisbane Broncos trial at Orange on February 23 and some games against other academies are being programmed. McLellan also said he was hopeful of being able to fit in trials against junior teams from Cronulla and Penrith. Having such a strong representation of players from Dubbo is a plus according to McLellan, who admitted he was delighted to see the local program producing such talented players. “A few of the Dubbo boys started off in the under-12s program and they have really developed their games in the last five or six years,” he said. “That shows us that our local program here in Dubbo is heading in the right direction and hopefully we continue improving in that area.” |
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| Thursday 25 th October '07 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Story By :  JUST three seasons after running around for Goodna junior rugby league teams, teenage sensation Israel Folau is set to have a street named in his honour. The 19-year-old powerhouse made a stunning debut for Australia against New Zealand in the recent Test, scoring two tries in the 58-0 romp in Wellington. The dream start to international rugby league added to his premiership with Melbourne and 21 NRL tries in 27 games in his debut season. Folau played two seasons with Goodna before being scouted by Melbourne and playing with its Norths colts feeder team. Folau is Goodna's second rugby league international after Noel Kelly played for Australia against New Zealand in 1959. Ipswich City Council honoured Kelly in 2003 by naming a street in his honour in Goodna and plans on doing likewise this time, witha councillor Paul Tully saying Folau was an inspiration to local youngsters. "He is Goodna's second rugby league international,'' he said. "We are mighty proud of him.'' Cr Tully said plans were under way to recognise Folau with a street to be named in his honour. |
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| Wednesday 24 th October '07 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
 THREE Townsville Brothers juniors will be presented with a gilt-edged opportunity when they embark on a trip to Sydney to trial with the St George Illawarra Dragons in January. The talented trio of Ryan Biddle (prop), Matt Monoghan (halfback) and Rodney Bong (halfback/wing) were selected to trial following standout performances for North Queensland at the Brothers Confraternity Rugby League Carnival in Rockhampton recently. Townsville Brothers players Ryan Toomby (back row), Reece Steele (back row) , Ben Bebendouf (back row) and Shaun Lynch (wing) also represented NQ in a carnival that included Central Queensland, Southern Queensland and an invitational Barbarians team. NQ recorded victories against South Queensland and the Barbarians but lost to eventual winners Central Coast in their final game. Townsville Brothers junior coaching co-ordinator Phil McNamara said the twin cities players performed extremely well at the carnival and represented the club with pride. "They were tremendous considering the limited amount of preparation they had but they combined really well in the games," he said. The NQ team was made up of Brothers players from Townsville, Cairns and Mackay. "It was a good standard of football and they all certainly gave themselves every opportunity to be selected," McNamara said. Biddle, Monoghan and Bong will now represent the Queensland Brothers team which will play the St George Illawarra development side in Wollongong in February. "I think they will acquit themselves pretty well because they are confident footballers with a lot of ability," McNamara said. "They continue to develop all the time and it is going to be good for them to be involved in this process." This is the first year St George Illawarra have held a talent selection carnival, however they have visited Queensland Brothers clubs over the past six years looking for unsigned potential. |
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| Tuesday 23 rd October '07 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Story & Photo By : Kylie Stevens 
Respect was the name of the game at St Marys' Western Weekender Stadium last Thursday. Some of the best under-16s rugby league talent put on a show in the Commissioners Shield sevens tournament's western Sydney regional final. Now in its fifth year, the tournament was organised with NSW Police Force, the PCYC, NSW Rugby League, National Rugby League and Australian Rugby League. The aim was to promote positive relationships between young people and the police. Teams from Mount Druitt/Bidwill, Blacktown, Sutherland, Glebe and Belmore PCYCs, as well as the Doonside under-16s were among 30 teams across NSW taking part. Former South Sydney Rabbitoh and new Penrith Panthers recruit Joe Williams attended as NRL patron, speaking to players about respect and what it meant to him. Doonside defeated Belmore 32-20 in the final of the round robin tournament. Both teams will play the best sides from the Parkes and Central Coast districts in the final at Leichhardt Oval on October 20. "Respect was upheld by all of the players," said tournament organiser Samantha Connor, hailing the day a huge success. |
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| Monday 22 nd October '07 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
On Thursday the 18th October Marsden SHS Played Endeavour High School. Endeavour Ran out winners 4 tries to 1. The game was dominated by some very big shots in defence. Jarred Cherrington (Endeavour) was the pick of the visitors with some bone crunching defence and Joseph Rokoqo , Joseph Leilua (Endeavour) where a handful in attack with many offloads and strong runs resulting in some good tries. Marsden were right in the game until the last few minutes when Endeavour got 2 quick tries. The best for Marsden where Jarrod Parsons , Dylan Mitchell and Marley Wight. Marsden would like to thank the Boys from Endeavour for coming all the way up to Brisbane. I hope you guys had a good time while you were here.. Learn More |
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| Sunday 21 st October '07 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Story & Photo By : David Riccio  THE Melbourne Storm have no time left to bask in their premiership win as they face potentially an even tougher struggle to keep their team together - starting with teenage superstar Israel Folau. The new Test winger is under contract for next season, but the 18-year-old will receive $400,000-plus offers to lure him away from the Storm. A meeting between Folau's management and Storm officials has been scheduled for early next month. Test lock Dallas Johnson remains the other priority signing. Complicating salary cap matters is the fact Melbourne were forced to outlay $100,000 in representative bonuses after last Sunday's Test against New Zealand. "It's going to be a challenge, it's not easy to manage,'' Storm coach Craig Bellamy said.. Learn More |
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THE success of Melbourne Storm sensation Israel Folau has highlighted the strength of the Australian Rugby League's high performance unit, which is run jointly with the Australian Institute of Sport. Folau, who in last Sunday's Test against New Zealand became the youngest player to represent the Kangaroos, was a member of the AIS/ARL program in 2005-06. Brian Johnson, coach of the high performance unit, said he'd always had a high opinion of Folau, but even he could not have predicted the teenage star's dramatic rise within the game. "He was very talented, very athletic and good on his feet, but to become the youngest Kangaroo in his debut NRL season is just staggering,'' Johnson said. "His skills for a man of his size are just remarkable and he still hasn't stopped growing. "I remember him taking two finger-tip marks while playing for the Australian Schoolboys in France and they were the two best catches you'll ever see in your life. "It's just very satisfying to watch him play and know the AIS-ARL program played a role in his development.'' Folau is not the first player to graduate from the institute's rugby league program and make an impact in the NRL. Brisbane Broncos giant David Taylor, who enjoyed a stunning NRL debut this year, and the Roosters' Mitchell Aubusson joined Folau at the AIS in 2005. This year's squad has several players, including Ryan Hansen, Ben Hunt, Daniel Mortimer, Ryan Williamson and Jake Friend, who are members of the Australian Schoolboys. Johnson predicts the success of the program will see several of his players join Folau and co in the NRL ranks. "There is no doubt that some of our players will become future first-grade stars - which ones will be hard to tell,'' Johnson said. "Our scholarship players who are in the Australian Schoolboys team are the kids at the top of the tree but there are others who will be looking for NRL contracts.'' The AIS-ARL squad will be touring France and England from November 10. |
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| Friday 19 h October '07 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| AUSSIE TOURIST SMACK POMMIES WIGAN ST PATRICKS U/16’s 12 - NORTHERN RIVERS 34 Australian tourists Northern Rivers Under 16s return home unbeaten on their six match tour after winning a double header staged at Parsons Meadow, the home of Wigan St Judes ARLFC this week. They had already accounted for Rylands, Blackbrook, Bradford Dudley Hill and Hunslet Parkside over the last eight before coming into these two games and they showed their composure in the opening game against Wigan St Patricks in a delayed kick off due to heavy traffic conditions travelling to the ground. That perhaps accounted to them going behind on five minutes although St Pats try was superbly taken by scrum half Connor Wilkinson who followed up his own grubber to score and centre Mike Connor added the extras. Northern Rivers hit back three minutes later after St Pats lost the ball early in the tackle count and gave away a penalty which saw second row forward Ryan James drive over for the first of his brace from close range and Lewis Banaghan added the extras to level the game. St Pats battled hard but the Rivers defence was superb and they went further ahead on 18 minutes when James scored his second again from close range. Rivers increased their lead five minutes into the second half when centre Bradley Hicks finished off a fine move but Bannaghan missed his only conversion of the game. A brace of quick fire converted tries by second row Sam Martin and scrum half Todd Cameron made sure there was no way back for St Pats at 28-6, although stand off Declan McLoughlin scored a converted try to bring them back within 16pts. But in injury time Cameron’s second converted try sealed the Northern Rivers win against a battling and proud Wigan St Patricks side. Teams: Northern Rivers: 1. Ben Greber, 2. Tom McQueen, 3. Bradley Hicks, 4. Steve Bayukin, 5. Jayden Kelly, 6. Lewis Banaghan 7. Todd Cameron, 8. Josh Harvey, 9. Clark Stanford, 10. Blake Keeping, 11. Sam Martin, 12. Ryan James, 13. Taylor Bell. Subs: 14. Ryan Hobbs, 15. Tim Gates, 16. Laine Hindley, 17. Justin Murphy. WIGAN ST JUDES U/16’s 18 - NORTHERN RIVERS U/16’s 28 In the second game Wigan St Judes put up a tremendous fight against the Northern Rivers before going down to defeat as they battled from 20-6 down two minutes into the second half to within two points of them and but for a disallowed try could have ended up winners. In a competitive opening St Judes fell behind on 15 minutes to a close range try from second row forward Sam Saville driving over after taking a pass from the play the ball and the Rivers stand off Matt Goodfellow added the extras. But St Judes who had played well hit back four minutes later when second row forward Matt Sarfield finished off a great move foraging over by the posts and centre Gaz Thomas added the first of his three goals to level the match But two tries in three minutes increased the Rivers lead to 16-6. On 23 minutes full back Guy Borgas followed a chip over the St Judes defence and took the bouncing ball to score and then following a penalty Saville went over for his second try. It looked like game over for St Judes two minutes into the second half when Rivers centre Toby Treverton finished off a superb handling move to score in the corner to give his side a fourteen point advantage. But that changed with two superb converted tries this time from St Judes. On 42 minutes the home side moved the ball down the line and substitute Chris Bishop took the ball on the wing 40 meters out. He scooted down the touch line around the cover and went over the line and then had the foresight to continue under the posts for the kick. Then driving down the middle full back Jack Murphy got on the end of a pass to crash through the defence to score and it was game on. St Judes kept up the pressure and thought the comeback was complete when loose forward Jack Smith went in but the referee saw a forward pass. But the Rivers did what Australian sides of any age group have done for many years and increased their lead with ten minutes remaining as Saville completed his brace following a scrum with Borgas adding the extras to make it 26-18. In the closing minutes there after a lengthy stoppage due to an injury to a Rivers player and deep in injury time Borgass converted a penalty to finish off the game and Rivers finished off with a six from wins on tour. A great Wigan crowd saw two fantastic games were rugby league was once again the winner and the Northern Rivers squad who are attached to NRL side Gold Coast Titans will go home with great memories and friends for the rest of their lives. It may be too early to say but for those who saw him and those who read this remember the name Ryan James. I saw him play against Blackbrook and this evening the whole of the first game and the final twenty minutes of the second and predict that within the next four years should he stay injury free he could be the next real deal. Sadly for the Titans he has been snapped up by this years NRL Champions the Melbourne Storm who enjoying pitching teenagers into their first team ranks. There were outstanding players in both the St Patricks and Judes squads who I am sure all have the ability to make the grade and achieve the ultimate dream of many to go onto to play at the highest level Teams: |
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 COMMUNITY CAMPAIGN TO GET PARENTS TO 'PLAY BY THE RULES'Television advertisements showing the affects that inappropriate sporting behaviour has on children will begin airing on televisions across Queensland. Sport Minister Judy Spence today launched two Community Service Announcements, which promote the website 'Play by the Rules', supported by the Department of Sport and Recreation, Queensland Anti-Discrimination Commission, the Commissioner for Children and Young People and the Australian Sports Commission. "Research has shown that many children feel pressured in sport and that inappropriate parental behaviour and verbal abuse is common," Ms Spence said. "This campaign is a crucial tool to raise awareness in the community about unlawful and inappropriate behaviour and to promote the 'Play by the Rules' website, which provides vital on-line information for sporting clubs. "Unfortunately we continue to witness inappropriate incidents at junior sporting matches, including violence, racism, verbal abuse and win-at-all-cost mentalities from coaches and parents, which can be very distressing for participants," Ms Spence said. "We have to make the community aware that this has to stop." .. Learn More |
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LEAGUE Immortal Wally Lewis last night gave Greg Bird the seal of approval as a born Test player. Filling in at five-eighth for injured Broncos champion Darren Lockyer, 23-year-old Bird was stunning on debut against New Zealand in last weekend's trans-Tasman romp in Wellington. The performance was such that it drew comparisons to "King Wally", one of Australia's greatest players. Former NSW star Laurie Daley said he saw a lot of Lewis in Bird's dynamic Test debut against the dismal Kiwis – which came on the back of another man-of-the-match performance in Origin III earlier this year. "I thought Greg Bird was absolutely brilliant against New Zealand," Daley said last night. "He displayed a lot of the attributes that made Wally Lewis great. "They have similar builds and are both exceptionally strong and powerful. "I'm certainly not saying Greg is another Wally Lewis – players like Lewis come along every few decades – but Bird cut so many holes in the Kiwi defence, much as Lewis used to do for so many years. "They both have good running games. Bird will be a representative player for years to come. "He was also great when he came in for State of Origin III for NSW. He really gave us some authority." Lewis said Bird and the other first-gamers could hold their heads high for their brilliant efforts at Westpac Stadium. "I remember when Steve Mortimer scored his first try for Australia, he was very happy," Lewis said. "I saw Bird was just hysterical when he got to celebrate his Test debut with a great team try. I'm sure he's very happy. It was the biggest day in his career." It is understood that Bob Fulton, another Immortal who was also a five-eighth, also sees strong similarities between Bird and Lewis. "I know Bob Fulton has mentioned this in the past," Roos coach Ricky Stuart said. "He isn't comparing Bird to Lewis but he sees similarities." Former NSW and Australia five-eighth Brett Kenny – Lewis's long-term sparring partner – agrees. "They have similar running styles," Kenny said. "They aren't that quick but they can go if in the clear. They also have the same physique and both are defensively very good." |
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SOMETIMES it's the smallest ones that have the biggest hearts. A recent story to arise from the Brighton Roosters Under 10s shows why rugby league will always be more than just a sport. Indeed, it's a tribute to the bonds created in the Greatest Game of All, where teammates remain side-by-side in life when the fulltime whistle blows. The tale begins over a year ago, when the Roosters' youngsters gathered together for their annual Presentation Day. The tight-knit group had already been together three seasons; the overwhelming majority taking their first steps in league together and then returning to sign up again for campaign after campaign. Team manager Sharon Cherry even describes the group as a "Football Family", with parents and kids catching up three times a week, for at least seven months of the year. One can only imagine then the heartache felt on Presentation Day 2006 when it was revealed one of the other mothers had been diagnosed with breast cancer. For some, it took a while for the gravity of the situation to sink in. Cherry says she sat down with husband and team coach Mark to explain to their boys, Douglas and Andrew, just what the consequences of breast cancer were. It was then that a moment of grief and helplessness began to take an inspirational turn. Saddened by the situation, 10-year-old Douglas came up with a novel idea - a try-a-thon to raise funds for Breast Cancer Australia. "Douglas thought it was a way to show his teammate and mother how much everybody cared about them," recalls Sharon. "All the parents, family and friends were asked in 2007 to sponsor either their child or the team as a whole, by making a donation per try. Alternatively people could just make a one-off donation. "The kids actually put off all their other fund-raising activities for the year to focus on this." With the Roosters Under 10s scoring a total of 105 tries throughout the season, the total funds collected reached $1640.35 - not bad at all for a bunch of 10-year-olds. Among the biggest supporters was Mitre 10 Sandgate, which contributed a prize to be raffled, and Kenny Johnson from K & J Welding Fabrication, who sponsored each child to the tune of $4 a try. The funds will be put towards housing those in need of breast cancer treatment. "We are extremely proud of our boys and fellow parents," Sharon says. "Not only did the team have fun playing footy, they succeeded in real team spirit by showing their support to a teammate and his family in difficult times." As a footnote, the mother at the centre of the story has since undergone surgery, is recovering well and is in better than expected spirits. The Greater Brisbane Junior Rugby League congratulates the Brighton club and all those who contributed to what is a wonderful display of compassion and humanity. |
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Andrew Madden had given up on ever making it to the NRL before his opportunity “jumped up out of nowhere”. Now he is signed to the Cronulla Sharks along with fellow Dubbo Senior Campus Year 12 student Brad Marks and next month will move to Sydney where he will embark on his new career. Ben Josephs, who has been working as a Country Rugby League development officer in Dubbo, will be based in Wollongong with St George-Illawarra Dragons. All three played the last season together for Dubbo CYMS under-18s and Madden said he was glad Marks would be by his side at the Sharks club. “It will be a big step up but I think with the others going down and Brad playing in the same team we will be able to motivate each other to stick in there,” Madden said. “It’s always been a dream since I started playing football to play in the NRL but I was coming to the conclusion that it wasn’t going to happen. “Then the opportunity jumped out of nowhere after I was spotted in some academy games against Parramatta Eels and Newcastle Knights so I snapped it up.” Former international Jim Dymock will coach Madden and Marks in the under-20s squad while the Sharks first grade coach is none other than Australian coach Ricky Suart. The timing for the trio could not have been sweeter, with the new under-20s competition set to start in 2008 replacing Premier League as the second tier to first grade. All NRL clubs will be represented with games played before first grade games including four televised matches each week. Madden and Marks start HSC exams this week and their transition from school life to full-time rugby league will literally be an overnight process. “I leave on November 15 after my last exam for an induction day at the NRL headquarters on November 16 to17,” Marks said. |
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Story By :  MEET Mackay's new Cutter star halfback Johnathon Thurston. The Australian representative and State of Origin linchpin is one of several North Queensland Cowboys set to be dual registered with the Cutters. While Cowboys coach Graham Murray is yet to sign-off on the prospective player list for Mackay, it is understood Thurston is a certainty to be registered with the club while Matthew Bowen is set to be aligned to the Cowboys' other feeder club, Cairns Pride. Cutters operations manager Jamie McDonald said although Thurston was aligned to the Cutters, it would be highly unlikely the dynamic play-maker would actually pull on the boots for Mackay's Queensland Cup outfit, even if he was making a return from a serious injury. He added that Luke O'Donnell, who was also on the Cowboys-Cutters list, was unlikely to don a Mackay jersey in the future. McDonald was hopeful of securing the services of budding halfback Anthony Watts, 21, who was signed by the Cowboys after being let go by Cronulla Sharks for disciplinary reasons. Meanwhile, the Sarina duo of Jarrod Owens and Daniel Flynn has signed on the dotted line for the Cutters . Outside back Luke Young has also agreed to terms with the team. Young returned to Australia after a two year stint with Welsh club Celtic Crusaders, where he was commonly deployed as a five-eighth. Bustling second-rower Adam Schubert, 21, is in town today and McDonald will be willing the Sydney Roosters premier league player to sign up. |
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| Wednesday 17 th October '07 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| CRL APPOINT SCOTT WYATT AS CENTRAL COAST RUGBY LEAGUE GM CRL MEDIA RELEASE The Country Rugby League (CRL) has today appointed Scott Wyatt as General Manager of the Central Coast Rugby League – a newly created position for a region which is enjoying rapid growth and expansion at all levels. Wyatt, who brings to the position a wealth of experience at administrative, judicial and coaching levels in his time with the CRL’s Newcastle Division, will oversee one of the CRL’s largest rugby league areas in the Central Coast. Central Coast Rugby League incorporates the Central Coast Division Seniors, Juniors, and the Central Coast Storm – which itself incorporates 13s, 14s and 15-year-old Academies, and NSWRL Harold Matthews, SG Ball and Premier League sides. With 11 senior clubs playing at NSWRL Jim Beam Cup, 1st Division, Reserve Grade, Under-19 and Under-17 levels, and 16 junior clubs combining for more than 4,300 players aged 6-16 years, playing numbers on the Central Coast continue to flourish. “I’m thrilled to take on the position,” Wyatt said today. “Along with Newcastle and Illawarra, the Central Coast is one of the CRL’s largest areas and I’m looking forward to helping the region grow as we move into what is going to be a huge 2008.” Wyatt and his immediate staff in Administration Officers Sharon Ivers and Geoff Walker, will be based at a new premises at Mt Penang, Kariong (Gosford), which will also house the CRL’s local Development Officer, Regional Area Manager, the Central Coast Storm’s High Performance Manager and an ARL Development Officer. |
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 TRIUMPHANT BEARS PUMPED FOR BIG PRESENTATION NIGHTStory by : Geoff Newling NORTH Tamworth Bears will celebrate a history-making season at Friday night's annual presentation night at West Diggers. The Bears overcame the loss of eight members of their 2006 premiership-winning side to defend their first grade title with a convincing 20-point win over arch rivals West Tamworth in the recent 2007 grand final. They also retained their Minor Premiership Shield, won the second grade major and minor premierships for the second successive year while their Under 18s also made the finals. Club publicity officer Gary Chillingworth said the achievements did not stop there. They also added the Dally Messenger Shield Group 4 Club Championship trophy to their cabinet for only the second time in 96 years of recorded history. Their only other club championship had been in 2005. It was also the first time in the club's long history their first grade side had won three consecutive first grade premiership titles and the first time in over 50 years they had won consecutive reserve grade titles. "I don't think the club's achievements over the past three seasons have really sunk in yet and, in particular, the achievements of this season," Chillingworth said. "Throughout the year we had report after report of this club losing that player and that club being decimated by injuries. "We lost eight senior players at the end of 2006, copped as many injuries as any club in the Group and we even elevated players from our Under 18 squad on many occasions to plug up the holes. "We overcame all that and walked away with five of the biggest trophies the competition has to offer. He said the Bears possess some outstanding league players and some extremely promising youngsters. "They will be acknowledged on Friday night in what promises to be the biggest presentation night the club has ever put on," he said. "Everybody is looking forward to it. After all, it is a celebration of a history-making year." The club members will, however, have to get over their hangovers in a hurry as their AGM is set down for next Sunday. That will be held at Jack Woolaston Oval from 11am. That will be followed by a BBQ "and a few medicinals". "This is an important AGM as we have some big things coming up for 2008 and we urge everybody involved with the club to attend," Chillingworth said. |
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| Tuesday 16 th October '07 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Story By :  The Commissioner’s Shield is a statewide rugby league sevens competition for under 16s. It is a combined initiative of the NSW Police Force, PCYC, NSW Rugby League, NRL and ARL. Red Bend won the division final 18-12 against Cowra. Teams from Parkes, Forbes and Dubbo also competed. They now go on to play the winners of the Central Coast and Western Sydney regions at the Commissioner’s Shield final next Saturday at Leichardt Oval. A league-tag competition was also played for under 16s girls with Young taking the honours over Cowra in the final. |
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Congratulations to Adam Williams (Coffs Harbour) and Sam Chalmers (Balmain) on receiving their awards from the NSWRL as "Young Achievers for season 2007". The award is a new initiative supported by NSWRL General Manager Mr. Geoff Carr. NRL Talented Referees camp, Rookie referee at Orara Valley 7's, touch judge Japan v Malta, refereed Under 18's, Group 2 v Group 3 referee under 18's, 13 and 14 games Northern Country Championships, CRL U18's North Coast v Northern Rivers touch judge, U16's referee CRL final Group 1 v Group 18, Under 15's state final CRL Group 1 v Group 9, PSSA National Primary Schools Championships SA v WA. Sam's Highlights included: (Metro Rookie Ref of the Year) Becoming level 2 referee, youngest member of NSWRLRA junior rep squad, Centre and referee Arrive Alive 7's, Touch Judge Royal Navy (UK) v Renown United, refereed the final of the State Primary School Championships, refereed at Balmain Secondary Championships for high schools, Under 13 Development squads Balmain v Souths, Touch Judge at NSWRL All schools carnival for U15 with rugby league programs, referee 3rd v 4th at National Primary School championships, Under 11 Div 1 Grand Final Balmain Junior League, ref for Under 21's Challenge Balmain v Souths, refereed the final of Coca Cola Cup for Under 13's Sydney Championships. Both referees have exciting futures and we wish them all the best and thanks to the NSWRL for supporting the awards. Doug Keen, Referees Development Officer (Learn More about becoming a rugby league referee) |
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| Monday 15 October '07 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
TWO stunning try-saving tackles from emerging Titans sensation Shannon Walker on Brisbane-contracted Junior Kiwi centre Alex Glenn failed to save a fast-finishing Junior Kangaroos in Wellington yesterday. With scores locked 22-22 midway through the second half, the classy fullback twice kept a spirited Australian fightback on track before South Sydney's Kiwi skipper Eddie Paea potted a late penalty goal to secure a tense 24-22 win at Westpac Stadium. With New Zealand having surrendered a 22-12 halftime lead, Glenn bombed a golden opportunity for the Kiwis to regain the lead, a three-on-one break thwarted by Walker's tackle after Glenn ignored his support runners. Then, with Glenn again set loose down the left-hand flank, Walker - Tweed Heads' Queensland Cup grand final hero and state league Player of the Year - muscled up to bump the Bronco three-quarter over the sideline. But his efforts, and that of his fast-finishing side, proved in vain. Earlier, a first-half double to fellow Gold Coast-based flyer, Kiwi Kingi Akaloa, helped to condemn the Roos. Leading 12-0 after the opening 10 minutes, the Australians were swamped, New Zealand scoring four unanswered tries to carry a 22-12 lead into halftime. The Junior Roos also included Tweed Heads forward Will Matthews and Devils duo Aidan Tolman and Joel Thompson. AUSTRALIAN Indigenous under-18 coach Tony Currie last night played down a vicious all-in brawl that marred his side's 48-16 rout of New Zealand Maori under-18 in Wellington yesterday. Kiwi back-rower Cruz Neho sparked the fight, launching a king hit on Titans-contracted hooker Josh Costello in reaction to a strong tackle, before the incident descended into mayhem. The incident escalated sickeningly as Maori teammate Jaram Wihongi-Henare raced in as third man, with the ugly stoush then spilling over the sidelines with both benches, trainers and officials all involved in either inflaming or attempting to defuse the nasty brawl. |
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| Sunday 14 th October '07 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
 AUSTRALIA has run in 11 unanswered tries to secure a record-breaking 58-0 win over a 12-man New Zealand in today's one-off rugby league Test in Wellington. The Kangaroos were sublime in everything they did in a display which at times resembled a training run. Greg Inglis secured a hat-trick and teenage winger Israel Folau a double on debut. The margin was Australia's biggest ever win over the Kiwis, eclipsing their 52-0 mauling in Sydney in 2000. New Zealand's cause wasn't helped by the 24th minute sending off of centre Steve Matai for a vicious late and high hit on Australian centre Mark Gasnier. Gasnier was taken from the field on the back of a medicab and did not return after suffering suspected concussion. His Australian team-mates called for referee Steve Ganson to give the fiery three-quarter his marching orders and after a long delay as Gasnier left the field, Ganson obliged. "It's a late hit mate, it's not acceptable, you're off," Ganson said. To say the one-man advantage cost the Kiwis wouldn't give enough credit to the visitors, who had already opened up a 12-0 lead after Folau had marked his introduction to the international arena by running through six defenders with a powerful opening try. The Kiwis simply had no discipline, dreadful handling and even worse defence making it a walk in the park for the Australians. New Zealand had an early setback when Luke Covell was taken form the field just five minutes into his debut, while fullback Krisnan Inu played much of the second half nursing a shoulder injury which made him a virtual passenger. Inglis scored his first in the 28th minute as the Australians made good use of their numerical advantage and when Jarryd Hayne reached out to score it was 26-0 at the break. After five tries in the first half, the Australian went one better with six after the break, Brett Stewart and Greg Bird celebrating their Test debuts with tries before Cameron Smith ended the romp by diving over from dummy half just a minute from fulltime to finish with a personal haul of 16 points. AUSTRALIA 58 (Greg Inglis 3 Israel Folau 2 Steve Price, Jarryd Hayne, Brett Stewart, Greg Bird, Willie Mason, Cameron Smith tries Cameron Smith 6 Kurt Gidley goals) bt NEW ZEALAND 0 at Westpac Stadium Wellington. Referee: Steve Ganson. Crowd: 16,681. |
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| KANGAROOS PAY TRIBUTE TO SLAIN DIGGER
The Kangaroos will wear black arm bands in tomorrow’s Trans - Tasman Test Match against New Zealand in honor of Australian soldier David Pearce who was killed in a roadside bombing in Afghanistan on Tuesday. Australian Rugby League CEO Mr Geoff Carr received a formal request from Mr Pearce’s unit in Afghanistan and after consultation with the victim’s family and the Department of Defense, it was decided that the Kangaroos would wear black arm bands as a mark of respect for the fallen soldier. A devout Manly Sea Eagles supporter, Mr Pearce, 41, had been married for 18 years and leaves behind two daughters aged 11 and 6. “The black arm bands are a sign of respect for Mr Pearce and continue the ANZAC spirit forged between these two great sporting rivals” Mr Carr said tonight. “I approached Ricky (Stuart) once we received the initial request and he immediately pledged the teams support. |
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| Saturday 13 th October '07 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Story By : Kris Karas  BALMAIN’S all conquering U/14 Young Guns rugby league team have returned from a successful four match tour of northern NSW and Queensland. Under the coaching of experienced mentor Ken Stapleton, the Tiger cubs showcased their emerging junior talent with standout performances from half back Joseph Touma, prop Atu Politoni, fullback Alex Kerti, hooker Grant Bunch and winger Sam Williams. The Young Guns impressed country officials with their courage and skill to register victories over Group 1 (14-10), Ballina Seagulls (28-10), Southport Tigers (60-0) and Southport Invitational (22-10). A highlight was defeating Ballina for the Clae Webb Cup, a trophy that perpetuates the memory of the former Balmain Jersey Flegg half back who collapsed and died on August 5 last year while playing for Erina Eagles in a Jim Beam Cup fixture against Cabra-matta at Cabramatta Sports Ground. Touma, a bright prospect from Concord-Burwood United, picked up the best and fairest award for his sharp displays while livewire hooker Bunch collected the Coach’s award. Hard running Politoni (Best Forward) and attacking dynamo Kerti (Best Back) also picked up awards along with elusive winger Williams (Players’ Player). Other players to impress were Dundas lock Daniel Vasek, North Ryde five eighth Curtis Sironen and classy Five Dock RSL centres Kyle Lovett and Aiden Jacovides. (Thanks to Simon F) SEE THE TIGER Vs SHARKS UNDER 14 Game at Liechhardt Oval |
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| Friday 12 th October '07 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
 CRONULLA CARINGBAH IN JIM BEAM CUP It’s official! Cronulla Caringbah Sharks Junior Rugby League Football Club has been accepted into the NSWRL Jim Beam Cup Competition for the 2008 Season. Cronulla Caringbah Sharks will compete against the current clubs in the competition as well as the other new entrant’s, one being a Western Australian team, the Western Reds. NSWRL are currently under negotiations with Foxtel, to televise the games as they did this year. The St George Sutherland Shire leader will report on the games throughout the 2008 season. Local Sutherland Shire radio station 2SSR 99.7FM will also update the team’s progress. Graeme Bloor, Cronulla Caringbah Sharks President said at the Jim Beam Cup Presentation night on Wednesday 3rd October 2007, that this is a fantastic opportunity for all Rugby League Players in the Shire. There is now a clear pathway for players to reach the NRL. Cronulla Sutherland Sharks now have a pathway for juniors starting with the Junior Representative sides Mathews Cup and SG Ball. The players could then go on to make the Sharks National Youth under 20’s team. If they are over 20, they could then use the Jim Beam Cup and the Premier League pathway to reach their goals. There are one of only a few NRL teams that can boast this complete set up. Graeme also reiterated that this was not just for the players of Cronulla Caringbah Sharks but all rugby league players in the district. Graeme said that there has been an enormous amount of work done to get the team into the competition by the Cronulla Caringbah Sharks. The Cronulla Sutherland Sharks supported the application process, but this was just the start of the hard work. Most clubs that we will be competing against have very large leagues clubs backing them and the cost to compete in this competition is over $250,000. Graeme said the Cronulla Caringbah Sharks were in need of a major sponsor for the team, they would have the opportunity to display their business name on the playing jumpers as well as other advertising and promotional options. We are also asking all business’s in the shire to get behind us with their support and sponsorship and if they are interested in this exciting inaugural year to contact Peter Malone at pmalone1@dodo.com.au for an opportunity to discuss sponsorship packages that are on offer. We also have a 200 club where supporters will become the 200 foundation members receiving a specially designed polo shirt and cap for their donation of $250.00, once again if people are interested they need to contact Peter. The club has also secured the service of Luke Goodwin to coach the side; Luke is the son of former St George Great Teddy Goodwin. Luke comes with great experience; Luke played 1st grade rugby league and has coached rep teams for the Sharks. The club will be holding open trials for the team on the 27th October 2007 from 10am at Toyota Stadium. Those players interested will need to download a trial form from the Sharks or Cronulla Caringbah website and return it no later than the 24th October 2007 to ensure a trial. PEACHEY TO PLAY 1st GRADE WITH CC SHARKS IN '08 |
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| Tuesday 9 th October '07 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
The Far West Academy of Sport has opened up another development link with the Cronulla Sharks. The Sharks were unable to travel at Easter to the Nyngan Challenge but were true to their word and brought a 14’s side to Nyngan to take on the FWAS junior squad. In planning their end of year program the Sharks saw this tour as a fantastic opportunity for their boys to learn about the bush and finish off their 2007 season. The U14’s Cronulla Sharks Junior Development Squad defeated the FWAS side in what was a great game at Larkin Oval on Saturday, 6 October. The Cronulla side were really tested and won 28 – 12, but the score was not a true reflection of how close the game was. The Cronulla squad has been staying in Nyngan since Thursday 4th October up at the showground and enjoyed a couple of farm visits on Friday and Saturday morning where they learnt a lot about the bush culture. “The farm visits have been great, as some of our boys haven’t been past the mountains and the chance to experience and see how a farm operates is an eye opener for them,” said Ken Fitzgerald, Cronulla tour organiser. There were two curtain raisers to the main game, with Nyngan taking on Brewarrina in U12’s and U14’s. To enhance to opportunity to see the Cronulla match, players from around the district were invited to play in the teams, with players coming form Cobar, Bourke and Gilgandra. In the U12’s Nyngan proved too strong beating Brewarrina 30-16, and in the 14’s Nyngan also claimed the victory winning 28 – 8. The main game was where the Sharks took on the FWAS, which was at times a fiery clash. The FWAS started really well and were pressuring the Sharks line but couldn’t capitalise on their opportunities. The Sharks opened the scoring and were never headed for the rest of the match. The Sharks won 28 – 12, but the score line could have been a lot closer if the FWAS had have held onto the ball for longer and made the most of their opportunities. Les Davidson, former South Sydney and Cronulla player and Australian representative, was on hand to present the awards of man of the matches to the FWAS team. Matt Langby, Jordan Hay and Jarrod Tamatea were the three best for the FWAS side. “The boys really stuck it to their more fancied opponents and should have score a couple more tries which would have put the pressure on the Sharks, said Steve Easman, Assistant FWAS coach. “But credit to the Sharks, they defended really well and took the opportunities when they came,” he said. Former Sydney Roosters hardman Steve Hardy, the Sharks coach echoed Steve’s sentiments. “That was a really tough game, if not the toughest our boys have played this year, and credit to the FWAS side who really had us under the pump for periods of the game, but our boys dug deep and held on for the win.” The Cronulla side enjoyed their time so much that they can’t wait to bring their squad out here again next year to both play against the FWAS and experience some of the bush experience. “We have had a great three days in Nyngan and the people here have been nothing but helpful and very welcoming. We would like to thank the Nyngan community, especially Col Wright, Head FWAS coach, the Nyngan Junior Rugby League, Trevor Redman for all the work that went into developing the tour. The Sharks look forward to a visit in 2008 from the FWAS Squad. On Friday 12th October the academy Open League squad are travelling to Newcastle for a match against the Newcastle Knights 17 years development squad. This match sees the end of the 2007 FWAS league program. Trials for 2008 are set down for the 1st & 2nd December in Warren – all players aged 14 to 16 years are welcome to attend the trials... | SEE THE ACTION | |
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ENGLAND
NEW ZEALAND 
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| NATIONAL SCOREBOARD | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
QUEENSLAND SCOREBOARD |
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QUEENSLAND WIZARD CUP *QUEENSLAND STATEWIDE WRAP Round 18. |
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ARL DEVELOPMENT SHIELD *CENTRAL DIVISION *NORTHERN DIVISION |
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NSW SCOREBOARD |
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