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| 2006 Australian schoolboys in action against Wales in the '06 1st Test Match (Photo : ourfooty media) |
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| Luke Capewell get the ball out to Kevin Proctor (Photo : ourfooty media) |
AUSSIE WIN 1 ST TEST IN NEW ZEALAND
Story & Photo By : 
THe Australian schoolboys have won the 1 st Test match against New Zealand at Mt. Smart Stadium.
Last years schoolboy Kevin Proctor (PBC) were amoungst the points again scoring another try for the Aussies.
Jerermy Papamau (Hunter SHS) got the Aussies off to a grat start scoring only 8 minutes into the game, Ben Hunt (St. Brendan's) converted the 1st of his 4 goals for the day, the Aussies were running at 6 - 0.
By the Kiwi's, who love playing any sport against Australia hit back to level the scores.
A sneeky offload from John Mannah to Proctor lead to 4 points, and then Foran scored & Hunt added the 2 points, the Aussies lead at half time 12 - 16.
The Kiwis came back after the break and scored straight away to level the scores.
The Aussies tried a few set pieces which they were able to turn into points and by the end of the 2 nd half, the Aussies had raced away to be comfortable winners 20 - 40.
The Kiwi selectors selected Kieran Foran as Australia's best on ground.
| 1st TEST |
NEW ZEALAND
SCHOOLBOYS |
AUSTRALIAN
SCHOOLBOYS |
TRIES :
GOALS : |
TRIES : Jeremy Papamau, Kevin Proctor, Kieran Foran, Andrew McCullough, Jarrod Croker, Ryan Williamson, Daniel Mortimer
GOALS : Ben Hunt 4, Ryan Stig 2 |
| Man of the Match : Kieran FORAN ( Aust ) |
| NEXT TEST MATCH : Rotorua on Saturday 6 October. |
More news and some stories from the boys tomorrow (we hope) | MACKAY SHS TOUR ENGLAND | |
NERVES OF STEEL
Story By : ALISON MOONEY 
For some it was their first time in the air and their minds were conjuring all sorts of disasters. But coach Troy Sabin kept his team busy with The North West Star photographer Jake Nowakowski and it seemed to work - for a moment anyway.
The boys will play teams from across the state at the 2007 Tassells Trophy competition, the largest under 14 meet in Queensland. This weekend will also have the first interstate competitors hit the field with three teams travelling to Cairns from Sydney.
“We’ll have a light session on Friday before our three games on Saturday,” Sabin said.
“Then they’ll play two more games on Sunday.”
Local sponsorship meant the team could fly to the competition, freeing up room to watch the NRL grand final on the big screen Sunday before heading back to Mount Isa.
Sabin said that at one stage he considered cancelling the trip, but generous sponsorship from local businesses saved the day.
He thanked all sponsors for their support. |
 SPEEDY DUO SNAPPED UP
Story & Photo By : 
AN NRL contract appears to be in the pipeline for talented Rockhampton rugby league stars Anthony Raymond and Joe Collins-Soo.
The speedy duo impressed at the inaugural St George Illawarra Dragons Development carnival, attracting the attention of talent scout and former Dragons star Shaun Timmins.
The carnival was played out over three days, with 16 and 17-year-old Brothers players from the Southern, Northern, Central and Ipswich districts taking part. |
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| Aussie schoolboys celebrate during last years England tour (Photo : ourfooty media) |
SCHOOLBOYS WIN FIRST GAME IN NEW ZEALAND
Story By : ASSRL
In their first game of the New Zealand Tour of 2007, the Corporate Sports Australian Schoolboys took on the Auckland Academy team at Mount Smart Stadium, the home of the Auckland Warriors.
The game was a fast and open game and gave the Australians the chance for a strong hitout.
New combinations took a while to develop but the Australians scored first with a great effort by Kieran Foran in the 10th minute of the game.
This was then followed by some great handling from Ben Ridge and he crashed over in the 25th minute for a try that was converted by Ryan Hansen.
The first half closed with a spectacular 70 metre try to Ryan Williamson which saw Australia lead 16-6 at halftime after the conversion by Ryan Stig.
The second half saw some handling errors from the Australians and the Auckland side pounced to bring the score back to 16 -10.
Another try to Ryan Williamson in the 45th minute saw Australia move ahead 20 -10.
Constant pressure from Auckland saw the Australians stretched in defence but once again they withstood all that could be thrown at them by the Auckland side.
In the 52nd minute Ryan Williamson scored his third try and following the conversion by Ryan Stig the score moved out to 26 -10 in favour of the Australians.
After the game Troyden Watene was awarded the Man of the Match award from the Auckland Academy side.
The Australian team now prepare to meet the New Zealand Under 18 team in a two test match series beginning on Saturday 29 September at Mount Smart Stadium # 2.
Corporate Sports Australian Schoolboys 26 (Tries: Ryan Williamson 3, Ben Ridge and Kieran Foran Goals: Ryan Stig 2, Ryan Hansen 1) defeated Auckland Academy 10. |
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| Israel Falou palming a BARLA player on last years Schoolboys Tour of the UK (Photo : ourfooty media) |
ENGLAND U18s SMASH SERBIAN U21's
BARLA Under 18s got their tour of Serbia off to a very impressive start with a comfortable 76-0 victory over Serbia Under 21s on Sunday afternoon.
The extra strength and ability of the young British side proved too much for a game, but outgunned Serbian side.
BARLA opened the scoring in the ninth minute when slick passing stretched the Serbian defence and centre Dean Thompson scored in the left hand corner. Second row Tony Burns landed a fine conversion.
Five minutes later a superb bullet pass from scrum half Chris Forster found half back partner Tyrone Dalton at speed and the stand off sprinted through a gap to score. Burns goaled, and then shortly afterwards a short ball from Forster put second row Jon Young through to score an unconverted try.
Forster continued to mesmerize the Serbian side and he side-stepped through their defence before finding Dalton on his inside to score, and then Serbia lost possession in their own half and Forster picked up the loose ball and found winger Jon Leather who raced clear to score. Burns converted on both occasions to put his side firmly in command at 28-0.
Just before the half hour mark a long ball from Burns found winger Ben Naylor out wide and he broke through the line before finding Thompson on his inside to score, and then four minutes before the break a kick on the last tackle by Forster hung in the in-goal area and loose forward Luke Sandland reacted fastest to collect and score. Burns goaled the latter to make the half time score 38-0.
BARLA continued their onslaught eight minutes into the second half when a penalty close to the Serbian line saw quick hands from substitute Joe Budd and Dalton put Thompson over for his hat trick.
Four minutes later substitute Jon Walker made a fine break down the middle, and he found Thompson before receiving the ball back from him and sending Naylor clear try score under the posts. Substitute Andy Kay tagged on the extras.
Great play by Budd saw him go down the blind side and find full back Ashley Huck in support who put Thompson away for his fourth try, and then on the hour good work by Forster in his own half found Burns who put Thompson clear on a fifty metre run to score his fifth try of the afternoon. Burns converted both tries to make the score 60-0.
The next BARLA try came when slick passing between Forster, Burns and Thompson created acres of space for Naylor to exploit and score, Burns adding the conversion and then prop forward Lee Fewliss broke from inside his own half and raced fifty metres before unselfishly passing to Budd who scored.
Two minutes from time Naylor received the ball on his own forty metre line and raced sixty metres to complete his hat trick. Forster added the conversion to complete a superb 76-0 victory.
The man of the match was awarded to BARLA scrum half Chris Forster. He was very well supported by prop forwards Brett Phillips and Lee Fewliss, centre Dean Thompson and second row Jon Young.
The Under 18s now have a 9s tournament on Wednesday against local Serbian sides before playing their second test next Saturday against Serbia Under 23s. |
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| St. Mary's boyz with the Coca Cola Cup outside the SFS |
FLYING SKIPPER BOTTLES UP COCA COLA CUP FOR ST. MARY'S
Story & Photo's By Bryce Cartwright
(St. Mary's & Panthers U13's & ourfooty media cadet) St. Mary's defeated a gallant Mona Vale 24 - 8 in the Grand Final of this years Under 13's Coca Cola Cup at the SFS.
My side St. Marys won 24 -8 against Mona Vale, it was a great experience to play at the Sydney Football Stadium and my side played well.
Mona vale was the best team we have played this year and they gave us the closest game we have had this season against any one we have played .
Our captain Jakiel Fuimaono and his brother Jaye had good games as did Wiki Tuavao and my dad who is our coach ( his brother is the gold coast titans coach and my uncle john) said i played well to.
Scorers were for us Jakiel 3 tries Wiki 1 try and 2 goals and me ( Bryce ) 2 goals.
I am not sure who scored there tries but there no.3 , 13,and 6 played good. |
AQUINAS MAKES HISTORY
Story By : 
MENAI'S Aquinas College had a very successful finals berth, with both the junior and senior boys soccer teams winning the NSW Combined Catholic Colleges Knockout competition.
It was the first time in the 15-year history of the competition that a single college has won both age groups in the same year.
Competing against almost 100 schools from across metropolitan and rural NSW, both the junior and senior teams, coached by Paul Hughes and Michael Snell, remained undefeated in the five games leading up to the finals.
The junior squad defeated All Saints Liverpool 2-1 and the senior team beat Orange's James Sheehan Catholic College 1-0 after an intense training regime in the school terms leading up to the finals.
The senior team will now play against the premier independent and state schools for the title of best NSW Schoolboy Football Squad. |
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| Willie Middleton (left) comes across in defence to help out during one of the games played in the David Peachey Foundation Aboriginal Rugby League Carnival held at Apex Oval last year. |
DREAMTIME TO BE ALIVE AT CARNIVAL
Story & Photo By : BILL NORTH 
The “Dreamtime Comes Alive” this weekend when the David Peachey Foundation Aboriginal Rugby League Carnival hits Apex Oval.
That motto, along with messages about healthy living, is being used to help promote the drug and alcohol-free event.
Eighteen teams - eight up on 2006 - are expected to take part from communities throughout western NSW including the defending champions Dubbo Waratahs and, for the first time, two sides from Sydney.
The co-ordinating committee was pleased with the success of last year’s carnival and the subsequent growth of the competition, but committee member Rod Towney stressed that the event was not exclusively for Indigenous people.
“We really want to invite all people of Dubbo to come down and have a look,” Towney said.
“It’s not just for Indigenous people - it’s for the whole community.
“As well as promoting sport and a healthy lifestyle, this event provides a huge boost for the local economy.”
The event will officially start tomorrow afternoon at 5pm, when the mayor Greg Matthews meets for afternoon tea with Aboriginal elders.
Action will kick off at 8.30am on Saturday morning.
There will be a break in play at 12pm for the mayor’s official welcome to the city of Dubbo and an Aboriginal elder’s welcome to the country of Wiradjuri followed by performances from traditional dance groups.
It is anticipated that the conclusion of the grand final will wrap up at about 4pm on Sunday, with the presentation starting at 5.30pm in the RSL club auditorium.
In recent weeks David Peachey has been starring for the North Sydney Bears and he will be lining up for them in the Premier League grand final against Parramatta Eels on Sunday.
As a result he will miss the action at the carnival, but will rush back to Dubbo on Monday to run a rugby league clinic for up to 200 children, who will all receive a pack including a football, hat and shirt.
All the money raised from the weekend goes into the foundation to further promote sport in Indigenous communities. Its vision statement reflects “a positive change to affect as many Indigenous kids as possible, particularly those who excel in their chosen sport and have the potential to succeed”.
David Peachey’s mother Irene said David wanted to help communities in whatever capacity he could.
“The whole thing is about giving back to communities,” Ms Peachey said.
“We want to try to keep the competition at a community level with teams predominantly made of players from their community, not stacked with players just to win the competition.
“At the conclusion of the event a team will be drawn out to receive jumpers provided by the David Peachey Foundation for next year.
“We want everybody to come along and have a good weekend.”
There will be framed and signed jumpers as well as other gate prizes and raffles and entry for kids under 16 and aged pensioners will be free.
At 7pm on Saturday night a blue light disco for the kids at the PCYCwill be held with an X Box 360 to be given away and free buses to provide transport home for all. Meanwhile there will be entertainment at the Dubbo RSL for the adults.
While Ms Peachey said that the security presence at Apex Oval was rarely called upon to act last year, she said that sufficient security would again patrol the event and shall evict anybody found with alcohol or drugs.
Any business houses interested in sponsoring the tournament can contact Rod Towney on 0418 611 572 or Irene Peachey on 0429 848 214. |
| NEW ZEALAND UNDER-18 TEAM NAMED FOR TESTS AGAINST AUSTRALIAN SCHOOLBOYS
Seven Australian-based players were today included in the New Zealand under-18 side to play two tests against the Australian Schoolboys over the next fortnight.
Their selection followed a high-scoring trial at Mt Smart Stadium in which a team of New Zealand-based players faced a combination of New Zealand eligible players from Australia.
Five of them are from Sydney clubs while the other two are living in Brisbane.
Also named in the team are several players contracted to the Vodafone Warriors including 17-year-old prop Russell Packer and utility Constantine Mika, also 17, who both trained fulltime with the club’s NRL squad throughout 2007.
Along with another of the club’s development players – prop Leeson Ah Mau – they were regulars for the Auckland Lions in the New South Wales Premier League this year.
All three were also in the national under-18 side last year – Packer was captain – while Meli Koliavu, Mose Masoe and Ben Matulino are other survivors from that side.
The team, coached by Ivan Harrison (Central Districts), is in camp at Auckland’s Millennium Institute to prepare for two internationals against the Australian Schoolboys.
The first will kick off at 1.00pm at Mt Smart Stadium this Saturday (September 29) with the second test starting at 2.00pm at the Rotorua International Stadium on October 6. |
 AUCKLAND ACADEMY V AUSTRALIAN SCHOOLBOYS
Wednesday 26 September the Auckland Academy team are playing against the Australian Schoolboys side at Mount Smart stadium ( below). The Australian side play their next match against the New Zealand Under 18 team at Mount Smart Number 2 ground this Saturday 29 September.
New Zealand Under 18s to take on the Australian Schoolboys side this Saturday 29 September
The New Zealand Under 18 team, announced on Monday of this week, are now in training at the Millennium Institute in Auckland.
The training sessions are going from strength to strength, with the Australian-based and New Zealand-based players fast becoming one team. Get along to the Mount Smart Number 2 ground at 1.00pm this Saturday 29 September and support the Kiwis when they take on the Australian Schoolboys side – entry is just $5 payable at the gate.
New Zealand Maori Under 18 team named - 25 September 2007
The New Zealand Maori Under 18 team has been announced.
They will take on the Aboriginal Under 18 team as part of the Centenary Test match day in Wellington on Sunday 14 October. Tickets are on sale now for the Centenary Test through Ticketek.
New Zealand Under 18 team named - 24 September 2007
Following today's trial match between a New Zealand-based Under 18 team, and a team made up of Under 18 New Zealanders based in Australia, the New Zealand Under 18 team has been named.
The New Zealand Under 18s will go on to play two test matches against the Australian Schholboys, the first will take place on Saturday 29 September on the Number 2 ground of Mt Smart Stadium and the econd test will take place on the Number 2 ground of the International Stadium in Rotorua. |
POS
|
PLAYER |
CLUB |
| Backs |
Jarryd Hayne |
Parramatta |
| |
Shannon Walker |
Tweed Heads |
| |
Michael Jennings |
Penrith |
| |
Israel Falou |
Melbourne Storm |
| |
Will Chambers |
Brisbane Norths /Melbourne Storm |
| |
Kris Keating |
Parramatta |
|
Tim Moltzen |
Balmain Ryde |
|
Trent Hodkison |
Parramatta |
|
Michael Brophy |
Canberra Raiders |
| Forwards |
Aidan Tolman |
Brisbane Norths |
|
Tim Mannah |
Parramatta |
|
Tony Williams |
Parramatta |
|
Joel Thompson |
Brisbane Norths |
| |
Anthony Mitchell |
Parramatta |
|
Lagi Setu |
St George Illawarra |
| |
Martin Lewis |
Parramatta |
| |
Chris Lawrence |
WestsTigers |
| |
Wade Dunley |
Western Suburbs Magpies |
| |
Will Matthews |
Tweed Heads |
| Coach |
Matt Cameron |
Parramatta |
| Manager |
Glenn Bennett |
QRL |
JUNIOR KANGAROOS TOUR
ARL MEDIA RELEASE
The Chairman of the Australian Rugby League, Mr Colin Love AM, has announced the Junior Kangaroos to take part in next month’s tour of Fiji, Tonga and New Zealand.
-Please note selection of team is subject to change pending 2007 ARL Kangaroos selection and medical evaluations-
2007 ARL Junior Kangaroos itinerary:
Junior Kangaroos v Fiji
Friday 5th October, 2007 – Fiji National Stadium, Suva
Junior Kangaroos v Tonga
Wednesday 10th October, 2007 –Teufaiva Stadium, Tonga
Junior Kangaroos v Junior Kiwis Sunday 14th October, 2007 – Westpac Stadium, Wellington NZ |
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| Troyden Watene-Edwards - Wavell State High School |
TROYDEN ON AUSTRALIAN SCHOOLBOYS ASSAULT
Story & Photo By : Quest Community Newspapers
A UNIQUE adventure will start for Wavell State High School student Troyden Watene-Edwards this week when he travels to New Zealand to represent the Australian Schoolboys rugby league team.
Watene-Edwards, 17, has New Zealand heritage and admitted it would be odd having so many of his family coming to support him playing in the green and gold.
``I was born here but my whole family is from there,'' the Aspley Bronco said.
``Despite that they're proud and I know my parents want me to play for Australia, not New Zealand.
``I reckon we'll go well, we've got a few big boys but the Kiwis will always be tough over there.''
The tour of New Zealand is the last step in what has been a blockbuster of a year for the highly-rated former Arana Hills junior.
Not only has Watene-Edwards been playing for his high school, he's also broken into the Queensland Cup team at Aspley and secured himself a deal with the Brisbane Broncos.
But after a short time away from the football field, he said he was itching to be part of the two-test schoolboys tour.
``It has been a tough year and I did get a few niggling injuries towards the end but I'm feeling good for the break,'' he said.
``It should be a good trip I've been looking forward to it all year, it was a goal of mine to make the team after missing out last year and it'll be good fun to play against New Zealand.''
And the action won't stop following the tour, with the Year 12 student likely to return to his school exams before heading out into the wider world.
``I've got an apprenticeship lined up with the Broncos so that should give me something else to do besides football,'' he said.
But with the new national under-20 competition to begin next year, don't be surprised if Watene-Edwards again has his non-football time limited in 2008.
The Australian Schoolboys tour of New Zealand starts with the first test in Auckland on Saturday and then the second and final test in Rotorua on October 6. |
 MACKAY ACADEMY MIX IT WITH THE VIKINGS
Monday 24.09.07 (Overnight rain, cold morning, scattered showers during the day with heavy cloud cover, windy)
The team had a light skills session on a synthetic playing surface session after breakfast. We left Lindisfarne on our trusty Selwyns Coach at 11:00 to complete the one and a half hour journey to Wakefield in plenty of time for the game at Outwood Grange College.
The boys were treated like visiting rock stars with girls mobbing them and even squealing as they exited the bus? After a light lunch in the school canteen the boys headed to the changing room then across a footbridge over the nearby motorway to the school’s lush playing fields.
Although there was a little light rain before the game it held off during the contest which was only marred by a cool strong wind that played havoc with kicking in general play. The game was played in good spirits with both teams displaying straight hard running and punishing defence. |
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| The CHS University Shield |
Matraville SHS with the 2007 Uni Shield |
| Photo's by : | MORE | CHS UNIVERSITY SHIELD | |
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| Good luck Junee High School |
What a fantastic welcome to Energy Australia for the Junee HS Boys |
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| THE CHAMPIONS: Junee High School team celebrates its 60-6 win against Gunnedah High School in the University Shield final at Newcastle’s Energy Australia Stadium yesterday.Photo: Barry Smith, Northern Daily Leader |
JUNEE JOY - TOWN PROUD AFTER HIGH SCHOOL TEAM CLAIMS UNIVERSITY SHIELD FINAL
Story & Photo By : Brad Clifton 
JUNEE’S high school rugby league team has created history for the town after it thrashed Gunnedah High School 60-6 in yesterday’s University Shield final. Spearheaded by several members of the town’s 2007 Weissel Cup premiership team, Junee High became just the third Riverina high school to win the prestigious tournament in its rich 85-year history. After trailing 6-0 in the first half, Junee High rallied to pile on 11 unanswered tries, almost blowing their rivals out of Newcastle’s Energy Australia Stadium. While man-of-the-match Matt Hands and player-of-the-tournament Cameron Woo were at their brilliant best with two tries each, it was the efforts of every single player and that of coach Steve Lawson which impressed team manager Pam Halliburton in what she summed up as simply a “memorable day” for the town. “It’s an absolutely wonderful feeling at the moment – all 20 players were used and every one did their job today in what was probably their best performance of the whole tournament,” Halliburton said after the win. “Steve Lawson has done a terrific job with these boys as coach and deserves all the accolades he gets – it’s been an amazing effort from the boys and I believe the first win for a Riverina school since 1996.” Yanco Agricultural High School was the lucky school on that day, but not even its powerhouse line-up of ’96 would have matched Junee’s dominating list this year, which no doubt would have had some keen onlookers from the NRL watching their every move. Matt Ward scored a grand final trifecta he will long remember, including the final two tries of the game, which sparked wild celebrations on the sidelines. “We got off to a slow start as usual, but when the boys get going it’s like poetry in motion when they start passing the ball around,” Halliburton said. “Many thanks must go to the proud town of Junee, which donated over $6000 to get the boys up here and our sponsors, who have been most generous. “But what has been even more amazing is the local support the boys received while they have been playing away from home. “We had masses of people supporting the boys throughout the tournament, all of whom travelled a long way in their cars,” she said. |
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| CHS BUCKLEY SHIELD 2007 GRAND FINAL |
 WESTFIELDS
SPORTS
HIGH SCHOOL |
32 - 22 |
 HUNTER
SPORTS
HIGH SCHOOL |
| MAN of the MATCH :
Jacob Gagan (westfields SHS) 2 tries, 4 goals |
| Half time score - Westfields 18 - 12 |
| BUCKLEY PLATE GRAND FINAL |
BASS
HS |
17 - 4 |
CORWA
HS |
| Man of the Match : Siua Lapuaho (Bass HS) |
| Man of the SERIES : Brendan Santi (Bass HS) |
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| Westfields win the 2nd Buckley Shield in a row |
Hunter SHS after their loss in the Buckley Shield Grand Final |
|
YOUNG
PS |
12 - 22 |
KINGSCLIFFE
PS |
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| Kingscliffe Primary School 2007 Westmont Shield Champions show off their Pennants |
Young PS skipper thanks his team for their fantstic game and whole footy season |
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| *Pictured left to right ~ (Back Row) Edan Anderson, Andrew Dittman, Rex Gamble (Sharks A-Grade Captain Coach), Jason Broome, Ethan Gill, Brett Harkin(Under 12s coach). (Front Row) Corey Howard, Reifa Howard, Brenton Brymer.* Absent: Corey Toon, Ben Nolan, Andrew Griffiths, Mark Edminstone. |
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JUNIOR SHARKS PRESENTATION NIGHT FUN FOR ALL
Story & Photo's By : Fitzroy Sharks (Harko)
The 2007 Fitzroy Sharks Junior Rugby League's Presentation night was held on Saturday, September 22 at Funzone, North Rockhampton.
Sharks A-grade captain coach Rex Gamble was on hand to make the presentations to all players on the night which gave a lot of them a huge buzz.
Players from under 7s through to under 12s were awarded with trophies as were their coaches.
The children ran wild on the vast array of computer games Funzone offers and had a good feed including a sausage sizzle.
The under 12s also had four special awards to give out kindly donated by Keith P & TM Heal Mini Excavator & Bobcat Hire.
Players who put in a consistant effort all year recieved a $50 gift voucher for A-Mart Allsports.
"Awesome that these guys jumped on board to reward the kids who were there slugging away all year.
It's really appreciated," said under 12s coach Brett Harkin.
Coach Harkin rewarded Ben Nolan, Andrew Dittman, Ethan Gill and the Howard boys(Corey and Reifa) with the A-Mart Allsports vouchers.
"Munster Dittman played every single game for the team which was incredible while the Howard boys missed one of our matches and both Ethan and Ben missed two games through injury," Harkin explained.
"Munster, Ethan and Ben were the solid core of the team and we could always rely on them, while those two under 11s the Howard boys along with Brenton Brymer played two games every Sunday for 99% of the year.
They all had a go and I am extremely proud they hung in all season."
Under 12s player Jason Broome also recieved a football as an encouragement award for his efforts in 2007.
Harkin also gave the players a copy of team photos he took from through out the year in 10 x 8 form.
The Juniors represented by Brock West also made a special presentation to Rex Gamble for his assistance with the juniors during the year.
The former Junior Kiwi recieved a NZ Warriors water bottle and car air freshener.
Rex was thrilled with the night and appreciated the award and hopes to lend even more assistance to the juniors in 2008 while Brock(Rex's number 1 fan) was just happy to see the big man.
Congratulations to all players, parents, coaches, committee members, supporters, sponsors and helpers on their efforts during the season and the club hopes your all back plus some in 2008.
Stay tuned top to the Sharks site for updates leading into the new season and remember Sharks seniors have their presentation night on Saturday, September 29 at Saleyards Park.
Go to http://www.sportingpulse.com/ to view more pictures from the night plus a load more. |
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| BEST AND FAIREST: Samuel Muller in the Under 15 grand final against Dubbo Blues. Muller also scored all the Wombats points in a cliffhanger finish to the game. |
JUNIORS KEPT THEIR BEST FOR LAST
Story & Photo By : DON MAHONEY 
Mudgee Junior Wombats Under 15 showed great courage in a hard fought game against Dubbo Blues in the Under 15 grand final played at Wellington last Saturday.
The Mudgee team were the decided underdogs for the grand final, but not one player on the team believed that and gave their all.
Both teams gave everything they had to produce a very evenly matched struggle. Tries were hard to come by and the Wombats took every chance that came their way and their captain Samuel Muller opted to kick for goal when within range for penalties.
His decision proved a winning one. He posted six points by successflly codverting two penalty goals to give his team a 6-0 lead.
Mudgee were able to keep Dubbo out right up to the final minutes of the game and just when Mudgee looked like they would hold on the enemy struck.
The Dubbo Blues finally broke through the Wombats defence and scored a try in the dying seconds.
Unfortunately for the Wombats, the try was converted and the final score was 7-6 to a jubilant Dubbo.
The Mudgee team was valiant in defeat and played what many believe was their best game all season.
The club held their annual presentation day at the Wombats Clubhouse at Jubilee Oval on Sunday morning. The Under 15 captain Samuel Muller was named best and fairest, Hugh McNamara was best forward, Declan Berridge was best back and Jack Smith was the most improved. |
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| Back to where it started... Jarryd Hayne retuned to Minto where he and Krisnan Inu would play touch football every week when they were growing up in Sydney's south-west |
STARS RETURN TO FIELD OF DREAMS
Story & Photo By : Chris Wilson 
WANT to know what Krisnan Inu is really smiling about?
He's tried to explain it, the serenity in that smirk before he kicks a goal. It's his way of relaxing, blocking out the crowd.
But there's more to it and Inu is ready to reveal the secret behind the NRL's most famous grin.
The meeting place is a rugby league field more dust than grass in the south-west Sydney suburb of Minto. It's home to junior club the Cobras, and there are housing commission homes coiled around the boundary.
Inu is joined by Parramatta's Jarryd Hayne, in his bright yellow boots. Another friend arrives in thongs.
Inu and Hayne play one of the biggest games of their lives in today's grand final qualifier against the Storm at Melbourne's Telstra Dome.
But Wednesday touch footy matches at Minto have been some of the best of their lives.
"This is the roots of why we play,'' Inu beamed this week.
This is the source of that smile.
Inu and Hayne can't really remember how it started. It has just become lore since their school days - 4pm touch footy in the park, play until dark.
Each game grows like a whirlwind, picking up more players the longer it goes. It started with a dozen players on Wednesday and finished, more than an hour later, with almost 40.
And here, Inu doesn't just smile, he regularly drops to his knees in a convulsion of high-pitched giggles.
"I think it brings us back to earth, keeps us level-headed when we're back here. We're all equals here, no one's a star.''
But it is where stars are born. Inu, 20, Hayne, 19, and Melbourne sensation Israel Folau, 18, all spent time growing up in Minto.
More than 30,000 fans will be at today's game, but Hayne recalled when they first crossed paths, when his mother, Jodie, was the only referee.
"I'd just moved to Minto, I think I was about 13 or 14,'' Hayne said.
"We were on the train and I went downstairs to muck around with Inu and Izzy, just kicking the footy.
We were running amok. My mum blew up.
"That's all we had - football. You talk about musicians and how they play music to get away, to escape to their own world. That's like footy.
"I think that's why we're so skilful. We didn't have much growing up, but we had football. We lived and breathed it.''
In his NRL debut for the Eels - just one match before his Test debut for New Zealand - Inu scored a try. He formed his thumbs and forefingers together in the shape of an M. It meant something only to the people it was intended for, friends and family in Minto.
Inu has talked to Folau on the phone this week, but not about today's match.
"We talk about church and how our family and friends are,'' Inu said.
"All three of us have grown up playing with each other. To have all three still in the finals, it's awesome.''
Inu wishes all three could be involved in next month's Test match between Australia and New Zealand. Hayne feels he is in a battle with Folau for one spot on the Australian wing.
"Things are going to be tight, so I probably can't see both of us getting in there,'' Hayne said.
"It would be hard with the likes of Gasnier, Cooper, Hodges, Inglis and Slater. I'm sure the winning team (today) will decide, or give extra momentum, to who will probably be picked.''
Inu claims he hasn't felt any pressure in a game since he was "little''. It might coincide with his claim that he hasn't missed a grand final since he was nine.
In fact, it seems the nearest sensation Inu has had to pressure was a two-year battle with compartment syndrome - a tightening of the calves that caused him to cramp in almost every match.
He had surgery after last year's premier league grand final. He has massages twice a week, takes cramping medication on game day and wears special three-quarter-length socks to assist blood flow in his legs.
"Sometimes I used to worry about the way I ran, if I ran too hard it would pull up on me,'' Inu said.
"It's good not to worry about that any more.''
Asked if he felt pressure, Inu smiled.
"Nah, not really,'' he replied.
"When it comes to the game, you know what you have to do, you just go out and play.''
As the sun began to fall on Wednesday and the Minto touch game came to an end, kids flocked to get an autograph or a photo.
They all asked Inu the same question: "Why do you smile?''
He responded only with his trademark grin.
Little did they know, they need just look around for the answer. |
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| Mackay boys meet Kenny |
ENGLAND '07 TOUR LOG Story & Photo By :
Left Mackay Air Port at 6:40
The shenanigans started early on Mackay High Rugby League Academy’s inaugural tour of the the UK.
On the flight from Mackay to Brisbane Shane organised the hostess to broadcast a birthday call for Gordon Reid’s “50th” birthday, Gordon is well short of that milestone.
Rob ‘Cowboy’ McLeod had a few problems with the escalators on the way to the International Airport, he obviously needs more practice mounting those tricky contraptions.
Everybody tucked into an early lunch at the airport waiting to go though customs. Steve from ourfootyteam.com rang to report the setup of the message board and to encourage family’s to leave messages.
Just visit www.ourfootyteam.com/mshsacademy  and follow the story links to find the message form.
After eight hours in the air we landed in Singapore.. Learn More
| Visit Mackay SHS ACADEMY | |
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| GOING PLACES: Milton Ulladulla Bulldogs Under 18s star player Tristan Nisbet signed a two year contact with the Canterbury Bulldogs and will start training with the club in November. |
TOP DOG - TRISTAN SIGNS WITH CANTERBURY BULLDOGS
Story & Photo By : Karisa Whelan 
Milton Ulladulla Bulldog Tristan Nisbet is going from barking to biting, moving up in the rugby league competition to sign with the Canterbury Bulldogs.
Despite only three years in the sport, Tristan caught the eye of a sports manager and after signing up a manager, began to get interest from top NRL clubs.
"It was pretty amazing to get interest from the Bulldogs," Tristan told the Times.
" I signed on with my manager and not long after that, he had several clubs contact him before the bulldogs made an offer."
Tristan met with the Bulldogs board to discuss contract options.
"I went to Sydney and met the club," he said.
"They outlined the contract and what it would entail and I signed with them on Thursday."
Tristan signed a two-year contract with the team, currently ranked sixth on the ladder in first grade football, and will start training in November and join the under 20s national comp.
"It has all happened pretty quickly," the 18-year-old told the Times.
"My family have been really supportive.
"I think Dad's side of the family were pretty stoked, they are all huge football fans."
Tristan played soccer for many years before converting to league and said he has learnt a lot from the Milton Ulladulla Bulldogs.
"The club has given me heaps, especially Peter Leffley.
"He is a great coach, but he's also like a second dad.
"He's really supportive of us all, which shows with the great results he gets from us."
Tristan will move to Sydney to start with the Bulldogs, moving to Cronulla to share a house with his sister.
"Having family support will make it heaps easier," he said.
"Training will be pretty well full time but I hope to get a part time job so I can have some spare money too."
Tristan completed school at Ulladulla High School in 2006 and spent this year focusing on his football, a move that has obviously paid off.
But, despite a goal to become a professional first grade player, this may not be the last the local clubs sees of Tristan.
"I am really grateful to all my family and friends for their support, and to the local Bulldogs for being supportive of my move, though they did tell me not to worry, if anything goes wrong they will welcome me back to play with them again," he said. |
PNG KUMULS STAGE GREAT INTERNATIONAL COMEBACK
Story By : ARL MEDIA RELEASE
A sensational second-half comeback from Papua New Guinea in today’s historic 24-all draw with the Australian Rugby League Prime Minister’s XIII in Port Moresby has proven the Kumuls will be a force to reckon with in next year’s Centenary World Cup.
The Adrian Lam-coached Kumuls, who will take on Australia, England and New Zealand in the World Cup ‘Super Pool’ next year, recovered from 20-nil down at halftime to send a crowd of more than 10,000 at Lloyd Robson Oval into wild celebrations upon fulltime today.
The star-studded Australian side excelled in the dry conditions in the first half, with Cronulla’s Luke Douglas and Wests Tigers’ Chris Lawrence both scoring tries in impressive senior representative debuts.
But as heavy rain fell in the second-half Papua New Guinea grinded its way back into the match, with its NRL representatives in Penrith’s Paul Aiton and Keith Peters leading the way.
Prime Minister’s XIII coach Mal Meninga paid tribute to Papua New Guinea’s performance and said he was pleased with his own side’s effort.
“Papua New Guinea is in the toughest pool of the World Cup next year but they showed today that they are ready for it,” Meninga said today.
“They’re performance in the second half was outstanding and it’s a great result for them.
“We didn’t get the win but I thought our attitude today and throughout our time here has been fantastic from the guys – they certainly did their country proud.”
Among the Prime Minister’s XIII top performers was Gold Coast Titans halfback Scott Prince, who enhanced his Kangaroos selection hopes with several try-assists and an effective kicking game.
The Prime Minister’s XIII squad will return to Australia tomorrow after spending the weekend in Papua New Guinea promoting critical health messages to several local communities.
| Prime Minister’s XIII |
24 - 24 |
Papua New Guinea Kumuls |
TRIES : Luke Douglas, Joel Monaghan (2), Chris Lawrence (2)
GOALS : Kurt Gidley 2 |
TRIES : Nigel Hukula, Paul Aiton, Jessie Joe, Menzie Yere (2)
GOALS : Gimapau Keimelo 2 |
| Referee: Gavin Badger, Crowd: 10,000 (est) |
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MATRAVILLE WIN 1 st ARRIVE ALIVE CUP
Story By : Steve Mascord and Liam FitzGibbon 
Story & Photo By :
MATRAVILLE Sports High claimed their first Arrive Alive Cup with a convincing 32-10 grand final win over Patrician Brothers Blacktown at the Sydney Football Stadium today.
The pre-game favourites led 16-4 at halftime and went on with the job to prevail in the first grand final between two Sydney-based schools since 2004.
Matraville were led superbly by young Roosters five-eighth Ben Jones, who scored two tries and had a hand in several others in the six-tries-to-two win.
Winger Sanor Earl opened the scoring for Matraville in the eighth minute but Blacktown hit back quickly when prop Siosaia Vave stormed over next to the posts.
Matraville moved into the lead two minutes before the break thanks to a fine solo effort from Arana Tuamata, before Jones stepped his way over on the siren to extend their advantage.
Matraville didn't let up in the second half and struck again in the 39th minute when winger Dominique Peyroux got on the end of a fine Albert Kelly cross-field kick.
Second rower Petros Thanos barged over three minutes later, before hooker Jamie Buhrer grabbed a consolation for Blacktown and Jones scored his second to complete the emphatic win.
The win completed an impressive double for Matraville, only a relatively new sports high school, having also won the Waratah Shield rugby union competition this year.
Matraville have set the standard all season and are deserving National AAC Champions & good luck on the ASSRL tour to NZ.
Matraville are also red hot favourites for this years Elite schoolboys comptition, the CHS University Shield.
In the Uni Shield grand final this year we see mighty Matraville take on Hunter SHS after they disposed of Endeavour SHS a couple weeks ago up at Wyong.
Also the Grand Final of the WC CHS Buckley Shield (U14's) is on.
Michael Buettner Shield holders Westfields SHS will play defending Buckley Shield Champions, Hunter SHS on Tuesday at Energy Australia Stadium, Newcastle.
The day kicks off at 9:30 am, so for a day full of fantasic schoolboys rugby league, go to Energy Australia Stadium, Newcastle to watch these important Grand Finals.
Thanks Darren from RUGBY LEAGUE WEEK for sending us these great Arrive alive Cup grand final photo's
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 AXEMEN TO GIVE RUSS & RABBITOHS THE HOKIE POKIES
Story By : Daryl "Spinner" Howland, Southeastern Rugby League, "Taking care of business" as THE JACKSONVILLE AXEMEN
Tomorrow (Monday) Russell Crowe will be in Jacksonville to start the promotion of the Australia Day Clash (Jan 26th, 2008) between the professional team he owns from Australia (The South Sydney Rabbitohs) and the professional team from the UK (The Leeds Rhinos).
A press conference will be held at 1pm at the University of North Florida.
Although this conference will only be open to media, press and invited guests, it will announce the sale of tickets for the event.
Therefore tomorrow at 1pm a link will go up on the www.jaxaxe.com website that will take you directly to the ticket sales site that will allow you to pre order your ticket to guarantee that one is held for you.
The Axemen are managing the ticketing and we will be mailing tickets out in early November to all that have purchased them on line.
We hope that this gives each of the Axemen fans the ability to ensure they are able to purchase a ticket to the event.
So at 1pm tomorrow please visit the Jacksonville Axemen if you would like to secure your tickets
We would also encourage you to visit the websites of both the Souths Sydney Team at www.souths.com.au and the Leeds Rhinos at www.leedsrugby.com to learn more about these teams so that we as the City of Jacksonville can show them what great sports fans we are when they arrive and be cheering on one or both of them during the game.
Again, from The Axemen Team, Drew Slover and myself we say thank you to all of you for your support |
MATRAVILLE WIN ARRIVE ALIVE CUP
Story By :  7:45 pm Sat 220907
Matraville Sports High have won the Arrive Alive Cup for the first time with a convincing 32-10 grand final victory over Patrician Brothers Blacktown at the Sydney Football Stadium.
The pre-game favourites led 16-4 at halftime and went on with the job to prevail in the first grand final between two Sydney-based schools since 2004. (Endeavour SHS Vs Patrician Brothers) |
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| Chris Lawrence got his first taste of senior representative rugby league today at the Sydney Football Stadium. |
LAWRENCE EXCITED OVER FIRST SENIOR REP JERSEY
Story & Photo By Wayne Cousins Wests Tigers Media Officer 
Chris Lawrence got his first taste of senior representative rugby league today at the Sydney Football Stadium.
The flying Wests Tigers winger arrived for his first team medical and the chance to meet his Prime Minister’s XIII team-mates including Mark Gasnier, Braith Anasta and Scott Prince.
Lawrence’s Wests Tigers team-mate, hooker Robbie Farah, was later ruled out with a bruised hip for the match against Papua New Guinea Kumuls on Sunday, September 23, at Lloyd Robson Oval, Port Moresby.
The Prime Minister’s XIII squad will again work with the Australian Government to help promote Papua New Guinea’s fight against HIV, AIDS and violence against women.
“It is a huge opportunity for me to play with some really big names and gain experience from them, so I am really looking forward to it,’’ Lawrence said.
It has been a whirlwind 12 months for Lawrence who was touted as one of the game’s brightest young stars after just five games with the Wests Tigers.
After having represented the Australian Schoolboys team, Lawrence was then chosen to play for the Junior Kangaroos against the New Zealand junior team in Melbourne last October.
This season, Lawrence’s rubber stamped his reputation as a future star by scoring 16 tries in 18 games for Wests Tigers.
His year has been capped off with selection in the Prime Minister’s XIII team.
“It has been a very big 12 months and it has gone very quickly. I have been pleased with my efforts up to this stage but I have a lot of work to do in the pre-season.
“I want to work on my overall fitness as I missed a fair bit of the pre-season last year due to Australian Schoolboys.
I also need to work on my defence but I did gain a fair bit of experience with the games I did play. I also want to cement a starting position in the centres.’’
Wests Tigers supporters will be able to hear more from Chris Lawrence on the next episode of WTV coming soon. WTV – bringing our fans even closer to the Wests Tigers.
SEE THE CHRIS LAWRENCE INTERVIEW |
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| James Sheahan’s Daniel Mortimer (centre) tunes up last Wednesday before travelling to New Zealand with the Australian Schoolboys rugby league side for two tests against the Kiwis. |
BRING ON THE KIWIS
Story & Photo By : BEN DREWE 
DANIEL Mortimer thinks he has done all he can to prepare himself to take on a ferocious New Zealand side in two upcoming schoolboy rugby league test matches.
Mortimer will go into a three-day camp with the Australian Schoolboys team in Canberra on Saturday before the 18-man squad flies out to Auckland next Tuesday.
They play a lead-up game against an invitational side next Wednesday before two tests against the Kiwis on September 29 and October 6.
The James Sheahan student has stuck to a stringent training regime and played league and union games for the school and believes this preparation has him in good shape before his international debut.
Last Wednesday Sheahan lost to Illawarra in the semi-final of rugby union’s Yates Shield and the five-eighth thinks he is better for the run.
“Anything with a bit of contact is good. It was good to get the ball in my hands again in a game situation,” Mortimer said.
“I’ve been training hard and I think I’m well prepared.”
Australian selectors picked a big side to take on the Kiwis with Mortimer one of just two halves.
Queensland’s Ben Hunt will play half-back inside the Parramatta SG Ball premiership winner and Mortimer thinks they have the side to be successful over the ditch.
“From what I saw it was a high level of footy up there (at the Australian Secondary Schools Championship in Townsville) so we should go pretty good,” Mortimer said.
“... it took a while to sink in and it still is. I think it will hit when we get (in camp).”
– Daniel Mortimer
“They’ve picked a pretty big pack to take on the big Kiwi boys. I’ve got two ‘Parra’ boys in the forwards and I’ll work with them a bit.”
The 18-year old is hopeful his pack can match the traditionally big Kiwis which will allow himself to play his usual attacking game and take on the line regularly.
“On the halves side we need to have a lot of direction but if the forwards go forward I’ll try and play my own game and attack a bit,” Mortimer said.
He is still coming to grips with the fact he will be representing Australia but it should become more of a reality when the team assembles.
“It’s getting close now and it took a while to sink in and it still is. I think it will hit when we get (in camp),” Mortimer said.
“It’s come up so fast, it’s weird.” |
 WORLD SCHOOL MILK DAY
Schools all over the world will be celebrating World School Milk Day on September 26 by drinking lots of delicious, nutritious milk. The 1st World School Milk Day was celebrated in September 2000 and has since become an annual event celebrated in many countries throughout the world and promoted actively by the Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) of the United Nations.
This year students can enter the fantastic 'Make Mine Milk' Competition simply by showing why milk is one of the best drinks. They can use their writing, illustration or photography skills to enter. The national winning student will win an iPod Nano and a $1,000 book voucher for their school. There are also state prizes to be won for both students and their schools.
Competition details, the entry form and prizes as well as curriculum-appropriate resource material and canteen activities can be downloaded from: www.dairy.edu.au/makeminemilk |
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| WE DID IT: A jubilant CYMS under 18 side celebrates its thrilling 32-22 grand final win on Sunday against Cowra in Bathurst. |
CYMS UNDER 18'S THRILLING GRAND FINAL WIN
Story & Photo By :
ANOTHER great game was on the cards when CYMS took on Cowra in the Group 10 under 18 grand final at Bathurst on Sunday.
Cowra had only been beaten once this year and that was by CYMS in the major semi-final.
It was also a rematch of last year’s under 18 grand final which saw Cowra take the flag.
Cowra got off to a flying start and had CYMS pinned in their own 20 metres for the opening 15 minutes.
CYMS penalties and mistakes kept Cowra camped their and during this time CYMS really muscled up in defence.
They held up the Cowra attack over the line on at least two occasions and stopped many other attacking raids.
Cowra did manage to get across the line once during this time to take a 6-nil lead.
As CYMS started to get some possession their game clicked into gear.
Ron Lawrence scored CYMS first try with a bullocking run close to the line.
Ron and Jake Anlezark were also punishing in defence and the team continued to stand strong on their own line.
CYMS looked to be in trouble when a penalty kick failed to find touch and a mistake then gave Cowra a repeat set.
A lovely run from in-goal by full-back Tim Bassmann saw CYMS back on the attack. The boys then summed up the defence and ran the ball on the sixth tackle.
Steve Morris dummied a few times and cut through to score in the corner. He converted for a 12-6 lead.
Good runs by Mick Nixon and Jonno McCann gave CYMS good momentum and when Jake Anlezark crossed under the posts the side took an 18-6 lead.
Cowra gave away a penalty for holding down late in the second half and Steve Morris kicked the goal for a half-time score of CYMS 18 to Cowra 6.
CYMS’ defence was tested again early in the second half as Cowra came out ready to play. Jarryd Law made a great try-saving tackle. Again, Cowra was the first to score when they crossed out wide and they were down 20- 10.
Cowra had most of the possession and when CYMS dropped the ball they took full advantage to score.
The score was now CYMS 20 to Cowra 16.
A good run by Tim Bassmann and Daniel Simmons saw CYMS gain good field position.
Steve Morris kicked high on the sixth tackle and the Cowra full-back put the ball down in front of his own posts.
From the ensuing scrum they passed along the back line where Daniel Augustin crossed for a try. Score 26-16.
CYMS had to lift again and they did so. Good runs by Ron and Jared Brodrick put them in great position.
With two minutes to go Jacob Hall crossed the line to seal the match.
Jake Anlezark wasn’t finished, and as the full-time siren sounded he crashed through the middle of the defence and made a huge run upfield.
He was bought down just over the halfway line and the CYMS crowd was already on its feet. CYMS had won 32-22.
The crowd went wild and the players went wild. A sensational effort boys.
Special mention to those who had played in seven previous grand finals without a win. It’s hoped this makes the win all the sweeter.
The majority of this team have another year in under 18’ and it is hoped they all stick together to defend their title.
Big congratulations to Wade Judd on a superb effort of bringing these boys together and getting them to gel as a team.
Also thanks to the team manager Terry Brodrick for his support and assistance . |
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| Nyngan High School Under 14’s winners of the Rugby League 7’s competition held last week in Bourke. |
TEAMS VIE FOR EVENT HONOURS
Story & Photo By : 
The 11th Annual Ronny Gibbs 7s Rugby League Competition was held on Wednesday September 12 at Davidson Oval in Bourke. The tournament saw four different schools named champions in the U14s and Opens rugby league and netball.
The rugby league competition saw 12 teams compete while the netball had 11 teams. There were nine schools participating in this year’s event from Bourke, Cobar, Nyngan, Coonamble, Walgett, Brewarrina, Pera Bore, Lightning Ridge and Goodooga.
Sydney-based Steve Hall, NSWRL development officer and Mick Barlow, FWAS trainer were there to assist with the Ronny Gibbs 7s event and to identify talent from the Far West region. Representing netball were Jacinda Spicer, Netball NSW Western Region development officer and FWAS assistant coach, and Janet Mason, part-time Netball NSW development officer and head FWAS Netball coach.
Nyngan were named winners of the U14s division in the rugby league after going through the preliminary rounds undefeated and beating Cobar in the final 32-28. Nyngan were the dominant side of the U14s and deserved to be the winners. In the final, Jacob Neill from Nyngan and Dave Watson from Cobar were named best and fairest from their teams.
In the Opens division, Bourke were the winners after finishing on top of the points ladder and being undefeated on the day. In the U14s, Cobar were the runners-up. Cobar players Alex Ronayne, Bourke and Reece Power were named best and fairest for their teams.
Cobar won the U14s Netball after they defeated Coonamble in a nail- biting final, 11 to 10. Hayley Black from Cobar was named best and fairest. In the Opens division Coonamble were crowned champions after they defeated Cobar in the final 14 to 10.
Zenetra Astill from the Coonamble side was named the best and fairest in the final.
Ronny Gibbs was in attendance at this year’s event and was pleased with the commitment and level of talent on display in both the netball and rugby league.
“The event was created to give school students in the Far West region an opportunity to play rugby league and netball in a competitive environment,” said Ronny.
“It’s great to see four different schools named champions as it shows that all schools are competitive in both sports.”
The FWAS coaching staff were pleased with the level of talent the players were showcasing in both the rugby league and netball.
“The level of talent on display was outstanding,” said Janet Mason, Head FWAS Netball coach. “We hope to see a lot of them at the trials to be held later in the year.”
An event like this could not be effectively run and organised without the support of the Bourke community. The FWAS would like to thank Bourke Shire Council, Bourke High School, Bourke Public School, Bourke PCYC and Andrew Johnson.
“Thanks to all the schools that travelled to Bourke to compete in this year’s tournament and the volunteers who assisted on the day,” said Far West Academy executive officer Kathy Barber. “It was great to see such commitment from everyone involved and we hope to see all teams as well as some new ones next year.”
NOTE : The Cronulla Sharks Under 14's Development team is travelling to Nyngan to play in a Rugby League tournament in the school holiday's. |
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| Mullumbimby Giants' Under-18s player, Caspar Rose, 17, recovering at Lismore Base Hospital after breaking his leg during the grand final. |
BAD BREAK A BIG BLOW FOR YOUNG GIANT
Story & Photo By : ADAM HICKS 
AS THE Mullumbimby Giants Under-18s rugby league team continued celebrating their grand final win on Sunday, utility Caspar Rose was unconscious and dreaming about running and tackling.
He kicked in his sleep then woke up in agony.
The 17-year-old could spend up to a year on the sidelines after breaking his leg just before half-time in the Giants' 18-10 win over Marist Brothers.
"It was an average tackle," he said from his hospital bed at the Lismore Base Hospital yesterday.
"We were coming off our line and the defence was moving up fast."
"Three blokes were pushing me backwards.. my boot got caught on the ground, my knee twisted.
I heard a popping sound."
Caspar snapped the top off his tibia, ripped his crucial ligament from the bone and fractured his knee.
"I don't know how I did it, but I got up and play the ball then collapsed on the ground.
I knew something was wrong, I was in the worst pain of my life."
At half-time, Caspar tried to ice the injury with hopes of returning to the field.
"It hurt a lot but I put up with it because I wanted to go back on," he said.
"It was a grand final, it was big for everyone there. We'd been training for it since January 10.
Everything we'd been training for was for this."
Caspar watched the second half and was helped by two team-mates to walk up to accept his medal.
"The coach said it was as much mine as it was everyone else's," he said.
After the presentation Rose did not get to celebrate with his team-mates.
He was taken to hospital where he underwent surgery on Monday.
Caspar will be on crutches for three months and doctors are expecting his recovery to take a year.
"They reckon it will never be the same again," he said. The news is a big blow for the teenager who is also a promising swimmer and water polo player.
"I was looking forward to training (for swimming) next term," he said. "I am just trying to stay positive. There will be no football til next year," he said with a defiant grin. "I have no regrets."
"I got to school and hang out with these guys ... I'm playing with my best friends. |
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| CHAMPIONS: South Dubbo Raiders under-11s - coaches Paul Brandon, Wayne Sing, Warwick Rapley. Back: Matt Scolari, Max Cowley, Harry Barnes, Nick Harvey, Max Shearman, Kaide Rapley, Jacob Borkovic, James Samuels, Patrick Brandon, Sam McDermott, Tony Pellow. Front: Kahlab Langman, Curtis Barker, Joe Stageman, Harry Kempston, Marshall Sing, Patrick Allen, Greg Peckham. |
FOUR-TRY EFFORT SEALS GROUP TITLE
Story By : BILL NORTH
Four tries from Nick Harvey helped South Dubbo Raiders secure the under-11 Group 11 Championship in West Wyalong on Saturday.
The centre carved up his opposition and was named man of the match for his superb effort as South Dubbo ran away 36-6 winners against Forbes.
The game was one of five Group 11 Junior Rugby League Championship deciders between the Dubbo District junior champions and the Parkes District junior champions.
Eastridge under-10s were the only other Dubbo side to be crowned champions with man of the match Wade Cavanagh leading the way in the 42-0 win over Parkes Marist. The under-10s were also playing for the John McGrath Memorial Shield.
In the under-12s Condobolin prop Adam Richards proved too much to handle for Eastridge, the Condobolin side running out 30-6 winners.
The score blew out towards the end of the under-14s match with Red Bend prevailing 44-16 against PCYC.
Todd Graham scored four tries for Red Bend and is shaping up to be a major player for the 2008 Group 11 under-15 side.
“As well as scoring four tries and not missing a kick, he was too big and too fast and if you took him out of the equation it would have been an interesting struggle,” Country Rugby League’s Steve McLellan said.
Kyle Baxter and Mitch Davies of Red Bend were named joint man of the match.
Red Bend also won the under-15s in a tighter contest, 22-18, against Wellington with Les Pitt the standout for Red Bend.
“The championships were well hosted by the West Wyalong club and there was plenty of good football from start to finish,” McLellan said.
“Even though there were some inflated scores the games were all very competitive.” |
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| Anthony Raymond fires a pass away during a training session with the CQ under-17 team. |
YOUNGSTERS HOPE TO FIRE FOR DRAGONS
Story & Photo By :
THE next generation of rugby league stars in Central Queensland are firing up for the inaugural St George Illawarra Dragons Carnival next week.
The carnival will be made up of 16-17-year-old players from Brothers clubs around Queensland, with South Queensland, North Queensland, Central Queensland and the Barbarians (other players from the southern region) represented.
The majority of the CQ side is from Rockhampton, with players from Gladstone, Emerald and Yeppoon also included. Find out more in today's MORNING BULLETIN. |
FARRER'S TEAM WORK AND EXPERIENCE A BIG PLUS
Story By : Geoff Newling
EXPERIENCE and teamwork will be key ingredients in any Farrer Memorial Agricultural High School success when its open boys' side plays for a State CHS Boys' Knockout title in Tamworth today.
Farrer plays Albury in a quarter-final this morning, coach Nigel Smith said.
"They had six in their regional side so they won't be any pushover," Smith said.
"We had five."
James Riddell skippers Farrer and is one of seven Year 12 students in the team.
"Last year we had just one Year 12," Smith said.
It means there is experience but also some talented younger players such as little Year 7 student Alex Hile.
"He's a great little player, has got skills most people only dream of."
Along with the likes of Mark Fisher, Luke Wilkinson, James Fisher, James Walker and Dave Walker, he has improved markedly through the year.
Fullback James Fisher "has come from nowhere," Smith said.
"All the kids have improved their hockey though."
They also go into this morning's quarter-final confident after winning their Tamworth schoolboy hockey grand final on Monday night.
They beat a strong Tudors side which contained four or five first graders 6-1.
It's been a good season for the side, scoring more than 100 goals and allowing just 18.
Tim Bellis has been in goalscoring touch all season and goalkeeper Andrew Kelly has been dynamic.
"Especially early on in the games against Oxley and Tamworth," Smith said.
"He kept us in those games but since those early games we've changed our defence and we are coming out of defence much better and we are possessing the ball much better." |
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| CHARGING THROUGH: Cherrypickers reserve grade’s Joel Cameron attempts to brush off the Tumut Blues defence in Young’s nail biting 30-26 victory on Sunday afternoon. |
YOUNG MAKE FINAL IN ALL THREE GRADES
Story & Photo By : 
IT was a great day yesterday for Young at Alfred Oval with the all three remaining Cherrypickers sides booking a place in their respective grand finals.
All three sides played great games of footy with the under 16 Sullivan Cup side accounting for Wagga Kangaroos 31-12, the under 18 Weissel Cup side snuffed the Dragons out 50-20 and reserve grade out did themselves to win a nail biter against a tough Tumut Blues outfit 30-26.
The reserve grade side went out hard and put the first points on the board in a very physical encounter.
Tempers flared 20 minutes into the first half with both Young and Tumut having players sent from the field.
Once Young settled down again, they went about keeping the lead.
A few mistakes towards the end of the first half let Tumut in and the visitors looked like taking the lead going into the break.
Young, however, never gave up, scoring a great try in the final minutes, to go into the half-time break 18-16 in front.
The players were much more settled in the second half and Tumut took possession of most of the ball, keeping Young on the back foot, although both sides managed to score.
Tumut took the lead with only minutes left in the game and it looked like Young were done for, but some quick work from a scrum and some fancy footwork and Stephen Shipp crossed for the winning try, taking the final score to 30-26.
Injuries to Luke Levett in the first half and captain-coach Steve Woolford in the second half could see them in doubt for next week’s grand final
Sullivan Cup: McLean (3), Venney (1), Slater (1), Maloney (1) tries. McSpadden (3) goals.
Weissel Cup: Woolford (2), S Langford (2), Hewitt (1), Holmes (1), Causer (1), Richens (1), N Langford (1) tries. Hewitt (7) goals.
Reserve Grade: Shipp (2), Pratt (1), Canellis (1), Levett (1) tries. Murphy (5) goals. |
 SHARKS UNDER 14'S DEVELOPMENT SQUAD COUNTRY TRIP We have announced today a squad of U/14 players to travel to Nyngan on the 4th, 5th, 6th & 7th of October.
Training will start on Thursday 20th at 5pm and then weekly on Monday and Thursday at 5pm at Sutherland Oval.. LEARN MORE & SEE THE TEAM |
STORM'S FOLAU FACES TOUGH TEST
Story By : Stathi Paxinos 
MELBOURNE Storm centre Israel Folau faces one of the toughest match-ups of his young career in this Sunday's National Rugby League preliminary final against Parramatta when he marks the Eels' in-form centre, Timana Tahu.
That was the assessment of Folau's fellow centre, Matt King, who said the match-up would be a key to winning the game.
Storm coach Craig Bellamy praised Folau's performance against Tahu — bound for the NSW Waratahs in rugby union's Super 14 next season — after the Storm's 14-10 win in round 23.
King was certain 18-year-old Folau had gained enormous confidence from that match. "Israel's a very talented kid and he takes everything in his stride," King said.
"I dare say he would have taken a few pointers on how to handle him from that night and hopefully he can take that in Sunday … Israel's probably got the biggest one-on-one job in our team to handle Timana.
I reckon (Tahu) is the best centre-left in the four teams, so Israel's got a big job to do."
Eels half-back Tim Smith has been carrying a shoulder injury and Bellamy said yesterday he could expect a workout from the Storm's forward pack. .. Learn More |
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| Cowra’s under 18s will try and build their pack around workhorse front-rower Josh Newling next season. |
MAGPIES TO LEARN FROM GRAND FINAL LOSS
Story & Photo By : 
Cowra’s under 18s coach Greg Clements said his side will learn from their grand final defeat after going down to Orange CYMS at Carrington Park last Sunday.
The dominant side for the majority of 2007, Cowra battled into the grand final but fell against a surging CYMS unit. The Magpies didn’t taste defeat for the whole of the home-and-away season, but were humbled twice by the Orange club in the finals.
Speaking after last Sunday’s loss, Clements predicted the players backing up again in 2008 would harness their feelings after the loss and use it as motivation next season.
“Half the blokes won’t be here next year but for the young blokes in their first grand final loss, hopefully they will remember it and it won’t happen again,” he said.
Poor first halves proved Cowra’s undoing in their two semi-final losses, giving up sizeable leads on both occasions to CYMS.
They trailed 20-6 at half time in the grand final last Sunday, while also being behind 18-6 in the major semi-final two weeks ago.
CYMS exacted revenge for their 2006 grand final loss at the hands of Cowra.
The Magpies produced a number of sensational second-half comebacks throughout the year, most notably against CYMS and Hawks in the regular season, but couldn’t bridge the deficits in the post-season.
They will try and build their side around cornerstone Josh Newling, who is still eligible for under 18s next season. |
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| Macksville SeaEagles Under 18's in action in this years Grand Final |
SEA EAGLES SOAR
Story & Photo By : 
The Macksville Sea Eagles were flying high on Sunday.
They hosted the 2007 Carlton-Mid Group 2 Rugby League grand finals, and were soaring after the under 18s and first grade teams came away with premiership titles.
The interesting thing about the club is the fact both teams boast a number of Kempsey players.
The under 18s accounted for the Macleay Valley Mustangs, who did not look comfortable all game.
The wet weather did not help the Mustangs cause, as unforced errors and dropped balls cost them the grand final.
Unlike their opposition the young Sea Eagles dominated on the field and made the best out of every opportunity. The writing was on the wall for the Mustangs in the first 10 minutes when the Sea Eagles scored the first try. They crossed the line minutes later to open up a handy lead.
The Mustangs had moments of brilliance with Malcolm Webster and Mitchl Picker putting some much-needed points on the table.
Late in the second half it appeared the Mustangs were going to make a come back, however, the Sea Eagles dished out some bone cracking defence to ensure victory.
In the closest game of the day, Coffs Harbour won the reserve grade grand final 17-16 against Port Macquarie.
No one would have predicted the result of the first grade grand final between Sea Eagles and Orara Valley Axemen, especially after Orara had opened up a handy 24-8 lead at half time.
Macksville appeared to be down and out in the first half, with the Axemen dominating most of the play.
However, Macksville had a new lease of life in the second half and proved why they had made the grand final in the first place.
They scored minutes into the second-half and kept the points rolling.
They kept Orara scoreless in the second half and raked up 24 unanswered points to take out the 2007 Group 2 grand final 32-24. The Sea Eagles’ proud 20 years includes nine grand final appearances.
After losing in 2001, they went on to win the next four – a group record.
Paul Davis, who said he would retire at the end of the season, played with a broken wrist in the grand final and capped off a great career the best way possible. |
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| SHOCK LOSS: The Milton Ulladulla Bulldogs went down in the grand final against the Shellharbour Sharks despite an undefeated season. PICTURED: Raph Garnon. |
DOGS DEFEATED
Story & Photo : Daryll Cook
The Edwardian rugby league manuals, once upon a time, stressed the importance of character in players which was fine of course in those times and it mattered.
However, the importance of firepower overall was largely overlooked and, although it mattered in those times, Milton-Ulladulla Under 18 team sternly discovered the adage still exists when Shellharbour City Sharks returned fire to win the 2007 Group Seven premiership 30-24 at Ron Costello Oval last Sunday in ideal conditions.
For the valiant Dogs, they just couldn't consolidate a position that didn't exist, as the Sharks pack of forwards relentlessly patrolled their home ground with amazing determination and firepower.
To those of learning, it was always a question of which forward pack would dominate for a full 80 minutes at such an intense level.
In this area, the Sharks were completely in control and never allowed the Dogs to dominate except when Hatch broke clear into open space at the fourth minute in what appeared a certain opening Bulldog try when the referee immaturely stopped play and ridiculously gave the Bulldogs a penalty for a Sharks forward being ruled offside in the early lead-up.
The defending premiers were soon caught in the Sharks headlights when Shellharbour replacement prop Lloyd Purdy barged over at the seventh minute.
The Sharks then took revenge from some poor Dogs' field position when Sharks back rower Adam Dorker screamed over wide out, after pivot Pat Moulton unloaded at the 14th minute, which was quickly followed by a innocuous Bulldog handling mistake out wide that was later to have tragic ramifications as Sharks winger Shane Anderson sauntered across untouched for his first of three match tries to give the Sharks a handy 14-0 lead after 20 minutes of play.
DOGS SQUANDER CHANCES - LEARN MORE |
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| University Plate 1/4 Final - Junee HS Vs Sarah Redfern College (Photo : JHS & OFM) |
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JUNEE HIGH SCHOOL
'ONE MORE HURDLE IN UNI PLATE'
Story & Photo's By : John Stewart &
After a historic victory over Sydney heavy-weights Sarah Redfern in the University Shield semi-final, Junee High School is now just one hurdle away from accomplishing the remarkable feat of finishing the school football season undefeated.
After an inspirational victory in the Country Cup last month, the tiny Riverina school were not to be content with anything other than an emphatic victory over the powerful Redfern side which consisted of several Premier League and Jersey Flegg representatives.
In a match which will be remembered for it's ferocious tackling and rampaging runs, the Junee side sent a warning to it's country rivals Gunnedah in a dominating display of rough-and-rumble football that was uncharacteristic to the flamboyant style of play associated with Junee in previous rounds of the competition.
Strong defence on the fringes from the Sydney side early on forced Junee to modify it's gameplan, demonstrating the flexibility that Junee captain Matt Hands, rates as one of the underlying factors in the sides success this season.
After a slow start to the match, Junee found themselves 4-0 down after a defensive lapse late in the tackle count, but quickly overcame their early nerves to immediantly reply with a try of their own through rampaging fullback Jordan Walker.
Walker crossed the line again soon after following some fancy leadup play by halfback Simon Wilson.
It looked as though Junee might run away with the match when the linchpin of Junee's foward pack Issac Cooper was forced out of the game through injury.
Cooper's injury was shortly followed by that of elusive centre Charles Curry, who surcomed to a previous hamstring tear resulting in a dramatic re-shuffling of the Junee backline.
Spurred on by this sudden setback and a vocal home crowd, Redfern raised the bar to cross the line again to trail by a modest two points leading into the halftime interval.
The Junee boys regathered their composure during the break and were rewarded with two quick tries on the back of big defensive efforts from Alex Siemsen, Cameron Woo and Matt Hands.
Redfern looked like they might be staging a comeback when they scored an intercept try off a wayward Junee pass, but a Matt Hands field goal and solid goal line defence sealed a 29-16 victory for the Junee side.
Junee will now take on the might of Gunnedah High School in the University Shield grand final, a match which is to be held at Energy Australia Stadium on Tuesday the 25th of September.
Junee would like to thank the suppoters who made the trip up for the match, the community for it's continual support and Sarah Redfern High for a great game and their generous hospitality before and after the match. |
A PRINCIPAL'S DREAM TEAM
Story By : 
TODAY the under 14s rugby league team from St Joseph’s, plan on securing their spot in the New South Wales Cochrane Cup grand final at Cessnock.
Principal of St Joseph’s High School John Tobin said he could not be prouder of his under 14s football team and rightly so.
The team is currently one of four left in the competition after competing against the best catholic and private schools in the state.
“They just won the quarter finals by 24 to four against St John’s Woodlawn who were the favorites and have won the Cup for the last few years,” Mr Tobin said.
“Their coach wasn’t a very happy choppy, but we were very happy,” joked John.
“When they won over Woodlawn they were amazing, they just wore them down through intense defense.
“Their defence is probably the best in this competition,” Mr Tobin said.
Adam Clysdale, team captain, said their strategy for the game against Gilroy College Parramatta would be the same that they had used to win every game so far.
“If we just keep defending we should just win,” Adam said.
“They are bigger in size, but we run more,” he said.
“All of us are good players, there’s not a couple of players we need to rely on and we play as a team.”
Mr Tobin said that the boys have been a privilege to coach.
“These guys are a dream side to coach their behaviour on and off the field is respectful and well mannered,” he said.
“During the last two years there have been six or seven stay overs, we took them out to dinner each night and they have been great.”
Mr Tobin said they would not be taking students to Cessnock to watch the game on Friday, but plan to for the grand final.
“We are hoping to get a lot of people to come to the grand final and support them,” he said.
“The parents of the boys have been there in number for each game and have been very supportive of them all the way through.” |
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| The jubilant under 16s Wellington Cowboys after their history-making win. |
JUNIORS CREATE HISTORY
Story & Photo By : 
The Wellington under 16s team has won the junior rugby league trophy for the first time ever.
Going one step better than last year’s performance, the boys managed to break the drought in the grand final replay to take out the 2007 competition, beating arch rivals St John’s 37-28 in the decider match.
As the only team to beat St John’s in the regular season, Wellington put on a spirited high-class game after going in as underdogs.
“In the end, they showed more commitment and enthusiasm to win in a nail-biter,” their proud coach Terry Hayek said yesterday.
“The cowboys’ victory was won on the back of strong and spirited defence and skillful attack.
“They have gone from a team of aggressive players to a team of footballers.
And winning the trophy is something that has never been done before.”
The first 10 minutes of the game was an arm wrestle with some bruising defence from both teams, until Wellington halfback Richard Peckham chipp kicked behind St John’s defence and fullback Martin Murray pounced to open the scoring for the visitors with a superb goal- kicking display by Peckham.
Four minutes later, Saints responded with a try of their own with winger Bradley Welsh sprinting 30 metres to score.
Wellington’s lead was short lived when Saints prop Max Ray pushed his way over to score their second try.
The score was 10-6 to Saints, but both sides missed scoring opportunities before Wellington’s halves paired up using a back-line move to allow winger Trent MacDonald to score in the corner.
Wellington went into the half-time break with a slim lead 12-10.
It was only a few more minutes before creative hooker Corey took on some soft defence and scored beside the posts.
The restart saw Cowboys drop the ball to allow Saints back in the game. But to Wellington’s credit they held off a nine-minute onslaught before Saints hooker Trent Gavenlock scooted from dummy-half to bring the game within a two point score 18-16.
It wasn’t long before Wellington second-rower Jordan Stanley crashed over for a try with a determined 40 metre run from the restart.
Prop Kenny Everson sliced through putting the Saints on the back foot.
Not recovering in time, a short chip kick from hooker Stanley allowed his second-row captain Justin Toomey to score out wide taking the score to 30-16.
With 10 minutes left on the clock, Wellington allowed Saints back into the game with two quick tries to Travis Wheatley and Blayne McGhee bringing the scores within two points again.
A field goal from halfback Peckham saw the lead stretch to three points.
With two minutes to play and the Cowboys wanting to slow the game down, halfback Peckham had other thoughts.
He went from dummy half, accelerating through the Saints’ defence line to score an 80-metre try, sending the Wellington players and supporters into a frenzy.
Wellington sealed the win with captain Justin Toomey named the player of the final which could have gone to any number of players.
The Cowboys would like to thank their fans who have supported them throughout the years.
The under 16s would like to thank Corey Gray and Jaydem Chatfield from the under 14s for stepping up and helping win the grand final.
The Cowboys are now set to play in West Wylong against Parkes’ winners Redbend this Saturday at 4pm to be crowned Group 11 champs and they would like to see all their supporters there. |
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| The Peach acknowledges his new found North Sydney Fans gathered at Leichhardt. Photo: Steve Little. |
HEART STOPPER AT LEICHHARDT AS BEARS GET THROUGH ANOTHER WEEK
Story & Photo By : Steve Little
Veteran first grader David Peachey has put retirement plans on hold after making a match winning try saving tackle in his sides 24-20 win over Penrith on Saturday.
After four strong wins on the trot, North Sydney came up against a Panthers team ready to rumble but only after the Bears dominated the first half.
In typical semi final football, both sides pushed the limits of endurance, thrilling the more than 2000 crowd in a real test of the Bears mental strength.
The Peach proved in charge of his own destiny in hunting down a runaway Maurice Blair in the second half. “I guess it could have been the end but I wasn’t thinking about anything like that, I was just putting in for the boys and doing my best to make sure we won,” he said.
The Bears first half performance was a stunning show of team unity. While Penrith were throwing everything they had at Norths they were powerless to score as the North Sydney backline were always able to shut them down. In between the Bears found time to score their points.
Ben Lowe was first to score virtually from Norths first major attacking movement, breaking through the Panther defense close to the line. Joe Williams able to convert and the Bears lead 6-0.
David Peachey and Joe Williams combined in a tricky movement and David Peachey’s long sweeping pass stunned both the crowd and the Panthers as Troy Boston caught and ran in for the second try. After 10 minutes the Bears led 12-0 after Joe Williams converted.
The third and final try of the half was a movement pioneered by Peachey who broke through and passed to Joe Williams in support to score and convert 18-0.. LEARN MORE |
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| Photo: The Wellington Warriors: (back) Geert Woldhuis coach, Lachlan Brown, Bradley Bowman, Matt Burgess, Jessica Berryman, Henry Redfern, Jack Thompson, Zeke Griffith, Simon Slacksmith, Chris Redfern manager, (front) Teleisha Madden, Matt Dorin, Lachlan Conn, Tom Redfern, Emma Wykes, Ngahla Talbot and Bradley McKnight. |
TEAMWORK WINS WARRIORS BERTH IN GRAND FINAL
Story & Photo By : Jody Chester
The team consists of five 11-year-olds Zeke Griffith, Bradley Bowman, Mathew Burgess, Matt Dorin and Emma Wykes.
The rest of children play in the under 10s Wellington competition. They are Ngahla Talbot, Lachlan Conn, Jessica Berryman, Jack Thompson, Lachlan Brown, Bradley McKnight, Henry and Tom Redfern.
The team also includes Teleisha Madden who is nine and Simon Slacksmith who will be nine in December.
After a gruelling game against SASS Strikers last weekend, the Wellington Warriors under 11s have made the soccer grand final in Dubbo.
In their semi-final match, the feisty Warriors fought back to even the full-time score to 2-all, and then scored two more goals in extra time.
This amazing show of teamwork should put them in good stead for their last game of the season this weekend.
Individual efforts worth mentioning included Zeke Griffith who had an outstanding game making numerous breaks through the SASS line of defence.
Our youngest Warrior Simon Slacksmith never stopped trying, hassling the SASS attack all game while Bradley Bowman’s continual clearance kicks up the field gave the SASS Strikers no chance to chase the Warriors down.
The Wellington Warriors will be playing the grand final this Saturday at Lady Cutler Oval 2 at 10am. Come along and support our children who have made a significant achievement in getting there.
These children have trained hard all year and with their talent and capabilities, anything is possible this weekend. |
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The Cronulla Sharks Under 13's & Under 14's played at the home of the WestsTigers today with lots of friends and families from both teams there to cheers their heads off.
Both the Tiger teams and the Sharks teams play fair, clean rugby league today, there were some ripper tackles in both games, lots of boys will be sore tonight hey guys. (heheh)
Good on everyone involved in today's footy action at Balmain, the Tigers were great hosts.
The Balmain Tigers were also conducting Harold Matthews Cup & SG Ball trials today too.
There was lots of footy action on all the time at Leichhardt Oval.
On to the Under 14's game..
2 tries in the first 10 minutes and the Cronulla Boys were off.
Some great runs from Jake Brennan (Sutherland) and Jack Summerfield (Gymea) to successfully put points on the board.
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WIZARD CUP HEADS SOUTH
Story By : QRL
TWEED Heads has stolen the Wizard Cup and marched it south of the border, a New South Wales team claiming Queensland’s top rugby league trophy for the first time in a century of competition.
Beating heavyweights Redcliffe 28-18 at Suncorp Stadium, the Seagulls sent retiring David Myles out a winner and denied the Dolphins back-to-back titles.
Myles, who started his senior career with the Gold Coast Chargers a decade ago, posted two tries in the victory and was only shaded for the inaugural Duncan Hall Medal by captain Brad Davis.
Davis had suffered a stinging rib injury in the preliminary final, but rebounded to play an inspirational role in the decider, posting a try, setting up another and almost topping the tackle count.
Also catching the eye was freakish teenager Shannon Walker, earlier this week named both the Courier Mail Best and Fairest Medal winner and Carbine Club Rookie of the Year.
 Walker kept fans and coach Troy McCarthy on tenterhooks with his two sizzling tries, showing all the skill in the world to get to the line but almost duffing both with his youthful exuberance.
In the 62nd minute Tweed caught Redcliffe napping with only one marker, Tim Maccan scooting out and putting lock Matt Pow into a gap. Pow then fed the ball to Walker who split the diving defence with ease.
Yet instead of merely planting the ball, Walker tried to improve the position, dangerously stepping around tacklers in-goal and taking an age to plant it.
The cheeky talent followed up with even more lair in his second try, four minutes later, this time scoring in a fashion not too dissimilar to Nathan Blacklock in his prime.
Redcliffe linchpin Mick Roberts had chipped over the top, looking to get his side back into the contest. Yet before he could regather, Walker swooped in, plucked the ball, stepped and accelerated 75m down field. For the last 30m he held his arms outstretched like a bird, the ball in one hand.
When he finally crossed, he almost dropped the ball and video referee Tony Maksoud was called upon to ensure it was correctly grounded... LEARN MORE & SEE SOME OF THE ACTION |
 SEAGULLS CLINCH COLTS PREMIERSHIP
TWO sensational tries from schoolboy Luke Dumas put Tweed Heads on the warpath to its first FOGS Colts Challenge premiership, ending the three-year reign of the Norths Devils with an 18-14 victory at Suncorp Stadium.
Dumas, who also won the Queensland title in the Arrive Alive Cup with Palm Beach Currumbin, was left to savour a remarkable run of successes in 2008.
Still just 17-years-old, the gifted winger struggled to celebrate the win however, pulled from the field suffering nausea late in the game.
His illness came about from a nasty head clash in the first half, remarkably before he scored his second try.
Dumas returned briefly to the field after being bandaged up and, from a standing start, shimmied to attract two defenders, flick passed to Michael Keating down the sideline and then backed up on the inside, pouncing when Keating grubbered off the side of his boot.
That put the Seagulls up 10-4, following Dumas’s opening try, which he scored by flying above the opposition and collecting a Cody Nelson bomb.. LEARN MORE |
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PATRICAN 
2007 COWBOYS CHALLENGE 
BRISBANE METRO 
ELITE SYDNEY CHS COMPS
SYDNEY 
OBE GEIA 
Jeff HARDY
Bulldogs win Harold 2007 Matthews Cup Grand Final 
2003 
2002 
ENGLAND 
ENGLAND 
WELSH 
BARLA
FRENCH 
