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| REGAN Crockett (left) and Ayden Tait are jetting off to Fiji as part of a Country Rugby League Academy tour. |
JUNIOR GREENS SET TO TOUR FIJI
Story & Photo By : 
UNDER 18 Greens players Ayden Tait and Regan Crockett, both 17, will tour Fiji this week as part of the Country Rugby League Academy.
Every player under 18 is eligible to apply for the academy and both Ayden and Regan were successful.
The pair both say they’ve enjoyed their time at the academy and have learned plenty from being a part of it.
“It’s more in the pre-season,” Regan said.
“We had a whole weekend at Borambola earlier in the year,” Ayden said.
“There were training drills, lectures. We learned about nutrition and things like that.”
Players from two other CRL academies make the trip with the Riverina academy and the duo are looking forward to the challenge.
“There’s seven from our academy going,” Hayden said.
“They split up the teams so you play with blokes you haven’t played with before,” Ayden added. “I’m stoked. Hopefully we’ll get scouted.”
“I’m pretty excited. It’ll be a good experience,” Regan said.
Any players selected in the academy can make the trip, with Regan and Ayden having to get sponsorship from Leeton businesses to go. |
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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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| 28 - 18 |
TRIES : David Myles 2, Shannon Walker 2, Brad Davis
GOALS : Brad Davis 4 |
TRIES : Chris Fox, Nick Emmett, Rory Bromley
GOALS : Alwyn Simpson 3 |
Suncorp Stadium. Referee: Gavin Morris. Crowd: 7000.
Halftime: Tweed Heads 18-6. |
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.
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 |
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.
But there was no denying the Tweed, one of the oldest rugby league clubs in Australia, but only a participant in the Wizard Cup since 2003.
Among the mountain of milestones achieved by the Seagulls, they inflicted the largest ever defeat of Redcliffe in a State League decider. Before the day the Dolphins had contested eight grand finals since the modern Wizard Cup began in 1996, winning five and losing three, all by two-point margins.
Tweed also came storming back from a terrible start to the season, when the club did not win until the fourth week. Shortly after the Seagulls went on an unbeaten streak over 11 rounds.
While bowed on the day, Redcliffe was not humiliated by any means and indeed, sent shivers down Tweeds’ spine when they closed the gap to 18-12 with 28 minutes to play.
A week after debuting for the Brisbane Broncos, Alwyn Simpson magically stuck a foot between two defenders to ricochet a ball for inside man Nick Emmett to score and it was game on.
But it was that man Walker, destined for the NRL in the not-to-distant future, who set the result in stone, scoring the next two tries to blow the Dolphins out of the water.
In a touching tribute after the match, Davis called on Andrew Moroney to hold the premiership trophy, having skippered the team before a season-ending patella tendon injury mid-season.
Seagulls triumphed in all three grades, with Tweed winning the Colts 18-14 and the similarly nicknamed Wynnum Manly club triumphing 52-18 in FOGS Cup. VISIT THE QRL WEBSITE HERE FOR ALL THE GRAND FINALS ACTION |
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| CHAMPS: The Branxton Public School open rugby league team recently won the Knights Knockout competition. The team is (back) Tyler Loadsman, Luke Barnes, Dylan Hale, Matt Howard, Jackson Cassidy, Conne |
KNIGHTS CUP SUCCESS
Story & Photo By: 
THE Branxton Public School’s open rugby league team has continued its rich vein of form this season by taking out the 2007 Knights Knockout competition.
The 19 player squad, accompanied by a large group of parents and supporters, left school at 6.30am and travelled to Valentine on Tuesday September 4 to take part in the Open A division of the competition.
It ended up being a long day for the team as they competed in a total of nine games.
The day didn’t get off to an ideal start when they were held to an 8-all draw against Jewells.
However the team managed to win their remaining eight matches.
Their second match was against St Brigid’s of Raymond Terrace, with Branxton running out 28-0 winners.
Branxton came out on top in a closely contested match against St Mary’s, Warners Bay 12-4 before they scored their second shut out win against Telarah 28-0.
Game five was somewhat of a local derby when Branxton took on Singleton Public School.
Branxton once again kept their opposition scoreless, winning the match 12-0.
With a four win and one draw record, Branxton qualified for the semi final stage of the tournament.
Their fist semi was against hosts Valentine Public Schol and Branxton came out on top 12-8.
Next up was St Joseph’s, Taree, a school that has won the Open A division five times in the last seven years.
Branxton put in a tremendous performance and were able to come away with a 16-12 win.
The team then had to travel to Windale to play the remaining games.
St Jame’s of Muswellbrook was the next semi final opponent and Branxton was able to win a low scoring match 8-4.
This win saw Branxton into the grand final against another local team, St Catherine’s of Singleton.
Despite trailling at halftime 12-6, Branxton Public School was able to power home and claim the match, 26-16, and the tournament .
This year’s team has been expertly coached by former Canberra Raiders and Penrith Panthers player Glenn George and has been managed by teacher Melissa Jolly.
The win was the first of its kind for Branxton and is only the second time a team from the Singleton region has won the Open A division.
Before the win, it had already been a successful season for the Branxton boys.
They reached the fourth round of the State Knockout, represented the Hunter at the All School Knockout in Sydney and won the Brian Kirkland Cup in Singleton and the Bulldogs / Goannas Cup at Cessnock. |
UNDER 10S TAKE OUT LEAGUE TITLE
Story By : 
In front of a record crowd and with perfect weather conditions the day was heralded as a tremendous success.
The day kicked off with an uncompetitive round robin between the under 7 and 8 teams from throughout the district.
With more than 100 players taking part in the round robin, players were able to experience a grand final day atmosphere and were presented with a medallion from Parkes and District president Craig Ridley.
The first of the competition games kicked off with the under 10s between Parkes Marist and Condobolin.
Parkes got off to a slow start as Condobolin charged over for an early 6-0 lead.
However, Joe Dwyer started to take control of the side with his deft passing and some great runs from the forwards saw Parkes make good yards.
They hit back with a try to Jesse Fardell to trail 6-4.
Despite both sides creating some good chances, neither team was able to score and at half time Condobolin still held a slender lead. |
BLACKLOCK TAPS TIGER SPIRIT IN UPSET BID
Story By : Grant Robertson
 GROUP 19 FINAL GUYRA v TINGHA
TINGHA hopes its best season in nearly 20 years in Group 19 can continue at Guyra on Sunday and is calling on everything it has to upset the Superspuds and reach the grand final against Warialda.
The last time the Tigers played in a grand final they skipped the final thanks to a win in the major semi but their grand final dream ended at the hands of the Spuds.
That was 19 years ago.
"In 1988 we played in the grand final here at Tingha," Tingha president Chris Curtin said.
"That's the last time we've got to this stage in Group 19."
The Tigers might be coming from fourth this time but were impressive in last week's win over Armidale and have caused plenty of upsets this year.
The influence of captain-coach Nathan Blacklock has been immense and he is asking for a special effort from his side.
He's even called on some old Tingha players to talk to the team at training this week.
"Macca (Blacklock) is really keen," Curtin said.
"He's got a lot of pride to come back and do this for Tingha.
"He has said the last three games are the only ones that count and we're one down.
"We're really confident we can continue on this weekend."
They face a wounded Guyra side coming off a major semi-final loss to Warialda.
Guyra's forwards will be fired up but the Tigers want to stick to their natural game.
"I had a look at that game and it was really physical," Curtin said.
"If they start to get really physical we'll have to match them but at the same time keep that flair.
"When (Ray) Craigie or Macca take the ball to the line it will be a good chance for a try and we have to be ready."
The Spuds are also hurting in the injury department.
Jamie Vidler broke his thumb last week and they already have Luke Hutton, Mal Gaukroger and John Oehlers missing.
"You never underestimate Guyra but they are probably going through a little patch with injuries and we'll be at full strength," Curtin said.
"Hutton, Gaukroger and John Oehlers have been on the bench and there is talk they won't play but Macca has said we'll expect the lot to play."
For Tingha, Chris Seagrott returns to bolster the pack.
The under 18s begin the day with Warialda up against Guyra while the Spuds are also in action in reserve grade against Armidale. |
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| Eels coach Kelvin Nagas puts the boys through their paces at training yesterday afternoon. |
EELS BACK IN BUSINESS
Story & Photo : By Zane Jackson 
KELVIN NAGAS and other rugby league elders have resurrected the mighty Bundaberg Eels, the legendary indigenous team that once produced some of our town's best league talent.
Head coach Nagas said that after many years without an Eels team, Bundaberg's league elders thought the time was right to reinstate the community-based team.
"The whole idea is that we have a lot of young (indigenous and islander) guys coming through the ranks that play club rugby league, but can't play together in the one team," Nagas said.
"They come to the Eels in the off-season, keep fit and play together - it creates a good community spirit.
"Another important thing is that for a lot of these young guys, this is where they get their first taste of senior footy.
"The older blokes work with the younger guys and help them make a smooth transition into senior football." Formed in the early 80s, the Eels produced great talents such as former Canberra Raiders winger Ken Nagas, but became defunct in the early 90s.
But now the Eels are back and with an extremely healthy contingent of players in training, will head to a rugby league carnival at Hervey Bay on October 6 and 7.
"We'll be taking 30 boys down, we've had good numbers at training, and a few more guys working in Gladstone and Biloela who are keen to play," he said. "The tournament provides a good chance for all the boys to play together, guys that normally don't have the chance to play together.
"Not only does it get all the boys together, but all the partners are doing a lot of work behind the scenes and raising money." Any businesses or people that would like to sponsor the Eels or want more information, can telephone Kelvin Nagas on 0407 020 940 |
KINGSCLIFF BOYS READY FOR KNOCKOUT PUNCH TO CLAIM WESTMONT
Story By :  & 
KINGSCLIFF Public School is ready to put on the gloves one last time to claim the NSW Public Schools Sports Association's rugby league knockout championship.
Yesterday at Kingscliff the home side combined in an outstanding defensive effort to defeat the Hunter Valley's Windale Public 28-6.
They now face Young in the grand final in Newcastle on September 25 in the fight to take home the Westmont Shield.
According to Kingscliff Primary School principal and co-coach of the side, Kiernan Houlahan, the team's performance was the culmination of a lot of hard work.
"The boys have played through seven rounds to get to this semi-final and they made the most of their opportunity to go on to the grand final," Houlahan said.
The victory was very much a team effort, with everyone contributing."
The Kingscliff Public side, which boasts two state players in Myles Donnelly and Caleb Ziebell, ran in six tries to one, with Ziebell, Karl Lawton, Dominic Bailey, John Duncan, Ben O'Gorman and Brad Fuller crossing and O'Gorman and Trent Arnold each kicking a goal.
But Houlahan and co-coach Mike Donnelly will have to wait to prepare the side for its Newcastle encounter, with 10 players also heading to Sydney to compete in the NSW ARL Sevens state finals.
"That tournament is a round-robin event featuring 20 of the top sides in the state, with our boys in a pool which includes Goulburn, Central Coast, North Sydney and South Sydney," Houlahan said. "They could be playing as many as seven games in that tournament, so it will be a big test for them to back up."
Today Kingscliff High School hosts Cowra High in the high schools rugby league knockout semi-final, hoping to make it a Kingscliff double in Newcastle.
Both the University & Buckley Shields and Plates will be played on the same day as the Westmont Shield in Newcastle on the 25th. (Sept) Hunter SHS Vs Matraville in the Uni Shield & Westfields SHS Vs Hunter SHS in the Buckley Shield. Kingscliff plays Cowra at 10am at the high school grounds. |
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| TALENT TO BURN ... Justin O'Neill |
O'NEILL'S REAL DEAL
Story & Photo By : ADAM WATKIN 
THE Melbourne Storm have continued to show their faith in North Queensland's next rugby league prodigy.
Teenage sensation Justin O'Neill, who has been touted as the next Greg Inglis, recently agreed to terms with Melbourne for another two years.
The 16-year-old has come a long way since he first strapped on his football boots as an under-10 in Hughenden and he is now earmarked to play first grade by 2009.
Melbourne Storm general manager of recruitment Peter O'Sullivan said O'Neill was set to play an integral role in the club's future plans.
"At 16, mate, he is a wonderful athlete and he is very, very gifted," he said.
"Athletically he is certainly as good as every single one of those players (Inglis and Israel Folau) and probably quicker in some regards than Inglis."
The Cathedral School student was discovered by North Queensland Cowboys recruitment officer Clint Zammit, who was working for the Melbourne Storm at the time.
"He has progressed well since he was discovered but he has still got a long way to go because he'll have to mature, toughen up and hone his skills," O'Sullivan said.
"Once he gets to Melbourne I'm sure he will be able to do all that.
"He has got NRL written all over him so if he does the hard work he will play in the competition for sure."
Despite already training with the Storm squad, O'Neill said he was level-headed about taking on the sport as a profession.
"I haven't thought that far ahead ... I'll just try my best at the under-20s and see how far I get," O'Neill said.
"I'm going to miss Townsville and home out west. But I've been to two Melbourne training camps so far and I have seen what it's like.
"There is a lot to do to keep yourself occupied and all the other boys and coaches help you fit in."
Proud parents Nicole and Sean have supported their talented son through every milestone and in the end left the final decision up to Justin.
"We've talked it through and he knows how tough it is going to be," Sean said.
"He wasn't that keen to move away to a big city at first but he can see the benefits and now he is ready to take up the opportunity." |
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| Bears Forward Ryan Verlinden was unstoppable against the Knights on Sunday. Photo: Steve Little. |
WILLIAMS RETURNS TO THE BEARS TO FACE THE PANTHERS
Story & Photo By : Steve Little 
After 4 rounds of first grade footy, star halfback Joe Williams returns to the Bears side as they face the Panthers on Saturday at Leichhardt Oval.
Amid rumours of David Kidwells appearance in the Bears line up, Coach Wayne Lambkin has earned his keep this week with some difficult decisions to ponder.
Buddy Gordon and Michael Greenfield also return to the fold after qualification rules between the Premier League and the NRL made Jaimain Lowe & Shannon Hegarty unavailable for selection. The rest of the team remains unchanged.. Learn More |
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| Airborne try-time: A four-pointer to St Marys reserve grade player Chris White was a vital moment of the match in the Saints' thrilling 30-24 victory against Doonside. Picture: Gene Ramirez |
ST MARYS CELEBRATE GRAND FINAL BLITZ
Story & Photo By : Kylie Stevens 
A four-pointer to St Marys reserve grade player Chris White was a vital moment of the match in the Saints' thrilling 30-24 victory against Doonside.
STMARYS may need a bigger trophy cabinet after capping off a record haul of premierships on the weekend.
Having previoulsy won four premierships with the under7s first and second divisions, the 9/1s and 11/2s, the Saints added four more junior crowns at Western Weekender Stadium on Saturday with the under13/1s, 14/1s, 15/1s and 15/2s.
Celebrations kicked on at Penrith's CUA Stadium on Sunday with the Saints under17s, reserve grade and A grade also doing the victory lap of honour.
The under19s were also in grand final action on Sunday but didn't go home with the spoils.
"This equals the record 11 premierships the club won two years ago," said club coaching and development officer Jim Jones.
"Winning three out of four grand finals on Sunday is a pretty good effort by the club. With the under-15s and under-17s teams winning grand finals and under 19s as runners-up, it shows that we have a good supply of juniors coming through and that the club is in good hands."
More than 3000 people were at CUA Stadium for Sunday's grand final action.
The Saints under 17s kicked off the day on a high note with a 26-12 victory against St Clair, after a choppy first half which saw the Saints go to the break 16-12 up.
The under 19s were no match for Windsor in their 38-8 loss but scored two late consolation tries to help things.
The reserve-grade clash against Doonside was a nail-biting battle with the sides heading to deadlocked at 12-all at half-time.
The match continued to seesaw in the second half until the Saints' Steven Kowalin burrowed his way to the try line from dummy half with five minutes to go to give his side victory.
Saints A grade got off to a slow start in their match against Brothers. Down early, the Saints hit back to lead 12-10, thanks to a double from Adam McCrone. Everything went the Saints' way in the second half as Manu Asoava scored two tries to give them a hard-fought 30-16 win. |
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| West End centre Max Iosona breaks through the South Burnett defensive line. |
DASH SEALS BULLDOGS VICTORY
Story & Photo By : QUEENSLAND TIMES
THIRTEEN West End players jumped for joy and embraced each other after team-mate Lionel Foote skipped away to score the match-winning try during the under 18s elimination final on Saturday.
With 10 minutes remaining, Foote found the South Burnett defence napping under the posts to seal victory for the Bulldogs.
West End were holding on to a slender 10-8 lead at the time after bustling centre Max Iosona found his way through a tiring defensive line to run 80 metres and dive over shortly after half-time.
Both teams were a little flat-footed in the opening 30 minutes of the second half.
But it was the Bulldogs who found that extra something special, repelling wave after wave of attacking raids by South Burnett through sheer desperation and gutsy defence.
"The match was an extremely physical one and it has left the boys quite sore," coach Chris Scott said.
"South Burnett is a pretty big side and they hit extremely hard.
"We have been playing good footy the last couple of weeks and we are looking forward to our next match."
Iosona was a standout for the Dogs, continually breaking the line and troubling the Bushrangers defence every time he touched the ball.
"Our forwards as always got us up the field and laid a good platform for us to have a go at their line," Scott said.
"We knew if we kept at their line they would eventually crack. That's when Lionel (Foote) spotted their defence break and ran through to score.
"But full credit to South Burnett. They can defend and we had to find something special to get us over the line."
The Bulldogs now turn their attention to the preliminary final against minor premiers Fassifern on Sunday.
After two weeks off, the Bombers were no match for Swifts, who ran out 40-26 winners in extra time. That victory booked Swifts a spot in the grand final on September 23.
"Fassifern will be a whole new ball game," Scott said.
"We haven't beaten them at all this year so it is going to be a huge challenge for us.
"They have such a strong side and don't leave many gaps. But in saying that, we will turn up and have a real dig at them as we know what is at stake.
"Last time we played them we were right in the match up until half-time, but we couldn't complete enough sets and ran out of gas in the end.
"So we will have to improve, not only on that game, but last week as well." |
| NRL MEDIA RELEASE
The NRL is offering junior Rugby League pass holders free tickets to Saturday night’s Telstra Premiership Finals blockbuster between the Eels and Bulldogs.
For each junior Rugby League pass presented to Ticketek, each bearer of that pass will receive two free Category 3 tickets when they purchase an adult ticket.
This offer is available only in Category 3. An adult Category 3 ticket is $28.
This offer is available for pre-sales only from Ticketek outlets.
The adult ticket must be purchased at the time the junior pass is presented to ensure adjoining seats.
“It’s a way of rewarding our junior Rugby League base for their support of our game,” NRL Chief Executive, Mr David Gallop, said.
“It’s going to be a memorable event with two traditional rivals squaring off in an elimination final and the family atmosphere this offer will help generate will only add to that experience.”
The Eels and Bulldogs clash this Saturday, September 15, from 7.45pm at Telstra Stadium.
Tickets for the general public are on sale now. |
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| Shannon Hegarty barges through the Knights defense in his last match for the Bears in 2007. Photo: Steve Little. |
BEARS KEEP KNIGHTS SCORELESS FOR 80 MIN
Story & Photo By : Steve Little NTH Sydney Bears
North Sydney continue to be the in form side of the VB Premier League competition, running out winners 26-0 against Newcastle at Energy Australia Stadium on Sunday.
“It was a great win!” claimed Coach Wayne Lambkin “While we did not get into full swing in attack till the second half, we completely out played them in the forwards”.
It was hard slog, arm wrestle footy for most of the first half before young Ben Lowe crossed out wide in the 35th minute using some tricky footwork after a high ball from Eddie Paea put the Bears in good field position.
Dan Irvine sniffed out a gap in the Newcastle line and combined with Reece Simmonds who slid over beside the left corner post to give the Bears an 8-0 lead at the break.
A bullocking run by Jaimain Lowe found Beau Champion in the open as he raced to the corner of the in-goal to score. Eddie Paea hit the sweet spot with the boot from the side line and the Bears were 14-0.
Jaimain then scored himself battering over the line doing well to ground the ball. Eddie converted, 20-0 to the Bears. The Knights only looking dangerous when ex Bears Matt Thurston and Karl Johnston combined out wide.
The final points went to champion David Peachey who fended off his opposition, running in celebrating with a Billy Moore style finger wave to the fans.
Despite being a long way from home the Bears fans were out in force at Newcastle and gave the boys a well deserved send off as they headed to the sheds for the victory song.
Ben Lowe was ”outstanding“ according to Coach Lambkin and David Peachey and Troy Boston had big games.
Wayne also named Scott Geddes and Ryan Verlinden as standouts, non stop in defense and aggressive in attack. Late in the first half Ryan made 40 metres in a single barging run. But Wayne qualified their naming believing “It was a true team effort. It’s a 17 man game these days and to have the quality of players in the 14 and up positions is a major advantage under tough semi-final football”.
NORTH SYDNEY 26 (Ben Lowe, Reece Simmonds, Beau Champion, Jaiman Lowe, David Peachey tries. Eddie Paea 3 from 5 goals) defeated NEWCASTLE 0. Half time North Sydney 8-0.
The Bears will now play Penrith on Saturday 15 September at Leichhardt Oval at 4:00 p.m. |
 AXEMEN RETURN FAVOUR TO JAGUARS
Story By : Daryl Spinner Howard
The Jacksonville Axemen have found a way to try and return the support that the Jaguars have showed them over the last season and help a great cause at the same time.
Rick Kurtzo, who has been one of the Axemen’s biggest supporters for the past 2 years made contacted the Axemen to make them aware of a grassroots campaign that is being headed up to help the Jaguars sell tickets and more importantly do it in a way that helps underprivileged kids in Jacksonville.
Robb Chamberlin who is spearheading an effort said, “This will have three ways of benefiting the community.
The first way is that the organizations that are benefiting will have the experience of attending a Jaguars home game.
The second way is that the front office will sell more tickets to help ensure the future of professional football in the city of Jacksonville.
The third way is that the numerous people who are generous enough to contribute can feel good about helping out others in their community and helping preserve the Jaguars in the city.”
You can read the full story and help support the effort by visiting http://jaguars.scout.com/2/676594.html
The Axemen had reached out to the Jaguars for assistance in finding a venue to run part of their 2007 pre season training camp and the Jaguars donated the use of their turf practice field and their full support of the Rugby League effort in Jacksonville.
Spinner Howland said, “At the start of the season the Jags gave us the use of their practice fields and that was huge due to the high profile we promoted to attract new players.
We had a record turn out with 35 players turning up to the Stadium facility back at the start of the season.”
The Axemen jumped at this opportunity and have already made a donation to the effort.
Spinner went on to say, “It is hard for a small operation like us to find ways to help the Jaguars and say thanks for their support.
This effort gave us the perfect opportunity to give back something to them and also help our community.
With the limited budget we have to use you don’t often find things that are a simple “yes” when it comes to money, but his was a no-brainer.”
The Axemen are avid Jaguars supporters and made the Jaguar pre-season scrimmage part of the schedule of events for the visiting Jamaican team back in August. |
 PANTHERS WIN NSWRL CLUB CHAMPIONSHIP
The Penrith Panthers have highlighted the depth of their junior talent after taking out the NSW Rugby League Club Championship following outstanding results in each of the four NSWRL competitions in 2007.
In an historical achievement for the club, the Panthers secured the Club Championship after finishing second in the VB Premier League, minor premiers in the Jersey Flegg and SG Ball competitions, and second in the Harold Matthews Cup.
Finishing seven points clear from the second-placed Bulldogs club, the Panthers wrapped up their first Club Championship since entering the competition in 1967, after enduring a torrid NRL season.
Penrith will be presented with the Flowers Memorial Pennant following the post-match presentation of the VB Premier League Grand Final on Sunday, 30th September.
The Flowers Memorial Pennant was first presented some 68 years ago in 1930 to perpetuate the memory of a former President of the NSWRL, the Late Hon Fred Flowers MLC.
The NSWRL wishes to congratulate the Penrith Panthers Board and Executive, the football club staff, all the players, coaches and volunteers at the Panthers on an outstanding 2007 season.
The NSWRL Club Championship is contested over the four NSWRL competitions; Harold Matthews Cup (U/16yrs), SG Ball (U/18yrs), Jersey Flegg (U/20yrs) and VB Premier League.
The club with the highest aggregate points at the conclusion of the competition rounds is declared the NSWRL Club Champions. |
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| The under 16 Cowboys at training this week. The boys are the only side to reach a grand final this year. |
U16S LOOK FOR GRAND FINAL WIN
Story & Photo By : Adam Ryan, President
As the only local side to reach a grand final this year, the Wellington under 16 Cowboys are fired up for a win this weekend.
In what is set to be a blockbuster game, the juniors will do battle against the Dubbo St Johns Club under lights, with kick-off at 6.30pm at Apex Oval this Saturday.
It seemed Dubbo had it all their way in the senior group 11 games so our young cowboys are ready to upset the Dubbo trend and bring the trophy home.
For some of the squad, it will be their last game in the junior league before stepping up to under 18s next year. Some of the lads are even off to the big smoke as they have signed up with NRL clubs for the 2008 season.
Going into the finals, the Cowboys had three sides all looking like grand final contenders with our 12s, 14s and 16s.
Unfortunately our 16s were the only ones to make it to the final stage.
The junior Cowboys have had a good season, filling five full sides each week in 7s, 9s, 12s, 14s, 16s.
I would like to thank all the people who have showed support throughout the year including sponsors and parents who have helped out in one way or another.
A big thanks to Tom Peckham, Denise Barwick and Phillipe Bell - if it wasn't for these people there would not be junior league in Wellington as their time and effort kept the club afloat.
It would be good to see a huge crowd in maroon and white cheering on our young champions as they represent our town on Saturday night and hopefully bring home the goods.
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| CONCENTRATION: Will Nowlan looks to get the ball away during the under 16 Cherrypickers win over Wagga Kangaroos |
PICKERS SLAUGHTER ROOS
Story & Photo By : 
IT was culling time at Fisher Park on Sunday as the Sullivan Cup 16's rugby league side downed their more fancied opponents the Wagga Kangaroos 24-0.
It was a great defensive effort by the 'Pickers as they continually stood firm against any thing the Roos threw at them, with continuous up beat talking from all players on the field especially fullback Codie Freeman.
From the outset Young ran hard and it wasn't long before Jordan Mclean made good meters and Chevy Maloney went close to scoring. They did go in first though when a wide move saw Brad Slater score in the corner.
Young, for the second time off the kick off, let the ball bounce and gave the Roos a sniff, but the Pickers held them out for four sets and with this went on the attack and a flying Maloney, from a great ball from, Tom Mulquiney scored midway.
Alex McSpadden converted and the score 10-0 with eight minutes to go.
Young started the second half the same as the first with Mclean and Mulquiney combining to make great ground and Mulquiney went wide and got a wide ball to Freeman who went over in the corner to make it 14-0 with 26 to go.
With 17 left on the clock Brad Veeney made a break and from the next play Brad Slater curved his way over the line and McSpadden's conversion put Young in a controllable lead 20 to 0.
Young's big fella Alex Slavin finished the Roos off completely with a barn-storming run and try to complete a great effort from the Sullies side.
The bench players all played well with Will Nowlan putting in a 100 per cent effort in defence along with John Dunn, Omar Assoum and Peter Griffith.
The player's player went to Jordan Mclean, who was a hand full for the Roos side with his hard running all game.
This week's game is at Tumut on Sunday and is against Wagga Brothers, with the winner going straight into the grand final in two weeks time.
The ‘Pickers defeated Brothers last time they met, but will have to lift to greater heights and intensity if they are to win as the Brothers side is lightening fast and showed this last time they met when their three tries came from within their own half.
If Young can show the same determination and defence they did against the Roos they could be booking a finals birth after this Sunday at Twickenham Oval. |
 OPPOSITION TOO STRONG IN FINAL
Story & Photo By : 
The Wingham Tigers under 13s went into Saturday's rugby league grand final at Jack Neal Oval attempting to make it their fourth premiership on the trot, but were unfortunately outplayed on the big day by an impressive Camden Haven Eagles outfit. Early in the match, the boys were dominating the play with some great defence across the paddock.
But even with a barrage of strong runs, the Tigers could not break the defensive line and the Eagles soon scored a try against the run of play.
Right on the half time hooter the Eagles scored again to go to the break leading eight points to nil.
The second half did not start well for the Tigers with Camden Haven scoring early and converting to lead 14-nil.
Unlike last year, there was to be no fairytale comeback, and with the boys now tired in defence, the opposition scored twice more to run out winners by 26 points to nil.
Although a lopsided scoreline, the boys can hold their heads high, considering this was the first time we have been held to a nil score and only the second time a side has scored more than 20 points against them in eight years.
All 19 players are to be congratulated on their efforts, but on the day, big Jacko was the best, making plenty of yards to the end.
He was well supported by Mitch Slaven and Matt Prior, with none better than Daniel Howe in defence.
Tyson Lewis was always safe at the back, although he had to make many tackles.
Parents and supporters are thanked for their great support,
Without them it would not have been such a successful or rewarding season. |
UNDER 13S GRAND FINAL UPSET
Story By : 
GRAND final! A special day full of excitement, anticipation and nerves for the eighteen team members of the Muswellbrook Under 13s. With a home game and a large crowd to support them, the game against Belmont was a great display of rugby league.
An early try to Belmont put the Muswellbrook side on their guard that this was not going to be an easy game. After some tough defence work Muswellbrook answered back with a try from Jacobe Dowell and a great conversion from the sidelines by Angus McNeil to bring the score to 6 – 6. Belmont managed to break Muswellbrook's defence with another try which Clayton Ellis followed up with a try for Muswellbrook after a great run through the middle of the field and Jacob Pottinger flawlessly converted to take Muswellbrook to the lead 12 – 10 at half time.
With another try from Belmont to start the second half Muswellbrook answered back with Nargic Whitby scoring to bring the score to 16 – 14. Belmont's fighting spirit again broke through the Muswellbrook defence and brought the score to 16 – 20. Muswellbrook pulled together to continue to drive forward against Belmont to the end.
With one minute left on the clock Muswellbrook appeared to overcome the nerves that had followed them through the game to put on a back line move that saw some great passing and resulted in the ball being put down over the try line.
Unfortunately this was not to be as the try was ruled a forward pass and as the final whistle went the Muswellbrook boys went down to Belmont 16-20. |
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| Zac Newcombe crosses for Gunnedah in their University Shield victory against Dubbo College yesterday. |
GUNNEDAH OUTGUNS DUBBO BOYS
Story & Photo By : GRANT ROBERTSON 
Gunnedah High School is 70 minutes away from its first University Shield title after another inspired performance in front of a huge home crowd yesterday.
The Gunnedah boys won a David and Goliath battle against Dubbo College 33-10 in the shield semi-final at Kitchener Park.
The visitors had a big size advantage over Gunnedah but the home side hurled the first rocks early in the contest.
On the back of some good field position little winger Brad Newman slid over in the right corner after a short-side play started by Kyle Northey after five minutes.
Zac Newcombe threw the last pass for the first try and it was he who made it 8-nil to Gunnedah after 20 minutes when he found space following some great lead-up work from Farran Lamb and captain Trent Hilton.
Northey then sprang from dummy half and squeezed the ball over the line to extend the lead to 14-nil after Kyle Gallen's conversion and Gunnedah led 14-nil at the break.
Dubbo finished the first half with several chances but the Gunnedah defence stood strong.
That good defence continued early in the second half and when Dubbo fullback Brad Marks dropped a Gallen bomb Hilton took advantage with a try in the 34th minute to push the lead to 20-nil.
Dubbo got on the board when halfback Josh Merritt chased a Jordon Boney kick in the 48th minute.
But Gunnedah made it 24-6 after 56 minutes when Matt Smith scooted over in the left corner off a Judd McDonald flick.
David Nicholls hit back for Dubbo in the 62nd minute but the game was well out of reach, especially when Gallen slotted a penalty goal to make it 26-10 with less than five minutes on the clock.
They weren't finished though.
Hilton made a break down the left hand flank and found a flying Jie Smith who not only finished brilliantly but thrilled the delighted crowd with some acrobatic celebrations.
His try came with just two-and-a-half minutes to play but Gunnedah put the icing on the cake in the final seconds when Gallen struck a field goal to make it 33-10. |
 UNDER 11S DO US PROUD
Story & Photo By : 
The Harden junior league club would like to congratulate Ashley and the Harden/Boorowa under 11's for their great effort in the game on Saturday.
Although not winners of the game all the boys are winners in the club's eyes for the way they played but most importantly for the way they accepted their defeat.
PHOTO : Patrick Cross bringing down a Cootamundra player with support from Josh Logue, Tyrell McCullagh, Nick Heywood, Josh Potts and Patrick Gaudie. Picture by Martin Lang. |
UNDER 10S FLYING THE FLAG FOR LEAGUE
Story By :
Parkes Marist have only one chance of winning a junior rugby league title tomorrow.
The under 10s earned a spot in the grand final after coming through the season as undefeated minor premiers.
Up against Condobolin, the Parkes boys know it will be a tough game but the commitment, dedication and effort they have put in to each of their games and at training should stand them in good stead.
The club wishes the boys the best of luck and hopes that everyone enjoys themselves and plays good footy.
The under 7 and 8 teams will be able to enjoy the grand final day atmosphere when they take part in round robin games prior to the kick off of the competition games at 10am.
Round Robin games will kick off at 8.30am and all players are reminded to get there in plenty of time for the scheduled games.
Unfortunately, Parkes had three teams knocked out of the finals last week. |
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| STRONG TACKLE: A Dragons Under 16 player is tackled by Kandos defenders in the final home game of the season at Cahill Park. |
A ONE-SIDED CONTEST
Story & Photo By : 
The Dragons Under 16's proved too classy when they played their last home game of the season at Cahill Park on Saturday, August 25.
Their opponents were the Kandos Under 16's and the match was a one-sided affair, with the final score being Mudgee 74 - Kandos 6.
Despite the loss, the Kandos boys can hold their heads high as they had only 11 players for the match and not once did they contemplate forfeiting.
They played a very competitive brand of football and the result could have been very different had they had a complete team in attendance. Their sportsmanship on the day was also of a very high standard and a credit to their coach, parents and club.
The Mudgee Junior League held its Appreciation Night for the Under 16's on Saturday night, with the night's proceeds going to help the boys have an end of season weekend away.
This team has just played its final game on Cahill Park, next year they take the step up to Under 18's in the main Group 10 competition.
The evening was full of fun with auctions, games and a trivia quiz held on the night.
The support for the evening was fantastic, with over 100 supporters turning up to officially show their appreciation to the out going Under 16 team and wishing them all good luck for the upcoming final series.
On Saturday (September 1) the Under 16's (minor Premiers) travelled to Lithgow to take on Bathurst St Pats in the major semi final. St Pats are the only team to have beaten the Mudgee boys this season. |
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| Zac Merritt steams down the sideline during last Sunday’s grand final. |
MERRITT NAMED IN INDIGENOUS SIDE
Story & Photo By : 
Red Bend Catholic College student and Forbes Magpies junior captain Zac Merritt has been named in the Australian Indigenous Under 18s rugby league squad to tour New Zealand next month.
The Year 12 student, who captained the junior Magpies to a thrilling Group 11 premiership last Sunday, was one of 21 young indigenous footballers to be selected for the tour.
The Indigenous Under 18s will play three matches on tour; against the New Zealand Maori Under 18s, Taranaki and a curtain-raiser to the one-off test between the Kangaroos and New Zealand.. Learn More
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| Zac Merritt playing for RedBend College this year (Photo : Redbend College/ourfooty media) |
FORBES’ MERRITT, HODGE
The Group 11 rugby league nursery has been well documented and we will be watching with anticipation to see how Zac Merritt develops with the Canberra Raiders.
The Forbes lock on Sunday won the under 18s premiership with Forbes and was the Dubbo RSL Player of the Year, but the Dubbo RSL best in the grand final was awarded to the Magpies No.7 Michael James Hodge.
Zac Merritt is the son of former Group 11 player and coach Barry Merritt who lost two first grade grand finals to Wellington but picked up one with Cowra in Group 10 in 1995.
Zac's football for the season isn't finished just yet as he is heading to Christchurch in New Zealand with the Australian Indigenous Junior side to play New Zealand on October 2, the main preliminary game before the Australian versus New Zealand Test match. |
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| Dubbo College’s outstanding fullback Brad Marks caught by the Engadine defence during their quarter-final win. The Dubbo boys are hoping for the same success at Gunnedah today. |
TOUGH FORWARD MAY LEAD WAY INTO FINAL
Story & Photo & :
SCHOOLS LEAGUE: Dubbo College's outstanding running forward Andrew Madden is expected to be singled out by the Gunnedah High School defence in the University Shield open boy's semi-final today.
Madden's try-scoring abilities would have been easily recognised by the Gunnedah people, especially after he completed a hat-trick in Dubbo's 32-30 victory over Engadine High in the quarter-final a fortnight ago.
Then on Sunday in the Group 11 under-18s grand final, Cronulla Sharks-bound Madden was one of Dubbo CYMS best players. But while he scored one of CYMS three tries, the Fishies finished short of the mark being beaten 18-14.
Dubbo coach Craig May is looking forward to the semi-final today with a couple of vital team changes.
"Josh Merritt gets his chance in the run-on side at halfback following the suspension of Kurt Fuller by the Group 11 judiciary," May said.
"As you know Josh is one of the up-and-coming halves in Dubbo and while he's only 15 he plays well above himself and won't let the side down.
"We also have Ryan Medley fully fit after injury and he will play in the centres with David Nichols.
"All things considered we have played well to get this far but have probably mixed our form.
"We had a big start against Granville before winning 26-20 in the last bit, then against Engadine we came back from 18-4 down to get up 32-30."
May conceded Gunnedah would be difficult to beat on their home turf and with a strong side of experienced representative players.
"From what I know Gunnedah was big winners over Freshwater from Manly, South Grafton and Chatham from Taree and are strong across the park," May said.
"Back-rower Trent Hilton is a State CHS rep and there were four or five in this year's Group 4 under-16s that came here to Dubbo for the Country Championships.
"But we're looking forward to the game and to giving it our best shot."
Dubbo College: 1 Brad Marks, 2 Josh Ahsee, 3 David Nichols, 4 Ryan Medley, 5 RJ Gray, 6 Jordan Boney, 7 Josh Merritt, 8 Anthony Egan-Smith, 9 Jeremy Smith (c), 10 Andrew Madden, 11 Jake Josephs, 12 Cameron Winter, 13 Max Ray. Bench: Craig Pearson, Tim Armstrong, Luke Woodham, Brray Murray, Mark Wade, Matt Marks and Jeremy Smith. |
 GRAND FINAL: SEARCH FOR A STAR!
Rugby League’s One Community is searching for a junior Rugby League star to be the face of the game’s next century in the pre-match entertainment at the Telstra Premiership Grand Final.
Players from Under 6 through to Under 8 teams this season are eligible to be nominated with one lucky youngster to walk out in front of more than 84,000 fans as the ambassador of the game’s future as the Grand Final celebrations look ahead to next year’s Centenary.
The winner will receive two corporate hospitality tickets to the Grand Final and rub shoulders with Rugby League’s elite stars in a tribute that celebrates the game’s heroes, achievements and aspirations.
“This is a once in a lifetime opportunity,” NRL Chief Executive, Mr David Gallop, said.
“This player will be representing all our junior players and the future of our game.
“I encourage everyone to nominate players worthy of such an honour.”
Nomination forms are available on the One Community website: www.rugbyleague.com.au/onecommunity
Nominations close September 14.
The NRL Telstra Premiership Grand Final will kick-off at 7pm on Sunday, September 30, at Telstra Stadium |
 WESTFIELDS INTO BUCKLEY SHIELD GRAND FINAL
Story & Photo's By :
Westfields SHS will play Hunter SHS in the 2007 Buckley Shield grand Final after defeating old enemy Endeavour SHS on Tuesday at the Morrie Breen Oval, Wyong.
Westfields were just too good for Endeavour winning the Final 5 Tries to 1, the actual score was 24 - 6.. Learn More about WESTFIELDS SHS
WESTFIELDS ROCK INTO BUCKLEY GRAND FINAL
Story By Westfields SHS Photos By : ourfooty media
Westfields Sports 24 v Endeavour Sports 6
What a great game by our team, they took control from the kick-off and remained in charge till the final whistle.
The first half was a free flowing game with only 2 penalties given by the referee.
The first try was scored by Fraser and converted by the very safe boot of Jacob who had another all inspiring game at lock.
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| Endeavour SHS Buckley Shield Team (Photo : ourfooty media) |
The next try went to Guston who receive a pass from our halfback Sam and stepped through six defenders to score from 20 metres out, again Jacob converted taking the scrore out to a lead of 12 points to nil.
Not long before halftime Endeavour's dummy half passed the ball which went through three sets of hands for their second rower to run 20 metres for his, and his team's only try which was successfully converted to give the opposition their 6 points.
Half time score Westfields Sports 12 Endeavour Sports 6.
The second half started the same as the first, with just 5 minutes on the clock when Tyron crashed over for his try, the conversion attempt met Jacobs boot sweetly guiding it through for a further 2 points. Score Westfields 18-6
I don't know who the coaching staff selected as man of the match but I feel sure Jacob must figure in their considerations, he played a big part in his teams success not only in theis game but throughout the season.
It was Jacob who scored our last try and again converted it for a perferct display of goal kicking.
Tries: Fraser, Guston, Tyrone & Jacob.
Goals: Jacob 4 form 4. |
 HUNTER SHS TO FACE THE MIGHT OF MATRAVILLE IN UNI SHIELD
Story & Photo's By :
Matraville SHS went through to this years University Shield Grand Final when The Hills SHS forfieted the game.
While Hunter go to play Matra after a very tight victory over a young Endeavour SHS at Wyong on Tuesday.
Hunter had a good lead at half time, the second half saw Endeavour pile on the point to make the score 32 - ALL, so we went into extra time for 5 minutes each way.
Endeavour were 1st to score in the southern corner to take the lead for the 1st time in the game to lead 38 - 32 after the successful conversion.
But the brilliant comeback by Endeavour was short lived when Hunter scored 2 quick tries to take the game.
Now Hunter will face the might of Matraville Sports in the University Shield Grand Final on the 29th Sept '07 in Newcastle.
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 NRL MEDIA RELEASE
DALLY M PLAYER OF THE YEAR: JOHNATHAN THURSTON (COWBOYS)
The Cowboys’ Johnathan Thurston has ridden home on the back of a spectacular final five matches to claim one of the most thrilling Dally M Medal races in the event’s 27-year history.
It was Thurston’s second Dally M Player of the Year Award, having first taken league’s most prestigious individual honour in 2005.
Prime Minister John Howard presented the award at the Sydney Town Hall this evening while a stunned Robbie Farah could only wonder what might have been.
Farah had opened a crushing lead in the medal count when voting went behind closed doors after Round 16.
He needed just one vote in the final round to claim the prize but a crippling hip injury made his finish to the season a struggle too desperate to overcome in the eyes of the judges.
Farah did finish with the award for the 2007 Dally M Hooker of the Year.
Not content with claiming the major prize, Queensland players dominated the awards claiming nine of the 15 while the Melbourne Storm’s collection of four awards was the most by any club.
The 2007 Dally M Award Winners are:
| DALLY M PLAYER OF THE YEAR: |
Johnathan Thurston (Cowboys) |
| Fullback: |
Matt Bowen (Cowboys) |
| Winger: |
Jarryd Hayne (Eels) |
| Centre: |
Justin Hodges (Broncos) |
| Five-eighth: |
Darren Lockyer (Broncos) |
| Half: |
Johnathan Thurston (Cowboys) |
| Lock: |
Dallas Johnson (Storm) |
| Second-row: |
Anthony Watmough (Sea Eagles) |
| Prop: |
Steve Price (Warriors) |
| Hooker: |
Robbie Farah (Wests Tigers) |
| Captain: |
Steve Price (Warriors) |
| Coach: |
Craig Bellamy (Storm) |
| Rep Player: |
Cameron Smith (Storm) |
| Rookie: |
Israel Folau (Storm) |
| Provan-Summons People’s Choice: |
Nathan Hindmarsh (Eels) |
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 BOYS' CHANCES BOOSTED BY TOP COACHING EXPERTISE
Story By : 
WESTERN Suburbs Magpies have stepped in to support a Macarthur region high school rugby league team on the path to success.
Former player and development officer Harvey Howard has given the Eagle Vale High School under-14 rugby league team the benefit of his experience, both in Australia and England, to boost the boys' chances in the Buckley Shield.
So far the tactic has worked, with the Eagle Vale team now in the final eight (quarter-finals) of the state-wide competition.
The school will be out in force at the team's sudden-death match this Thursday at Campbelltown Sports Stadium from 10.30am.
The boys will take on Kingscliff High School from the far north coast.
Coach Phil Saunders and assistant Kent Lawrence believe the team has a real chance of progressing to the semi-finals.
"The school is very grateful for the invaluable coaching support it has received from Harvey Howard," Saunders said. |
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| De La Salle - Under 14A 2007 PREMIERS |
A GRAND FINAL FOR THE TRUE BELIEVERS!
GRAND FINAL MATCH REPORT BY : Grant Drinkwater
This game had everything. Great play, great drama, energy and excitement to burn and above all else great sportsmanship and skill.
My friend and business partner from Tahiti, Chris O'Callaghan came over to watch the game. Chris is the contest director for the Billabong Pro in Tahiti, friend to most of the worlds top 44 surfers and a rugby league tragic.
He's the only person I know who surfs Teahupoo almost every day and is able to watch live NRL games as well. Now that is living in paradise!
ANyway, Chris said to me after the game it looked to him like De La Salle played with nothing to lose and everything to win.... and win they did!
Cronulla Caringbah came out of the blocks strongly got some good field position. They got the ball going wide through the hands with a quick offload to Stacey put him into the gap and he used his pace to score about 10 m wide of the posts.
Cameron Paddy used his golden touch with the boot to put it over the black dot again. Sharks 6-0.
De La Salle kicked off but through a some good defence managed to get the ball back in good field position as well. With their backs sitting very deep they were able to get a good roll on with their backline movements.
They too spread the ball wide down their right flank to a speeding Andrew Montgomery.. Learn More |
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| Patrician Brother College, Blacktown celebrate their victory over the star studded Queensland Champions Palm Beach Currumbin |
ARRIVE ALIVE CUP
Story & Photo's : By Santo Passarello
Breaking News: Patrician Brothers’ College Blacktown qualifies for the FINAL of the Arrive Alive Cup.
In the Semi-Final they defeated the Queensland champions, Palm Beach Currumbin, 26-10 in front of 20,000 spectators at Dairy Farmers Stadium in Townsville on Friday 31 August (this was the curtain raiser to the Bulldogs v Cowboys NRL game)
FINAL:
Saturday 22 September / Sunday 23 September (depending on NRL Finals) Patrician Brothers’ College Blacktown vs Matraville Sports High
BACKGROUND OF THE COMPETITION:
The Arrive Alive Cup Rugby League competition started in 1975 as the AMCO Shield. The most exciting highlight for schools is the opportunity for both the players and the schools to be featured in TV matches. The profile of the competition has grown so much over the years, it is now the premier competition in Schoolboy Rugby League.
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| Try time to Patrician Brothers in the Arrive alive Cup in Townsville |
This competition may have started out small, but now it's absolutely mammoth! Nearly 450 schools compete in the knockout competition throughout New South Wales, Queensland and Victoria.
In the beginning, the TV matches were played and recorded as the early game to the mid-week knockout competition. Then the midweek Panasonic Cup died out and Friday Night Football was born on Channel 9. Arrive Alive Cup television matches are now played prior to the Friday Night Football match and are shown on Channel 9 in the weeks leading up to the NRL Finals Series.
Some fantastic NRL footballers have emerged from The Cup and thousands of other players have had the chance to both pump up and show off their skills on TV.
The "Peter Sterling Medal" has been awarded annually to the Arrive Alive Cup "Player of the Year" since 1996. |
 RED DEVILS : WE HAD 3 TEAM INTO THE GRAND FINALS
Story & Photo's By : Boobee (Red Devils)
UNDER 10/1,S V SOUTH NEWCASTLE
a team that has hammered as all season, we won 12 to 0
the game was played at the new sporting complex at salamander bay
the boys were way too good, the defence won them the game, they tackled in 2 & 3 and guarded the line as if there life depended on it
UNDER 12/3,S V SWANSEA
which was a draw so they are joint Premiers, the game was played at stockton
UNDER 15/4,S V SINGLETON
a team that we had not beat all year, we won 30 to 20, the game was played at muswellbrook in the upper hunter
so we got the boys a bus for the trip, it was a very slow trip home with 6 stops on the way now that valo won the grand finals |
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| Valentine Eleebana Red Devils 2007 U 15 Premiers |
Gymea Gorilla's - 2007 U 15 Premiers |
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| De La Salle Caringbah Under 12A's celebrate winning their Grand Final |
Cronulla Caringbah - 2007 Under 17's PREMEIRS |
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AMERICIAN RUGBY LEAGUE TO GET A HOP ON
The two teams that will visit Jacksonville in Jan of 2008 have both secured finals (play offs) spots in each of their respective competitions in Australia and the United Kingdom.
This past weekend seen the end of the regular season in the Australian NRL, and South Sydney has clinched the number 7 spot and will go into the finals rounds for the first time in 18 years.
Given that the Rabbitohs have finished in the bottom to 2 spots for the past 5 seasons and have not seen a
Championship in over 30 years, the turn around since the take over by Russell Crowe and Peter Holmes a Court is nothing short of incredible.
Souths will face the team from Manly this coming Saturday (Australian time) and given the background and perception of each team it should be one of the best games in recent years.
South Sydney has it's traditions rooted in the working class areas of Sydney and has a strong connection with the "True Blue" Aussie battler, while Manly is an upscale beach town and has enjoyed a lot more success in recent years and is considered by many to be a "silver spoon" team.
It is the classic battle of Blue Collar versus White Collar and although the days of old may seem more divided than the reality of todays game, tradition still hold very strong within the Rugby League world and like most places, the normal guy like to see the underdog get up against the odds.
To keep up to date on the plight of Souths you can check out www.souths.com.au
The Leeds Rhinos have also secured a finals appearances in the Engage Super League in the UK. With 2 rounds left to play the Rhinos are sitting at number 2 on the ladder and would seem to have some "manageable" games to
close up the regular season.
Leeds have been a very successful club over the recent years and have a long history in being one of the most supported clubs in the UK.
They have also won the World Club Challenge as recently as 2005.
You can stay up to date on the Rhinos chase for another title in the UK at www.leedsrugby.com
All of this adds up to the game in Jacksonville drawing even more international attention as both teams are becoming powerhouses in the sport of Rugby League around the world. Putting 2 such teams in the city cements that Jacksonville is the Home of Rugby League in the USA. |
 PATRICIAN BROTHERS STILL ALIVE
MISSED opportunities and uncharacteristic errors have killed off Palm Beach Currumbin’s Arrive Alive Cup dreams, Queensland’s last remaining hope sinking 26-10 against Patrician Brothers Blacktown in the national semi final.
The 2007 Australian final will now be played between Patrician Brothers and heavy favourite Matraville Sports High in Sydney, with the date to be determined by NRL finals scheduling.
Patrician Brothers were never headed on their tropical jaunt, jumping out of the blocks with a converted try to Siosaia Vave.
PBC did find a right of reply through balanced ball-runner Anthony Flores to trail just 6-4, but then conceded the next two tries to give Patrician Brothers an unassailable edge.
Frustrating long-time coach Rod Patison, the Gold Coast outfit made numerous breaks, only to surrender possession with impatience and relieve the pressure on the opposition.
Half Kayne Lawton in particular was a danger, splitting the line regularly with deception and pace.
Right on halftime Palm Beach managed to surge over through fullback Jordan Rapana, one of his school’s best this year.
Rapana then added the kick for a 16-10 deficit at the break, providing an element of hope.
The first 10 minutes of the second half saw both sides go scoreless, but PBC continued to be its own worst enemy.
Elementary errors like surrendering a scrum against the feed and failing to find touch from a penalty cost the Queenslanders badly.
A big and powerful Patrician Brothers did not look the gift horse in the mouth, with Vave bullocking over for a second try 18 minutes before fulltime.
Not to be outdone, teammate Patrick Mataele also posted his second try of the game in the shade of the hooter, extending the final margin.
To qualify as Queensland champion, Palm Beach had earlier beat St Brendan’s Yeppoon 30-6 and Keebra Park State High 14-6.
Only two Queensland schools have won the national competition since it began in 1975, with those wins coming in 2001 (Palm Beach Currumbin SHS) and 2002 (Wavell SHS).
 PATRICIAN BROTHERS COLLEGE BLACKTOWN |
26 - 10 |
 PALM BEACH CURRUMBIN
SHS |
TRIES : Siosaia Vave 2, Patrick Mataele 2, Jesse Sina-Lafoe
GOALS : Matthew Wright 3 |
TRIES : Anthony Flores, Jordan Rapana
GOALS : Jordan Rapana |
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 ST MICHAEL’S KALEEN WIN SULLIVAN SHIELD
Story & Photo By : Canberra Raiders
A jam packed year of Primary school rugby league culminated in a great finals day at Northbourne Oval on Thursday morning, when St Michael’s Kaleen won the final and most prestigious competition on offer for 2007 at this level, the Sullivan Shield.
Raider’s stars Tom Learoyd-Lahrs and Michael Dobson were on hand to present the awards to all the days’ winners, and congratulate all those involved.
St Michael’s Kaleen defeated St Gregory’s Queanbeyan by 10-0 in an exciting final, which brings the end of what has been another big year of rugby league in the ACT at the primary school level.
In a thrilling final it was St Michael’s who managed to score the winning two tries, in the full field 13-a-side format competition.
In the other matches earlier in the day it was St Anthony’s Wanniassa who defeated St John’s Apostle Florey 28-12 in the trophy final, while the combined Nicholls Side defeated St Francis Calwell by 48 – 4 to decide the plate winners.
In the Cup final it was North Ainslie defeating Macgregor by 24-0, while an action packed girls league tag final saw St Francis Assissi defeat Bungendore 3-1.
After a huge year of junior rugby league Canberra Raiders ARLD Officer Brad Donald said it was a great way to finish the competition, and he thanked all of the teams who were involved, not just the winners.
“Congratulations to all the teams that played today, and to all the teams who played over what has been a great semester of junior rugby league,” Donald said. “We have had over 50 schools play over five days of carnivals during this semester, and we thank all of the participants, teachers, coaches, volunteers and referees for their help.”
Donald said the standard of competitions this year are some of the best he’s seen at this level, and he looked forward to doing it all again in 2008.
“The Sullivan shied has once again been a great way to follow on from the seven a side competitions earlier in the year, and we hope all of the teams will be back bigger and better next year.” |
GOLDEN EAGLES FLY INTO GRAND FINAL
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MUSWELLBROOK Football Club's under 12, under 14 and over 35's teams have kicked their way into grand final contention.
It is a significant achievement for the club's under 12s side in their first season together.
The youngsters will take on Scone this weekend in the grand final.
The club's under 14s team will take on Valentine, while the over 35s will go for glory against Garden Suburbs to play in their third grand final in four years.
At this stage the club, which recently changed its name from Muswellbrook Soccer Club to fall in-line with Football Australia, is reporting no injuries to any of the players, so full teams will be fielded in all three grades.
For those wishing to cheer the over 35s on a bus will be leaving the Prince of Wales Tavern at 11.30am on Saturday.
The cost is $10 per head or $20 per family. |
SCHOOL FINALS AT THE OVAL
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FLASHY skills and rock hard defence was the order of the day as Salter Oval hosted five hotly-contested Bundaberg Secondary Schools Sports (BDSSS) grand finals last week.
First on the field was the electrifying 13-years final between Shalom College and Bundaberg State High School (BSHS).
The 40 minutes was a tough affair as both teams took time to adjust to the pace of the game, with BSHS taking an 8-6 lead into half time.
However, the second half was a different story as Ben Lanskey inspired his team to post five unanswered tries in the second half and run out 30-8 winners.
In the 14-years division, Kepnock State High School were too good for BSHS, playing a smart brand of league to win 30-10.
Luke Leggett tried his hardest, but Joel Fagan and his Kepnock team-mates were too strong all over the park.
Shalom College claimed their second premiership of the afternoon when their 15 years team beat North Bundaberg High School.
The North boys tried hard, but man of the match Joe Trost combined well with his Shalom team mates to give them a win.
A rampaging St Luke's outfit took home the second division trophy with an impressive 34-4 defeat over Rosedale State High School, with Cruz Adams drawing the plaudits.
The highly-anticipated open boys clash was as tough as expected, but the BSHS players were rewarded for their consistency all year with a 20-12 win over Shalom College.
Corrie Gilbert gave the Shalom team headaches all game and was awarded with the man of match. |
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| Mackillop College win this years BRADLEY CLYDE SHIELD (Yrs 9 - 10) |
MACKILLOP COLLEGE WINS CLYDE SHIELD
Story By :  Photo By : Mackillop College
Mackillop College has taken out the top honour of winning the Bradley Clyde Shield (years 9-10) this year, after their impressive 10-4 win over St Francis Xavier at Northbourne Oval on Thursday.
Leading 4-0 at half time, Mackillop were tested by the St Francis side when scores drew level mid-way through the second half, but a late try sealed a win in what was a very entertaining game of Rugby League.
The Shield which is named after Raiders legend Bradley Clyde was presented by Clyde himself following the match, and he said it was great to see such a fine game of football.
“It was a good tough game and a real honour for Mackillop as they are now the best year 9-10 team in the ACT,” Clyde said. “It’s also a great honour for me to be involved with this shield, and I thank you for having me here today.
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| Melba High School win this years RAUTER SHIELD (years 7-8) |
In the Rauter Shield final (years 7-8) earlier in the day it was Melba high who ran out victors, with a golden point 20-16 win over Caroline Chisholm.
With the scores level at 16-16 at the end of full-time it was a long range try which sealed the win for Melba, as they managed to take home the shield.
Bradley Clyde was also on hand to present the Rauter Shield, and congratulated Melba on their win.
“It’s great to see a school from my old area North Canberra get a win so congratulations to Melba high,” he said. “Also congratulations to Caroline Chisholm for turning up and giving us a fantastic end to a great competition.
The two finals were the culmination of three days of round robin competitions involving around 50 schools from the Canberra Region.
Raider’s junior development officer Leigh Woodbridge said the numbers show strong interest in rugby league in Canberra, and thanked all schools for their participation.
“Today’s two finals show us the great amount of talent there is in Canberra,” Woodbridge said.
“Thank you to all schools for participating and we hope to see them all again next year, with maybe some new schools as well.” |
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| Young Brad Lupi has gone from U18s to U20s in 07 and is hopeful of a spot in the 08 National U20s comp. Photo: Steve Little. |
END OF AN ERA AS NORTHS FLEGG PLAY THEIR LAST MATCH
Story & Photo : Steve Little
On Friday night at Bear Park Norths Flegg Coach Will Leyshon and his team will bid farewell to 2007 and more!
With the introduction of the National Under 20s competition next year which will be managed by ex North Sydney first grader Michael Buettner, The North Sydney District will no longer field an under 20s representational side.
But all is not lost - quality North Sydney Flegg players are vying for a spot in next year’s South Sydney Under 20s side as the Bears and Bunnies link becomes even more important to the future of the North Sydney District.
The Jersey Flegg were impressive on last Saturday night against the Sydney Roosters, taking the match with a 28-18 Victory. Willie and the team can consider themselves unlucky this season, with several games lost by 2-4 points hindering their semi-final chances.
And so the boys will be looking to finish on a high big enough to represent the last of the Bears under 20s sides.
Meanwhile the North Sydney Premier League side have confirmed their premiership credentials with a comprehensive performance over the second placed Tigers last Sunday.
Shannon Hegarty steps up to the NRL giving young Flegg player Greg Nichols a spot in the backline on Friday night against the Bulldogs. A win will possibly promote the Bears to 3rd position on the ladder and hand the Club a home semi final!
Friday August 31 North Sydney Oval
Jersey Flegg V Canterbury-Bankstown at 5:30 p.m. - Premier League V Canterbury-Bankstown at 7:00 p.m. |
BABE BLITZES OPPOSITION
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The BABE (Bingara, Ashford, Bundarra, Emmaville) 16 years' rugby league team defeated a combined St Joseph's (Oberon) and St Patrick's (Blayney) team in the state semi-final of the Country Rugby League Cup.
The team played outstanding rugby league to win the match 28-4 at Coolah.
The BABE team is made up of eight boys from Ashford, five boys from Bundarra, five boys from Emmaville and one boy from Bingara Central Schools.
The BABE team led from the start to the finish and their outstanding defence was the foundation on which the victory was built.
The entire team was committed in defence and tackled with great aggression to overcome their size disadvantage.
Lance Epple (Emmaville), Kyle Hartley (Ashford) and Adam McPhilips (Emmaville) were punishing in defence.
With the ball the BABE team played to their game plan perfectly and dominated field position and point scoring once the game opened up.
Chris Lewis (Ashford), Daniel McClellan (Bundarra) and Morgan Boney (Ashford) directed the BABE attack to perfection and the hard running of George McMullen (Bundarra), Corey Baker (Ashford) and Adam McPhilips punched holes in the opposition defence.
Leading 14-4 at half time BABE had been by far the better team but were only leading by a small margin. Try scorers in the first half were George McMullen (2) and Toby Woodward.
Early in the second half, the class of Daniel McClellan showed when he scored three quick tries to put the game out of reach of the Oberon/Blayney side.
Daniel also kicked one goal in each half.
The win was a great reward for a great team effort by all players. The best players for the BABE team were Daniel McLennan and George McMullen (Bundarra), Adam McPhilips (Emmaville), Morgan Boney, Chris Lewis and Corey Baker (Ashford).
The Ashford Central School team members were: Tyler King, Jake Lennon, Michael Sepping, Kyle Hartley, Morgan Boney, Chris Lewis, Corey Baker and Toby Woodward. Congratulations boys!
The BABE team will now play Murrumburrah High School in the state final of the Country Rugby League Cup at Dubbo on August 15.
The BABE alliance has played together since 1997 and have won the 13 years division of the Country Cup in 2004 and 2005. They have never been past the semi-final stage in the 16 years division.
They did reach the semi-finals in 2006 but were beaten in extra time by Coolah Central School who went on to win the final easily.
In 2007 the team has played Warialda High School, Holy Trinity (Inverell), Bowraville Central School, Woodenbong Central School and St Joseph's (Oberon) and St Patrick's (Blayney), scoring a total of 104 points while conceding just 20 points.
The team is hoping to win the first BABE 16 years state title. |
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REDCLIFFE 
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 
