Junior rugby players from Forster, Nabiac, Gloucester and Tareejoined more than 30 junior teams from around the state gathered at Coffs Harbour’s International Stadium to take part in the Coffs Challenge last week.
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The organisers of the three-day rugby carnival, the NSW Waratah’s had a simple message: “Let the kids play and embrace the core values of the game of rugby of inclusion, respect, pride and accountability.”
Sending teams from the Lower Mid North Coast area was part of the strategic plan to form a junior rugby union competition in 2019.
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Under the direction of junior coordinator for the Lower Mid North Coast Lee Sullivan and Waratah development officer Tom Davidson, an under 10s team and an under 12s team were entered into the challenge.
Training took place at the Wallamba Bulls homeground in Nabiac prior to the event.
“The players have been full of energy,” coach, Lee Sullivan commented.
“They have loved learning and taking part in the sessions. What has been impressive is the support from the area.”
Over the course of the carnival, teams played eight free-flowing, highly competitive matches.
“For the local teams, defence was a highlight,” Lee continued.
“I can’t believe how well they defend. My team never gave up, it was a great effort from all the players. They certainly displayed a real hunger out there.”
The local juniors played well against teams who compete regularly and train weekly, a fact that had coach Daniel Sawyer excited.
“I was very impressed with the quality of the players, considering they do not play in a weekly competition the team was outstanding,” Daniel said.
The under 12 side went through the challenge without losing a game. Standout performers were Hamish Wilson, Ned Bush, Macauley Morris and Dylan George.
The under 10 team managed to improve each day and finish the carnival with a great result against St Augustines. Tanaka Gray, Noah Dodds, Mason Bending and Jackson Jay played especially well.
“The challenge was not about winning, we had a focus on participating, however I was extremely pleased with how well we could compete and play some outstanding rugby,” Lee added.
“What this tells me is that the region is ready to have a weekly junior competition in 2019.
“I will now be preparing this and with early interest from sponsors I am very excited.
“The future for rugby is on the up in the Lower Mid North Coast.
“With the introduction of the women’s rugby competition the game has never been better.
“The work being done by Waratahs development officers, Tom Davidson and Kirsty Schumaker is instrumental to this continued growth, and they are currently doing a wonderful job.
“The strong commitment of the MNCRU Board means the zone is wanting to see the game thrive in the Lower Mid North Coast.
“It would be great to one day have a locally produced Wallaby.”