The opportunity to see some of the best talent in the state taking part in the Waratah seven’s State Cup being held for the first time in the Great Lakes, is very exciting.

This event attracts over 60 teams from across the state, and includes both girls and boys from under 13’s to 17’s.

Having such a prestigious event in our backyard has led to the Lower Mid North Coast juniors entering a boys under 13’s team, a first for the junior game.

Guided by coaches Lee Sullivan, Jim Wilson, Daniel Sawyer and Aaron Dodds, the boys have been training over the last month and are looking forward to the challenge of playing against sides from traditional rugby zones.

The side is full of potential, Hamish Wilson has shown a lot of class and has developed a formidable combination with the Bush brothers Ned and Dan, along with the craftiness of Macauley Morris and the determination of Lucas Pope.

Training has thrown up a few surprises, young Brodie Coble and Price Crane, players with loads of potential are strong and agile, both will need to be closely watched.

Flyer Dylan George is gifted with pace and try scoring potential.

Newcomers Bailey Duffy, Jim Lawler, Jye Casey and Tye Lumtin have fitted well into the squad.

After a very successful Coffs Challenge and the growing interest from the Mid North Coast Rugby Union, the zone under the direction of Manager Bob Wilson and Waratah Development Officer Tom Davidson, feel the time is right to grow the game in the area.

After the successful LMNC women’s competition in 2018, where five teams were represented producing excellent crowd numbers during the final series, the game has never been in better shape.

In 2019, a junior competition will be established and will be played in Forster, Nabiac and Gloucester every Friday Night for six to eight weeks with a ten-a-side format.

The age groups will be from under 10’s through to under 14’s.

Further information will follow this event.