Stalwart happy to be back with Brothers
injuries are the bane of any amateur or professional athlete’s life but Brothers stalwart Patrick Williams is taking his recent misfortune in his stride.
“It’s probably prolonged my career a little bit,” he said.
It’s been a few years since Williams has managed a full season in FNQ Rugby.
He bought his business in 2015 which limited some playing time, then the past two years have been interrupted by “minor” injuries, like a broken finger, coming at the wrong time in short campaigns.
But Williams, who late last year was elected as president of Brothers Rugby Union Club, has always been committed to the 15-man code and his beloved butcher’s stripes.
“I’m always keen to have a run around. It’s my outlet outside of work so I’m definitely keen for it,” Williams said.
“I have missed a couple of games each season since but I’ve still been heavily involved. “It’s been a year or two.” Starting his rugby career as a hooker, Williams shifted to halfback in 2008 when player numbers dipped.
He’s never looked back, becoming a key cog in Brothers’ playmaking ranks as the
Brethren sought to end a now 15-year premiership drought.
“I can pass both ways and I like to boss people around the field,” Williams said with a laugh. “In reality, I’m probably more the build for a halfback than a hooker.
“It’s probably prolonged my playing career a little bit, the fact I’m not in the front row anymore. I certainly enjoy being able to turn my neck on Sunday mornings.”
A lack of numbers at training has started some alarm bells, with Brothers committed to fielding two teams this year.
FNQ Rugby has already drawn up draft fixtures with Brothers in both A-grade and reserve grade competitions, and the team is actively looking to attract more men to preseason training at Stan Williams Park.
Williams is confident.
“It’s looking all right, we’ve got a lot of guys with work and rep commitments at the moment,” Williams said.
“We’ve been doing a lot of … searching for new players to bolster numbers, and it’s something the whole competition needs to do to bring more fresh blood into the sport.
“Hopefully that will pay off in a couple of weeks.”
editorial@cairnspost.com.au facebook.com/TheCairnsPost www.cairnspost.com.au twitter.com/TheCairnsPost