Crows dreaming for local players
More than 50 juniors head to carnival
‘‘ I BELIEVE WE’RE GOING TO BE VERY COMPETITIVE. WE USUALLY GET SELECTIONS IN MOST SIDES AND IT’S GOOD FOR THE KIDS. BRAD STEER
There is a distinct Garden City feel to the South West Mustangs as they venture west to Chinchilla.
As the junior sides prepare to push their case for Crows selection at this weekend’s Central Region Junior Carnival, an incredible 55 players from Toowoomba and the TJRL will fill roster spots across five divisions.
They will come up against teams from Central Queensland, Sunshine Coast and Wide Bay in the hope of progressing through to the State Junior Championships in July.
Mustangs co-ordinator Brad Steer said all players would get a lot out of the experience of travelling and playing together.
“They’re a combination of Toowoomba, Warwick and South West players,” he said.
“As far as representation goes, it’s a stepping stone to Central Crows jerseys, and that’s what they’re going for.
“I believe we’re going to be very competitive. We usually get selections in most sides and it’s good for the kids.
“Some go the schoolboys way but a lot aspire for the Mustangs, and it’s a step in the ladder.”
Steer said he was particularly impressed with the numbers of aspirants putting their hands up to play in the U14s and U16s girls teams.
“Last year every girl that trialled in 14s went and this year we probably had double the numbers to pick from and some girls missed out,” Steer said.
“It’s (girls rugby league) really grown, especially with what has happened in Toowoomba. It has pushed it along quite well.
“I’ve been involved with the Mustangs for about 11 years, and to see what it is now, it is gathering a lot of steam.”
While the overall goal is to represent the Crows, Steer said players would be able to take a great deal out of the weekend and mixing with other teams.
“The most important thing is to see the kids enjoy themselves and learn something along the way,” he said.
“It builds camaraderie. They can be a bit stand-offish at the start, but end up swapping gear at the end of it. The games are played in the right spirit.”
Saturday fixtures: Mustangs vs Capras - 13 boys 9am, 14 boys 10am, 14 girls 11am, 16 girls 12pm, 16 boys 1pm. Mustangs vs Falcons - 13 boys 2pm, 14 boys 3pm, 16 girls 4pm, 14 girls 5pm, 16 boys 6pm.
Sunday fixtures: Mustangs vs Bulls - 14 boys 9am, 13 boys 10am, 14 girls 11am, 16 girls 12pm, 16 boys 1pm.
All South West Mustangs games will be streamed live on the Central Rugby League Facebook page.