Father-daughter duo lighting up TRL media
RUGBY LEAGUE: The Cherry doesn’t fall far from the rugby league tree in Oakey, and a young woman is the latest to make her mark.
If you’ve been following the Toowoomba Rugby League’s Facebook page, you would have noticed a new face conducting post-game interviews.
What started as a pilot video back in February with her cousin Braydon Schilf has turned into an unexpected opportunity for Giaan Cherry.
With a background in public speaking and as the current school captain at Oakey State High School, she has taken to the microphone like a duck to water.
“Dad has been doing it for ages so I did one and it blew up on Facebook a few months ago,” she said.
“It’s all new to me. When dad asked I was happy to give it a go, and see if something comes my way.
“I remember watching my two brothers play when I was younger. We have always been involved in it (league).
“I’ve always been involved in public speaking, am able to speak up for things and am excited and willing.”
While still getting the hang of the art of the interview, Giaan said she had been helped along the way by the welcoming nature of players in the league.
“A lot of players have been really good, and they know I’m new to the TRL,” she said.
“When you ask more about themselves they tend to open up a bit.”
The Cherry name has been synonymous with rugby league in Oakey, with 1929 the earliest record of the surname playing in the black and white.
In recent years, her cousin Aaron has been a leading light for the Bears, including taking
‘‘ TO SHARE A COMMON INTEREST AND SPEND TIME WITH GIAAN, THERE’S NOTHING BETTER. NEVILLE CHERRY
out the Player of the Year award last season.
Giaan’s father Neville describes the feeling of being able to work alongside his daughter as superior to that of running out onto the field.
“To share a common interest and spend time with Giaan, there’s nothing better,” Neville said.
“She never played, and I don’t play any more, but there’s a spot in the rugby league community.
“It’s better than playing, and it’s like a brand new career.”