True inspiration for youngsters
THE effect Johnathan Thurston has had on the future of rugby league cannot be overstated.
Townsville Junior Rugby League chairman Bert Petersen says Thurston, in his 14 years at the North Queensland Cowboys, has had more impact on young players than anyone he has ever seen.
“Just about every kid running around playing rugby league today has been inspired by what he’s done,” Mr Petersen said.
“Particularly the younger kids – they all look up to him and try to be like him.”
Mr Petersen said Thurston’s advocacy for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people made him especially appreciated by young indigenous footballers.
It is hoped that when the champion halfback hangs up his boots at season’s end, he might have the time to come along to some junior games and cheer on the youngsters who look up to him.
“We’ve never been lucky enough to have him come down to the junior league here,” Mr Petersen said.
“He has always had other commitments. He is pretty busy of course. But the kids remember these type of players for a lot of years.
“When Matty Bowen first retired he used to come down here and the kids used to just flock him every weekend … maybe it will be the same with JT.”
However, ask any of his young fans and they wish their favourite player would change his mind and continue on for many seasons to come.
“Thurston is my favourite player,” 11- year- old Moleke Prior said. “He needs to stay on … I would like to convince him not to retire.”
Nine- year- old dummy half Kyan Wetherall said it “wasn’t good” that JT was retiring.
“He is a role model for everyone and I like his kicks,” Kyan said.
Thousands of young footballers were at 1300SMILES Stadium last night to cheer Thurston on.
There are more than 3000 junior rugby league players in Townsville and there are never games on a Friday night when the Cowboys are at home.
“We always put those games off so the kids can go to the Cowboys games,” Mr Petersen said.