Emus talent set to shine
RUGBY LEAGUE: While some greats of the game will take centre stage, the next generation of Indigenous talent will get to shine.
The Southwest Queensland Emus will field five teams at the Jack Martin Centre on Saturday night as a precursor to the Legends of League fixture.
The Chronicle looks at the 25 most exciting players to watch for the Emus this weekend.
UNDER 14S
Players to watch: Christopher Nevin, Cohan Nevin, Riley Jackson, Shaun Elara, Hayden Baker
A diverse and wide-ranging group comes together to make up the U14s Emus, including the Nevin brothers Christopher and Cohen who will make the near five-hour journey from St George.
Shaun Elara is a previous Highfields junior Eagle of the year, Chinchilla’s Hayden Baker has made rep teams previously and Riley Jackson is a previous Mustang.
“The Nevin twins from St George are definitely ones to watch on the weekend, they combine the skill of rugby league with a country toughness and great attitude,” Emus president Gary Halliday said.
“Young guns Hayden Baker, Riley Jackson and Shaun Elara have great passion for the game and possess the skill to take it to the next level.”
UNDER 16S
Players to watch: Amdes Saunders, Tait Cameron, Shontayne Prince, Nate Davis, Shannon Elara
Another group with players from all over the southwest, including Amdes Saunders, Nate Davis and Shontayne Prince from a talented St George Saints team.
Souths hooker Tait Cameron is smart around the ruck and Shannon Elara is part of one of the most talented families on the Downs, making a name in his own right.
“Our young Western Clydesdales representatives are keen to represent their culture this weekend. Hopefully setting the standard and aspirations for all young Emus’ players to continue to chase your dreams,” Halliday said.
“Shontayne Prince and Nate Davis are very skilful players both strong in their positions.
“Shannon Elara is the younger brother of recently signed Wests Tigers recruit Sam Elara, with all the potential to follow in his brother’s footsteps.”
UNDER 18S
Players to watch: Jovyn Johnson, Kaleb Stanton, Rueben Tatow, Zac Brown, Preston Brown
This could very easily be the most talented squad to ever be assembled for the U18s Emus.
Dalby captain Jovyn Johnston was a revelation in helping his team win the TRL U18s title this season and Preston Brown just as influential for the Eagles making the decider.
Oakey’s Kaleb Stanton was good enough to make his A-grade debut, Zac Brown was named as Highfields’ most consistent U18s player and Rueben Tatow was strong for the Western Mustangs.
“This star studded list sees all but one player representing the Western Clydesdales this year and the other chasing his dreams elsewhere,” Halliday said.
“They’re a very skilful bunch of players who have been a part of the Southwest Qld Emus programs for a few years now.”
WOMEN
Players to watch: Poppie Collins, Karly Mitchell, Kiara Taylor, Rosie Parsons-Gibbs, Anthea Moodie
The inaugural TRL women’s season has given the Emus women an ideal platform to showcase their skills across the year.
Rosie Parsons-Gibbs brings a veteran influence to the side, as does Karly Mitchell who are both previous Valleys Fillies players.
Poppie Collins is one of the young guns in the side, representing the Mustangs U17s this year.
Anthea Moodie is a crosscode star who had a good year at the back for Newtown, alongside teammate Kiara Taylor in the front row.
“With the women’s competition commencing this year, our Emus ladies have stood out in the competition for their respective clubs,” Halliday said.
“It may not be the NRLW but the young sister of new Warriors recruit Ash Taylor, Kiara, will be leading by example from the front on Saturday afternoon.
“She will be well supported by Karly Mitchell and Rosie Parsons-Gibbs, while young gun Anthea Moodie will bring an electrifying energy.”
MEN
Players to watch: Alex Hinch, Blake Appo, Austin Jennings, Cory McGrady, Callum Ward
There’s an exciting blend of youth and experience for the men in their quest to take down the Bunyas.
Brothers flyer Austin Jennings has been keeping active in the off-season, winning a sprint at the Postle Gift in Pittsworth.
Highfields’ Blake Appo and Valleys winger Alex Hinch possess similar lightning fast pace, while big Callum Ward looks ready to get the job done upfront.
Cory McGrady has cemented himself as one of the best players in the region and adds a wealth of experience to the side.
“With a handful of our men backing up from the recent Sunshine Coast Bunyas inaugural KO in Nambour hosted by Brad Beetson and his wonderful committee,” Halliday said.
“Young guns like Alex Hinch, Blake Appo and Austin Jennings are three speedsters to watch.
“Like every good team they need a leader and Cory McGrady brings this to the team, providing guidance for our young forwards like Callum Ward.”
Action gets underway with the U14s kicking off proceedings against the Sunshine Coast at midday on Saturday at the Jack Martin Centre.
The club will also be auctioning off a signed Sydney Roosters jersey to raise funds for an injured player at Nambour.
To purchase tickets call Gary Halliday on 0427 666 594.