So far in 2013 4 Tigers Juniors have Debuted for A Grade Tigers and have not disappointed. Each player adding to the Men’s team in their own way.
First to make their Debut was Connor Jones. He started well in his first match playing in the Duroux Shield. The Shield is the Tigers biggest game of the regular season against cross town rivals the Emerald Cowboys. He started off the bench but has now become a regular fixture in the team at Half/Five-Eight. Connor has impressed in both Rugby League and Union this year. Just recently Connor was selected in the Bushrangers squad. This squad is picked out of Rugby Union teams from CQ, Far NQ, Mackay, Hervey Bay and Bundaberg. He has also represented Capricornia u18’s Union and Central United u18’s league. In September Connor is hoping to make the Queensland Country Squad when he faces off against Gold Coast, Sunshine Coast, Darling Downs and Townsville at the State Titles.
Josh Johnston Debuted Against Last Years premiers Peak Downs Pirates. He Debuted well off the Bench and slotted into the back row well. His defence was solid making an impact. Lately a persistant leg injury has kept him out of the side. Josh also made the Bushrangers squad. Josh has just got back from Brisbane after receiving the “Pierre de Coubertin” award. This is given to School students how show leadership, sportsmanship and excellence in a variety of sports. Josh has also represented CH in league and union aswell as being in the Brisbane Broncos Elite Development program.
Koby Scott was next to Debut. A late call up after being heavily involved in a 60 point win 2hrs earlier for his Junior side. Koby come off the bench into the hooker role and in one stint made 14 tackles in less then 10 mins. Koby was inline to come into the starting side the following week at hooker for A Grade due to injuries but a accident at training also sidelined him for several weeks. Soon to be back on the paddock for his junior club and pushing for A Grade selection.
Sebastian Stiegler is the latest of the Debutants to where the Green and White. Sebby debuted on the wing against the previously undefeated 2012 minor premiers Clermont Bears. Understandably a big task, Sebby warmed to the occasion after being notified of his selection 20mins before the bus left and picking up his gear on the way. Starting on the wing he was tested early by the Bears halves putting up bombs and kicking to his corner. Sebby performed well and didn’t back down. His selection comes after good Junior form which warranted his Debut. In 2011 he represented the Queensland Indigenous squad.
His Brother Lloyd also Debuted for Tigers A Grade at 17 and was one of 3 sent to Brisbane to Join the East Tigers Colts system in 2011. This is a affiliate system which gives our juniors a pathway to higher levels footy in Brisbane. You may see some of these lads join that system if their on field and off field performance and work ethic warrants selection.
Another u18 Tiger trialled in 2012 and was invited into the 2014 East Tigers Colts system. Nick Devine trialled well at the end of 2012 but was not added to the 2013 Easts roster due to the side already being full. Nick is currently attending University in Brisbane. Because of his young age he was invited to join the Brisbane team the following year.
The affiliation with Easts Tigers has been a great leg up for our juniors and will continue. We have also welcomed back one of our 3 juniors placed into colts in 2011. Whetu Austin who played numerous games for the Brisbane club returned home on loan recently and has played great footy for the Tigers. Whetu has been on the scoreboard in every game and has also picked up doubles and a triple try haul.
East Tigers R.L.F.C
www.thetigers.com.au
