The weekend saw round 6 of the Central Highlands JRL season played across the region.
Middlemount hosted the Gemfields at home and President Scott Lonergan nominated two players worthy of mention for the Player of the Day. Firstly in the Under 10s Prue Peters played well above her weight according to Lonergan. “She is never frightened to tackle anyone and can be relied on to always be there to defend.” In the Under 12s, it was daughter Haylea Lonergan who earned her Dad’s praise. “Haylea was a ‘metre eater’. She tackled stongly and made good metres in attack.”
Dysart hosted Springsure in the 6s to 12s and Clermont in the 14s and 16s age groups on the weekend. Secretary Jackie Kalinowsky nominated full back Brodie Hagens in the Under 16s as the stand out player. “His defence was amazing. He was committed in defence and instrumental in saving tries.” Hagens also played a strong role in attack making metres with every run. “His support play was outstanding as it is week in and week out. It is what we have come to expect from Brodie.”
Emerald Tigers hosted a successful day against Blackwater and club President Craig Barsby found it difficult to nominate one standout performer due to strong performances from players across different age groups.
“The under 12s saw Brett Perkins consistently doing strong forward runs all game which set the platform for the rest of the team to work together for a win while in the under 14s, Dylan Rowe stepped up as a team leader helping to guide all the players and keep the structure the coach is wanting.” But Barsby made special mention of Under 16 player Tyler West. “He is always a consistent player and continues to give 100% for every minute of every game.”
Under 16 Coach, Brett Weatherley was also full of praise for West. “Either in cover defence or his explosive ball running, he can be a game changer for the Tigers. He led from the front with his defence and kept the boys focussed on securing the win over a strong Blackwater Crusher’s side. Along with some of the other senior players, Tyler is the bench mark for attitude and enthusiasm at training and on game day.”
Last word this week goes to Danny Allen from the Peak Downs Pirates who hosted the Emerald Brothers on the weekend. “We actually nominate the entire Under 8s team for the Player of the week.” Many of the players found it a little daunting to step up from Under 6s to Under 8s but Allen said they have transitioned well. “They show a lot of discipline for a young side. They all work together and have become a great defensive side. It’s impressive to watch.”
Round 7 this weekend, and the Juniors will be kicking off in Emerald, Peak Downs, Clermont, Blackwater and Dysart.
