The Queensland Rugby League North rebel State Development Series for under 15 boys saw some exceptional talent.
Players from across Far North Queensland, Townsville, Mackay and the Central Highlands - who participated in their local RISE program in 2023 - showed off their talents and skills that will help them going forward in footy and in life in Townsville September 29-30.
Let's find out more about some of the participants.
William Dickens – Mackay
William plays his junior footy for the Sarina Crocodiles. He has been at the club for 10 years and this year received a special 10 years' service jumper given to longstanding players.
He got into rugby league because he was a "rough and tumble" four-year-old, which his parents thought would suit him to the game.
William's aspiration is to push towards a Cyril Connell Challenge opportunity with the Mackay Cutters and play school representative footy in 2024.
Tyreze Samuel – Far North Queensland
Tyreze has been playing rugby league for five years for Cairns Brothers and is currently a centre, but loves giving any position a go.
This well-rounded athlete began his sporting journey in soccer as a six-year-old, before heading off to basketball. He decided to give rugby league a go when his dad took up coaching and absolutely loves it.
This tall timber juggles footy commitments with representative basketball, while also working towards a goal to be selected in the Northern Pride Cyril Connell Challenge team.
Tyreze, a Warriors supporter, has enjoyed his second year in the RISE program in 2023 and the opportunity to experience a higher level of rugby league at the Rebel carnival, in which he has excelled earning a player of match award during the weekend.
Laru Neliman – Townsville
Laru hails from the Abergowrie Warriors, who participate in the Townsville competition.
This hard-running forward loves playing front row as he enjoys running the ball into contact and being in the thick of defence.
Laru has been playing rugby league for two years after being inspired by his aunty and uncle, Sareka Mooka and Laru Mooka.
This is Laru’s first year in the RISE program, which has improved his fitness, skills and allowed him to meet many new friends and coaches. This confidence has now led himself to set a goal of being selected in the Townsville Blackhawks Cyril Connell Challenge team in future, and he would love to one day play for the Redcliffe Dolphins.
Jorja MacDonald – Referee
Jorja is one of the outstanding young referees of the Townsville District Rugby League Referees Association.
The 16-year-old has been a match official for four years and her love for the game has come through her family having a long association with rugby league, with her role giving her a sense of belonging.
Jorja has officiated more than 50 games this year in club and school footy, including the under 12 schoolboys nationals.
She is committed to inspiring young referees coming through and actively encourages more players to take a whistle and have a go.
Jorja has been enjoying the QRL North rebel State Development Series and the positive attitude of players, while also being able to improve her game with the help of referee coaches.
