YOUNG CRICKET STARS IN TOOWOOMBA FOR STATE TITLES

School cricketers from all over Queensland will converge on Toowoomba this Sunday (3 December) for the Queensland School Sport 14 years-and-under state championships.

Teams from 10 Queensland school sporting regions will contest the championships at 10 locations in the Toowoomba region from Sunday until Thursday 7 December.

Minister for Education and Training, Rod Welford, said the rising young cricket stars had been selected from thousands of hopefuls to represent their region at state level.

"About 130 young Queenslanders will be bowling, batting and fielding during the three-day event," Mr Welford said.

"I want to congratulate each of the players on their selection and wish them every success on the field representing their region.

"I would also like to thank our dedicated teachers and school staff who have given considerable time and effort to make the championship a success."

Ten of Queensland's 12 school sporting regions will be represented at this year's tournament – Capricornia, Darling Downs, Metropolitan East, Metropolitan North, Metropolitan West, Northern, Peninsula, South Coast, Sunshine Coast and Wide Bay.

Mr Welford wished the students an enjoyable tournament, both on and off the field.

"It's a great opportunity for these young athletes to compete at a high level while meeting and sharing experiences with their peers from across the state," he said.

“I also want to thank the many teachers who have supported the young cricketers at school and encouraged them to pursue their sport.

“The participation of our school children in sport at school, and with junior sporting clubs, will help them develop a love of active lifestyle which benefits the whole community.”

At the conclusion of the Toowoomba championships, a Queensland state side will be selected to compete in the 15 years-and-under School Sport Australia Cricket Championships to be held in Canberra from 24-30 March, 2007.

Media contact: Greg Milne or Marnie Stitz on 3237 1000