SCHOOL RUGBY UNION STARS VIE FOR STATE HONOURS

Up to 220 rising football stars from across the state are competing in the Queensland School Sport 18 years-and-under Rugby Union Championships in Brisbane from today.

Education and Training Minister Rod Welford said Sunnybank Rugby Union’s newly refurbished Biggs Rugby complex would host the competition from Thursday 31 May to Sunday 3 June.

“Our Government recently provided more than $700,000 to fund refurbishments for the club, providing players with first class facilities,” Mr Welford said.

“I’d like to congratulate each of these young athletes on their achievements, and wish them every success at the four-day championships.

“The students will be divided into two pools and play a round robin style competition with the final being contested on Sunday.

“This event provides a great opportunity for these young footballers to compete at a high level while meeting and sharing experiences with their peers from across the state.

“I have no doubt some of these budding young stars will follow in the footsteps of Jeremy Paul, Lote Tuquiri and Matt Cockbain who all played in these championships before launching their professional careers.”

Ten sporting regions will be represented at the championships—Metropolitan East, Metropolitan West, Metropolitan North, Northern, Peninsula, Capricornia, Wide Bay, Darling Downs, South Coast and Sunshine Coast.

Following the championships, two teams will be selected to compete at the Queensland Schoolboys Rugby trials. A squad will then be selected to represent Queensland at the Australian Schools Championships in Canberra in July.

Media contact: Marnie Stitz or Emma Clarey on 32371000