SCHOOL TOUCH STARS VIE FOR STATE HONOURS

More than 280 young touch stars from across the state are converging on Cairns to compete in the Queensland School Sport 12 years-and-under touch football State Championships from tomorrow.

Education and Training Minister Rod Welford said the Cairns Touch Association grounds at Aeroglen would host the four-day championships from Friday 31 August to Monday 3 September.

“Twelve sporting regions will compete in the championships which will play out as a round robin competition,” Mr Welford said.

“At the end of the competition a girls’ champion region and a boys’ champion region will be awarded.

“The students will also play a skills challenge where two players compete against one to try and score a touchdown in a compacted area.”

Mr Welford said the championships provided a great opportunity for young athletes to compete at a high level while meeting and sharing experiences with their peers from across the state.

“I'd like to congratulate all of the competitors on their selection in the regional teams and I wish them every success at the championships,” he said.

“Each of the players has been selected for their hard work, talent and skill.

“I’d also like to thank the dedicated teachers, coaches and school staff who have worked hard to make these championships a success.”

The sporting regions represented at the championships are – Capricornia, Darling Downs, Metropolitan West, Metropolitan North, Metropolitan East, Northern, North West, Wide Bay, Peninsula, South West, South Coast and Sunshine Coast.

A girls state team and a boys state team each consisting of 12 players will be selected to compete at the School Sport Australia National Touch Championships, to be held in Melbourne in October.

Media contact: Emma Clarey on 32371000