High school rugby league stars vie for state honours

High school rugby league stars from across the state are converging on the Sunshine Coast from today (Thursday 8 May) for the 15-years-and-under Queensland School Sport Rugby League State Championships.

Education and Training Minister Rod Welford said the rising young footballers had been selected from thousands of hopefuls to represent their region at state level from today until Sunday 11 May.

"Competitions like this have given valuable experience to our successful rugby league icons like Alfie Langer and Jonathon Thurston,” Mr Welford said.

"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.

“Students participating in the championship deserve congratulations for being involved in sport, particularly with 2008 being the Year of Physical Activity.

"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."

More than 240 players from 12 sporting regions will hit the field during the four-day championship, though students from the North West region will be part of a composite team from other regions to make up numbers.

The 12 sporting regions are Metropolitan West, Metropolitan North, Metropolitan East, South West, Wide Bay, Capricornia, Darling Downs, Northern, North Western, Peninsula, South Coast and Sunshine Coast.

At least 20 students from Redcliffe State High School will also assist volunteers and officials during the championships.

“I want to extend a big ‘thank you’ to schools and parents who have agreed to billet students for this event, with more than 50 players being billeted this year,” Mr Welford said.

The 15-years-and-under National Rugby League Championships are being held in Wynnum between Saturday 28 June and Friday 4 July.

Media contact: Marnie Stitz or Emma Clarey on 3237 1000