School league stars set for intrastate showdown

School rugby league players from across the state are converging on Chinchilla this week (from 26 June) for the Queensland School Sport 12-years-and-under rugby league state championships.

Education and Training Minister Rod Welford said 204 young Queenslanders had been selected from thousands of hopefuls to represent their regions at the State Championships.

"I congratulate each of the players on their selection and wish them every success on the field," Mr Welford said.

"This is a fantastic opportunity for our young footballers to compete at a high level while sharing experiences with their peers from across the state.”

Teams from all 12 school sport regions will compete at Chinchilla Bulldogs Rugby League Club from Thursday 26 June until Wednesday 2 July.

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

Players who have competed in past championships include league legend Wally Lewis and current NRL stars such as Darren Lockyer and Jonathon Thurston. Another league legend, Alan Langer, will have his son Harrison competing at the carnival.

Mr Welford said these were the first Queensland School Sport Rugby league championships with participation from girls. Two girls have earned selection, one in the Metropolitan East team and one in the North West team.

Teams will compete against each other in a round robin before playing across pools, with ranking matches being held on the final day.

From the carnival a Queensland team will be selected to contest the National Exchange to be held in Darwin in August.

Mr Welford said the team would be hoping to continue its dominance at the national level and retain the Gary Balkin Cup from New South Wales for the third year running.

“I would like to take this opportunity to acknowledge the efforts of all coaching and support staff, in addition to the event organisers,” he said.

“I would also like to thank all the dedicated parents, teachers and coaches who have supported and nurtured these talented footballers over the years.

"I wish all the teams the very best representing their region."

Media contact: Marnie Stitz or Emma Clarey on 3237 1000