Group 6 CRL Season 2012 results and news

[thorson1987]

Thought I would start this thread so people can keep track of the Group 6 CRL competition.

I will post up news articles relating to this season that are from after last years Grand Finals.

Grand Final Results from 2011

1st Grade - Oakdale Workers 24 d Campbelltown Eagles 16

Reserve Grade - Campbelltown Eagles 24 d Mittagong Lions 0

2nd Division - Appin Dogs 40 d Warragamba Wombats 12

U/18-1 Mittagong Lions 40 d Camden Rams 6

U/18-2 Mt Annans Currans Hill Knights 28 d Warragamba Wombats 27



Please note: when it comes to game results i can update Campbelltown Eagles 1st and Reserves scores after the games. All others will be updated either Sunday or Monday nights.

 

[thorson1987]

http://www.macarthuradvertiser.com....league/dalton-loyal-to-kangaroos/2306727.aspx

Dalton loyal to Kangaroos

CAMPBELLTOWN City Kangaroos first grade team have retained the services of Drew Dalton as coach for next year's Group 6 rugby league season.Brought to the Kangaroos last year, Dalton has been a standout this season and was a nominee for the Group 6 Player of the Year award, recently won by Wayde Dunley of Campbelltown Eagles.

Kangaroos president Heath Attard described Dalton as a "superb acquisition".

'Not only has he been influential in rebuilding our senior club, he also takes the time to coach our under 13 team and mentor our junior coaches on the skills they need to coach to junior players," Attard said.

"While we are disappointed that our first grade results haven't quite been there in 2011, we are close and competitive in every fixture.

"We aren't that far away, Drew is by far the best man for the job in the Macarthur region."

Attard said the family-oriented club would turn its attention to retaining the bulk of this season's senior roster.

"There is a real family feel about the senior club already with the Daltons, Russells and Szczerbaniks involved," he said.

Dalton described his appointment as an honour and hopes the club will emerge as a force next season.

"To follow in the footsteps of Corkery, Greaves, Paul Murray and Sheens is very humbling," Dalton said.

 

[thorson1987]

http://www.camdenadvertiser.com.au/...ue/dogs-planning-for-2012-season/2328599.aspx

Dogs planning for 2012 season


BY SEAN CUNNINGHAM
19 Oct, 2011 01:00 AM


APPIN Dogs Rugby League Football Club plan to step up to first grade in the Group 6 competition next season.

Group 6 secretary Warren Horsfield confirmed that Appin had "indicated that they wish to enter teams in first, reserve and under-18s for next season".


The Appin players, who won back-to-back premierships this season in second division, will form the bulk of the first grade team next year.


Club secretary Vicki O'Mullane said the club was excited at the prospect of playing in the elite level of the local rugby league competition.


She is confident the team can mix it with the established Group 6 heavyweights.


"I'm sure we will be very competitive," O'Mullane said.


"In order to get to first grade we had to have a financial plan in place and a full playing roster and prove we have a strong, working committee.


"We're recruiting people for the committee at the moment.


"We're having our annual general meeting on October 24 and we'll choose a committee then.


"I have a couple of people who are more than willing to put their hand up for positions on the committee."


Group 6 would welcome Appin to the first grade competition.


"I spoke to Grahame Andrews (Group 6 president) and he's given us the criteria we believe we are going to meet to get into first grade next season," O'Mullane said.


"I know we'll have the players, our boys and our club wants to step up to first grade.


"We gave ourselves a time frame to go to first grade and it's something we've been working on for a few years.


"Now that we've secured an 18s side I'm 99 per cent sure we will do what it takes to go to first grade and have reserves and under-18s teams."
Details: 0423 973 946.

 

[thorson1987]

http://www.camdenadvertiser.com.au/...-league/reeves-makes-clean-break/2344168.aspx

Reeves makes clean break

BY SEAN CUNNINGHAM
02 Nov, 2011 01:00 AM


OAKDALE Rugby League Football Club has been dealt a blow with their Group 6 first grade premiership-winning coach Brendon Reeves turning his back on the club.

Reeves has cut ties with the club for the 2012 season and is quitting as coach.


"I offered my services to coach again in August but they told me they didn't want it until they saw if we made a grand final," Reeves said.


"Well ultimately we did a bit better than make the grand final, we took the premiership out of the Eagles' grasp, who most certainly had one hand on it.


"I would like to praise the courage of the players in defeating the Eagles in the grand final. Upset wins don't come much sweeter than that."


Reeves had a few differences of opinion and is heading in the opposite direction from the club but insisted he harboured no ill feelings.


"I think some decisions that were made would be taken back if some people had their time over again, but that's life," he said.


Reeves, a former Manly and Illawarra Steelers player, believes some of the tough coaching decisions he made had been justified with a premiership win this year.


"I came in and I wasn't afraid to make changes and really put some noses out of joint," he said.


"I think it's total vindication of my decision in beating a magnificent team like Campbelltown Eagles in the grand final."


Although he leaves with some regrets, Reeves said he had enjoyed his time with the club.


Despite having the full support of the players, Reeves insisted he would call it a day.


"I've met a lot of great friends there but I've just had enough," he said.


"It's not all doom and gloom though, I've had some of the best moments of my life there.


"The grand final was a very emotional day and I thank Oakdale for the opportunity to live out my dream of coaching a Group 6 premiership winning team.


"I was ecstatic and no one can take that away from me, it's one of those moments you will never forget."


The premiership was a fitting tribute to Reeves's coaching style.


"I don't want to stain that in any way by staying for a year too long," he said.


"I might let someone else deal with the pressure and just sit back and put my feet up.


"I'd love to try to go back-to-back but someone else will have to take the reins.


"I wish the club all the best and there is a ton of good people there, but I'm just not into bagging our own players, which unfortunately happened in 2011, by some parties."

 

[thorson1987]

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=m7uyiBFKR50

Here are some highlights from last seasons 1st Grade grand final. (not my video btw)

have been trying to get footage from the other games to no avail.

Apparently the DVD's from the day can't be copied or converted to put onto Youtube.

 

[thorson1987]

http://www.sportingpulse.com/assoc_...ID=20854&&news_task=DETAIL&articleID=17779438

Picton Magpies 2012




































Picton Magpies RLFC are excited to announce their coaching line up for the 2012 Season.

2012 Under 18’s Coach
WILL MONDS - Will played with the Magpies for 25 years, retiring in 1999. He was the Captain Coach of Reserve Grade in 1992 and Captain Coach of First Grade in 1994. Will also played representative football for both Group 6 and Southern Division during his playing career. He has been involved with the Magpie Junior club in recent years.

2012 Reserve Grade Coach
MITCHELL FAGAN - Mitch will take the role of Captain/Coach in Season 2012. He has played with the Magpies for the past seven years and has been very involved with the club, behind the scenes as well as on the field. He coached the Magpies U/18 B’s in 2007 and was Assistant Coach for Picton Junior’s very successful U/16A’s, who were undefeated Premiers this season. Mitch is looking forward to the 2012 Season.

2012 First Grade Coach
RUSSELL LEWIS – We have great pleasure in welcoming Russell to the Picton Magpies. Russell has extensive experience as a player and coach. He recently relocated to Picton from the Sutherland Shire where he started his senior coaching career in 1990 as Captain/Coach of the Cronulla Workers “A” Grade. Since 1990 he has coached sides with great success with many reaching the Finals. Russell will be assisted in 2012 by Brian Taylor taking the role of Manager/Trainer. Brian was the Group Senior side Coach in 2011. With the combined efforts of both of these experienced men the Picton Magpies are looking forward to the Season ahead.


Any players interested in joining the Magpies for the 2012 season can contact Darren Jones (President) on 0411 200 887 or Jane Simpson (Secretary) on 0401 324 062.

 

[thorson1987]

http://www.southernhighlandnews.com...-league/bowral-blues-turn-cheeky/2411861.aspx

Bowral Blues turn 'cheeky'

06 Jan, 2012 01:00 AM
By Lauren Wright


WITH years of experience and knowledge behind him, Randall 'Cheeky' Laughton is the perfect candidate to get Bowral Rugby League back on track this year.


Bowral has struggled over the past few season, and with former coach Terry Fish unable to commit to the entire season, club president Sean Chapman got Laughton on board to help.


Fish will still assist Laughton in a coaching role for the 2012 season.


A former referee and coach with both Mittagong and Moss Vale, Laughton said after a year away from the game he had "a bit of an itch to go again".


"I think I can help Bowral out and get them on the front foot again," he said.
Chapman said he hoped under the reign of Laughton Bowral could gain more professionalism and discipline.


"We need to get the club back up and running for next year. We need to focus on our discipline, that''' be his [Laughton] biggest focus," he said.


"He knows we've been struggling the last few years."


"A lot of players have indicated their interest to play under 'Cheeky'."


"I'm really looking forward to a successful year."
For Laughton, the key for Bowral will be doing the simple things right.


"Getting back to basics, doing the simple things right and go forward," he said.
"I'm just looking forward to getting started."


Laughton boasts an impressive winning record which Bowral will be keen to keep going.
"I've coached a lot of football teams over the years and haven't missed a semi-final yet," he said.


Laughton said the addition of Bundanoon to the Group 6 competition would also prove interesting.


"It's interesting with Bundanoon joining the comp. It gives us another incentive to do well. Another local team, another local derby."


Chapman said they hoped to start training later this month.

 

[thorson1987]

http://www.sportingpulse.com/assoc_...ID=20854&&news_task=DETAIL&articleID=18105849

Narellan Jets 2012 Coaches


























The Narellan Jets would like to announce the coaching staff for 2012.


First Grade
With the departure of Dane Wooden to Thirlmere, Narellan would like to announce Daryn Fallshaw has been appointed coach of the Narellan Jets First Grade for the 2012 season. Daryn is a Narellan Junior who has tasted success as a player and coach our under 18s in 2011.


Reserve Grade
John Sione has been appointed to the role of Reserve Grade Coach. John is new to the Club but brings a fresh eye to the Jetters. John has been previouysly involved with the Toowoomba Staggs, Mounties as well as Wests Magpies SG Ball and development squad. In 2011 John was involved with the Melbourne Storm SG Ball and the VRL Lightning Senior State Co Coach.


Under 18s
Peter Lean has been appointed coach of the 18s for the 2012 season. Peter has been involved with the Jets since his Junior days. Peter has been a regular member of our First Grade Squad for the past several season. Unfortnunately a career ending injury in 2011 precludes Peter from playing, however Peter was keen to stay involved. . Peter brings a vast amount of experience to the job as is looking forward to the challenge ahead

 

[thorson1987]

http://www.sportingpulse.com/assoc_...ID=20854&&news_task=DETAIL&articleID=18233602

Workers no Easybeats - Wollondilly Advertiser








BY SEAN CUNNINGHAM
01 Feb, 2012 01:00 AM

PASSING on knowledge should be no problem for new Oakdale first grade rugby league coach John Stanley. Stanley, a deputy principal at Bossley Park High School, takes over the reins from outgoing premiership-winning coach Brendon Reeves.

He has a decade of coaching experience that includes Harold Matthews and S.G. Ball junior representative teams from Canterbury, Parramatta and Wests Tigers.

Stanley, a former Group 6 first grade premiership-winning player with Narellan in 1996, has retained many of last year's Oakdale squad and has strengthened the team with a high-profile signing.

"There are one or two players considering retirement and a few new players to the club," Stanley said.

"The club is happy with player retention and recruitment at this point with former West Tigers, Cronulla and Canberra NRL player Stuart Flanagan being a fantastic signing for the club.

"The experience that Stuart brings will be highly valued at the club."
Possessing a strong squad, Stanley is sure the Workers can maintain their status as high achievers.

"I think consistent team performances and injuries will be key factors that will determine teams' fortunes this season," he said.

"I believe teams that can string together a good run of victories and keep their top 17 players on the paddock as much as possible, will be in line for a semi-final berth and I am confident Oakdale will be among the top teams if these two factors work for us."

"The challenge for the club, now that they have reached the top, is to stay at the top.

"This will be a constant focus through every training session and game; we have no desire to see the title leave the club and I believe we are in good shape to ensure this does not happen."

Stanley realises the task of defending the title will include facing some stiff competition.

"All teams will be a threat every week as they will have a great desire to beat the defending premiers," he said.

"We will not be taking any teams lightly, I feel we will be stronger than last year but so will our competitors.

"We have a good mix of skill, strength and toughness and this was evident in performances over the last couple of years, so I see 2012 being no different.

"Every player will have a job to do to execute the game plan each week."

Stanley believes opponents will have to play to their full potential to match the Workers this season.

 

[thorson1987]

http://www.sportingpulse.com/assoc_...ID=20854&&news_task=DETAIL&articleID=18296972

Two New Clubs for the 2012 Season

2012 will see two new (old) Group 6 Clubs taking the field again. Bundanoon affiliated with the Group at the 2011 AGM and last night's General Meeting saw the affiliation of the Bargo Bunnies.

Both teams were Group 6 clubs many years ago and will be fielding a teams in 2nd division this year.

The Bunnies wearing their red & green jerseys will train at a sporting field at Bargo but will play their home games this year at Wilton.

If you are interested in joining them contact:
Secretary, Beth Nolan ph. 0434 208 623
or
President, Mark Richards Ph. 0425 382 520 Email: mrichards1181@hotmail.com

 

[thorson1987]

http://www.sportingpulse.com/assoc_...ID=20854&&news_task=DETAIL&articleID=18303612

Wooden back in roost








BY SEAN CUNNINGHAM
08 Feb, 2012 01:00 AM

DANE Wooden has returned to the rugby league club he coached to three consecutive reserve grade premierships.

He has rejoined Thirlmere/ Tahmoor, this time as the first grade coach to replace Adam Sheppard.

The only way is up for Wooden, who coached Narellan's first grade team for the past two seasons.

Last season the Jets finished bottom of the ladder, but Wooden is confident he can lead his squad of maroon-clad Roosters to success, despite the retirement of several key players.

Nathan Sutton, Matt Carlyon, Leo Dynevor and brothers Adam and John Rae and Mark and Adam Sheppard have signalled their retirement.

It's not all doom and gloom as the Roosters have been negotiating with several high profile players from rival clubs.

"We're talking to a few players and it looks as if we'll get a few good signings confirmed soon," Wooden said.

"We'll have to see who we sign but I'm sure we'll have some key players in the team to field a competitive side.

"We're not just preparing for this season. We're aiming to rebuild the team like they did in 1999, to be successful for years into the future."

Considered a homecoming for Wooden, who spent eight years at the Roosters from 2000, the return of their prodigal son has sparked interest among the players.
His appointment has influenced some to continue their playing careers for at least another season.

"Now I've came back, some of them have come out of the woodwork and some who were going to retire have decided to stay on and play," Wooden said.

"It's good to be back, it's like coming home to the nest."

Wooden realises failure is not an option, coaching a team that usually reaches finals football.

Wooden understands there are a few teams capable of lowering the Roosters' colours.
"I've got a stronger depth of squad here than at Narellan and we'll do well if the boys stick to the game plan on the day," he said.

Look out for fireworks the first time Wooden clashes with his former club, the Jets.

"There will probably be a bit more rivalry against Narellan and they'll be a bit fired up but I'll be looking forward to it," he said.

 

[thorson1987]

http://www.sportingpulse.com/assoc_...ID=20854&&news_task=DETAIL&articleID=18367034

Group 6 Women's Competition

WANTED!​

Women who are sick of watching the guys having all the fun.​

Join the Group 6 2012 Women's Comp!​

Minimum age is 16 and 9 months​

7 a Side competition again this year​

20 Min Halves​

Minimum players for a team will also be 11​

Contact:​

Jake Brightwell
National Development Officer​

T: (02) 4647 1390
M: 0448 890 017
narellan@arldevelopment.com.au​

 

[thorson1987]

http://www.sportingpulse.com/assoc_...ID=20854&&news_task=DETAIL&articleID=18373331

Jets need to rebuild side








BY SEAN CUNNINGHAM
15 Feb, 2012 01:00 AM

NEW Narellan Jets Group 6 first grade rugby league coach Daryn Fallshaw hopes his quarter of a century of loyal service to the club stands him in good stead for the season. Fallshaw has played and coached with the Jets since he was 14, He was the Jets under 18s coach last season and in first grade replaces Dane Wooden, who left to coach Thirlmere/Tahmoor.

The core squad has been retained from last season but Fallshaw might have to rely on youthful enthusiasm triumphing over experience as he guides his young team.

"We've got a good group who have came through from the under 18s and they will be tasting first grade football this year," Fallshaw said.

"If they're good enough, they're old enough.

"It's a young squad. The most senior player would be Ryan Crocker and he's only 23."
Though facing a tough challenge to attract new players, Fallshaw is chasing a couple of big-name players to bolster the squad and add much-needed experience to help guide the younger players.

"We're in negotiations with an ex-Canterbury Bulldogs player and an English Super League front-rower who plays with Huddersfield," Fallshaw said.

"I don't like our chances of getting them but we're not out of the race yet.

"We're also looking for front-rowers and second-rowers to give us that hard edge."

Aiming to put the club "back in touch with the community", Fallshaw will strive to make his team play attractive, exciting footy this season in his bid to attract the Jets' faithful barrackers.

A handful of club stalwarts could play a key role in helping him achieve his goals.
"I'll be looking to Ben Baker, Ryan Crocker, Gavin Wilson and Dave McDonald to lead by example this season," he said.

"We're not a flashy side but the boys will be playing for each other and working hard.
"At training we have a leadership group that is really picking up the young players and giving them confidence.

"We haven't heard the boys giving so much encouragement for such a long time.

"It's not going to be an easy year, so we're not kidding ourselves, but I think realistically, we could still sneak into the finals."

 

[CC_Roosters]

Some good scouting for article you have done there. I am still a bit confused about the relationship between group 6 and wests. Sides from campbelltown play in both leagues being the main cause of confusion Can you clarify that?

Always good to see clubs making a comeback as well

 

[thorson1987]

Some good scouting for article you have done there. I am still a bit confused about the relationship between group 6 and wests. Sides from campbelltown play in both leagues being the main cause of confusion Can you clarify that?

Always good to see clubs making a comeback as well

A few years ago both Group 6 seniors and Wests JRL only had 5 1st grade teams. (with Wests sometimes only having 1 or 2 teams who would play in either the Canterbury or Parramatta comps (or in one case there was a team who played in the Cronulla comp.)

The decision was made for 2009 to be a combined competition. This comp was somewhat successful but the 2010 competitions had alot more trouble. Massive all in brawls, a reserve grade side bashing a bouncer at their major sponsor.

Wests seemed reluctant to penalize the clubs involved so the Group 6 clubs all voted to not have the combined comp in 2011.

2 clubs (Campbelltown Eagles and Campbelltown Kangaroos) applied to Group 6 to be affiliated so they could play in a stable and safer semi pro competition.

The other club, Macarthur Bulls were born out of this split as alot of players and officials had grown disillusioned with the way the Wests senior comp has been run.

Both Campbelltown sides seniors are affiliated with Group 6 whilst the juniors are still affiliated with Wests JL effectively making them 2 seperate clubs.

Hope that helps to clarify.

 

[CC_Roosters]

A few years ago both Group 6 seniors and Wests JRL only had 5 1st grade teams. (with Wests sometimes only having 1 or 2 teams who would play in either the Canterbury or Parramatta comps (or in one case there was a team who played in the Cronulla comp.)

The decision was made for 2009 to be a combined competition. This comp was somewhat successful but the 2010 competitions had alot more trouble. Massive all in brawls, a reserve grade side bashing a bouncer at their major sponsor.

Wests seemed reluctant to penalize the clubs involved so the Group 6 clubs all voted to not have the combined comp in 2011.

2 clubs (Campbelltown Eagles and Campbelltown Kangaroos) applied to Group 6 to be affiliated so they could play in a stable and safer semi pro competition.

The other club, Macarthur Bulls were born out of this split as alot of players and officials had grown disillusioned with the way the Wests senior comp has been run.

Both Campbelltown sides seniors are affiliated with Group 6 whilst the juniors are still affiliated with Wests JL effectively making them 2 seperate clubs.

Hope that helps to clarify.

Yes does help thanks.

So what state is Wests 1st grade etc.... in going forward? From a distance listening on Talkin sport and reading between the lines of various articles there is a lot of mismanagement by Wests and confusion amoung fans of what is going on

 

[thorson1987]

The best thing that could happen to the Wests senior league is having someone beside the junior league run it. Don't get me wrong, the juniors comp out here is top notch, they just cant seem to run a decent seniors comp.

 

[thorson1987]

http://www.wollondillyadvertiser.co...by-league/bargo-bunnies-are-back/2462940.aspx

Bargo Bunnies are back





Reform: Bargo Bunnies players (from left) Kieran Morrell, Mark Richards and Brett Gottaas hone their skills under the guidance of coach Todd Borthwick (foreground) .Picture: Jeff de Pasquale

BY SEAN CUNNINGHAM
22 Feb, 2012 01:00 AM
FOUR decades in the rugby league wilderness will come to an end this season when Bargo field a team in the Group 6 competition.Believed to be founded in 1928, the Bargo Bunnies will begin a new era by reforming to compete in the Group 6 second division this season.

A call for players from the club's secretary Beth Nolan, who erected a sign at Bargo Hotel in her bid to attract players, has led to the Bargo Bunnies rising from obscurity to form a team for the first time since the club disbanded in 1972.

Coach Todd Borthwick, who has coached junior and senior teams at Picton, will lead his players.

Steering his former teams to four grand finals, winning three, Borthwick will rely on his enthusiastic players to produce a successful season in the club's return to one of the toughest rugby league competitions in the area.
"We have a lot of local boys playing for us," Borthwick said.

"We've got about half a dozen who were good when they were playing as juniors but they haven't played for a few years.

"I'm banking on their skills.

"We've a few who haven't played before so we've got a mixed bag."

Borthwick has been impressed with the players' attitude to training.

His main aim is to win more games than he loses this season, a feat he could achieve if his team reproduces on the paddock the enthusiasm shown at training.

"I haven't seen or coached a team that's is so excited and enthusiastic," Borthwick said.

"The boys are bursting out of their skin to play football.

"They are training the house down, they're training very hard and improving their fitness and handling.

"The enthusiasm is there, they're keen as anything."

The Bunnies, who will sport the same colours as NRL team the Rabbitohs, train at Bargo Sportsground but plan to play home games at Hannaford Oval, Wilton.

With a view to forming some junior teams next year, the Bunnies hope to share the sportsground with Wollondilly Australian Football Club.

"They play on different days to us so it shouldn't really be a big problem," Borthwick said. "We want to work with them."

The Bunnies training sessions take place on Wednesdays and Fridays from 6.30pm.
Details: 0421 721 770.

 

[thorson1987]

http://www.camdenadvertiser.com.au/...were-in-it-to-win-says-president/2462965.aspx

We're in it to win, says president


Welcome home: Macarthur Bulls members (from left) Jacob Dematos, Denis Hellyer, Reece Fitzgerald, Jhy Karam, Matt Spanos and Matt Hughes are pleased to be training at Elderslie. Picture: Jonathan Ng


BY SEAN CUNNINGHAM
22 Feb, 2012 01:00 AM
MACARTHUR Bulls Rugby League Football Club will call Hannaford Oval their home ground in this season's Group 6 competition but will train at Hilder Reserve, Elderslie.

The club plans to put an under-18 and a second division team into the competition next season.


Club president Matt Hughes said there had already been a few new signings to bolster the Bulls' ranks for next year.


"Jacob Dematos and Reece Fitzgerald will be the heart and soul of the Macarthur Bulls under-18s in 2012," he said.


"They're both from the grand final-winning Eagle Vale St Andrews under-18 side from this season and they'll link up again with their former coach Fred Borg."


Dennis Hellyer — who came from the Eagle Vale St Andrews club — and Hughes, will lead the way as coaches for the second division team.


The Bulls signed Jhy Karam, under-18s player of the year in the Western Suburbs District Junior Rugby League competition.


And with Matt Spanos and Bulls' leading try-scorer for this year Ame Traill, the Bulls will "have skill and speed to burn", according to Hughes.


"Hellyer said his young charges are looking forward to week-in week-out footy in the Country Rugby League Group 6 competition after a year of washouts and forfeits in the Western Suburbs senior comp," Hughes said.


Hughes believes the club had a successful 2011 season.


"Just playing in Group 6 was a win for the team and club, but we will now be concentrating on building a strong squad to compete for the second division title," he said.


"2011 was all about establishing and finishing third was a great effort, but we won't be happy with just competing in 2012, we are in it to win it."

 

[thorson1987]

http://www.camdenadvertiser.com.au/...on-coach-aims-for-injuryfree-run/2462979.aspx

High hopes for season Coach aims for injury-free run


Welcome: Camden Rams coach Mark De Ubago (left) is pleased to have new signings (from left) Sam Campbell, Joel Wisbey, Neil Begovich and Aaron Firman, in his team. Picture: Simon Bennett



BY SEAN CUNNINGHAM
22 Feb, 2012 01:00 AM
CAMDEN'S Group 6 first grade rugby league team is optimistic about producing a successful season if they can avoid a fate which haunted them last year — an excessive injury list.

Despite losing two key players in the off-season, coach Mark De Ubago remains positive due to a successful off-season recruitment campaign.


Retaining the majority of his players, De Ubago hopes to emulate the Rams' winning streak of four consecutive victories last season.


But this time he wants his team to continue its winning mentality.


Producing a great start to the competition last year, the Rams fell in a hole following a multitude of injuries.


"The injuries killed us last season and they just kept mounting up after we won our first four games," De Ubago said.


"We were demoralised with injuries, but it gave us the chance to blood some under-18s.


"This season, pending injuries, we'd like to make the semis.


"I'd be quite happy to reach the semis and then see what happens."


The loss of last season's Group 6 first grade leading try-scorer Mahn Darley — who scored 20 tries in 11 games — and forward Ben Weir, should be negated with several former Rams' juniors returning to the club with more experience.


"It's good that a lot of local boys have come back to the club too," De Ubago said.


"Some of them played in the 18s four years ago and they're back.


"There'll be a lot of pressure on Adam Marshall and Chris Browne this year.


"Last season was their first time together in the halves so they had teething problems.


"But we've signed well in the forwards and a strong forward pack means we should be strong in the backs, too."


A recent session with wrestling expert Mick Cutajar and a great mood at regular training sessions has boosted the team's confidence and skills.


"We went to the wrestling trainer just to pick up some tricks of the trade and some techniques," De Ubago said.


"We got a lot more out of it than I thought.


"It covered not only tackling, but how to get someone off you quickly in the play-the-ball."


De Ubago's coaching skills recently received international recognition when he was named as assistant coach of the Philippines team which is due to play a Test match against Thailand later this year.

http://www.camdenadvertiser.com.au/...on-coach-aims-for-injuryfree-run/2462979.aspx