At least 10 Gunnedah Touch Association junior players have been selected for further representation with Northern Eagles Touch.

The talented young players from Gunnedah were selected after star-studded performances in their respective age divisions at last weekend’s Junior State Cup played in Dubbo.

Players to earn selection in the Eagles squads include Hunter Scott (under 12 boys), Tahni Bush, Audrey Hannaford, Tyla Hincliffe, Jazmin Hobden (U16 girls), Mayse Frey, Lachlan Gurney, Daniel Rushbrook, Harry Ryman and Tyler Scott (U16 boys).

The Northern Eagles’ squads comprise players from as far as Ballina and Taree on the coast, west to Armidale and Gunnedah.

Gunnedah association co-ordinator Will Dowe said the further representation was just rewards for players and coaches involved.

“It is extremely fulfilling,” he said. “It just goes to show that all the work is coming to fruition.”

Despite not reaching the tournament finals on Sunday, Dowe said all players represented admirably in hot conditions against more than 200 teams from across the state.

“Some kids played seven games over the weekend,” he said.

“The referees [from Gunnedah] also did it tough.

“We are extremely proud of all of them and grateful for the coaches.”

The mum of Gunnedah representative, Lachlan Gurney, said her son was “stoked” to earn selection with the Eagles.

Playing in the link position, Lachlan “played his heart out” for his fellow team-mates and coach Paul Brady.

“They’re a great team,” Lachlan’s mum, Lyn said.

It was not just the players in the spotlight at the Dubbo carnival either – there was a special presentation for All Abilities Referee from Gunnedah, Jamie Hinton, who adjudicated his first game at an NSW Touch carnival.

The enthusiastic volunteer has been a regular part of the Gunnedah association’s refereeing ranks for several years.

Assistant Tim Richter has been helping guide Jamie through the games, culminating in his appearance at the Dubbo carnival last weekend.

For his efforts, Jamie was presented with a NSW Touch shirt in front of his refereeing peers at the carnival.

After the carnival, the Gunnedah association held its own awards presentation where players and coaches were recognised for their efforts throughout the weekend.

Attention now turns to the association’s 2024 summer season grand finals held later this month.

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