Eight rugby league teams in the U15/16 age group took part in a non-competitive gala day at Kitchener Park last Saturday.
The inaugural Group 4 rugby league event was arranged for the U15/16 teams to gain some match practice in the lead-up to the season proper.
Scores were not recorded as each fixture lasted 20 minutes without a half-time break or change of ends, with each team having three matches.
Gunnedah opposed Farrer Green, Dungowan Blue and Collegians, while the other teams to line up were Boggabri, Farrer Gold, Dungowan Gold and Norths.
Free-flowing attacking football was evident in many of the games, while one contest contained strong defence as neither side could breach the opposing defensive line.
Regional manager of the NSWRL northern region, Harrison Hunter, said it was hoped that the event would become an annual one.
With the Group 4 competition starting in early May, Harrison said feedback from clubs indicated that they were keen for the youngsters to have a hit-out before the end of term one.
Harrison said eight teams was a good starting point for the upcoming season, and a good platform for the possible future of the pre-season event.
“The focus is on participation,” he said.
“Players have the freedom to play in different positions and try different things.”
Harrison said the games were played in good spirits while there was plenty of impressive attack and defence on display.
“(There was) great sportsmanship all-round, and a great display of rugby league and what rugby league is all about in our communities,” he said.
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