Queenslanders ready to back up last year's State title winTHE Cape York Crusaders, a team of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander youth from Far North Queensland, will have a chance to defend their history-making Queensland Country under-16 championship title in Rockhampton starting this week.
The Crusaders, last year's winners, shocked Queensland football by beating teams which play in regular competition while also unearthing future prospects like Thomas Holland, Anzack Newman and Kieran Johnson.
When asked about the team's preparation for this week's State championships, Indigenous programs manager Rick Hanlon said: "What preparation?".
While teams like Cairns, Townsville and Mackay have had their squads assembled and training since late last year, the Crusaders have had to choose its squad of 23 players out of a pool of 70 at a weekend camp in Bamaga.
"Our team has a distinct disadvantage as there are only four players who play regular football in Cairns: Alton Matthew, Jayden Kynuna, Jacob Bob and Flying Boomerang member Kieran Johnson," Hanlon said. "Overall, we're happy with the pace and strength of this team. I'd be really surprised if we didn't make it in the top three."
In addition to Johnson, Hanlon singled out Abergowrie College's Frank Kepple, Jackson Pearson, Harry Kepa and Cameron Hooker, a State sprint champion having his first run at AFL football, as players to watch.
Sabai Island's Mark Akiba, who toured Papua New Guinea with the Flying Boomerangs in February, will provide leadership and experience to the squad.
PETER ELIADIS
Eliadis@hotmail.com
Monday, April 13, 2009
Last Modified on 13/04/2009 23:47