The nine representatives from Wide Bay formed part of the Country South side that played a North and a Central team. The south side was made up of Capricornia, Wide Bay and Darling Downs and even had a Cairns boy chucked in. The carnival was made up of each team playing the others in 2 x 20 minute halves. As I am sure you can appreciate, this is a tough task for the guys with the heat and not knowing your team mates names.
The first game was against Central and some start time confusion had our guys being ready well before time. They came out and played a strong game but showed the lack of cohesion that you would expect. We matched Central throughout the two halves with Centrals having an easier path to goals through some loose checking and everyone chasing the ball instead of backing their team mate.
The guys then watched the other two play and spent some time working on a positive approach in the last game.
They came up more positive and absolutely smashed the North team in the first half with lots of run and quick movement. This was led by two of the Wide Bay boys in James Power and Billy Moorehead, who showed some great leadership, and were well supported by Ben Higgins who was a pillar at centre half back. The second half saw the North team turn the tables on us and get away before we finished off strongly
I was lucky enough to coach the boys on the day and can honestly say that all are representatives on the day were a pleasure to coach and put up their hand whenever it was required. The Kookaburra's selection was tough and was the combined thoughts and opinions of five selectors, including a representative from GC17.
In the final makeup of the squad we were lucky to be represented by Billy Moorehead, James Power and Jake Goldsmith. Congratulations to these guys and I am sure they will do us proud in Brisbane
Three others were very unlucky not to be selected.
Ben Higgins was extremely unlucky (probably the last guy cut) and had a great carnival. Brad Wex played in a host of positions, including full back, and done a great job. Caught a number of selectors eyes on the day. Hayden Thick has next year to look forward too and if his development continues we look forward to big things with a host of positive comments being fielded.
Three others, Nathan Woodforde, Ryan Dempsey and Ben O'brien, all had their moments during the day and showed signs that with more consistency they will by great players in the future.
The guys were also fitness tested on the day for Vertical Leap and 20m Sprint. For the leap, Ryan Dempsey and Hayden Thick were both outstanding at 83cm. For the sprint, Billy Moorehead and Hayden Thick were very quick at 3.05 and 3.07 respectively.
Thanks to all that helped out in one way or another over the weekend and all of summer. It's now time to turn our eyes to the U16s and we have some great kids in this bracket that I am really excited to see how they go.
Rob Searle - Development Manager
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