Tully, Innisfail, and Herbert River Crushers junior rugby league teams did themselves proud in the Nate Myles Cup

Maria Girgenti

A RECORD number of 34 Under 13 rugby league teams participated in the Nate Myles Cup, which celebrated its tenth year and was hosted by Southern Suburbs Junior Rugby League Club in mid-June at Alley Park, Gordonvale.

Teams represented included clubs from North Queensland, Townsville, Brisbane, Sunshine Coast, Mount Isa, Mackay, and Rockhampton districts participated, which saw over 500 youngsters play 71 games over two days.

Referees who officiated 88 games at the carnival were from Cairns, Townsville and Mackay and were well supported by mentors.

Tully played in Pool 2, Herbert River Crushers in Pool 4 and after five rounds, Innisfail finished second on the Pool 1 ladder with three wins, one draw and one loss.

Innisfail’s Ishmael Waireg scored eight tries and finished as the equal second top try scorer.

The NMC, played in line with the NRL framework, RISE Rugby League Development Program, which has been re-shaped to align with state-wide delivery of local league development programs targeting participants aged 13 - 15.

Established in 2013, the carnival recognises one of Far North Queensland’s favourite sons, former NRL star Nate Myles.

The carnival focuses on developing players and referees as they enter the competitive competition under the guidelines of International rules, with sportsmanship, encouragement, and team and personal development encouraged.

Madonna Archibald, carnival convenor, heads the Nate Myles volunteer committee, ensuring the event runs smoothly.

The event would not be possible without the generosity of major sponsors Piccone’s IGA, Cairns Regional Council and Cairns Hardware.

Myles started his rugby league career as a five-year-old playing in the junior ranks with Southern Suburbs Junior Rugby League club before going on to an illustrious 234-game NRL career.

There were stacks of on and off-field highlights and a display of excellent sportsmanship whilst players and staff supported and built connections with other teams.

Innisfail Junior Leprechauns - Fastest Feet Champions (Relay).

Results: Day 1

Innisfail 16 drew with Souths Sharks 16

Innisfail 16 def Brothers Townsville

White 0

Innisfail 36 def Gracemere 4

Innisfail 24 def Brahmans 4

Day 2

Western Lions 16 def Innisfail 4

Semi-finals

Albany Creek 24 def Western Lions 12

Souths Bulls 8 def Mackay Magpies 4

Grand final

Albany Creek (Brisbane district) 32 def

Souths Bulls (Townsville district) 8

Carnival Awards

Nate Myles Cup champions: Albany Creek Crushers

Player of the Carnival: Tatum Hiley (Caloundra Sharks), This award, as voted by the coaching staff of opposing teams throughout the event and the player with the most points tallied is the winner.

Player of the Final: Matte Kairua (Albany Creek Crushers)

Team Spirit Award: Moranbah Miners

Referee of the Carnival: Jaydin Fryer (Townsville & Districts)