The Neil Wood-coached side’s preparations for the Australian Under 14 Boys Basketball Club Championships have been dealt three huge blows.

Nathan Clarke, Rowan Meyers and Rohan Birrell have all suffered leg or arm fractures playing other sports in recent weeks and while Clarke and Meyers could play some minutes in Perth Birrell is definitely out of playing contention.

“Rohan (Birrell) only broke his arm a week or so ago,” Neil Wood told The Leader.

“Rowan (Meyers) has a clearance to play but he’s not really fit enough and Nathan is chasing a clearance, only had his plaster off this week.”

The three major injuries have derailed the Thunderbolt chances.

“We only have the seven players,” Wood said.

“All 10 are going but it is unfortunate the three boys have suffered these breaks. We will struggle but we still have a strong side. I’m sure they will compete well, especially in the first half, just hope it doesn’t become a blow out in the second half.”

While devastated by the injuries the seven-man side has been training strongly and has plenty of talent on hand. It will be the trip of a lifetime for the boys, competing will be a win in it self for the side.

And Wood is also confident they can win games.

“I don’t think we are in a tough pool,” he said.

“We play a Northern Tasmania team, a Victorian country side and a Cairns team.

“I’m happy with that. And I’m sure the boys will do a good job, compete well and have some fun.”

 In its 46th year of operation, the Australian Under-14 Boys Club Championships form a vital pathway from participation through to elite competition for the nation’s junior athletes. Australian Boomers such as Patty Mills started their careers by participating in the tournament.

TAMWORTH 

THUNDERBOLTS

 Ryan Bath, Lachlan Damir, Will Meyers, Connor Watts, Tom Sheppard, Ben Pearce, Julian Fuller, Nathan Clarke, Rowan Meyers, Rohan Birrell.