The Northern Inland Academy of Sport’s Tamworth Services Rugby League program has been toiling away, hitting the park and practising skills and drills. From the first trial the boys have shown great dedication and a willingness to learn and develop their game. That focus is growing every session as the close in on their tour of Fiji.
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“There’s a level of excitement, I am sure as it continues to get nearer that will continue to build,” Head coach Peter Stevens said.
While they’re excited, there is no doubt the NIAS squad will be coming up against some very large and talented athletes in Fiji. Stevens says the boys are more than equipped to look after themselves.
“They will be big and skilled no doubt, and that is part of the challenge, but I am sure we will put our best foot forward,” he said.
They will be big and skilled no doubt, and that is part of the challenge, but I am sure we will put our best foot forward
Stevens says every year there is impressive raw talent that comes through this program, but it is up to the individual athletes to decide if they want to do something with that. If they want to develop that talent into something else, it is up to them.
“Enthusiasm has been a key to the participation this far in the program. It’s a cliché but the one percenters are so important and learning that, to go to the next level, you need to be up effort on effort.”
While this tour to Fiji is focused around competitive games against international sides, which will have a huge benefit on the NIAS athletes on and off the field. The tour is also a cultural experience for the young athletes.
“Sometimes it’s not all about the footy, the opportunity to experience a different culture while travelling provides a life experience that these young men will carry with them. Hopefully they will look to put back to the community themselves at some stage in the future as a result of having this life experience,” NIAS CEO, James Cooper said.
There is no denying the impact that this NIAS program can have on the young athletes as they look to progress and chase their dreams of one day becoming an NRL superstar, one step at a time.
According to CRL community engagements officer, Craig MacLeod, “The program certainly provides the young player with an overview of what’s required to aspire to make the Andrew Johns Cup side and represent the Greater Northern region which again would avail them to further opportunities, The Andrew Johns and Laurie Daley Cup for under 16,s and 18s run by Country Rugby League certainly gives the younger player the opportunity to press for NRL opportunity down the track , where just the first of many steps in this building process moving forward.”
The athletes fly out on the 1st of October for a week in Fiji, they’ll play two games against local representative teams in Fiji.
ATHLETE PROFILE: Louis Johnson
Sport? I’m a part of the “Armidale City Bowling Club” U13/14 Football program
Age? 12
Favourite Athlete? Former Manchester United and English forward Wayne Rooney has always been my favourite football player.
Highest Achievement? At club level I play for the Kootingal Kougars and last year we won the Grand Final.
What are your ambitions? I plan on playing in the A-league or better.
What position do you play? I play Midfield and/or Wing
How long have you played football for? This is my 5th year playing football
Who’s had the greatest influence on your playing career? Howard Stubbs. He’s been great at giving me advice and helping to improve my game.
