The Central Cape Suns under-11 team gear up to run onto Queensland Country Bank Stadium for an exhibition game ahead of the NRL clash between the North Queensland Cowboys and the Manly Sea Eagles on 6 July. Photo: Supplied.
Weipa’s junior rugby league stars impressed on their biggest stage to date after they were rewarded for their efforts on and off the paddock at the 2024 Laurie Spina Shield.
In recognition of their overall sportsmanship, attitude and behaviour towards opponents and match officials during the two-day carnival, the under-11 Central Cape Suns laced up their boots for an exhibition game on Townsville’s Queensland Country Bank Stadium on 6 July as a prelude to the round 18 NRL clash between the North Queensland Cowboys and Manly Sea Eagles.
Club secretaries Natasha Smith and Kylie McDonnell travelled with the team and said the exhibition game had capped off an “absolutely amazing” experience players, coaching staff, volunteers and parents would never forget.
Central Cape Suns players meet the Laurie Spina Shield’s namesake during a break in on-field action in Townsville. Photo: Supplied.
“It’s something that they will remember for life, and we couldn’t be prouder of these kids and how they conducted themselves all weekend,” Ms Smith told Cape York Weekly.
“It’s an experience that we’ll never forget, and we’re just so proud to be part of this team.”
Games during the carnival are not scored, and Ms McDonnell explained it was all about developing core skills, and nurturing teamwork and a positive attitude to the sport.
“They’ve been so encouraging to each other, other players, match officials and the people around them,” she said.
“For our kids, it’s never about winning; it’s about showing up for each other and being respectful on and off the field.
“We have to thank our sponsors, Rio Tinto and Embley Contracting, because we wouldn’t have been able to get here without their support.”
The annual carnival was a chance for the Weipa players to show their excellence on and off the rugby league paddock. Photo: Supplied.
Coach David Kostecki was emotional when he reflected on his players’ efforts and praised the team spirit and courage they showed taking to the field more than 1,100 kilometres from home.
“As much as I try to be a bit of a macho man, I had tears in my eyes,” he said ahead of the team’s return to western Cape York on Sunday.
“It brought a sense of feeling I never got to have as a kid, so it was great to feel that through them.
“They put their heart and soul into it.”
There may have been many numbers, but the Central Cape Suns under-11 line-up was a united front when players took to the paddock for the 2024 Laurie Spina Shield. Photo: Supplied.
