The Central Cape Suns shone on the paddock when they travelled to Townsville for the 2025 Laurie Spina Shield. Photo: Alex Rethus Photography.
Facing new opponents for the first time can be a daunting experience, but it did not phase Weipa’s junior rugby league superstars when they travelled to Townsville to compete in the Laurie Spina Shield earlier this month.
Fifteen players from the under-11 Central Cape Suns – 14 boys and one girl – made the trip south to take part in the annual carnival on 4-5 July and club president Jess Rex said there had been plenty of positive feedback for the contingent from western Cape York.
“It was an amazing experience for our young players to showcase their footy skills against opposing clubs,” she said.
“For many of our selected players, this was their first time playing against an opposing team, and they certainly played their hearts out and left it all on the field.
“Over the two-day carnival, our team played seven games; players, supporters and coaching staff were judged on their sportsmanship and attitudes on and off the field.
“Our club received a lot of positive feedback from other teams and the carnival organisers – the team truly brought pride to our small, remote club.”
Levi Rennie and Thomas Brewer close in on an attacking opponent. Photo: Alex Rethus Photography.
The trip was made possible with the assistance of dedicated coaching and support staff, and gave players a chance to meet some of their favourite NRL idols when the Melbourne Storm landed at the same time as the Weipa army, and then the North Queensland Cowboys held an autograph signing session.
The Suns were also lucky enough to meet Laurie Spina, who spoke to players and gave them pointers on how their love of the game could take them from the bush to unknown heights in the future.
Harrison Love said he had been thrilled to represent his club in Townsville.
“I had a lot of fun and really loved the whole experience,” he said.
“I really enjoyed spending time with the team and making new friends; I loved the atmosphere at the game in the stadium – the fact that we got to watch the professional players in real life was really great.
“It made me feel really excited for my future in footy.”
Brax Muller, Rocky Russell and Logan Christie go in for a tackle. Photo: Alex Rethus Photography.
