Sport
19 September, 2023
NRL Premiership trophies visit Oakey
For the first time ever, the NRL men’s and women’s trophies stopped by at the Trevor Mickleborough Oval last Thursday, along with football stars Chris Walker and Jada Ferguson.
Oakey Junior Rugby League Secretary Justine Altondonna said the club was grateful for the support of Telstra, who donated training equipment including tackle bags, water bottles, and agility poles.
South-West Queensland Regional Engagement Manager Scott Mullally said the kids, and adults in grassroots clubs across the country had enjoyed the chance to meet the trophies.
“The whole focus of the NRL Telstra Footy Country Tour is to support grassroots footy,” he said.
“We want to support kids getting involved in footy.
“Started north in Darwin and we’re moving down through New South Wales.
“Before coming here, we visited Harristown Primary School.
“Seeing this sort of stuff in regional communities is amazing.”
Retired player Chris Walker, originally from Gowrie Junction was at the ground where he had played juniors at Valleys.
“Coming out here to the Den, you always knew you had a tough game on your hands,” he said.
“Oakey had tough footballers that were very skillful.
“Coming back out here, to see the number of juniors and how excited they are is awesome.”
Bronco Jada Ferguson, cousin of Oakey product Shenae Ciesiolka, was also on hand to say hi to local juniors.
“It’s just great to see the big smiles on their faces.
“I played Darling Downs in Under 12s and Under 13s,” she said.
“I played touch and sevens, pretty much followed the same path as Shenae.
“I’ve been playing off the bench this season.
“My aim is to nail down a starting position in the future and hopefully play rep football.”
Jada said the Broncos women are ready to go for finals next week.
“We have come on really well.”
