ORANGE City coaches Mick Gray and Steve Hamson sent a simple message to the central west’s best rugby players ahead of the 2014 HeartKids Cup - we need you.
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Gray and Hamson were named late last week to coach the Central West Invitational side for the charity game against Deadwood Rugby Club, set to raise much-needed funds for the HeartKids foundation, and called on the area’s stars to make themselves available.
Orange City trio Josh Tremain, Duncan Young and Cameron Cole are the only confirmed starters so far, and with just over a week until game day Gray and Hamson are in a race against the clock to fill their squad.
“It is reasonably short notice,” Gray laughed.
“We’re working our way through the list of players at the moment, really we’re looking at the Central West Blue Bulls squad from last year as a start, just finding out if people are available.”
In 2013 the Central West Invitational side boasted countless Blue Bulls representatives but still lost out 60-19 against the Deadwood side, which boasts a formidable record of 72 wins and just 13 losses.
Gray said there is definite opportunity for other Blowes Clothing Cup players to take part, and earn some valuable experience.
“Last year it wasn’t just Central West players, there were others who didn’t play rep footy,” Gray said.
“For example, I’ve spoken to Loges (Orange Emus coach Andrew Logan), and he’s given me the names of the Emus guys he thinks are available, and capable.
“At this time of year though a lot of guys are away or unavailable, we’ll definitely put a competitive side out though.”
The main aim of the charity event is to raise much-needed funds for the HeartKids foundation, which provides lifelong support to those with childhood heart disease and their families.
Even so, Gray conceded the invitational side won’t be playing to lose.
“They (Deadwood) will be a very good side,” he said.
“I think they’ll have a couple of Shute Shield players, and it’s a bit early for us to be thinking about aspirations but we do want to win.”
Deadwood’s players will once again run a junior clinic prior to the main event, which will be followed by a function and small auction in Emus’ clubhouse.
The 2014 HeartKids Cup and rugby clinic will be staged at Endeavour Oval on Saturday,October 25.
The clinic will begin at 10am and costs $45, anyone interested should contact Mardi Aplin - lifestudio@bigpond.com - for more information or to book their place.
The match will kick-off at 3.30pm.