Nelson Bay Gropers unearth Under 15 rugby talent

THEY didn’t lift any silverware during this year’s Hunter Junior Rugby campaign but Nelson Bay Gropers can salute the deeds of their talented Under 15s boys and girls squads.

In an encouraging milestone, the Gropers boys team snapped an eight year hoodoo by qualifying for their first ever finals series – bowing out after a heart breaking 5-3 loss to Merewether Carlton in a gripping minor semi-final at Marcellin Park.

The top four ranking was a just reward for the courageous young Gropers, who displayed tons of determination and skill under the guidance of co-coaches Casey Dunning and Lachlan Hancock in a competitive age division.

Merewether have proved a bogey team for Nelson Bay over the years and they had to fight tooth and nail to stave off a stirring challenge from the stout-hearted Gropers in a crackerjack duel.

Talented fly-half Matthew Green booted an early penalty goal to give Nelson Bay a 3-nil lead – the only points of an absorbing and action-packed first stanza.

Smart tactical kicking and super defence and pressure at the breakdown by the gallant Gropers frustrated Merewether, and the second half was just as tough and uncompromising.

Merewether managed to finally break the gritty Nelson Bay defence after 48 minutes with a try in the corner to edge ahead 5-3.

The Gropers finished strongly with inspirational front rower and captain Josh Perry coming within millimetres of grabbing a match-winning try – only to be deemed held up.

Coaches Dunning and Hancock were immensely proud of their team’s defensive resilience and tactical nous throughout the contest.

They praised the tactical kicking and running game of the dynamic Green, the bone jarring defence of centre Wade Rolston and lock Riley Pascoe, and the superb efforts of prop Perry and Will Enright who combined to dominate the lineout.

Just as impressive were tireless back rowers Xavier Powell and Lachlan Stewart; their immense work rates on both sides of the ball was a feature of the Gropers 2025 campaign.

Dunning and Hancock told News Of The Area that the team’s maiden finals appearance was the result of hard toil and development of a fine group of young men both on and off the field.

Nelson Bay’s Under 15 Girls outfit capped a challenging season with a strong showing in the semi-finals.

Josh Gamgee’s charges finished third in the regular season and proved their mettle against tough opposition in a competitive series.

Despite arriving at Marcellin Park with only 13 players to face their Singleton rivals in a keenly-anticipated semi-final, the team demonstrated the resilience and fighting spirit that has defined their year.

Coach Gamgee commended each player for giving their all on the field and following instructions to the letter.

Notably, outstanding NSW Under 16s flanker Zoe Smith and newcomers Nirvana Goyne, Abbie Musialik and Alexis Scott, who delivered standout performances.

They showcased their development and commitment to the team with the team’s growth throughout the season a highlight for both the squad and supporters.

While the end result may not have gone their way, the girls’ camaraderie and enjoyment of the game stood out.

By Chris KARAS