SOME of Port Stephens’ most promising rugby league juniors have returned from a once-in-a-lifetime educational trip to Queensland.
Nelson Bay Marlins Junior Rugby League Club sent its two Under 15 teams on a four day goodwill tour to Brisbane last week where they were hosted by the fledgling Redcliffe Dolphins.
Highlights for the young Marlins were taking the field against much vaunted Under 15 Dolphin teams in tour matches at Kayo Stadium in Redcliffe – the same ground where first grade NRL players compete – and visiting the Dolphins’ High Performance Centre.
Team captains Zeke Hay and Jett McGann proudly led their teammates into action against some of Queensland’s rising young talent.
In a great show of club spirit, the Marlins juniors raised funds to cover all costs associated with the trip and the Nelson Bay community’s support was overwhelming.
Emerging halfback and skipper Zeke Hay – an outstanding prospect in the Newcastle Under 15s Development Squad – inspired the Marlins against a strong Dolphins line-up in a high quality Division One fixture.
The classy number seven demonstrated his organisational skills and kicking prowess and nabbed a fine try and conversion to lock the scores at 6-all at the halftime interval.
Despite a gripping second half tussle, the Redcliffe young guns prevailed.
Promising second rower Kade Lawson and prop Lachlan Parker also impressed for the Marlins, with their powerful running and rugged defence.
They were both pulled down short of the try line on multiple occasions as the Nelson Bay youngsters produced a grandstand finish.
In the Division 4 clash, both the Dolphins and Marlins teams mixed players in the true spirit of the game.
Dashing fullback Zac Martin scored Nelson Bay’s opening try from dummy half before strong running forward Nick Karavelatzis capped a big game after smashing through tackles to post another four pointer with a barnstorming run.
Marlins’ Division One coach Pat Hay told News Of The Area that this year’s Under 15s rugby league sojourn to Queensland had left an “indelible print” on each player.
“They’ve shared some wonderful memories together – playing on an NRL field and observing the world class set-up at the Dolphins,” said the Fingal Bay schoolteacher.
“The Dolphins gave us full access to their facilities and the boys could not wipe the smiles off their faces.
“They ran through the tunnel onto Kayo Stadium and looked up to see the Marlin logo on the big screen which was an unbelievable experience.
“All in all it was a fascinating trip and one the boys will treasure forever.”
Coach Hay revealed that the Marlins had introduced the annual Under 15s tour concept last season when a Nelson Bay squad visited Townsville.
“I believe this is the perfect age for such a tour, as it has kept the boys grounded, united and focused throughout the season.”
The Marlins finished fifth in the 2025 Hunter Junior League Division One Under 15 competition – pipped for a finals spot by fourth-ranked Dudley Redhead on percentages.
A grateful Hay thanked the club sponsors and tireless official Elise Jamieson for her tremendous organisation and all the staff that gave up their time to assist on the trip.
“All the boys are deeply grateful for the help that made this incredible journey possible – an experience they’ll savour for many a year.”
By Chris KARAS
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