With the pre-season nearly finished most clubs are feeling pretty confident as the players would have trained hard and would be feeling fit and ready to play. I am no different and am very happy with the work the boys have done so far. I have tested them with a fairly gruelling pre-season including a 3 day camp on Shane Webcke’s farm at Leyburn. With the help of another front row partner, Andrew Gee, the boys were put through some intense challenges over the weekend topped off by both former bookends riding bulls at the local bullride.

Our Cyril Connell and Mal Meninga cup sides played their first trial against Souths Logan on Saturday night at Davies Park. The Mal Meninga Cup team, coached by former North Sydney Bear, Nigel Roy, had a kick after the siren to level the scores. Unfortunately the kick missed however Nigel was pleased with his team’s effort and is confident he has plenty to work with for the upcoming season. The Cyril Connell team, coached by Wynnum Manly Old Boy, Wade Bachmann were also very competitive. Apart from a lapse early in the second half the two teams were evenly matched and likewise the coach was pleased with what he has to work with. I think this is a wonderful competition that provides a pathway for talented juniors to reach their potential and allows them to stay in their area. Rather than be poached to Sydney with the lure of a professional career these kids can stay playing for their local clubs whilst still having the same opportunity.

Now on to Willie Mason. A lot has been said about the big fella recently. There is no doubting his talent or ability. Wherever he goes if he can get his head right and be committed to the team he will have plenty to offer. The Cowboys seem favourites at this stage. Maybe if things fall through there, we could pass the hat around and try and raise the 50-60K needed to lure him bayside. I can hear it now.....Let’s Get Willie to Wynnum!!!