14 May 2024
Wauchope High entered its first team in six years in the statewide Buckley Shield Under 14 Rugby League competition, the largest knockout for public schools in NSW. It was a privilege to take the 14 boys on the day, as they proved to be excellent ambassadors for our school.
The first game was against Nambucca Heads. After starting strongly with tries to Conner and Nathan, Nambucca staged a massive comeback and took the lead. A great fightback from the boys with tries to Kale and then the matchwinner to Billy produced an excellent win, but unfortunately it came at a cost. Jaxzyn and Hayden sustained injuries and we finished the game with 12 players.
Our second game was against a combined Hastings Secondary College (Port and Westport). This was always going to be a tough assignment, but our lack of troops proved too big a challenge. Nate completed two amazing try-saving tackles on either side of halftime, but they both hurt him. When he couldn’t continue, the decision was made to call the match early.
I was proud of the effort put in by all of the boys, but there were some standouts, with Matt, Billy, Nathan, Harry and Nate fantastic in defence, while Conner, Harley, Kale and Shane were best in attack. Well done boys, you all did your best.
-Mr Hancock
Thanks to Suzie Collins for capturing these photos on the day.
