THE 2025 Group 3 Junior Rugby League finals series is well underway, with the second round of “do-or-die” action kicking off from Friday 22 to Sunday 24 August.
Among the junior clubs still vying for grand final glory are the Lake Cathie Bonny Hills Raiders and the Camden Haven Eagles, with their junior girls’ teams leading the charge.
The Eagles’ under 17 girls have announced themselves as serious title contenders, overcoming a gutsy Wauchope Blues side on Sunday, 17 August.
In an intense match up which saw the lead change several times, the game culminated in a 20-20 deadlock, forcing the sides into Golden Point.
Displaying unwavering perseverance, the Eagles relentlessly attacked the Blues line, ultimately securing a decisive try to clinch victory and progress to the next round of finals. .
Team captain Chloe Gaskin-Hogan, who led by example with several dynamic runs, was full of praise for her teammates.
“We knew before going into the match that the Blues would be tough opponents and they definitely made us work for the win,” said Chloe.
“Although there is no ‘I’ in team, there were moments where the effort of individual players made a difference in Wauchope crossing the line or being stopped, with their determination inspiring the team.
“I am just so proud of the girls, they never gave up and were there for each other when needed.”
Down the road at Lake Cathie, the Raiders’ U16 Blue League Tag (LT) team is on track to replicate a successful 2024 campaign after securing a grand final spot.
Facing off against a very skilled and well-drilled Wingham Tigers team in the major semifinals on Friday, 16 August, the Raiders found themselves trailing 18-10 at halftime.
Undeterred by the scoreline the players dug deep to secure a 34-18 comeback win.
Raiders President Benny Smith expressed pride in the club’s accomplishments this year.
“This year we were fortunate enough to have enough players to enter two Under 16s League Tag teams into the competition, with both teams filled with plenty of talent,” said Smith.
“All of the girls have made us extremely proud, with the Blue team making the tier 1 final and the Green team making the tier 2 final.
“The committee has put in a lot of effort into expanding our club and putting in the groundwork to drum up more players.
“By the girls making the finals they are putting us out there in everyone’s face.
“Their behaviour both on and off the field is of a very high standard which is a really great look for the club.
“Good luck to the girls in their finals and hopefully it inspires some more young ladies to come and give footy a crack.”
By Kim AMBROSE
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