From Stadium back to Sticks

The Bourke Clontarf Academy crew at NSWRL Headquarters. Photo contributed

The fourteen students and support staff who attended lasts weekend’s Sticks to Stadium Program, have arrived back in Bourke after the tour of a lifetime, with an invitation to return later in the year.

NSW Rugby League CEO Dave Trodden has invited the Bourke Clontarf Academy back to NSWRL Headquarter, after another successful Clontarf experience. The return invitation is for the Bourke Academy team to play on the NSW State of Origin training field against Endeavour Clontarf Academy, with Gavin Badger to officiate the match.

Clontarf Director Dane Parnaby said the students were blown away by the experience and one of the highlights was the bonding between the students during the program.

“The boys toured NSWRL Headquarters under the leadership of former head referee Gavin Badger, who provided a grand tour of the facilities our NSW State of Origin team have at their disposal during Origin camp.

“They had the privilege of meeting the NSW Women’s Origin team, as well as witnessing preparations for the official player jersey presentations.

“They got to experience the Honor Board of the great players of the game, use the gymnasium and recovery pool, as well as access to the dressing sheds and famous tunnel.

“Gavin took the boys through the seminar room and explained his role in referee development, along with sharing his personal story, and the importance of school.

At the conclusion of the tour Mervyn Powell presented CEO Dave Trodden with a hand painted Clontarf ball.

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