WESTERN Rams under 21s coach Kurt Hancock is looking forward to seeing what his side is capable of in next month’s meeting against Federation of Italia Rugby League Australia at Carrington Park.
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The St Pat’s Group 10 premier league coach will be especially familiar with the four Saints players – Jack Mackey, Hudson White, Mitch Squire and Nick Millar – who make up a strong Bathurst representation in the squad.
CSU Bathurst’s Regan Hughes has also made the cut for the 21s squad.
The squad of 22 will shed two players before the October 15 clash.
While an opponent from the FIRLA has yet to be decided for the 21s group Hancock said it will be a day to savour for Western rugby league.
“We’re really looking forward to it. It should be a good day with the Italy teams coming across but we’re not quite sure what they’re going to bring our way just yet,” he said.
“For rugby league in general it’s a great day.”
Hancock is full of praise for his St Pat’s quartet who all made a big impact for the premier league team in 2016.
“The Pat’s boys are all very deserving. They’ve all had good seasons and it’s a reward for their efforts,” he said.
“Hudson White was great for us all year. He played mostly off the bench but proved himself to be one of the better hookers in the competition with Benjamin John. Jack Mackey also had a great season. Those two are going to be pushing for starting spots next year.
“Nick Millar was outstanding. He was only able to play around six or seven games for us but he was one of our best when he was there. He’s been a great find for the club and if he’s fit he will be pushing for Western first div spot next year.”
For a young side Hancock said his squad is packed to the brim with premier league experience.
“Zac Adams just played in the grand final for Mudgee and there’s Ryan Griffin who has been great for CYMS. Mitch Burke from Forbes has had a great time out there this year,” he said.
“Many of this group have already been playing first grade for some time. That’s the idea of this squad, to give themselves more chances to develop their game.”
Half of the 22-strong team come from Group 10 premier league teams while Hughes is joined by Blackheath Blackcats pair Matt Ranse and Ryan Jervis as New Era Cup selections.
St Pat’s boast the biggest representation in the under 21s squad while the next biggest share goes to the Mudgee Dragons (three).
The under 21s will train on Sunday October 9 at Jack Huxley Oval, Manildra.
