Excitement was abuzz among local junior rugby league players at Jack Arrow Park on Thursday as the Penrith Panthers squad touched down for their NRL round eight clash in Bathurst against Manly this weekend.
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The undefeated Panthers greeted the young fans with plenty of graciousness, signing autographs and asking questions on how their footy is going.
The young fans were at Jack Arrow Park as part of the annual Peachy-Richardson Gala Day, showcasing the finest junior rugby league talent among Bathurst's primary schools.
Panthers forward Isaah Yeo, who grew up and played his junior rugby league in Dubbo, said it's always a pleasure to bring home games west of the Blue Mountains.
"You're a lot closer to the fans out here, and attending gala events like these reminds you of when you were a kid yourself and wanting to meet your favourite players," Yeo said.
"It was a real shame we couldn't make it out here last year because of COVID-19, but we're glad to be here again; I know all the boys are excited."
Fellow Dubbo product Matt Burton, who will take the field for Penrith in the centres this weekend, said the annual fixture in Bathurst is pivotal in encouraging the next generation of rugby league players.
"We didn't get many opportunities as young fellas to see NRL games, so it's great to be able to inspire a new generation of talent," Burton said.
Bathurst mayor Bobby Bourke said the community is in for a bustling weekend of activity, with the NRL game, the Royal Bathurst Show and the Bathurst Writers' and Readers' Festival to keep the community thoroughly entertained across the weekend.
"It's an exciting time for Bathurst this weekend, we literally have all bases covered," Cr Bourke said.
"We sorely missed all three of these events last year due to COVID-19, but they're all back and will hopefully be better than ever."
The NRL match between the Penrith Panthers and Manly Sea Eagles will kick off at Carrington Park from 3pm this Saturday, with a crowd of 5800 expected.
For more information, visit www.bathurstnrl.com.au.
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