Exciting Changes Ahead for Rugby League Central Coast Under-19s Competition

The Rugby League Central Coast under-19s competition is set for an exciting shake-up in 2024, with the addition of Hunter club Woodberry and a unique combined Ourimbah-Berkeley Vale team. These new faces, along with the return of Terrigal after a year absence, promise to bring a fresh dynamic to the competition.

Woodberry’s inclusion in the competition came as a surprise, with the Warriors joining at the last minute after the Newcastle and Hunter Rugby League under-19s competition fell apart. Woodberry president John Leao expressed his excitement for the opportunity, especially in the club’s 50th year of existence. The team will face Terrigal in their first game this Sunday at Dora Creek, with both teams agreeing to play home games at neutral venues to accommodate the distance between them.

Meanwhile, the combined Ourimbah-Berkeley Vale team is described as an ‘Arnott’s all sorts’ side, with players recruited from various clubs to form a cohesive unit. The team will split their home games between Bill Sohier Park and Ted Doyle Oval as they aim to develop their junior players and eventually move into first grade next year.

Terrigal’s return to the under-19s competition is seen as crucial for the club’s future success, with president Dave Lyons emphasizing the importance of a strong youth grade program. The club hopes that this season’s under-19s players will eventually filter through to the senior grades, with several already making their first grade debuts in the opening round.

Overall, the new-look Rugby League Central Coast under-19s competition promises to be an exciting and competitive season, with the addition of Woodberry, the combined Ourimbah-Berkeley Vale team, and the return of Terrigal adding depth and diversity to the league. Fans can expect to see some thrilling matches and talented young players making their mark on the field.