The NRL season is in full swing but this weekend becomes significant for another reason, with junior rugby league next on the agenda with a full schedule of games in the local area this weekend.
With registrations still open at most clubs, Shire young gun Tyson Mitchell, who made a name for himself at a recent Touch Football carnival, has a message for all aspirational players.
“If you’re into contact sport give it a go because it’s good fun with your mates,” said Mitchell.
After shooting to online fame following his blistering side-step at the recent NSW Touch State Championships in Port Macquarie, Mitchell has fast become an example of the benefits of playing both Touch Football and Junior Rugby League.
Mitchell says that playing Rugby League has been something he’s wanted to for a long time after watching the likes of Paul Gallen, Valentine Holmes and Jack Bird take the field for the Cronulla Sharks.
This season Mitchell moved from the Engadine Dragons to the St John Bosco Bulldogs and is enjoying every minute of it.
“I always wanted to play it but I had to start off with soccer. But I love it and its pretty fun playing up at the Bosco Bulldogs,” he said.
Outside of playing JRL on the weekends, Mitchell is like any other 12-year-old.
He loves playing footy at school with his mates and can’t wait to get out onto the field to run around.
“I play at school with my mates, every day, every lunchtime and recess we play a game of touch,” Mitchell added.
When quizzed about who his favourite Sharks players were, he was unable to go past Holmes, Bird and Gallen.
“Valentine Holmes is my favourite because he’s quick and I like fast players. Jack Bird because he used to play in the halves like me and he has pretty good ball skills and Paul Gallen because he has a go every week,” Mitchell said.
Mitchell was recently lucky enough to join the Cronulla Sharks squad at a training session in the lead-up to Play NRL Round at Southern Cross Group Stadium, taking part in the squad photo along while chatting to Valentine Holmes.
It’s not too late to sign up to play in the Cronulla-Sutherland District Junior League which begins this weekend (April 2-3). Visit the Sharks Play NRL page here for all sign-up information.
