For two weekends running junior rugby players from across the region have been forced to contend with erratic weather.
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After torrential rain greeted them in Walcha on May 1, they were praying for mild conditions on their visit to Narrabri over the weekend.
Paddy Paul from Gunnedah Junior Rugby Club said the youngsters played in stifling heat, more akin to “cricket weather”.
“It was still a great day though and a good carnival.
“They all excelled and are getting more confidence and a better grip on the game,” Paddy said.
What was only their second outing of the 2016 season - the juniors faced some stiff opposition. Paddy said the 12s had a difficult time of it, playing three games for three losses against sides from Armidale, Walcha and Narrabri.
“We want them to go out and first and foremost enjoy themselves.
“We try to make the carnivals as much fun as possible,” he said.
The 12s played at Dangar Park while their compatriots in the under 6s, 8s, 10s and 14s took the field at Cooma Oval.
The competition may be a few weeks in but Paddy said they’re still screaming out for more players.
“We’d like a few more under 14s,” he said.
When Gunnedah host their carnival on June 5 Mr Paul indicated they’ll take advantage of the chance to try to draft in more numbers.
“We’ll be registering new players at the carnival. It’ll be a bit of a come and try sort of thing and all ages are welcome,” he said.
The juniors will continue training Thursday nights at Rugby Park from 4-5pm with an Inverell carnival on the horizon.
