OVERJOYED Ben Gunter says his dreams have come true after earning a place among the state’s young rugby elite – and the Gunnedah sporting history books.
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The second rower will take on some of the country’s best junior rugby talent and enjoy a dream overseas trip after being selected for the NSW Waratahs under 15s.
The 14-year-old, who sealed his spot with a good performance in Sunday’s annual City-Country clash, is believed to be the first Gunnedah player to be selected for state age group honours with the Waratahs.
Dedicated Ben, who has enjoyed a meteoric rise to prominence after only taking the game up seriously about three years ago, said he was delighted his efforts had paid off in spectacular style.
“It is just sinking in,” he said. “I am still thinking ‘wow’.
“All the training and effort and blood and sweat through the games has paid off.
“You dream of stuff like this – and now it’s happening.
“I’m really happy.”
The St Mary’s College student rubber-stamped his squad berth with a solid display for Country during Sunday’s match with their metropolitan rivals.
Despite a strong effort in the Bathurst clash, Country went down 19-12 to City in a typically hard-fought contest.
“There was a lot of competition between the forwards,” Ben said.
“I think I copped a couple on the chin out there.
“This was a once-in-a-lifetime chance [though]. There was a chance of Waratahs selection, so it was about playing your guts out.”
The 24-man squad will now undergo fitness training at the Waratahs’ Sydney base in preparation for matches against Queensland Reds and the ACT Brumbies in October.
Selection was a welcome reward for Ben, who has come through the Central North program over the last three years.
He trains with the Daracon Red Devils every week, as well as travelling to Narrabri for further training and matches with the town’s Blue Boars side.
In addition, Ben and his NSW Country team will also contest three matches with Fijian sides during a week-long visit to the Pacific country in October.
Country coach Tony Leeder-Smith said the Fiji trip should be another stepping stone in the development of Ben and his squad mates.
“The guys get a chance to play on grounds they have not experienced before,” he said.
“It should be competitive and a good experience.
“Ben is a good kid to have around. He is polite and enthusiastic.
“He has done very well and I hope he moves on to bigger and better things.”
Ben thanked friends, family and everyone at the Red Devils and Blue Boars for their support.
