Henry Johns, Charley Wilson, Hugh McArthur, Jack Heath, Archie Waerea and Nicholas Shortis were successful in gaining selection in the Kookaburras under-14s squad.

The squad was finalised following trials in Narrabri and Tamworth and will be coached by Red Devils first grade coach Jason Waerea and Arkiri Wineti.

“Twenty two players trialled over the two weekends which we were very happy about,” Waerea said.

“It’s a tough age group to fill. Last years 14’s did a great job to rally together a squad two weeks out from the championships.”

McArthur, Wilson and Johns will be part of strong forward pack, while Heathe, Shortis and (Archie) Waerea will feature in the backs.

“They’ve all played club and representative football together so it’s great to see their skills develop over the years,” Waerea said.

All six have all represented the zone previously.

The Kookaburras have a trial against Hunter and Central Coast at Scone on March 25, and another against Mid North Coast in the lead-up to the Country Championships, which will be held in Armidale in May.

“The Country Championships are a great opportunity for the kids to test their skills and meet other players as well as forge friendships and memories they’ll keep for a long time,” Waerea said.