Boggabri Kangaroos might have suffered another agonisingly loss when beaten 36-34 by Werris Creek at Jubilee Oval in Saturday’s final round Group 4 first grade match but the Shane Rampling-coached side is far from a spent force.
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The Roos will be even better next season, Rampling promised, as his side and club prepare to start building for next season.
The club has already had talks with prospective employers about enticing players to join the club by providing jobs and are hopeful many of the talented under 18s side, who have been used in first grade already, might turn out with the Roos in 2019.
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“We only had 11 first graders today,” Rampling said after the two-point loss to the Magpies.
“Had to use three of our under 18s again and sat them on the bench. They backed up for us again after playing juniors. They have done it all season and had a taste of first grade which can only help when they finish their season. It’s been a good experience for them and should help them go a long way in the 18s.
“They can only get better and hope they take it (experience) back to the 18s.
“We have got some good kids who haven’t looked out of place when backing up in first grade. I’m pretty confident they’ll stick around for next season and only be better for it.”
He believes the Boggabri under 18s can win the junior premiership.
“The 18s have enjoyed it this season and we have 10 or 11 of them backing up next year, too, so they will be even better if we can also add a few players there,” Rampling said.
Rampling also believes their help next season can help Boggabri improve greatly from their “debut” season where they failed to win a game but had four close losses.
“It has been frustrating,” he said.
“Been so close. There were four games we should have won but didn’t. However, we have been super competitive most of the season. Just didn’t have the experience to close out some of those close games.”
While winless Rampling couldn’t “fault the effort” of the Kangaroos.
“It’s been unbelievable,” he said.
“I really think we have punched above our weight this season. I’m looking forward to progressing next season and hopefully bringing in a few players with a bit of experience. As everyone knows we can’t pay players but we look after them and have a very, happy club. I’ve only been here this season but love the club. They are only a little club but run by passionate and positive people.
“They are not sitting back either and are being proactive. They want to make a good go of it in first grade next season.”
The Roos showed their determination by almost pulling off a big win against a Werris Creek side who are now preparing for this weekend’s elimination semi-final against Narrabri Blues.
Players such as hard working prop Andrew Cameron, who epitomised the drive and spirit in the club.
“He played the full 80 minutes today,” Rampling said.
‘It was his birthday, too. He turned 26 and celebrated by playing the full 80.
“Jayde Campbell had a blinder at five-eighth too. And Matty Gillham had a massive game at lock. Tackled hard and ran hard all game. Nick Hobden had his best game of the year on the wing, too, but everyone tried their hearts out.”
