Sport
4 October, 2022
Snakes U11s compete in Charleville
THE Caboolture Snakes under 11s enjoyed playing rugby league against outback country teams and some teams closer to home, as the Snakes competed at the recent Mulga Cup Carnival in Charleville.
Highlights included Marciano Wakely, Trae Faivalu and Tyrone Austin being selected for higher honours.
Caboolture won its opening match against Jimboomba, and then had drawn results against Dalby and Roma before finishing the first day with a loss to Carnarvon.
The Snakes began the second and final day with a win against Longreach, followed by a draw with Kawana.
Following a win against Chinchilla, the Snakes finished with a loss to Burpengary.
Tarjh Thomas received four best player awards, and Trae received three while Miyah Hooke received one.
Trae bagged five tries for the Snakes, as did Carney Cripps, while Tarjh (2), Quade Evans and Tyler Cooper also crossed the tryline.
A North versus South All Star match took place at the end of the Sunday, with the teams announced after all club games were finished.
Marciano, Trae and Tyrone were chosen for North, with Marciano and Trae subsequently earning selection for the Mulga Cup All Stars team.
Snakes coaches Mateus Chankey and John Wicks were happy with how things went for their team.
“It was a great team environment, being able to stay/camp all together,” Mateus said.
“Players built lifelong friendships through this camp.
“Our players adjusted to short games by playing fast, and (they) shared the ball around to create their own scoring opportunities.”
Mateus said most of the Snakes defended above their weight class for the whole tournament and never took a backward step.
“Overall the competition displayed so much skill for their age group, from cross-field kicks to score tries to forwards breaking through and finding offloads,” Mateus said.
“It was a fantastic carnival for everyone involved.”
John said he loved the sportsmanship from the Snakes who helped out the St George team, which had low numbers because half of its team couldn’t attend due to flooded roads.
“It was a well organised carnival and definitely one to remember,” John said.
John thanked team manager Jodi Booth, FAO Denai Janissen, sponsors and families “for all making it happen”.
