WITH the culmination of the local rugby league season, a new chapter is now beginning for nine junior and twelve senior players from the Camden Haven area.

In early September, player applications opened for the 2025 North Coast Bulldogs Rugby League representative campaigns for U16s Boys (Andrew Johns Cup), U17s Girls (Lisa Fiaola Cup), U18s Boys (Laurie Daley Cup), and the Open Women’s Country Championships.

Successful applicants then advanced to an in-house trial in late October.

From these trials the North Coast Bulldogs’ extended training squads were formed.

Players selected will now embark on a rigorous regime, attending training sessions twice a week to improve their fitness and elevate their game.

Final squads are set to be announced just before the Christmas break and will consist of the top 25 players from each category.

Adam Drewitt from the Lake Cathie-Bonny Hills Raiders was selected in the U18 Boys extended training squad.

“At the trial there were roughly around 200 players in our group so it felt good to be chosen,” said Adam.

“Three of my teammates were also selected – Tim, Logan and Isaac.

“Playing with familiar faces and teammates is definitely a benefit.

“Selection in the squad also means I am still involved in consistent footy, which improves my fitness and strengthens my game.”

Chloe Gaskin-Hogan from the Camden Haven Eagles was chosen in the U17s Girls extended training squad.

“I was pretty over the moon when I found out I was selected,” said Chloe.

“At the trial there were between 30-40 girls.

“We were broken into different groups and played against each other.

“The games were intense and very competitive.”

Camden Haven players named in the North Coast Bulldogs’ extended training squads include:

Boys U16s Andrew Johns Cup: Angus Bowen, Aiden Hardy and Sam Harris from the Lake Cathie-Bonny Hill Raiders and Deion Cafe from the Camden Haven Eagles.

Girls U17s Lisa Fiaola Cup: Chloe Gaskin-Hogan from the Camden Haven Eagles.

Boys U18s Laurie Daley Cup: Adam Drewitt, Isaac Lewis, Logan Bes and Tim Broderick from the Lake Cathie-Bonny Hill Raiders.

Womens Open: Abby Baker, Alleena Sloan-Harris, Jasmyn Barbuto, Jayme-Lee Averillo, Jess Palmer, Lydia Kearns, Nakita Binge, Naomi George, Natalie Smith, Sharni Graham and Tiley Hunter from the Laurieton Stingrays and Talisha Goolagong from the Kendall Blues.

By Kim AMBROSE