Armidale will be well represented in the Group 19 under-23’s team with five Rams, one Narwan and one Uralla player in the squad.
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Two sets of brothers, Jake and Jayden Smith, Scott and Chris Mcintyre along with club mate Michael Munro-Johnson will from the Rams and Narwan’s Luke French will line up in the side.
Uralla’s Jack Doran was also named in the team to play in the Greater Northern Championships on February 9.
Jayden was chosen at halfback for the team and said the five Rams are eager to have a crack against the region’s best young talent.
“Personally I think its awesome. It’s a great confidence booster to start the season and its a goal ticked off the list so I’m keen as for it,” he said.
“The other boys are super excited as well. Jake and Scotty aren’t even 20 yet so to be picked as run on in a 23s team is exceptional!
“Its Michael’s first Group 19 jersey as well and he’s excited to try out his new roll. Chris is in his last year of eligibility for the team so hes super happy to get a chance as well.”
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Jayden said it is exciting to have five from their club chosen in the squad.
“From a Rams point of view, the club is super happy with the selections,” he said.
“Sending five players over and all five coming back in the team, having such a young team already to have our players recognised for hard work will bring an awesome atmosphere back to club training.”
There’s a fair mix of representative experience among the five Rams players with some involved in higher honours throughout their junior careers and others just stepping up for the first time.
“Besides my colts contract In Queensland. I havent made reps for a few years,” Jayden said.
“Jake and Scotty have gone through the Northern Tigers 16s and 18s teams, and it’s Michael and Chris’ first jersey for Group.”
The Group 19 team is made up predominantly of Rams, Inverell Hawks and Moree Boomerangs players.
The squad has a vast mix of ages and experience.
There’s some who have years left in the under-23s and others who will play at this level for the last time.
Jayden believes there is a good mix and is confident in their chances against Groups 4 and 21.
“Our team is pretty strong across the paddock, our edges are especially with good centres and back rowers,” he said.
“But everyone in each position is strong and I think we will go really well.
“Hard to say how I’ll go but I’m going in off a massive off/ pre-season and I’m really happy with where I am at fitness wise so hopefully that comes into play with the Tamworth heat!”