IT’S BEEN a tough season that could have a dream finish for the Cudgen Hornets, who are preparing to take on the Ballina Seagulls in the NRRRL Grand Final decider this Sunday, September 10.
Cudgen Hornets club president Aaron Bryant reflected on the side’s performance this year and said the young team had shown exceptional skills throughout the season with standout performances from front rowers Caleb Ziebell and Pat Rosser (coach) as well as Myles Donnelly (captain hooker) and Benny O’Gorman (centre or wing).
Caleb was also named Player of the Year by the Cudgen club narrowly beating Myles by a few points.
Mr Bryant also reflected on the past two years, making the finals against the mighty Mustangs who won in 2016 and now facing a strong side in the Ballina Seagulls, who have won three titles in four years.
“Pat’s been keeping a close eye on Ballina this season and we know what we’re up against,” Mr Bryant said.
“But we’ve also proven we’re the side to beat, coming back in some tough matches despite being a player down in one game against the Mustangs recently.”
It’s been 11 years since the Hornets claimed a NRRRL final title with the last one in 2006.
“We’ve had a lot of locals and local sponsors behind us, of whom we could not have done this without them,” Mr Byrant said.
He also pointed out the growing popularity of the Cudgen Hornets club, with visits from the Blues, Titans and Bulldogs to name a few.
“The club has also been selected to host the Australian Rugby League Open School Boy Championships, which will feature a lot of talented players from across the country to Cudgen,” he said.
“Although we’re still considered a young club, we’re showing we have what it takes and we’re in a great location for the future.”
