Latrell Mitchell wants Roosters to take NRL matches to the bush

Latrell Mitchell has heard about countless country clubs folding due to lack of numbers and the Taree Red Rovers junior wants to make a difference before it is too late.

Latrell Mitchell dives for during NSW State of Origin training this week. Picture: Phil Hillyard

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NSW State of Origin star and proud country boy Latrell Mitchell wants the Sydney Roosters to take NRL matches to the bush in a bid save the game in regional areas.

The Taree Red Rovers junior understands the importance of nurturing the country ranks.

It’s why Mitchell wants to meet with Roosters boss Nick Politis to ask about the prospect of playing competition games in towns like Scone, Parkes and Cowra.

Mitchell has heard about countless country clubs folding due to lack of numbers and he wants to make a difference before it is too late.

“I’ve wanted to take NRL games out to the country for ages,” Mitchell told Bush Beat.

Latrell Mitchell as a youngster playing for Taree.

“I guess it started because of the disinterest of kids not wanting to play league.

“I really like how clubs like Newcastle go to Mudgee, Wagga and Dubbo.

“Other clubs have played up in Port Macquarie.

“I wouldn’t mind if the Roosters took a game somewhere in the bush.

“It would be something to talk to Nick about in the future. I’ll worry about this season and then organise something for next year.

“I’ll go through the NRL and get more teams out to the country.”

Mitchell has fond memories of Newcastle and Wests Tigers players visiting his school in Taree.

He also had the Roosters attend a junior league training session at the Red Rovers.

“I remember when I got to meet Mark O’Meley, it was awesome,” he said.

“That is what kids want to see — their heroes.

Latrell Mitchell dives for during NSW State of Origin training this week. Picture: Phil Hillyard

“The communities love that stuff and I think it raises a bit of awareness around rugby league that it is a game that can change lives.

“Everyone in the bush loves league, so taking games out there would be huge for the young kids.”

Mitchell believes the positive of taking games to the bush extends well beyond the field. He said the players have the power to inspire people in regional areas.

“We need to get out and do a lot more community work,” he said.

“I think that is reasonable. I think we should do a lot more than what we are doing.

“I know the Roosters are based in Sydney and the Central Coast but I think we can branch out to other areas.

“Even if people there don’t go for the Roosters, they are going to enjoy and remember the game.

“That is how you get people on board.”

Originally published as Latrell Mitchell wants Roosters to take NRL matches to the bush