Young player, willing ref sets outstanding example

A YOUNG rugby league player in Ipswich is going from strength to strength.

A YOUNG rugby league player in Ipswich is going from strength to strength.

Not only because of his on-field ability but also for his off-field feats. His name is Hayden Molkentien.

Hayden has just recently been selected in the South East Queensland under-14 team after some great performances for the Ipswich Diggers.

His story goes further as he took up refereeing last year.

The Referees Association speaks highly of Hayden as a person who is willing to listen to understand the rules of the game from the referee's perspective.

By having a greater knowledge of the rules, Hayden has adapted better to his game and it is starting to improve his on-field performances.

Let's hope a lot more players move into the refereeing ranks to get a big education of the rules.

Great job Hayden.

Aussie football great Tim Cahill could make a valuable contribution for the Socceroos at the World Cup. Picture: Tim Ireland

Brazil the tip

THE biggest sporting event in the world has started and what a big month in store.

It's the 21st FIFA World Cup, starting with 32 nations and culminating on July 15 with the two best teams.

Who might the finalists be?

Will it be a Neymar-led Brazil, a Messi-led Argentina, Griezmann-led France, Werner-led Germany or Lukaku-led Belgium?

Australia play their first match on Saturday morning against France where a victory would be a huge upset.

The Australian team is valued at 78 million while the France team is valued at 1.7 billion.

I think Brazil will be lifting the trophy.

Running backwards

JIMMY Tarpot (Murrumgunerrimin) was selected in the First Eleven, an Aboriginal team which toured England in the 1860's.

Jimmy was not only a class cricketer but had exceptional speed.

In 1866, he ran the 100 yards in 14 seconds. This is quite a quick time. However, Tarpot ran this time backwards.

Jimmy was such a legend that the annual Jimmy Tarpot 100 Yard dash is run every year in Apsley, Victoria.

Quick thoughts

HERO of the week: While Roger Federer is the greatest tennis player ever, Rafael Nadal will go down as the greatest clay courter after winning his 11th French Open.

Villain of the week: The Gold Coast Suns must start performing after another below par performance. The slide is getting slippery.

Did you know? Bulgaria were the only team in the 1994 World Cup in which all 11 players last names ended in "OV''.

Bomber's best: After some recent good performances, the Brisbane Lions went back to their old ways losing to the Bombers.

This weekend is the Ipswich Cup and the winner will be number three Emphasis.