Capras under-17 girls strong across the park, says coach Cedric Auda

The girls will play three games, kicking off their campaign against the Toowoomba Clydesdales. Coach Cedric Auda talks about his team’s prospects here.

The CQ Capras under-17 girls line-up boasts strength and quality across the park, according to coach Cedric Auda.

They team will compete on Friday and Saturday at the Central Region Carnival in Toowoomba, which will act as a selection tournament for the Queensland Country under-17 team.

The Capras will play the Sunshine Coast Falcons at 5.45pm Friday before two games on Saturday against the Toowoomba Clydesdales at 9.50am and the Wide Bay Bulls at 1.10pm.

Auda has assembled a competitive squad for the carnival, though he lost several players including Teearna Cora and Tylah Taituma to injury in the lead-up.

“The squad has come together well in such a short space of time, which speaks volumes for the calibre of player we have this year,” he said.

“It was great to see so many girls interested in the trial process this season which is a great sign that the game is growing for women in Central Queensland.”

Auda said the players’ efforts at training demonstrated their determination to play the game at a high level.

He is looking forward to watching young guns Mackayla Oakley and Lyndsay Major in action, saying they would bring a lot of grit and flair.

Auda said the Capras were strong both in attack and defence.

“The greatest strength within our team is the respect they have for each other and the respect for the opportunity to play for the CQ Capras,” he said.

“This carnival is a great opportunity for the girls within the regional area to showcase their skills and ability in rugby league at representation level.”

Auda said he was urging the girls to embrace the challenge and compete at their very best.

CQ Capras’ players set to shine at Central Region Carnival

Mia Curtis (wing): Brings a lot of speed on the edge. While small in stature, she has a heart as big as a lion and works tirelessly in every game.

Gabriella Yarrow (half): Versatile player who is a great organiser. Solid in defence and possesses an impressive attacking and kicking game.

Britney Rothery (second row): A hard worker who always gives 100 per cent and runs with intent. A force to be reckoned with.

Mackayla Oakley (lock): Versatile player who has good ball skills and awareness to create opportunities for her teammates. Mackayla shows plenty of maturity.

Tori Dakin (front row): A tough competitor with a mobile running style. A gritty competitor, she always puts in the hard yards.

Miah Powell (utility): Tough player who can slot into the halves, at hooker, centre or fullback. A solid defender and a good organiser, she played with the Capras under-19s in the Harvey Norman Challenge this year.