Grammar graduate gets massive call-up

RUGBY prodigy given chance to shine with Queensland Reds and Aussie sevens side.

The Reds also invited a handful of players from Sunshine Coast Grammar's First XV program to train in the gym and spend time at the beach. Harry McMahon, Riley Kerr, Tait McDermott, Alex Crow, Matt McCarthy and Charlie Bruce. Picture: Patrick Woods

RUGBY UNION: Just watch the highlights of Tate McDermott carving up for Sunshine Coast Grammar School's First XV (below) and you'll understand why he's a player to follow.

The 17-year-old has just completed a week of training with the Queensland Reds' senior squad, after he was picked in the under-20s side at the end of 2016.

He has also been invited to train with the Australian Rugby Sevens outfit.

"It was a great opportunity for me to get a call up to train with the Reds Super 15 team, seeing the way they approached training, their fitness and overall professionalism," McDermott said.

Sunshine Coast schoolboys rugby union grand final between Matthew Flinders Anglican College and Sunshine Coast Grammar School at Stockland Stadium:Tate McDermott.Photo: Brett Wortman / Sunshine Coast Daily. Picture: Brett Wortman

"Also the size of the boys was a real eye opener for me, they are massive."

McDermott became an Australian Schoolboys representative last year, after a stellar season with Grammar's undefeated top side.

He attended Matthew Flinders Anglican College before he moved to Brisbane to play for State High in the Greater Public Schools (GPS) competition against the likes of rugby breeding grounds Nudgee College, Gregory Terrace and Churchie.

The move didn't work out and he returned to the Coast in Year 10 and linked with Grammar, where his game was taken to new heights with the guidance of head of rugby, Dan Robotham.

He became one of few players to feature in three-consecutive schoolboy First XV premierships with Grammar and was picked in the Australian Schoolboys sevens side when he was in Year 11.

Rugby Union Sunshine Coast chairman Ian Brown said Tate's achievements could be attributed to his ability and commitment to the game.

"Another key factor in Tate's achievements has been the development and opportunities he has received by playing rugby on the Sunshine Coast," Brown said.

"Tate's success we believe will provide inspiration to many local boys and girls playing rugby on the Sunshine Coast as to the opportunities available to them locally through their school and club rugby programs."