Rugby players Finn Prass, Luke Aiken, Joe Wikaira and Siosifa Kava-Uasike will represent the Sunshine Coast in the U16 QLD rugby union team.
Four Sunshine Coast rugby union players stood out during gruelling trials to be selected to represent the state.
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After several gruelling trials between the state’s best players, four Sunshine Coast high school students have been selected in the Queensland Maroon U16 rugby union team.
The three Sunshine Coast Grammar students Luke Aiken, Finn Prass, Joe Wikaira and Mountain Creek State High School student Siosifa Kava-Uasike would verse the opposing Queensland White team at 6pm Tuesday at the Riverside Rugby Union Club.
Halfback Luke Aiken said the boys were looking forward to it.
“It’s definitely a good feeling and going in with the other boys is exciting,” he said.
The Grammar trio had played school and club rugby together since under 12s.
Pace specialist Joe Wikaira said he would welcome any improvement to his game.
“We’re all starting for the maroon team and given we’re nine, 10 and 11 that combination will carry over from school and club footy,” he said.
“The whole program that the Reds have is of the highest level so I’m glad to be a part of it all.”
Fly half Finn Prass was greeted with more good news after also being selected in the under 18 Australian A merit side on September 10.
Prass said it was a huge honour.
“It definitely is a confidence booster being named in these high-level teams,” he said.
“I won’t get the chance to play given the restrictions but to still be able to play in the Queensland team and with my mates is something I’m looking forward to.”
Sunshine Coast Grammar director of rugby Dan Robotham said it was a well deserved selection.
“Over the years our school has had a number of players come through and make some representative teams but this really does show the strength of our development system,” he said.
“All three players have great attitudes towards learning and bettering themselves on the field so I’m glad they’re getting this opportunity.
“I know they're nervous which is nice to see but I know they’ll perform well come Tuesday.”
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