Jason Annear memorial tournament debut proves a hit with national players

SEVERAL National Rugby League clubs want to return for next year's Jason Annear Memorial Invitation sevens tournament.

Annear Memorial

SEVERAL National Rugby League clubs have expressed a desire to compete next year in the Jason Annear Memorial Invitation sevens tournament after the debut event was a hit on Saturday.

The tournament at Berkeley Vale attracted teams from across the Central Coast and a squad from the Manly Sea Eagles.

It was held in honour of talented player Jason Annear who was found at the base of a cliff near Freshwater Beach after the Manly presentation in October.

He was regarded highly by the Sea Eagles after coming through the Berkeley Vale Panthers ranks.

It was a big day of action with Manly eventually claiming the Jason Annear Shield with a decisive 26-12 win over Berkeley Vale in the final.

Northern Lakes beat the JA All Stars 22-12 in the consolation final. The All Stars team was made up of players who competed alongside Annear during his juniors days.

While Manly was happy to take out the first ever final, this day was more about remembering Annear after the tragic events of October.

"It was a great day in his memory, everyone was delighted how everything turned out," event co-ordinator David Lyons said.

"He was a very well liked young man and that was again highlighted on Saturday."

Lyons indicated the tournament would become an annual event with plenty of interest already coming in for 2014.

"The plan at this stage is to hold it every year," Lyons said.

Lyons said the Bulldogs and Roosters had indicated they would like to field teams next year.