Ben looks to the NRL

Benjamin Moroney lives and breathes footy.

Junior Sports Star Benjamin Moroney. Pictures: David Swift

• Kings star calls on Hills fans
• Duggan’s high five
• Champion in training

Benjamin Moroney lives and breathes footy.

The 12-year-old started playing rugby league when he was eight and has already stacked up three grand final wins and numerous awards.

“I have always loved playing footy,” he said.

“My dad and stepmum say it’s all I did when I was a kid in the yard.

“As soon as I could hold the ball it’s all I wanted to do.”

Ben hopes to play for the NRL one day.

Benjamin, of Glenhaven, played Division 2 with the Wentworthville Leagues Club last season and said he hoped to move to Division 1 next season.

“I train with my club twice a week and then for an over an hour every day, in the hope to be selected to train in a development squad for the NRL and being picked up to play professional footy,” he said.

Benjamin, who also plays touch footy, has won two Best Back awards and two Best & Fairest awards since 2013.

He excels in conversions and setting up plays and also shows great respect for referees, coaches and other players.

“I always make sure I shake hands with every player on the other team after the game as well,” he said.

Benjamin said he enjoyed “playing with my mates and meeting new friends”.

“I love the feeling of getting ready to go out every week and play with the team,” he said.

“Winning best back for my team for two years in a row has made me very proud.”

The Year 6 student at St Angela’s Catholic School said reaching the grand finals four times in five years – and winning three – has been one of his proudest achievements so far.

The Junior Sports Star awards are proudly sponsored by Rebel.