Young rugby league player aims for a spot with Penrith Panthers

MARBAM Wichmann has earned selection in the NSW under-12 rugby league team for a mini Origin-style clash against Queensland.

Junior Sports Star nominee Marbam Wichmann is ready to take on Queensland.

MARBAM Wichmann is following in the footsteps of his older brother, winning selection in the NSW under-12 rugby league team and heading for a mini State of Origin-style clash against Queensland.

The Plumpton 11-year-old is relishing the prospect of travelling to Canberra for the Australian championships, especially his team’s opening match against Queensland set for July 31.

“I feel very excited and very proud,” said Marbam, whose dream is to play NRL football for Penrith.

Marbam Wichmann would love to play for the Penrith Panthers one day.

“Hopefully they do better than the real NSW Origin team,” said brother Hyrum, now playing with the Parramatta Eels under 16s.

Marbam, a Year 6 student at Plumpton Public School, hails from a sporting family, with his older sister a representative netballer.

He has represented NSW in oztag for the past two years and helped Penrith win the under-12 State Cup in touch football this year.

The speedy halfback has won two titles since starting in the local St Marys team as an under-8, before his dad Bam switched him to rivals Glenmore Park. “It was a challenge,” said Marbam, and clearly one that has worked, because he has helped his new teammates to turn the tables on St Marys so far this season.

“He can be a bit shy and lost for words sometimes,” his father said, “but on the field he is very vocal, directing the team and encouraging his mates.”

He thanked Blacktown City Council for supporting Marbam through its sports grant funding scheme.

The Newslocal Junior Sports Star is sponsored by Rebel.

To nominate a talented junior athlete or team, visit juniorsportsstar.com.au.