ASSRL Nationals live stream: Kiama High’s Hayden Buchanan set to make big impact for NSW CHS

He’s holding his own against the big boppas on the NSW South Coast. It’s no wonder there are high expectations for NSW CHS star Hayden Buchanan. Catch him LIVE from Saturday.

‘He’s only 17-years-old playing in first grade down in Group 7.’

And Hayden Buchanan is certainly holding his own, if not excelling, for Gerringong Lions against the big boppas on the NSW South Coast.

His elevation came after an impressive Harold Matthews season with the Illawarra Steelers, where he was named player of the year.

But that’s not the only reason he’s a name to look out for at the ASSRL Nationals, starting this weekend, according to Kiama High School coach and Lions teammate Nathan Ford.

ASSRL HUB: WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW, FULL SCHEDULE, DAILY LIVE STREAM LINKS

Kommunity TV has you covered with every NSW CHS game, starting with the clash against NSW Combined Independent Schools at 11.35pm on Saturday, being shown.

All up there will be 38 games played over seven days (four days of actual play) from Kayo Stadium in Redcliffe LIVE and EXCLUSIVE from 10.15am on Saturday.

Hayden Buchanan is an important cog in the NSW CHS side.

“This year he’s playing against men,” Ford said of Buchanan.

“So, he’s playing against much bigger guys and has held his own, if not bettered his opposition in the centres.”

Ford believed his talent is only part of what makes Buchanan an excellent player, and his dedication to the team he represents is what makes him a stand-out.

“He brings lots of leadership,” he said.

“He’s a great talker on the field, he’s extremely competitive and never takes a backwards step.

“He’s always willing to do anything for his teammates.”

Despite his obvious talent, Buchanan has waved off opportunities to play for established sports high schools in Sydney to continue playing for his local side.

Hayden Buchanan is impressing at the Gerringong Lions.

“We’ve always had a strong rugby league background here at Kiama High with past players,” Ford said.

“So it’s tradition here to have strong rugby league players and this year is no different.

“I’ve seen kids come through Kiama High School and our Gerringong system, and he’s probably the hardest worker out of all of them.”

Ford said he has ‘no doubt’ Buchanan will make it to the top of rugby league in the NRL in the future.

“If he stays fit and keeps the same work ethic, I have no doubt he can go onto bigger and better things.”