Griffith University Colleges within sight of four Gold Coast rugby premierships ahead of grand finals

THE harmonisation of Griffith University College’s off-field structures has put the Knights on the brink of the most successful year in club history.

THE harmonisation of Griffith University College’s off-field structures has put the Knights on the brink of the most successful year in club history.

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With a second-straight club championship already in the bag, the Knights will look to add to their silverware collection when four teams line up in Gold Coast District Rugby Union grand finals this weekend.

While the A grade outfit has stolen the headlines as they chase back-to-back crowns, the men’s second and third grade sides, as well as the under-17 girls, also have premierships within their grasp.

THE SEMINAL MOMENT IN HOGS’ PREMIERSHIP QUEST

Knights director or rugby Warren Carey said hard work behind the scenes had sparked an alignment of the planets.

Knights coaches Richard Kingi, Johnny Ngauamo, Kurtis Smith and Christina Hickman. Picture: Glenn Hampson

“A lot of things (are behind the success). It’s been about getting the right infrastructure and the right coaches,” the former Gold Coast Breakers president said.

“I’m a great believer that if you get the right coaches, the players will come. We have done that with Johnny Ngauamo, Richard Kingi, Kurtis Smith and Matt Petersen.

SURFERS’ SEASON A SUCCESS DESPITE FINALS EXIT

“We’re bringing the young guys through. We make it a fun club because these guys don’t get paid. That’s what the game is all about.

“We’re very, very pleased about our girls program this year, particularly the under-17s getting through to the grand final. There’s some girls that haven’t played the game before and they have had a stellar season.

Knights female players Ashley Cooksley and Tiana Raftstrand-Smith. Picture: Jerad Williams

“We’re really excited about this year.”

But 2019 could be just the tip of the iceberg.

“There’s enormous depth at the club, we’re already getting inquiries for next year. We look like putting in an extra team in third grade,” Carey said.

APPROACH, NOT RESULTS, IMPRESSING TSS COACH

“We’re very committed to putting in an under-19 colts team in the new colts competition on the Coast next year. We’re in pretty good shape for next year but Saturday is what we’re focusing on.

“Hopefully we can make it four from four (in the grand finals).”