Palmerston’s John Grenfell selected into Australian under-18s squad

A Territory rugby union talent who’s thrived interstate has taken the next step in his sporting journey after being selected into the Australian under-18s side.

Palmerston Croc junior John Grenfell has been picked in the Australian under-18s squad to take on New Zealand after a sensational year in Queensland.

The Territorian has taken his game to the next level since taking on the captaincy with Nudgee, and was a clear standout in their recent GPS Rugby Premiership win.

He’s been described as a classy operator who works hard whether in the rolling maul, in the lead up to tries or even when scrum time comes around.

As a reward for his efforts he received a two-year contract with the Reds Academy and got a call up to the squad that will take on the New Zealand Barbarians and New Zealand Secondary Schools next month.

And it’s a credit that the number 8 turned hooker’s former club Palmerston celebrating, with everyone from teammates to supporters set to throw their support behind him.

John Grenfell (trophy in hand) celebrating the Nudgee premiership win. Picture: John Gass

Junior Operations manager Kate Eadie said the club was incredibly proud of his success and knew he was on to something special.

“There’s not enough words to say how proud we are of him that he’s come up through the ranks and succeeded,” she said.

“John was always a leader, he always punched above his weight and was such a good teammate.

“One of the best things about our juniors is their mateship, it’s one in all in, they all work hard so every try was a team effort and he was real big on that teamwork aspect.”

The Crocs pride themselves on being a family club with every member going all in for each other and their fellow Palmerston faithful.

Grenfell’s success is also proving an inspiration across the club proving that even though they’re in the NT they can make it to the top.

“He’s a role model to the current kids – (an example) that we might be small at Crocs, but we sure are mighty, and there is a pathway for them if they want to play international footy,” Eadie said.

“We’re a family club and everyone rallies around one another, and while it’s sad when they have to move on the great things someone like John has achieved since is phenomenal.

“The legacy is always todays juniors are tomorrow’s seniors and we’re big on the family vibe, once you’re a member here you bleed our colours and do anything for each other.

“We’re all feeling incredibly proud of John, for every mum and dad here that’s their kid representing and for every kid that’s their teammate.”