Junior focus as cricket club builds around future talent

GOONELLABAH Workers Sports cricket club is building around youth as it prepares for its fifth season in the Far North Coast LJ Hooker League competition.

The 10-team competition starts Saturday, October 11 with GWS coming off four straight finals appearances, including a premiership win in the 2021-2022 season.

“It all started with a group of young guys who were ready for the next level,” Goonellabah Workers Sports president Barry Cooper said.

“The level of intensity they played at led to early success and they had some experienced players in that team that were invaluable.

“I don’t think we’ve dropped off too much; consistency is the key and making sure you’re looking at who’s coming through.

“Experienced players will always go well in this competition. It’s up to us to look after our juniors and that’s what we’ve had a big focus on.”

The competition will be all one-day matches with no two-day cricket this season.

All-rounder Brady Toniello will captain the side again with its batting stocks bolstered by brothers Ben and Jack Cooper.

Former Dutch international Dan ter Braak is back on deck with the club expected to unearth more junior talent.

“Blake Perkins was a good one that came through last year and they’ll be a few more get an opportunity this season,” Cooper said.

“The club is running extra one-on-one coaching and whatever we can to help bring that next crop through.”

Defending premiers Cudgen will be one of the top teams again, while Terranora Lakes rejoin the competition after a 15-year-hiatus.

The teams play each other in the first round at Reg Dalton Oval, Kingscliff.

Murwillumbah has dropped down a grade to rebuild after finishing on the bottom of the ladder last season.

Ballina Bears will also stay in Coastal League after they left the competition two seasons ago.

The first round of the Hooker League will see Tintenbar-East Ballina host Goonellabah Workers Sports at Kingsford Smith Park.

Tweed Banora Colts plays the Casino RSM Cavaliers at Dave Burns Field, Tweed Heads.

Marist Brothers take on Lennox Head at Mortimer Oval, Lismore, while Alstonville Pottsville at Hill Park, Wollongbar.