RUGBY UNION
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ERIDGE Park proved to be the ideal location for a junior rugby union showcase recently.
More than 500 people headed to town to watch the 2016 NSW Junior Rugby Union Under-17s State Championships.
The event was held from Saturday to Monday, attracting nine teams from across the state.
Among the teams was Illawarra, which incorporates the Southern Highlands.
The side included Bowral's Max Vakapuna, Tyerelle Deku, Baden Stewart, Matthew Dunk, Cheyenne Martin and Charlie Machado.
"It was great exposure for our rugby club and the Southern Highlands area. We couldn't have done it without the support of our volunteers and the community."
- Bowral Blacks committee member Tim Stevens
Illawarra recorded one win from three starts in the pool matches.
The team lost its quarter-final by 25-19 against West Harbour on Sunday.
The semi-finals and grand final was held on Monday.
Parramatta recorded a 40-5 win over Gordon while Central West beat West Harbour by 14-7 in the semi-finals.
Parramatta then took the title with a 50-0 victory over Central West in the decider.
The championship was hosted by the Bowral Blacks club.
Committee member Tim Stevens said it was a successful weekend for all involved.
"It was great exposure for our rugby club and the Southern Highlands area," he said.
"We couldn't have done it without the support of our volunteers and the community."
Recognition for Bowral Blacks
THE Bowral Blacks have been praised for hosting the 2016 NSW Junior Rugby Union Under-17s State Championships.
The three-day championship was held at Eridge Park across the Queen's birthday long weekend.
Sydney Junior Rugby Union (SJRU) competition manager Kerry Brady said she had received positive feedback about the event.
"It is extremely pleasing to have received so many good reports from those attending the tournament in Bowral and thanks must go to the Bowral Rugby Club for being magnificent hosts over the three days," she said.
“Special thanks go to Tim Stevens and Paul Frean for all their hard work.
"The venue was superb and would be the envy of every club.
"To host a championship takes a lot of work and effort and everyone appreciates Bowral Rugby Club's efforts."
• To view a gallery of photos from the championship, click here
