Bowral Blacks president Mark Freund said the new addition to the club was a long time coming.

“We’ve taken the plunge and entered a third grade side in the [Illawarra Rugby Union] competition this year,” Freund said.

“We have gradually built up our players. It was the next step for us.

”I’m really looking forward to this season. It’s been a long time since we had first, second and third grade teams.”

Freund encourages anyone who wants to join the third grade team to get in contact with the club.

“We encourage anyone who wants to throw the boots on to get in contact with us,” he said. “We really want some older guys on the team.” The club has gone from strength to strength in the last few years. Last year the second grade team won the Illawarra Rugby Union grand final.

Visit https://bowralrugby.com.au for more information.