Former Wallabies head west

Two former Wallabies are answering the call to develop rugby in the country by traveling to Condamine as part of the University of Queensland Rugby Academy’s (UQRA) two-day camp next week (February 10 - 11).

Nick Stiles, a veteran of 93 games for the Queensland Reds and twelve tests for Australia will join former ACT Brumbies and Wallaby centre James Holbeck in delivering the professional camp to local players and coaches.

Boasting three local teams, rugby union is a growing sport in Condamine as young people decide to stay in the country, but without the facilities of metropolitan clubs the bush been crying out for professional coaching.

Mr Stiles said he was excited by the prospect of developing the game in the west.

“It’s a great opportunity to go to the rural areas and do some work with the country guys out there,” Mr Stiles said.

“I think it’s definitely important to develop rugby in the country. When I was playing for the Reds we were very aware that we weren’t just representing Brisbane but that there was a very strong following of rugby in the bush.

“I’ve done a few visits to the country regions with the Reds and the guys out there are very talented and passionate about their rugby.”

Over 50 players and coaches from Condamine are expected to take part in the UQRA’s professional camp that covers a wide range of topics, including rugby-specific skills, tactical game play and strength and conditioning.

A sponsor of the UQRA camp, Jason Johnson of Rural Insurance, said it was a wonderful opportunity for the local community to experience some quality coaching.

“Darling Downs rugby will greatly benefit from this camp. We are very proud to be involved on such a local level as it will benefit many of our clients and their family members, from players to spectators of quality Darling Downs rugby,” Mr Johnson said.

For more information on the camp, visit www.uqrugbyacademy.com.au.

Media: David Muir, UQ Rugby Academy (0402967966) or Melina Stephanos at UQ SPORT (07 3346 7519, melinas@uqsport.uq.edu.au)