Brothers Chanse and Casey Burgess played on opposite teams in this year’s Peter McDonald Premiership Grand Final but have banded together to bring about the revival of the Coolah Roos.
The nswrl.com.au reported three weeks ago on the Roos’ bid for re-admission, which hinged on the nine present clubs in Castlereagh League voting on the proposal at their annual general meeting on Sunday 25 November.
The meeting unanimously endorsed Coolah’s re-entry after a seven-year hiatus.
They were one of the foundation clubs in 2001 and their comeback in 2024 means 10 clubs will be fighting for premiership honours next season.
Chanse and Casey Burgess will co-captain and coach the Coolah Roos first grade side.
Chanse played for Dubbo CYMS in their 25-12 win over Mudgee Dragons, while Casey was part of the Dragons side, in the Grand Final for the Peter McDonald Premiership on 12 September at Apex Oval.
They won’t be the only Burgess brothers turning out for the Coolah Roos in 2024. Siblings Austin and Jake have signed up, while father Steve will have input into coaching on game days.
Castlereagh League secretary Bryson Luff said the excitement around the Roos return was evident already.
“Such is the enthusiasm in the town that unofficial training for the club is already attracting very good numbers,” Luff said.
“There’s great encouragement and support from the Coolah community. The club is looking forward to packing out Bowen Oval on home games next year.”
The good news is not only restricted to the Roos’ first grade team.
Former Western Rams League Tag representative Tori Canham is taking the reins as League Tag coach.
Canham has been awarded the Castlereagh League Tag Player of the Year Award on numerous occasions and will bring a wealth of talent and experience in 2024.
