The honour of being the first Manly Leagues team to compete in the Sydney Shield is providing great motivation ahead of this Saturday's inaugural match at Cabramatta.
The Sydney Shield is the NSWRL’s fourth tier men’s competition, feeding into the Ron Massey Cup for both emerging and senior players.
It's Manly's first season in the 10-team Sydney Shield. The new 'community team' is supported by Manly Leagues, Manly Warringah Rugby League Football Club, Manly Warringah Junior Rugby League, and Manly Warringah Sea Eagles.
Manly Leagues play Cabramatta at New Era Stadium, Cabramatta, at 1pm on Saturday, March 16.
Coach Anthony Watmough admitted there was a real buzz of energy and excitement amongst his team.
"It's a huge honour for all of us. It's been a long pre-season and the players have done everything asked of them by the staff and myself,'' Watmough said.
"The squad's depth is impressive with some very talented players.
"We have a strong bench and players ready to step up when needed, which will give us confidence going into every match."
Watmough said lock Wiremu Tibbutt was a natural choice for the captaincy role due to his 'exceptional leadership qualities'.
"Wiremu's dedication, communication skills, and ability to inspire others made him the perfect leader,'' Watmough said.
"He will be joined by Lachlan Armstrong when he returns from injury."
See the inaugural Manly Leagues team here
