Group 9 has been one of the state’s leaders in All Abilities Rugby League, with the competition giving players from diverse backgrounds a chance to play the Game for All.
A competition trailblazer is Mitch Goodsall, who is a Gundagai product and a stout Tigers supporter.
It’s not uncommon to see Goodsall decked out as a Tiger or head to toe in black and gold colours.
On Saturday, Goodsall will instead pull on the boots when Gundagai hosts Wagga Brothers at Anzac Park in Round Eight of the competition.
Leading out the Tigers All Abilities team just before the first grade match, Goodsall said it would be a big moment for him and his teammates in front of what is set to be a bumper Gundagai crowd.
“We love playing against each other, and the guys in my team, and myself included, love nothing more than running out for a game of footy,” Goodsall said.
“It really is a thrill for us to play in our colours on Anzac Park, and we are playing before first grade, which is really good.”
All Abilities Rugby League provides opportunities for those with a disability to participate in the Game for All, and Group 9 All Abilities fixtures often see ex-players and referees join the fun.
The matches always go down to the wire and end in smiles and laughs, with players thrilled to be taking part in the sport.
“It’s just a massive thing for us to be able to play,” Goodsall said.
“We all love our Rugby League, and while we might not have the talent to play first grade, we can have an opportunity to play and enjoy the game.
“What’s also important is that it encourages kids coming through who might not be the best players, but they see us playing and know they can keep playing.
“It’s awesome, and I would really like to thank the Tigers for giving us this opportunity to do this.”
It’s set to be a massive day at Anzac Park, with six games to be played on an action-packed program.
Cootamundra’s Under 16s and Under 18s sides will take on Wagga Brothers, while in seniors, Gundagai’s Reserve Grade, League Tag, All Abilities, and First Grade sides play host to the visiting Brothers.
In First Grade, Gundagai sits third on the competition ladder and can keep pace with the ladder-leading Young Cherrypickers when they take on Brothers, which has one win for the season.
In other Group 9 Round Eight First Grade fixtures, Wagga Kangaroos host Young at McDonald’s Park, and Temora plays the visiting South City Bulls at Nixon Park on Saturday.
On Sunday, the Tumut Blues trek to Albury when playing the Thunder at Greenfield Park.
Click here for all Group 9 ladders, draws, and results.
