Originally Posted by
shasta
Agreed. But, not unusually, he's very selective with the truth about the Mungos "pinching all our juniors". Lots of Rugby people are. But Jones himself is a dual code Rugby man. He coached Balmain in the NRL from 1991-1993, without the same level of success he enjoyed in the 15 man version. That, to me at least makes his claims pretty misleading. He has enough ammo against Rat's Arse without the need for bullshit.
Kalyn Ponga - who incidentally was born in Port Hedland where his Dad played RL for the Hawks, I believe - played many junior sports but mainly League. He was signed to a scholarship by Central Queensland Rugby league at just 13. Then to the Bronx on a scholarship at 15 from the Mackay High RL Academy and moved to Brisbane where they sent him to Churchie - and he learned Rugby. If you have never seen this kid play you should watch Origin on Sunday. He is a superstar. Dead Set!! In just his 3rd NRL season @ 20yo, I'm a little nervous he could come from the bench and bust the game open, and I reckon Freddy Fittler feels the same.
You'll also see Angus Crichton in a blue jersey. Another stolen junior - except he played junior League in Young for the Cherry Pickers before getting a scholarship to Scots and playing RU - at the same time as playing in the Roosters junior rep teams.
Charlie Rorke is a product of Gordon RUFC - and Berowra Junior RLFC.
The path taken by these young fellas is pretty common in the East. It's why quite a few folks around here support both games too. Present company included. So cut the crap AJ.
Over to you GIGS.