Thanks for the insight in to CCC 16's Newbie. I too am a first time poster on these pages and have had extensive exposure to what seems to be a particularly strong agegroup. Having had the oppertunity to view many of the players being refered to in these pages via the NSW Country, JGS and GPS pathways I feel comfortable enough to have my two bobs woth in relation to who should or will make NSW All scholls 16's selection this year.
The forwards for me will be much harder (than the backs) to select with quite a few having genuine claims based on past and current form. So in non positional order, but probably merit based order, would think that the following players will figure in the squad. Matt Sandel (GPS), Nick Pennissi(GPS), Troy Smith (CAS), Malaki Afele(CAS),Luke Papworth (CHS), Lucas Bateman (GPS), Matt Matson (GPS) and Jamie Greentree (GPS). Throw in a couple of "bolters" from the CHS and CCC packs who on the day could prove to be more than a handleful. I must say however, having the oppertunity to see a couple of the CCC forwards play over the years, I do question the strength of the pack.
On the other hand, I think the backs will be far easier to pick with a few standouts who shouldn't miss out. Starting with Rory Davis (GPS) -daylight second in that position. Would take Joey Lusaik (GPS)or Jeff Markus(CAS) at 21 as either could be very effective late in a tight game at 9 or 10. Corey Tulloch(GPS) at 10 because of his exceptional defence and long parternship with Davis ( nothing would get thru the middle ) and lets face it, the ball will need to get to (quickly and often) where the real strength will be outside 10 with Tepai Meroa ( GPS) and Andrew Kallaway (GPS). Woulk be the best centre pairing I've seen in a few years. A major factor in the "new found" sucess of the Kings 16's this year has been the performance of Harry Jones at 15. Big, fast and strong, runs great lines. Would have him starting there. As for Micheal Morgan, I also have seen him play a few times and reckon him and Robbie Wolgram have similar skill sets (might come down to 1 or the other).The wing spots at this stage seem to be wide open with a number of players from different associations in good form.
In relation to the Harold Matt's Newbie, I've watched quite a bit this year and reckon although the format and program is very good quality, the standard of footy doesn't warrant the hype. Even the top sides Illawarra and Bulldogs have more than a few players who are only at best average athletes making it easier for the handful of genuinely talented players to shine.
