The Woodberry Warriors had only two teams in the running for play-offs this year and they are both in sight of a grand final appearance.
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The Warriors’ under 12s and under 14s will take part in preliminary finals for their respective junior rugby league divisions at Maitland Sportsground this weekend.
The success of these sides has been born out of the club’s community base, according to president Brendon Elliott senior.
“It’s amazing to watch the whole club grow in confidence and the kids learning more about respect and team work,” he said.
“Especially when we have such a dedicated committee who only want the best for our kids.”
The under 14s, led by Mitch Kelly, were crowned minor premiers after an undefeated 2014 season but lost their major semi-final to Kotara last weekend.
The Warriors will aim to make amends against West Maitland on Saturday at 9am in the do-or-die division five clash.
The younger Woodberry squad will also be up against West Maitland in the preliminary final but on Sunday at 1pm.
The under 12s, captained by Manuel Langi, finished third on the division three competition ladder and after beating East Maitland in the qualifying semi-final a fortnight ago were defeated by minor premiers Thornton Beresfield in last week’s major semi-final.
Other local clubs such as Greta Branxton, Morpeth, Dungog and Cessnock will be in action this weekend.
Maitland and District Schoolboy Rugby League and Hunter Valley Junior Rugby League grand finals will be held on August 30 and 31.