The Ray White Noosa Dolphins match this weekend against second-placed Caloundra takes on a whole new feel with the Wallabies descending on the ground in the lead up to the first test against England the following weekend.
The national side, both the seniors and the junior Wallabies will attend the match, undertake junior clinics, take to the field in a game of touch involving the Noosa and Caloundra under 13s and 14s, assist the A grade coaching staff running water and have a presence in the bar and canteen.
The opportunity, part of the Wallabies’ focus on community engagement, is a fantastic opportunity for rugby players and supporters of all ages according to Dolphins president Jerry Lewis.
“We are very excited with the prospect of the full senior Wallabies squad and the junior Wallabies to be at the match. They are very keen to mix with supporters, especially the juniors, with plenty of opportunity for photographs and autographs,” Lewis said.
“The junior squad arrive to run the skills clinics from 2pm with the senior squad arriving at 3pm. We encourage everyone to come along and enjoy the day, meet the Wallabies, and stick around for the match.”
On the field, the Ray White Dolphins come off a very hard fought 14-11 win over third-placed Maroochydore last weekend to regain the John Currey Shield.
In a match that saw few tries scored, the Dolphins relied on defence and penalties to take the match.
The big and physical Swans forward pack dominated the much younger Noosa team in set pieces, yet the Dolphins stood firm in defence holding out attacking waves.
The victory was desperately needed by the Dolphins as they look to gain momentum leading in the final series and their task gets no easier against the Lighthouses this weekend.
The Caloundra side have been clearly the second-best team in this year’s competition behind the still undefeated University side so can be expected to put on a tough showing to retain their ladder position.
Dolphins Reserve grade put on their best performance of the season, dominating possession and territory in their 43-19 victory.
“The seven well-constructed tries were great to see, but I was particularly impressed with our defensive effort,” said coach Mark Winder. Josh McMaster led the way taking our player of the match honours ably supported by Linc Parsons and Buddah Dwyer.”
With the Wallabies’ visit, there are some slight changes to starting times for this weekend:
• A Grade 3.30pm.
• Reserve Grade 1.30pm.
• Womens 12.12pm.
Keep up to date with the Wallabies’ visit and all Dolphin Rugby news through the Noosa Rugby Facebook.
