pittsworth
What a year it ’ s been for our Pittsworth Danes . They took out the premiership at the Toowoomba Rugby League ( TRL ) grand final against the Warwick Cowboys with an 18 to 12 win .
We took some time out to chat with Matt Briggs , who captained this year ’ s team . Matt started out as a Pittsworth Junior Dane and played in Queensland Cup games including the Queensland Rangers team . For the rugby league-mad town of Pittsworth , the win will be celebrated and talked about for years to come .
Matt , can you tell us a little bit about what Rugby League means to you ?
It ’ s something that ’ s developed over a number of years ; I ’ ve been playing senior footy for 16 years . It started out as a way to get fit with mates , but has become more about mateship , friends and family .
Why is it so important that a town support its local footy teams ?
For Pittsworth , it gives us a sense of achievement - winning the premiership is a big deal . The community has really gotten behind the TRL . It ’ s important for our young people to get out and get active , it helps them develop social skills and to feel part of something . I will be encouraging my kids to get involved in a club or team sport , not necessarily football , but definitely encourage them into a team sport .
What has been the highlight of your career ?
I would have to say this premiership final . I played at the coast for a couple of Queensland cup sides and played for the Rangers on two occasions , but winning here really meant a lot to me . The win was incredible for
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the community ; everyone in town went a bit berserk . When the siren went , the crowd ran out onto the field and when we got back to the clubhouse you couldn ’ t move , it was completely packed .
What advice would you give to beginner players ?
Hang in there ! Everyone develops at different stages and there might be players that are bigger or faster , but if you train and listen to your coach , you could end up being a great footballer . Always enjoy the game , if you ’ re not enjoying it , it might be time to get out . We ’ ve got some talented , committed players here in Pittsworth that we will all be keeping a close eye on over the coming years . •
4 www . tr . qld . gov . au / bold BOLD .