Beerwah athlete shows talent at recent Oztag competitions
CHARLIE Barons is one of the many rising stars in Oztag from Beerwah, recently winning a state championship and last season’s Maroochydore venue competition.
His dad, Steve Barons, who has been coaching him since he started playing at six-years-old, said Charlie is a standout player who is continuing to develop in the sport.
“Charlie has been playing with his friends Jackson, Connor and Kai since the beginning and took on the best in the state and won,” he said.
“Playing together they have won Maroochydore local competition undefeated all season and won State cup together.
“Charlie also gained Queensland selection at this year’s All Schools competition, which is the first time he has made that team.”
The 10-year-old has previously played in the U10s and U11s state cups and will be playing in the U12s state cup in February 2024.
Charlie and his friends are eagerly awaiting the start of the Beerwah venue Oztag competition at the Sunshine Coast’s newest Oztag venue, which kicks off on October 15.
“Some of the talent I’ve seen at our open days has got me excited because they are going to surprise some of the more established rep sides around the state,” Steve said, who is also the Beerwah Oztag venue manager.
Charlie spoke about what he loves most about Oztag and what keeps him motivated.
“I love setting up my friends to score tries so I can celebrate with them. I also love that all my friends are now playing oztag,” he said.
“I am really looking forward to the next state cup because I get to represent the local area where all my real friends are, and that it’s not far to go for training when it starts next month.”
kirra@gcnews.com.au