The Kurri Alfabs Bulldogs have strengthened their side with a number of signings after an injury-riddled and disappointing 2014 season.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
Signings for 2015 include Terrence Seu Seu and Damon Bard from Maitland, Ryan Walker (Central), Theeran Pearson and Tom McKenzie (Central Queensland Capras), Brady Hammond (Branxton), Brock Gilmore (Helensburgh), Luke Mercer and Shay Padburg (East Maitland), Brock Harmer (Wyong Central), Jacob McKendry (Cessnock), Brad Manton (Mascot) and Kahn Junhke (West Wallsend).
Losses include Brendan Worth (retired), Hayden Jeans (Lakes), Byron Warren (Nyngan) and Neenan Simpson, who has returned to Sydney.
The Bulldogs have organised three trials before the start of the season including the annual Charity Shield match against Cessnock at Cessnock on March 7; The Entrance at Sylvester Real Estate Sportsground on March 21 and a full club trial from under-6s through to first grade against Dubbo at Dubbo on March 28.
“Congratulations must go to Junior League president Danny Linnane for the organisation of the Dubbo trials, in which we hope we can set a reciprocal game in 2016 for Dubbo to come to Kurri,” club spokesperson Jeff Polglase said.
“The strength of the trials are shown by the games being against the Newcastle grand finalists, Ron Massey cup premiers and the Group 11 premiers.”
Kurri’s first round of the competition will be against Souths at Townson Oval on Saturday, April 11 and their first home game will be against Lakes on April 18.
The Newcastle competition for the next three years will be first grade, reserve grade, open age and under-19s.
The Bulldogs will be training Tuesdays and Fridays from 5.30pm.
Keep up to date with all the Bulldogs news at www.newcastlerugbyleague.com.au/kurrikurri, on Facebook (Kurri Kurri Bulldogs) and Twitter @kurri_bulldogs or their app (Kurri Kurri RLFC).
***
On a sadder note, the club is mourning the loss of one of its finest players from the 1940s and ‘50s – Gwyn Madge, who passed away on January 3, aged 89.
Madge played 173 first grade games and five for Newcastle in a period where the Kurri club was at its strongest, and has always been held in high regard.
He was a member of the 1945 premiership-winning side and along with brother Viv were household names in that period.