Their first game of footy and to say they were excited was an understatement.

After a few hiccups such as the opposition running the wrong way to score a try, the youngsters hit their stride and were tackling, side-stepping and kicking with the best of them.

Fairfax Media caught up with the action at McKeachies Oval on Saturday morning as West Maitland hosted Cessnock in the under 6s.

Photos are available for purchase at the Maitland Mercury office at Level 1, Suite 2/12 Elgin Street, or by calling 02 4931 0100.

Meet the Hunter’s little sports stars of 2017