'It's quite impressive': St Matts make their mark at NSWCCC Rugby League trials

Three students, Darcy Smith, Kai Fisher and Ned McCarney were successful in trials for the NSWCCC Western Rugby League Team.

St Matthews Catholic School teacher Justin McCarney was immensely proud of the achievement.

"It's quite impressive, because for a school of our small population size there were three boys who were selected, and they were up against schools with a thousand students," he said.

Mr McCarney said the achievement was the culmination of hard work the students had consistently put in over the years.

"We're really proud of the success they've had, but they've obviously put a lot of effort into it prior to now," he said.

"I'm very proud of the way they carried themselves and represented both the school and wider Mudgee community."

Although the prospect of facing off against much larger schools might seem daunting, the students weren't worried.

"Getting there, I wasn't too nervous because I'd versed most of the boys there in Saturday comp, so we knew who we were up against. We were feeling pretty confident," Ned said.

The students then went to Wagga Wagga to participate in the Southern Country Trials, where they played Illawara.

Unfortunately, they lost the match but have quickly refocused to prepare for their group 10 rugby league game against St Pat's.

Ned McCarney said regardless of the loss, they accomplished their goals; to be selected for the team and make new friends.

"It was a much higher level, and a really good standard of football." Ned said.

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