Team of the Year 2023: Prop
Congratulations to Zac Saddler of the Tuggeranong Bushrangers for his selection at prop in the 2023 Canberra Raiders Cup Team of the Year.
Upon rejoining the Bushrangers in round nine this season, Saddler showed his importance for the team as he played a crucial role in their journey to the grand final.
Zac took his talents abroad after the 2022 CRC season to play for the Limoux Grizzles in France’s Elite One Championship.
After taking out the premiership with the Grizzlies, he returned home to see out the rest of the season with Tuggeranong, bringing over his grand final winning form.
A couple weeks after Saddler landed, he kitted up for a southside derby clash in round nine where they fell short 24-22, but Tuggeranong had a noticeable boost in go forward.
Following that game, the Bushrangers maintained an unbeaten streak until the grand final.
They defeated the formidable Queanbeyan Kangaroos twice, handing them their only two losses, but ultimately lost to them in the grand final.
The former Manly Sea Eagle’s size and mobility coupled with his aggression, hard running, and ball skills contributed massively to Tuggeranong’s success this season.
Saddler picked up three tries in 11 games to wrap up another great year for the Bushrangers.
The CRRL were grateful to witness such a talent compete in the Canberra Raiders Cup once again.
Team of the Year 2023
1. Ryan McQueen (West Belconnen Warriors)
2. Brandon Withers (West Belconnen Warriors)
3. Harry Quinlan (Queanbeyan Kangaroos)
4. Steven Numambo (Queanbeyan Kangaroos)
5. Jack Davison (Tuggeranong Bushrangers)
6. Matthew Woolnough (Belconnen United Sharks)
7. Sam Williams (Queanbeyan Kangaroos)
8. Zac Saddler (Tuggeranong Bushrangers)
