Team of the Year 2023: Interchange

Author: crrl.com.au
Timestamp: Wed 6 Dec 2023, 05:06 PM

Congratulations to Liam Oakley (Tuggeranong Bushrangers), Jack Heyman (Tuggeranong Bushrangers), Tate Rhea (Belconnen United Sharks), and Mitch Shaw (West Belconnen Warriors) for their selection on the bench in the 2023 Canberra Raiders Cup Team of the Year.

14. Liam Oakley - Tuggeranong Bushrangers

Oakley had another superb year at hooker for Tuggeranong, playing a central role their journey to the grand final.

The crafty hooker was the highest point scorer for the Bushrangers in 2023, scoring seven tries and kicking 49 goals to rack up 126 points, the third most points scored in the entire competition.

While he was a proficient point scorer, Liam really showed his worth in defense, locking up the middle and putting shots on the biggest players that the CRC has to offer.

15. Jack Heyman - Tuggeranong Bushrangers

Heyman had a break out year for Tuggeranong as a major piece to their spine in the fullback role.

Jack's ability to read the game from the back and inject himself in attack made him one of the more dangerous players in the competition.

His support play, kick chase, and cover defense made him the ideal all-round fullback.

Heyman scored seven tries in 17 games, with a notable double coming in round 15 to serve the Roos their only loss in the regular season.

Jack is a loyal and beloved player of the Bushrangers, as he has been with the club since 2014 after playing all of his junior footy in the Tuggeranong region as well.

16. Tate Rhea - Belconnen United Sharks

After starting the year in the Canberra Raiders Jersey Flegg squad, Rhea joined the Sharks and played a big part in their finals run.

Belconnen United's ability to reach the finals for the first time in the decade this year can be largely attributed to their boisterous forward pack.

Upon joining the side, the hard running lock added plenty of go forward in the Sharks attack, with the accompanying motor to go all game.

His work rate and significance for the team couldn't be overlooked, which sees Rhea earn a spot in the Team of the Year.

17. Mitch Shaw - West Belconnen Warriors

Shaw had another phenomenal year coming off the bench for the Warriors in 2023, earning a Team of the Year spot in back-to-back seasons.

The hard working prop brings energy when he steps onto the park, putting his hand up for multiple hits ups each set.

He also possesses silky ball skills, which adds an extra dynamic to the Westies attack.

Mitch scored one try in 15 games to wrap up another solid season in the Canberra Raiders Cup.

Team of the Year 2023

1. Ryan McQueen (West Belconnen Warriors)