Canberra Duo to Play for NSW Universities

By Stuart McLennan.

Two players from the Canberra region have been selected for the New South Wales Universities team in their annual clash with Queensland Universities.

The team will travel to the Gold Coast to face Queensland at Cbus Super Stadium on Saturday, October 19, with the match kicking off at 3:30pm.

Physiotherapy student and University of Canberra (UC) Stars Captain/Coach Adam Booth will play on the wing for the ‘Student Blues’ and says he is honoured to represent his university at the state level.

“I just kind of applied and hoped I'd get a crack at it and feel like I've taken it with both hands,” said Booth, who played with the George Tooke Shield representative team this year.

“UC is predominantly known for Brumbies and rugby union, stuff like that. It feels good to represent where I'm studying in my university.

“I've heard from the other boys in the squad that in years gone by it's been a tough, physical battle. I think they were talking about 75 or 80% of the sets being yardage sets last year.

"It's about taking some tough carries and hopefully I can get the team on the front foot.”

Alongside Booth, playing in the back row, will be former Canberra Raiders Jersey Flegg and current Belconnen United Sharks player Harrison Leadbitter.

“I’m just grateful to come and play footy at a higher level and represent the state and UC,” said Leadbitter, who is studying to be a Physical Education teacher.

NSW secured victory last year after a long drought of Queensland dominance, and both players are anticipating a tough encounter this year.

An Australian Universities merit team will be selected following the match.