The Wallaroos recorded an opening round win in the Bundaberg Broadcasters A Grade competition last Saturday night – thanks in large part to the performances of brothers Bailey Robertson and Jesse Robertson.
Roos coach Peter Waters lauded a robust team effort, praising all his players – but he singled out the 17-year-old debutant hooker Bailey after his high-energy 80-minute performance.
Robertson was delighted to play with his elder brother, lock Jesse, who also played every minute, for the first time.
The younger Robertson also shared that a third family member, their father Scott, was also an integral part of the club, serving in the role of president.
A Year 12 student at Aldridge State High School, he said he had played for the club throughout his career since starting as a four-year-old, but he had only just become old enough to play A Grade.
Bailey Robertson said he preferred to play halfback – a role in which role he made the Possibles / Probables in the recent Wide Bay Schools open trials – but he was “happy to play anywhere” for the team.
He also said he was hoping to help guide the club one step further this year to claim the crown.
“My last premiership was in Under 12s, but as a team, we were always confident,” Robertson said.
“The team has been to two grand finals in a row, with a lot of the same group and others who have all played for Roos before,” he said.
“I think everyone has a better attitude after losing two grand finals in a row, and everyone is showing up and is very keen.”
In a long list of stars, Robertson named mercurial veteran centre Shaun Collins, who has been his idol for many years, as his Player of the Match in the Wallroos win over the Easts Magpies.
“It is just an honour to play with Shaun and the other boys – he is just a legend,” he said.
This weekend, the Wallaroos will play the Hervey Bay Seagulls in Round 2 at Salter Oval.
View the full Bundaberg draw here.
Main Image: Jesse Robertson (left) and Bailey Robertson after their Round 1 win. Photo: supplied
