They were among the first of the Proten Cup teams to hit the track in preparation for the 2025 season, but as yet Deniliquin’s entry into the competition is not secured.
To be formally admitted entry to the competition, the club must have enough players to field both a men’s and women’s team.
In addition, failure to field a team each week - resulting in a forfeit - will see their involvement with the Proten Community Cup cease.
The club looks to be building toward at least fielding a men’s team, and have coaches appointed for the team already.
Drew Hinkley will join Kurt Longford as a co-coach of the men’s team.
Hinkley, who has relocated to Deni from Kiama on the South Coast of NSW, brings with him a wealth of knowledge and genuine experience of the game.
Numbers have consistently hit double digits at training for this side, which includes some from Mathoura, Echuca, Finley and the surrounds.
But the club is still on the hunt for more female players.
Longford said the Blue Heelers may also be able to use players from other clubs to support local players.
“That's something that we can rely on if needs be, borrowing those players coming from other clubs when they can to help out,” he said.
Registrations for the Blue Heelers close next Friday, February 28.
“We need between about 20 players for the men’s side, which isn’t too many more than we have registered,” Longford said.
“At present, we have 11 blokes registered for the season, with plenty of interest coming from others.”
Proten Community Cup president Brad Lawrence said the February 28 deadline enables the league to have a season planning meeting on Sunday, March 2.
“The guidelines set by NSWRL are 20 players for men and 15 for women, as 13 and nine take the field in the games, and no forfeits in the first year,” Lawrence reiterated.
“That said I’ve been told by NSWRL I can use my discretion pending their final numbers, which I’ll take to the meeting for a vote.
“Outside of finals football, clubs can and often, especially with the women, borrow players from other clubs to help field a team.
“Speaking with Kurt and Drew, I’ve suggested they just get as many registrations as they can, even if they're only intentions, just to get them over the line to assure them into the comp.
“We can sort the rest out after that, as there is plenty of time before May 24.
“We have a backup draw in place, but we are hoping Deni can get it together for this season as they have done a lot of great work.”
Interested players are welcome to attend training at Deniliquin Rotary Park on Wednesday nights from 6.30pm.
Prospective players, committee members and sponsors are also welcome to contact Blue Heelers president Kurt Longford on on 0422 871 671, or via the club’s Facebook page.
27°C