Sport
19 April, 2021
Oakey Bears on the path to success
Boasting more depth than previous years, all grades at the Oakey Bears Senior Rugby League Club are looking forward to a successful 2021 season under new coach Jason Ferris who is also co-captaining the A Grade side alongside son Nick Ferris.
Ferris named a 17 man A Grade squad at the Bears official launch night on Friday who took on Goondiwindi in their first clash for the season.
In addition to team captains, Ferris gave the position of club captains to long term Bears players Damon Anderson and Josh Stanton.
Kaila Williamson will take on the role as Ambassador for 2021.Kaila is no stranger to the Bears and has a strong TRL pedigree with her parents and grandparents being heavily involved in the organisation for several decades.
Club president Brendan Dolan told the sponsors, life members and players at the launch that the Bears are looking strong across all age groups.
“I think we have recruited a really strong local player base,” Mr Dolan said. “We have a lot of our local boys back involved and we’re looking strong. “You then throw in a few key signings like our coach Jason Ferris and our half Nick Ferris.
“We’ve got really good player numbers across the board. “There’s also really good group of under 18s who are the future of the club. “All in all this I think year measures up pretty good and we’re looking forward to a good 2021.”
Mr Dolan said the strength of the club is a testament to the committee and volunteers who kept the Bears going through a tough 2020.
“It’s been a massive job to keep the club alive into this year and we have been fortunate enough to carry through the same committee and support from volunteers have continued,” he said.
“Having the stability there has helped make coming into this year so much easier.”
Mr Dolan also paid tribute to the late John “Bear” Williamson whose hard work and dedication, especially to maintain the condition of the fields, will be missed by the Oakey Bears.
