Merewether Carlton has slayed all before it in the 2021 Hunter Rugby Premier 1 competition.
But, now, it seems the club’s finally met its match.
COVID-19 looks likely to not only crash tackle the club’s premiership aspirations, it’ll also pour cold water on the Greens’ inaugural indigenous showdown.
Merewether Carlton, sitting in top spot on the ladder, was due to face Nelson Bay at Townson Oval on Saturday 14 August while the fourth-placed women had a date with Medowie.
Unfortunately, the current lockdown restrictions will put paid to their plans to celebrate their proud Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander history.
“This season was the first time that Newcastle & Hunter Rugby Union (NHRU) designated a specific indigenous round for all clubs in the comp,” president John Davis said.
“Since the announcement, the Greens have been fully-supportive of the concept.
“We saw it as a way to acknowledge the land on which we play; and the important part indigenous individuals have and continue to make to our club.
“The members then commissioned an order of shirts that will bear the painting created by Kristy Anderson, with proceeds going to charity.
“Unfortunately, we’re undecided on what we’ll do with the special-designed jerseys now.”
One member of the women’s squad, Sonya Chapman, said it was important to recognise the occasion.
“It [indigenous round] represents a sense of community and coming together,” she explained.
“Community and kinship are why we are a part of this club, so it’s great to see this step forward towards reconciliation and recognition.
“I’m so proud to pull on a jersey that was designed by local Worimi woman and former Greens player Kristy Anderson.
“She was a founding member of our team and played in the first grand final in 2005.
“Kristy was a no-brainer as our go-to artist for the jumper with her ties to the club and local community.
“Her partner plays for Medowie/Nelson Bay, too, so the timing of the round was perfect.
“It’s just disappointing COVID-19 has upset the applecart.
“All the girls were looking forward to Kristy and her sister Rebecca Young (nee Anderson) presenting the jerseys to them this weekend – it would have meant a lot to the squad.
“Rebecca was also a part of the 2005 grand final winning side and has captained the Indigenous All Stars as well as played at the highest level of rugby as a Wallaroo.”
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