Lennox named rookie of the year

The future of the Boggabri and District Rugby League Football Club is in safe hands.

The Kangaroos’ fastest rising star Bailey Lennox has taken out the Group Four Rugby League rookie of the year at the presentation night last Wednesday hosted at the North Tamworth Bowling Club.

Lennox was presented the award by his father and Group Four Junior Rugby League president Peter Lennox.

The Boggabri side struggled with injuries and numbers throughout the 2019 season but Bailey Lennox constantly stood up for his beloved club.

Lennox said he was ecstatic to receive the award, however was a little shocked after his name was called.

“I was a bit surprised, there are a few decent young players that are in the top grade,” he told The Courier.

“It’s a good feeling knowing I’m right up there with all of the other young players in the competition.

“To stand out as a young gun in the Boggabri Kangaroos, where a fair few decent young blokes are coming through, it feels pretty good.”

The strong youngster predominantly played in the back row this season, however he has adapted his game to be able to play in the centres and even test himself in the five-eight position.

Lennox said that he was not worried about what position he played this year as long as he was able to strengthen the side.

“It doesn’t bother me where I play,” he said.

“I’m only there to do my job for the team and if [coach Shane Rampling] needs me in the halves then I’m happy to do that.

“I don’t mind playing back row and I don’t mind playing five-eight, I just like having my hands on the ball.”

Boggabri’s first grade coach Rampling said that Lennox’s contribution has been phenomenal all year.

“Bailey has had a really great season,” he said.

“He has stepped up from the under-18s last year and has fitted in well with the senior players.

“He has really taken his game to another level this season.

“Bailey is just such a versatile player which helps us a lot.

“He’s a real good hard running edge forward.

“Bailey has got great ball skills and good vision for the game.

“He’s a talented kid and he’s only going to get better.”

At the Group Four Rugby League presentation night on Wednesday Lennox’s teammate Matt Gillham was rewarded for his terrific
representative season as he took out the rep player of the year award.

Lauren Clark, who was outstanding in her play for Boggabri in the tackle competition, was named women’s tackle player of the season at the Group Four presentation night.

North Tamworth Bears’ star Jake McManus won the Group Four first grade player of the year after finishing on 19 Group Four best and fairest points.

Narrabri’s Daniel Jobson finished a close second ending the campaign on 15 Group Four Rugby League best and fairest points.