FORMER Gerringong Lions Jack Murchie and Reuben Garrick have been named in the NSW under 20s side to take on Queensland in the State of Origin one curtain-raiser, on Wednesday, May 31 at Suncorp Stadium.
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Both Murchie, a forward for the Canberra Raiders, and Garrick, an outside back for the St George-Illawarra Dragons, have been picked in the Danny Buderus coached side on the back of their strong form in the National Youth Competition this season.
“It means so much to me to be able to represent my state,” Murchie said.
“I've grown up watching State of Origin as a kid and I've always dreamt of running out in a Blues jersey - so I can't wait get out there.”
Murchie, who started his career as a Milton-Ulladulla Bulldog, was selected in the second-row, alongside South Sydney Rabbitohs’ Cameron Murray and Sydney Roosters’ Nat Butcher
“I think my aggression will help us out there on the field come game day,” he said.
“The most important thing will be to do my job given to me by the coaches - if all the boys do that we should go well.”
The side will be looking to continue the state's dominance in the fixture; NSW has won all five of the under 20s Origin games played to date, including the 36-22 victory in 2016.
“The camp will be a awesome experience and I intend to learn as much as I can,” Muchie said.
“It feels like home for me - heading to Kiama for the camp, so that should translate into a good preparation as we build into the game.”
Garrick, who was picked on the wing, echoed the comments of his former-Lions team mate.
“To be selected for my state is very exciting and a little overwhelming - it means so much to represent not only my state but my family, club and Gerringong,” Garrick said.
“It has been a dream ever since I was young - I really believe that it is such an honour to play in the Blues jersey.
“In the match itself, I believe I will bring a very positive attitude out on the field and will always put my hand up when the going gets tough.”
Garrick, who has helped the Dragons to third on the ladder, is expecting the match to be of the highest quality.
“I am expecting the match to be very physical and fast paced, which should make for a great game of football to watch,” he said.
“It should be a real step up from NYC and NSW Cup.”
Courtney Ward
Sports Journalist for South Coast Register and Milton-Ulladulla Times, who loves all things sport and travel. All views are my own.
Sports Journalist for South Coast Register and Milton-Ulladulla Times, who loves all things sport and travel. All views are my own.
