THIS year's Koori Knockout is generating plenty of buzz, not only in the Shoalhaven but all around the state, largely due to the formation of the South Coast Black Cockatoos.
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The Black Cockatoos, a memorial team put together by Ben and Mel Wellington to honour their late brother James - who passed away just over a year ago, started preparations for this year's event in June.
"Mel and I thought putting together a South Coast team for the Koori Knockout was the perfect way to honour James and the impact he's had on us all," Ben said.
"All of James' friends and family know how much of himself he gave to rugby league and especially the knockout."
Ben and James first won the Koori Knockout 21 years ago with their Numbacca Valley Rams, before taking out another two with the Redfern All Blacks.
"In previous years, some of the top talent from the South Coast were forced to play for teams outside of the area at the knockout," Ben said.
"However, James' dream was to have a strong team of South Coast talents representing the area.
"In 2015, he even came up with the name the Black Cockatoos, which represented both Nowra and him - as well as the colour scheme and designs of the jerseys."
So when word started to spread that James' dream was becoming a reality, countless people impacted by him wanted to be involved.
"Rugby league was James' life - his motto was to put his body on the line for his mates," Ben said.
"Footy creates a brotherhood and companionship like no other.
"As he was a front-rower - nicknamed the Brick - he made sure he protected everyone on the field, which is exactly how he was off the field too.
"He would feel so honoured that everyone wants to play for his name and team design."
The aforementioned jerseys feature a photo of James on their left sleeve, to ensure he is out there with the team during the 49th NSW Aboriginal Rugby League Knockout at the Central Coast from October 4-7.
"I always looked at him as brother as my warrior and this is a way to show first hand how much he meant to me," Ben said.
"When we run out onto the field, there will be plenty of mixed emotions and energy in the group but we are all there for the one reason - to win it for James.
"He's had a huge impact on all the boys' lives and everyone is so proud to have this opportunity.
"To win the tournament, alongside my brothers and bloodlines, would easily be one of the greatest achievements of my career."
The team, which features a number of La Parouse - a club Ben and James reached three grand finals with, players such as Jade Anderson, Craig Garvey, Dylan Farrell, Ryan James and Nathan Deaves from last year's runner-up, to bolster the already impressive line-up.
"This Black Cockatoos team is one of the strongest teams I've ever played in," Ben said.
"Everyone's bought in and we've got a strong mix of youth and experience, which you need in this knockout format - one mistake and you're coming home."
On the back of the positive response Ben and Mel have had, they hope to build on this Black Cockatoos team in the future.
"Unfortunately, we could only send one team this year and had to say no to some players," Ben said.
"Hopefully we can generate more interest for years to come and send numerous teams in the future, especially as its the 50th edition next year.
Joining Ben in the Black Cockatoos squad, which is one of 64 teams competing at the tournament hosted by last year's winners Newcastle All Blacks team, are Dylan Farrell, Josh Power-Farrell, Peter Lett, Reegan Carr, Ryan James, Paul Roberts, Tyson Simpson, Elliot Stewart, Nathan Deaves, Daniel Deaves, Sean Deaves, Mase Harrison, Thomas Berry, Josh Coulter, Jake Gould, Jason Sullivan, Jayden Sullivan, Jade Anderson, Jason Gillard, Jayden Morgan, Joel Tubbs, Craig Garvey, Paul Ardler and Zac Blattner.