EASTERN Raptors junior rugby league club under-7s had the thrill of their fledgling careers when they played during half-time at an NRL State of Origin game in front of more than 56,000 people at Etihad Stadium last Wednesday.
The Raptors under-11s had a similar experience playing at half-time of the Melbourne Storm v Brisbane Broncos game at AAMI Park on Friday night.
The under-9s played during an earlier Storm game against Canterbury-Bankstown on April 14.
The Raptors, based at Sassess Avenue Reserve in Bayswater, are in their first season in the Victorian Rugby League junior competition and have fielded under-7s, under-9s and under-11s. Club officials are still looking to attract more under-14 players to fill out their side.
A group of under-14 players are also in training, but this group is in need of more players before they can enter a team i this year.
Any junior who turns 14 during 2012 is eligible to play in this age group and there are also places available in this squad for juniors who are aged 13 or turning 13 in 2012.
The Raptors are backed by the Melbourne Storm. All junior members signing on to play rugby league with the Raptors get a Melbourne Storm pack that includes a junior Storm membership card for the 2012 season and other merchandise items.
There are still plenty of opportunities for players, supporters, volunteers (including committee members) and sponsors wanting to get involved with the Raptors for the 2012 season and beyond. To get involved, call
Raptors president Terry Jenvey on 0466 152 928 or visit easternraptors.com.au.