Sport
15 August, 2026
Irukandjis beat Good Counsel 28-14
INNISFAIL State College’s year 7/8 Irukandjis rugby league team turned on a gritty performance in slippery conditions to defeat Good Counsel College 28-14 at the Innisfail State College Oval, now affectionately known as ‘The Stinger Net.’
After conceding an early try, the Irukandjis surged back on 27 July with a dominant spell to lead 22-4, giving coaches the chance to reward newer players with extended game time as they continue developing their skills.
Innisfail State College co-coach and PE teacher Callum Leslie said the team showed resilience despite a scrappy start.
“We were far from perfect and very scrappy early, but the class and talent of our boys shone through in the end,” he said.
“The most rewarding aspect was seeing some of our less experienced players play big minutes and have great success.
“We’re starting to see the impact of working with us as coaches, the NRL and the Northern Pride.
“Our students take pride in being Irukandjis and getting a strong win at home against our across town rivals has made them very happy at school.”
Leslie praised several standouts, including Jackson at lock, Noah at halfback, Lokie at hooker, Daniel in the front row and Cooper at fullback.
“Jackson ran rampant, scoring and setting up multiple tries. Daniel, along with Hunter and Rudy, brought energy and fierceness in defence. Noah, Cooper and Lokie combined beautifully to steer us around the park in tough conditions.”
Co-coach Shane Rossi said the team’s effort deserved recognition.
“As a coach, I immediately think about all the ways we could improve, but I must give the boys credit where it’s due,” he said.
“From our captain to the last man off the bench, they all gave 100%,” he said.
“Daniel and Jackson were excellent in the middle and Hunter, Noah, Cooper and Jaxon all played huge roles. It’s great to see the improvements in students who’ve been involved in this program.”
Rossi said the team respected GCC’s effort and were already eager for the next meeting.
“Our students acknowledged Good Counsel put up a great fight and are keen to get back on the training paddock and play them again later in the year.”
He said next year’s expansion of the college’s full time rugby league program for years 7–12 would be a major step forward.