Six Kiama Rugby junior boys have been selected for the under-13s Illawarriors side to tour New Zealand from April 15.

The Junior Illawarriors is the regional junior rugby representative team for the Illawarra district. 

Illawarra junior rugby consists of ten clubs; Shoalhaven, Kiama, Avondale, Vikings, Tech, University, Shamrocks, Bowral, Camden and Campbelltown.

Kiama juniors Jaxon Lavender, Micah Gibson, Patrick Thomas, Balunn Simon, Luke Te Ahuru and Flynn Allen are part of the squad. 

Liz Thomas from the fundraising committee for the Illawarriors under-13 tour said this was a great testament to Kiama rugby.

The eight-day tour will feature the juniors playing against sides in Christchurch, Dunedin, Cromwell and Queenstown.

The side has been training since September last year in preparation.

“The competition is going to be brutal but we are up for the challenge,” Jaxon, who was recently announced as the team captain, said.

“We are all really proud to be representing Kiama, Illawarra and our country.”

Micah was also announced as part of the leadership team of six that will guide, mentor and support the team throughout the tour.

Mrs Thomas said the Illawarriors under-13s have been busily fundraising to assist with the high financial costs of travelling overseas to fulfill a rugby dream.

“Since the side was announced these boys have been training almost every week,” she said.

“(There’s been) no off-season for these boys, who are keen to make their club teams and their community proud when they play in New Zealand. 

“Not expecting others other to foot the bill, they have been fundraising like crazy.

“Car washes, cake stalls, disco nights, chocolate sales, meat trays; you name it.

“If you would like to support these boys with big hearts, big dreams, and thirst for improving in the sport they are passionate about, we would be immensely grateful for any contribution.”

Donations can be made by visiting the www.gofundme.com/2nb92424 website. 

It’s not too late to register for Kiama Junior Rugby; just turn up to Kiama Showground on a Wednesday from 4.30pm.