SOME of the state's top athletes will descend on Kiama next winter, with the town set to host a range of major junior football competitions.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
The action will start May 5 for the three-day NSW Combined High Schools Rugby Union Championships, with the NSW Junior Country Rugby Union Championships to follow.
The Country Championships on May 9 and 10 will see the under 16 girls, under 18 girls and under 18 boys competitions take place in Kiama.
The youngsters will also head to the South Coast for the NSW PSSA 11 Years Rugby League Championships to be held in June.
Related content: Miller makes galloping start to pre-season with Brumbies
The events come as Kiama Rugby Club celebrates its 60th year in 2020, with the club hoping the celebrations and high-level competitions will help the sport grow in the region.
Kiama Junior Rugby president Ryan McIlwaine said the events are a boon for the region.
"It just showcases our town and the South Coast to the state," McIlwaine said.
"It's great for our local players that are playing in those teams to be able to play at home and have their family members watch, rather than traveling over the country side.
"There should definitely be a home-ground advantage.
Related content: Connor's Aussies book their spot at Tokyo 2020 Olympics
"Competition for spots in those teams is always high, but it will be even more so next year.
"We're hoping this will lead to increased numbers of rugby players. With what's going on with Kiama Rugby next year with our 60th year, with programs we've been hosting since October and a Try Rugby day in early February, we're hoping to attract new players."
In a statement, Kiama Council said the events will attract more than 200 players, spectators and coaches to the region.
"The trio of tournaments builds on the success Council and Destination Kiama has had working with local clubs and associations to attract major sports events to the area," the statement said.