Sport
1 July, 2025
Dolphins dive into new waters
FOURTEEN Caboolture Snakes players played for the U15/16s Girls and Boys Dolphins development squads on June 25 at Kayo Stadium, having taken on the respective Tonga representative teams, with the Boys claiming a tight win.
Six boys and eight girls proudly represented their grassroots club, with the matches having offered a unique opportunity for the junior Dolphins to test themselves against players with a variety of skills and styles.
Caboolture Snakes JRL secretary, coach and Girls Coaching Coordinator Michaela O’Shea said the experience was incredibly valuable.
“This extra development is hugely beneficial to our local players. With this opportunity comes the ability to play teams outside their normal competitions and really hone in on their individual skill sets and training to put themselves to the test,” she said.
“These matches test their resilience, letting them discover just how much grit they have.
“The opportunity to build relationships with players and coach staff across squads is a huge benefit to young players working towards pathways in their footy.”
While the Girls Dolphins went down 36–0, the Boys held strong in a 16–12 thriller.
“Defence was strong and every player worked throughout the match, points were hard to come by but the girls never gave in,” she said.
“Boys game was won by Dolphins with two very strong teams going head to head.
“The athleticism displayed was strong with Dolphins securing the match-winning try with only seconds to go off a kick chase.”
Michaela said despite the results of either game, all Dolphins players were beaming post-match.
“Playing on Kayo Stadium was an experience in itself with many players never having had the opportunity previously,” she said.
“The Tongan teams were humble and friendly giving gifts to the Dolphins teams on match completion and getting to know each other.
“Both games were immensely exciting with spectators being lifted from their seats throughout the matches.”
