By David Nagel
The next Cameron Smith, Billy Slater or Cameron Munster might be taking their first development steps right here in our local region at the Pakenham Eels Rugby League Club.
Established in 2016, the Eels are growing fantastically well with nine junior teams now participating in ages ranging from under-6 all the way through to under-16.
And the Eels might also have the next Ali Brigginshaw in their ranks too, with the club introducing an all-girls under-15 team for the very first time this season.
And the news keeps on getting better for the Eels, who will switch bases from their current home at the Cardinia Recreation Reserve to a flash new facility at Comely Banks in Officer next season
Club president Jason Buchanan said the move to the Comely Banks Recreation Reserve – a regional sporting hub being built next to the new Bridgewood Primary School – would allow the club to continue to prosper.
Once fully developed, the reserve will have four rectangular pitches (for rugby league and touch football), extensive change room facilities, officials and first aid rooms and the capacity for hosting major events.
“Our summer and winter season through Rugby League and Touch Football have over 600 participants a week, and with the new capacity of Comely Banks we can increase our capacity to deliver sporting opportunities to the Cardinia community,” Buchanan said.
“We’re a friendly and family orientated club, with a big focus on junior and female participation as well as senior participation in both structured competition and social participation.”
“The new facility will provide us with a really good platform to further develop what we have been currently developing since the clubs inception.”
The Eels have a very culturally diverse participation base, and welcome local families to become involved in both rugby league and touch football for every age for the very first time.
Michael Winter, who has a child playing at the club, said rugby league provides so many benefits to the youngsters who play the game.
“The kids learn how to tackle, and how to be tackled, and how to protect themselves and the opposition, but the most important part is the respect they are learning from their coaches,” Winter explained.
“The dedication and discipline of the coaches and the families is something that I really think stands out.”
Those looking for more information can contact the club via email at info@pakenhamrlc.com
