Meninga keen to help mission

JOE Meninga, nephew of living legend and Rugby League Immortal Mal Meninga, is keen to support the Laidley under-14 team in 2010.

Following in Big Mal’s footsteps, Joe is currently representing the Sunshine Coast Under-18 team and at 17 years old, 186cm and 84kg, the rangy centre is showing great promise.

Joe is keen to see young people commit themselves to sport and knows the influence that “touchable heroes” can have.

Joe will visit the Laidley under-14 team and run a coaching session to pass on skills, knowledge and tactics.

“My uncle Bruce Peel, who is coaching the Laidley under-14s this year with Brad McLennan, has seen what I am achieving through my determination and commitment,” Joe said.

“Uncle Mal has accomplished a lot and has passed on some good tips to me over the years and Bruce believes I might be inspirational to his team. ”

Under-14s coach Bruce Peel is excited for the boys prospects this year and encourages committed young men from around the valley to join them on their mission for success, stating that, “we had a great team of young men last year. This year’s team will have the potential to achieve whatever they want to achieve if they are prepared to commit themselves to the team’s direction and work hard”.

With plans to attend a Broncos training session and pre-season trial, he hopes to inspire the team to be the best they can be, commenting that, “We have some inspirational people who are keen to support us in our endeavours”.

Former Bronco’s defensive coach, Peter Ryan, is also set to visit the boys during a couple of Laidley training sessions to pass on some of his legendary defensive knowledge.

Boys who are interested in joining the Laidley U14 team can phone 0437 237 440 or roll up at the Laidley JRL sign-on day on February 7, between 1pm and 4pm.