MSHS Cowboys Challenge Rugby League Team: Undefeated And Dominant

The Mackay State High School Cowboys Challenge Rugby League Team, comprised of talented male students from Year 9 and 10, is making waves in the Cowboys Challenge competition, one of the premier rugby league competitions in Queensland and Australia. This competition features teams from Townsville (Kirwan, Ignatius Park), Cairns (Trinity Bay, Mareeba, and St Augustine), and Mackay (St Patricks, Holy Spirit, and Mackay State High School).
The Mackay State High School Cowboys Challenge Team, led by Captain Tom Bassett, has been on an impressive undefeated streak in their pool, with one game remaining. They will likely face off against either Kirwan SHS or St Patrick's College in the semi-final later this term.
The Mackay team has secured decisive victories against St Augustine College (32-4 and 18-6), Mareeba SHS (36-0 and 30-0), and Holy Spirit College (26-10). With one game remaining against Holy Spirit College before the semi-finals, Mackay State High School is guaranteed the top seed. Remarkably, they are currently the only undefeated team across both pools.
This success can be attributed to a formidable line-up that includes several Mackay District and Capricornia School Sport players, as well as Cowboys and Broncos academy talents such as Thomas Bassett, Zac Campbell, Libaan Hajiyussuf, Rocky Hancock, Archer Orr, Charlie Riggs, Linkin Simpson, and Cooper Venz. Additionally, the team boasts promising newcomers like Terrance Pedro, who has come through as a member of the school's Clontarf Academy and is showing significant improvement each week. This mix of experience and raw talent is a key factor in the team's success.
Brett Watton, coach and head of HPE and Sporting Academies at Mackay State High School, expressed his pride in the team’s achievements.
"Our boys have shown incredible dedication and teamwork this season,” he said.
“The blend of seasoned players and emerging talents has been a game-changer. The team's undefeated record is a testament to their hard work and culture here at Mackay State High School."
Watton also highlighted the importance of their upcoming matches.
"As we move into the semi-finals, the focus remains on playing our brand of rugby league and supporting each other on and off the field.
“We're excited about the challenge ahead and confident in our preparation and abilities."
Behind the scenes, Mackay State High School Sporting Academies have an excellent well-being and support service led by Mrs Sharon Barnard, who said, "By assisting students in coping with the day-to-day rigours of life and school through the pillars of resilience, responsibility, and respect, we have seen improved success both in the classroom and on the field.".
Along with Mr Watton and Mrs Barnard, the Cowboys challenge team also boasts an impressive coaching group, consisting of Mackay Cutters Player of the Year Josh Smith, and Mackay A-grade players Zach Schill and Tyreeq Salleh Meadows.
For those unable to attend the games in person, all matches are streamed live on KommunityTV, providing an opportunity for the broader community to support and cheer on the team.

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Captain Tom Bassett. Photos supplied

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