On Thursday, June 29 four Dungog High teams will take on Callaghan College Wallsend in the inaugural “Yapiiba” Cup as a part of the school’s NAIDOC week celebrations.

Each of the teams will be proudly led by very enthusiastic Aboriginal students who have earned the honour by exemplifying the school’s core values of Respect, Responsibility and the willingness to strive for excellence by aiming to achieve their Personal Best.

The community is invited to come and show support for the home team.

The day will kick off at 10:30am with a junior girls’ game followed by the senior girls.

Dungog High School’s PDHPE teacher Timothy Francey said the girls play a nine a side version of league with full contact.

“But the emphasis is on promoting an exciting brand of football by keeping the ball alive to involve all players,’ he said.

The girls’ games will be followed by the 13 and 16 years boys.

“The older boys are very keen to get stuck in as this is their first game for the year and the first time they have gotten to play for Dungog High on their home soil,” said Mr Francey.

Dungog High students will head down at 12:30pm to watch the 16 years boys’ game.

The game will feature a host of representative players from both teams and should be fast paced with big defence and electric skills.

For brothers Alex and Jacob Rooke the day will be very special, as they will have the honour of leading their teams into battle.

“All of the students would love to have as much positive support as possible,” said Mr Francey.

“The Dungog Junior Rugby League club have been fantastic in their support of the event and will run a canteen for spectators and players. So come on down and cheer for Dungog High.

“The games are played under the National Rugby League code of conduct, which is supported by Dungog High Schools Positive Behaviour for Learning ethos.

Spectators are reminded to:

·         Respect the referee’s decisions – don’t complain or argue about decisions during or after a game.

·         Behave! Unsportsmanlike language, harassment or aggressive behaviour will not be tolerated.

·         Encourage players to play by the rules and to respect opposition players and officials.

·         Never ridicule or scorn a player for making a mistake – respect their efforts.

·         Understand that sport is part of a total life experience, and the benefits of involvement go far beyond the final score of a game. 

·         Participate in positive cheering that encourages the players in the team you are supporting; do not engage in any cheering that taunts or intimidates opponents, their fans or officials.