What a year it's been for ISA.
I'd like to conclude this season with a couple of awards.
MVP:
My MVP across the competition undoubtedly goes to Charlie Blank, the #7 from St Augustine's. Charlie had an outstanding year in Rugby, excelling not only on the field but also in his vital leadership role at Auggies.
Charlie’s list of accomplishments is impressive, including selections for the ISA1 and NSW Schools 2 teams, of which won the National Schools Championship. His remarkable performances have earned him the chance to represent Australia later this year as part of the Australian Schoolboys Team—an extraordinary achievement.
Beyond his individual accolades, Charlie captained the all-conquering Auggies team, setting an exemplary standard both on and off the pitch. His respectfulness, eloquence, and leadership are a true testament to his character.
While he may not be the flashiest or most thrilling player to watch, his ability to lead his team and conduct himself with poise is what, in my view, has rightfully earned him this year’s MVP title.
Rising Star:
My Rising Star this year goes to Year 11 Student Oscar Cleary, the flanker from Kinross. Oscar was a somewhat untouted prospect coming into this season, with no real mention of his name. His rise started early in the year, and ISA selectors noticed this, placing him in the ISA1 Team. His performances in that team earned him the #8 jersey in the NSW Schools 2 Team.
Just like Blank, Cleary was a standout across the tournament for NSW2 and was picked in the Australian Schoolboys side, playing later this year. Being in Year 11, and from Kinross, it's an outstanding achievement for him, and he'll be a big piece for Kinross next year if they want to challenge the best.
Most RahRah-esque Player:
This marks the inaugural crowning of the RahRah Player, and if you’ve been following the forum all year, you’ll know which player reminds me of my younger self back in the day.
The rigorous, powerhouse Italian Stallion, Luca Caruso, had an exceptional year—a player who truly made his own luck. Luca started the season in the 2nds for Oakhill, but his impressive form in the opening trial games against Barker and Shore quickly earned him a spot in the 1sts against Joey’s.
From that moment on, he never looked back. Always a threat for a sneaky try, Luca also showed admirable discipline, never engaging in hooligan behaviour.
Luca’s outstanding season led to his selection for ISA1 honours, but it wasn’t without its challenges. He faced a tough setback with an injury, forcing him to sit out the match against Kinross. However, he bravely returned for the Auggies game, donning headgear to push through. Throughout, Caruso displayed grit, elusiveness, and, most importantly, that special X-Factor, qualities of the great RahRah.
I’d like to congratulate Luca on a remarkable year, one that has earned him the first-ever RahRah Trophy—surely the pinnacle of his young career.