Leagues ahead in entertainment

In an era of computers, DVDs and game consoles, a day at the footy remains one of Australia’s most enduring past times.

Over the years the Dalby Rugby League Club has produced skilled and entertaining players and continues to attract star performers.

Each season around 200 junior players, aged from 7 to 16 years, make up the ‘Dalby Devils’ teams, and a crowd of enthusiastic parents, friends and footy fans gather to watch them play.

Juniors president Graham Buckley says Dalby is well supported by the local community and a healthy band of volunteers are always on hand to ensure the smooth running of events.

“We have quite a good support base in Dalby and great sponsors who do a lot for the club.

“We practise ‘safe code’ play which is important for juniors and have excellent coaches.

“They have a lot of fun and local games are a good stepping stone for players wanting to go on to NRL.”

There’s also some excellent local talent in the senior ‘Dalby Diehards’ teams and plenty of socialising at the clubhouse after the games.

Seniors secretary Joan Tate believes the Dalby Diehards played some great games this season with the Under 18s performing particularly well.

“There are a lot of good local players and we’re currently looking for a good captain/coach to join the coaching staff.”

The Dalby Rugby League Club has some of the best facilities on the Darling Downs and these will soon be upgraded with plans to build new dressing sheds behind the grandstand and improve lighting on the grounds.

The club runs a variety of social events throughout the week including a popular Friday night bistro where home-style cooking, reasonable prices and a friendly atmosphere ensure a good turn out. There’s a free membership draw on Fridays which jackpots every week so be there for the chance to collect a prize.

Gaming machines operate all week from 10am and bingo is played every Thursday and Saturday with the money raised going towards cancer research.

The clubhouse is also a popular venue for weddings, parties and other functions so be sure to book ahead.

For any information on becoming a player, coaching a team or simply enjoying the social aspects of the game call 46621433.