HUNDREDS of kids – boys and girls – pulled on their jerseys and laced up the footy boots at Boughton Oval on Saturday to launch the Moree Giants’ 2026 junior rugby league season.

The Giants hosted Inverell Hawks across three fields, with under-6s through to under-17s girls running on.

Moree Giants club president Steve Cory said wins to Moree in competitive age groups – under-14s boys and under-16s boys – augured well for the season ahead.

“These games were particularly pleasing, with both teams starting the season in winning fashion,” Cory said.

The under-16s delivered a stand-out performance, defeating Inverell, 38-20, with the under-14s thumping the visitors, 60-4.

Under-16s second-rower Brodie Schutt shone for the Giants, landing three tries while Marley Swan kicked four goals.

Individual Moree tries went to Ray Craigie, Lakia Noble, Zac Tighe and Marley Swan, with tries to the Hawks from Dan Bell and Jaxon Taber.

“Inverell is one of the competition’s top sides and a result like that sets a strong tone for the year ahead,” Cory said.

News that Moree has been selected to host the Group 19 junior rugby league grand-final on September 19 added to the successful opening round.

“This is great for the Giants, and great for the game of rugby league in Moree,” Cory said.

On Saturday, several of Moree Giants’ younger divisions fielded multiple teams, highlighting the continued strength and development of junior rugby league locally.

Cory said the day marked an exciting launch for the club.

“The majority of our teams recorded wins at a highly successful opening round of junior rugby league at home,” Cory said.

“Participation numbers continue to grow, and we now have more than 220 registered players across all age groups.”

A big crowd was on hand to support the rugby league stars of tomorrow.

“There was a great atmosphere around the grounds and the Giants rewarded that support with an impressive set of results throughout the day,” Cory said.

Moree Boars’ key player, Jamie Sampson, was on the sidelines yesterday watching the Giants in action.

“This is grassroots footy, where skills are developed that will take these young players through life,” Sampson said.

“Kids develop friendships and learn about the game, and it’s beautiful to see so many young players here – boys and girls.

“Junior rugby league is where I started as an eight-year-old and to see how it’s grown is fantastic. I don’t think it was this big when I was growing up.

“It’s absolutely massive and to also see the inclusion of the young girls playing is great,” Sampson said.

The weekend also marked the beginning of the girls’ tackle season, with the Giants’ under-13s and under-15s squads travelling to Tamworth to compete in the Group 4 junior rugby league competition.

“While a girls tackle competition is not yet established in Group 19, the Giants remain hopeful that opportunities for young female players will continue to grow,” Cory said.

“Looking ahead, the club is optimistic about the season, particularly with the under-14s and under-16s sides shaping as strong contenders.”

But beyond the results, Cory said the day was a celebration of junior sport, with a strong emphasis on participation, enjoyment and community spirit.

“The club also acknowledges the tremendous efforts of its coaches, volunteers and supporters, whose contributions ensured a successful and well-run season launch,” Cory said.

Rugby league continues today with Moree Boars fielding four teams against Werris Creek Magpies at Boughton Oval.

Gates open at 10am, with the first game scheduled for 11am.