wests tigers road to regions

Author: Wests Tigers
Timestamp: Tue 28 Feb 2023, 03:50 PM

Botille Vette-Welsh and Justin Matamua have reflected glowingly on their recent trip to regional NSW.

The pair played a big part in the NRL’s recent Road to Regions development campaign, rubbing shoulders with hundreds youngsters in Tamworth and Gunnedah.

The Road to Regions program targets regional and remote areas of Australia and New Zealand with an objective of supporting and empowering rugby league communities.

The visits include targeted educational programs at schools, visits to junior rugby league clubs, and participation in local community events.

Botille and Justin were joined by former NRL player, Alan Tongue and other NRL staff over the two-days. The Gunnedah venue was familiar territory for Tongue, who attended school in nearby Tamworth.

Matamua, who will play for the Magpies this weekend against the Roosters in the NSW Cup, says it was a privilege to be involved with the regional development program.

“Seeing the next generation coming through and to see how happy they are to play footy is a real honour,” he said.

The NSW U19 State of Origin representative also offered some words of advice to those aspiring to reach the game’s top level.

“Always stay committed, there will be times when you are hit by adversity and have tough times but you just need to be resilient, keep remembering your goals and keep pushing forward,” he said.

Vette-Welsh, who combines her playing duties with her role as Wests Tigers Community Engagement Coordinator, says the road trip was a rewarding experience.

“I love being involved in game development activities like this,” said Vette-Welsh.

“It means a lot to the communities in regional areas, and they really got behind it.”