A new chapter unfolds in the Harrigan Cup this season as the Sutherland-Loftus Pirates make their debut, bringing both history and intrigue. They inherit the torch from De La Salle, representing the Shire in the NSWRL major competition.
The Pirates may be new to the Harrigan Cup, but their foundations are deep rooted in the fabric of grassroots rugby league. Founded in 1912 and disturbed by events of World War One, the club re-formed in 1920 made up of Sutherland shire locals. Again, stunted by the events of World War Two, but returned to action in 1946.
Aligned with the Cronulla-Sutherland Sharks and Newtown Jets pathways, and under the guidance of coach Paul Nakhle (pictured above, right with sqaud member Jaxon Lavender), the Pirates are expected to be well-drilled and physically prepared from the first whistle. While combinations may take time to settle, the backing of elite systems suggests this is not a side entering the competition simply to make up the numbers.
New beginnings
Nakhle says that playing in this competition isn’t just an opportunity to showcase talent from their pathways but provide exposure for the rebirth of the historic club.
“We’ve entered this competition this year, which is really exciting for the club,” Nakhle.
“We’re trying to help promote the club in terms of its growth, using this team to obviously anchor that.
With a squad drawing from elite systems, the Pirates enter the competition as an unknown quantity and potentially one of its most dangerous.
“But it also provides an opportunity for the players from the [Cronulla] Sharks’ system and also the Newtown Jets in New South Wales Cup who aren’t playing on every given weekend.
“It gives them the opportunity to actually get together and play in a strong competition.
Up For The Challenge
Their debut clash presents an immediate test. Taking on a Thirroul outfit eager to return to finals contention, the Pirates will be thrown straight into the intensity of Harrigan Cup football.
Undoubtedly a challenge, but one thing Nakhle says his side is up for having already pinpointed the brand of rugby league he wants his side to be known for.
“I want to be known as a team that actually competes on every play.
“We want to be strong in our effort areas, our kick chase, all those bits and pieces.
“I want my team to compete on every play and fight for every scrap
“We’ll be a fit, fast sort of team and if we’re doing all of that we’ll be competitive.
Connection
As the season commences, the focus turns to identity. With players travelling up and down their player pathway pipeline, Nakhle has placed connection at the heart of his squad’s values.
“Our team only gets together at the end of the week, so for us it’s making sure that we’re well connected off the field and on the field.
“We’re taking players from a little bit of here and there, between three different organisations.
“The biggest area that we are focusing on is our connection.”
Whether they emerge as immediate contenders or take time to find their footing remains to be seen. But one thing is certain, the Pirates will be out to prove naysayers wrong.
Carrying with them more than a century of history, their journey this season has the rest of the Harrigan Cup watching very closely.
Match Centre
Words| Joshua Houldin
Photo Credit | Denis Ivaneza