Sunny Start on the Coast for Reigning National Youth Champions

Clear blue skies set the tone on day one of the 2023 DoorDash National Youth Championships (NYC) with reigning champions Queensland Secondary Schools Touch (QSST) starting their tournament in commanding style – going undefeated in both the 18s Boys and Girls divisions.

Not to be outdone by their rivals up north – New South Wales teams Hunter Western Hornets (Hornets), NSW Combined High Schools (NSWCHS), and NSW Combined independent Schools (NSWCIS) are also undefeated heading into day two.

Queensland regions got off to a fast start in the 16s Girls division as well, including a mighty thirty-two try differential for the Central Queensland Bulls. Meanwhile, in the 16s Boys division, Brisbane Cobras' and the South West Queensland Swans' attempt for consecutive grand final appearances remains on track with both teams unbeaten at the conclusion of day one.

The Hornets carried strong form across all divisions, leading their pool in the 14s Boys with Caleb Lewis having a real sting in his tail leading the Bristol Paint top try-scorer list on day one with nine tries. Not to be outdone, Hayden Madders spearheaded the Brisbane Cobras’ campaign today with an outstanding attacking performance and nine tries to his name as well.

The 14s Girls are nipping at the heels of the try scoring leaderboard with Ellie Fairall on a tear with eight tries for the Sydney Scorpions.

The Scorpions also showed outstanding defensive ability in the 12s Boys, conceding only one try in their undefeated start. In the 12s Girls, the try-scoring race continues to heat up with Madison Butterworth scoring six times for the Brisbane Cobras to take top spot in their pool.

There’s plenty of questions to be answered tomorrow. Who can carry their form into day two and who can rebound after day one losses?

Tune in from 9:35am AEST for all the electric action of the 2023 DoorDash National Youth Championships, live and free on Kayo Sports in Australia and Sky Sport Next internationally.