For Moranbah teenager Tommy Jaques, rugby has never been just a sport. It’s been a journey built on early mornings, long drives, hard tackles and a whole lot of heart.
His first taste of the game came at Moranbah State School, where he ran on for the Western 7’s in Emerald. That first run sparked a passion that’s seen him pull on jerseys for Capricornia, Mackay Juniors, the CQ Bushrangers, the Moranbah Bulls and now the Queensland Country Junior Heelers.
“I really enjoyed those early experiences and I loved the game of rugby. At that time there was no junior competition in Moranbah so I registered with the Mackay Juniors and played in their carnivals.”
That decision turned out to be a turning point.
“I heard about the Bushrangers trials through the Mackay Juniors and I thought this would be a good opportunity to play the game I love, so I gave it a go.”
Since then, he’s made Bushrangers squads in the under 13s, 14s and twice in the under 16s. The Moranbah Bulls have also been a major chapter in his story, with a Best Forward title earned in the Under 18s Colt Cup.
While plenty of coaches have shaped his game, one person has been a constant influence.
“If I was to think of one person it would be my mum. She has always been my number one supporter, whether it is the texts she sends about keeping my head up if I’ve had a bad game or a thumbs up on the sideline when I look over. Although I am not sure I want to be near her when I get a yellow card!”
This year, Tommy was named captain of the CQ Bushrangers at the Queensland Country Trials, an experience he called “an honour”.
“It showed the coaches trusted me enough to lead and guide my team. We were a great team that got along, helped each other and got the job done.”
His performance at the trials turned heads, but he stayed focused on playing his role.
“I tried not to think too much about it… but I felt my last game was my best shot. I broke the line a couple times, set up a try, got some turnovers and my ruck work was high.
“I just try to focus on playing the best footy I can.”
When the Queensland Country Under 16s team list finally dropped, Tommy was glued to his phone.
“I had to keep refreshing my phone to make sure I didn’t miss the list. When it finally came through, I felt relieved more than anything… it felt like it was all coming together.”
Each team he’s played for has left a mark.
“The Moranbah Bulls make you feel welcomed and part of their family, so I would say I learnt there how to have fun as a player and back up your mate like family. The Bushrangers taught me patience, not to give up and to work hard and being a Heeler helped me build trust with my teammates.”
Now part of the Junior Heelers, he’s clear on what comes next.
“I really want to improve my rugby skills, knowledge of the game and play against teams of a higher level than what I have done before. In September the Heelers get to play in the Emerging Reds Cup and from there an Emerging Reds Queensland squad is picked which I would love to be a part of.”
Looking ahead, the dream is clear – Brisbane, Super Rugby, maybe even the Wallabies.
His journey might have started in a small mining town, but Tommy Jaques is making a name for himself on a much bigger field.
