Whitsunday Raiders hold their ground for another year of union



Peter Chengody and Bruce Spannagle on field.



Lack of players may have forced the Raiders to withdraw from the Mackay competition in 2011, but for club president Bruce Spannagle, the Proserpine/Whitsunday Raiders Rugby Union will be around for a long time yet.

"It (the club) will stay alive no matter what and we will keep the annual 7s competition going no matter what," Mr Spannagle said.

Dwindling player numbers in all sports have hit the Whitsundays hard, but with a great draw this year, Mr Spannagle, who has been involved with Airlie Beach rugby union for 16 years, is hoping for a strong group of players to sign on.a

"Union has always had a strong following but people have just dissipated. The whole area has lost players (but) I'm hoping to put together a cool group of senior players of about 12 or 13. Even if it's a different team each week, as long we keep playing."

In a positive move, the Whitsunday Raiders are currently recruiting players from overseas with two English players on the cards for the team as well as the prospect of hiring a captain/coach for the side.

Mr Spannagle said in an effort to help the struggling team, Mackay has also offered a fair draw for the Whitsunday Raiders this season.

Sign on day will be on Saturday, January 14 from 3pm at the sportspark and all interested are encouraged to sign up for the Whitsunday Raiders.

"Come on down. No matter how much experience or your fitness level, it's a great opportunity to train, hang out with the boys and make friends."