We are proud to announce that Barracudas player and Bayside Christian College student, Jahleal Barney, has been selected for the Broncos Development Academy.
This is an exciting opportunity for this young player, who joins teammates Kobie Woodman and Braxton Thompson in achieving this milestone.
Jahleal shared what the honour meant to him, as well as some of his rugby league history, insights and lessons.
How long have you been playing rugby league?
I have played rugby league since I was 5 years old.
How important has Bayside’s Barracudas program been to your development?
The Bayside Barracudas have helped hone my fitness and skills whilst also making sure I focus on my school work and attendance.
How proud are you to represent your area and school in this squad?
To represent my family, school, club and culture is very important to me. I am looking forward to proving I deserve this opportunity.
How are you balancing the workload of study and elite-level youth sport?
Bayside have assisted me in so many ways. The principal, my coaches and teachers have helped me find ways to better balance my education and sporting commitments. It has been difficult adjusting, but I am working on it.
Is playing in the NRL your ultimate goal?
I would love to make the NRL, although my ultimate goal would be to make the Kangaroos, I would love to make the QLD Origin team and the Indigenous All Stars teams. I have many dreams and goals.
Are there any people you would like to thank?
I would like to thank my Bayside coaches, Mr Carter, Mr Bennett, and Mr Grimes, the Principal, for the opportunity to attend the Bayside Christian College. This opportunity would not have happened if my Pop hadn’t approached Mr Grimes and pleaded for an opportunity to trial. Thank you also to Uncle Joel for your support.
How excited are you to attend the Broncos Academy and showcase your skills to some of the best coaches in the country?
I feel both nervous and excited at the same time. I am truly humbled by this opportunity, and I will do my very best to make everyone proud. Most importantly, as my Bayside coaches say, “You belong here.” So, believe in yourself, and you will become the best you can be.
About the Broncos Academy
According to the Broncos website:
“The Academy program is designed to educate young Broncos players about all aspects of Rugby League, both on and off the field.
The club is committed to providing resources to this program to enable it to service all our Academy and Talent Squad players, no matter where they reside.
The Academy program plays a crucial role in the recruitment structure of the Broncos.
This program was established in 2006, and since its induction it has produced a large number of players who make up our current NRL squad.
The club looks forward to seeing more graduates from the Academy program playing NRL for the Broncos in the coming years.”