Ben Hunt inspires next gen of country rugby league players
Big dreams can start in small towns – and country football has a special way of bringing them to life.
That is why Hewitt was proud to help deliver a grassroots rugby league clinic to Moura recently, giving junior players from Theodore, Moura and Baralaba the chance to train with Brisbane Broncos star Ben Hunt ahead of Jason Hetherington Gary Larson Carnival at Gladstone.
For Hewitt, backing country football is about supporting the communities that have shaped our business and the young people who will carry them forward.
Alongside Broncos development coaches Jharal Yow Yeh and James Geurtjens, as well as NRL Football Operations General Manager Troy Thomson, Ben worked with the juniors to sharpen their kicking, passing skills and take part in drills.
The junior players also asked questions and heard first-hand from Ben about the opportunities sport can create for young people in regional Queensland. Raised in Dingo, Central Queensland, Ben understands the influence country sport can have on young players.
“Growing up in the bush, I know how much these opportunities mean,” Ben said.
“Kids in regional towns don’t always get access to these kinds of experiences, so when someone takes the time to show up, they really appreciate it.
“I still remember being a kid when NRL player PJ Marsh came to our town, it felt like Christmas, and it’s something you don’t forget.
“That’s why I love getting out to country towns, talking to the kids, answering their questions and giving back where I can. They’re so passionate and grateful, and it’s a privilege to be able to spend that time with them.”
Theodore Roosters take the field in new Hewitt jerseys
Theodore is woven into Hewitt’s story as it’s where Mick and Ben Hewitt grew up playing for the local rugby league club.
For this reason, Hewitt is excited to support the Theodore Roosters with jerseys to celebrate the junior players efforts for their rugby league season.
The Roosters ran onto the field in their new jerseys alongside teammates from Moura and Baralaba, proudly representing their communities in the under-12s for the Jason Hetherington Gary Larson Carnival on the weekend.
This young team has built a great connection over the years, with many of the players competing together since 2020.
Through its support of the Jason Hetherington team and regional juniors, Hewitt is backing the families and clubs that keep country football strong.
This matters because when young people in regional communities are given the chance to learn, connect and be inspired, the impact reaches well beyond the field.
