Sam Gash, pictured kicking off for Canberra Raiders Harold Matthews Cup side.
Teenager Sam Gash had his first season for the Canberra Raiders prematurely ended after just 6 rounds this year. NSWRL put an end to nine major competitions earlier in the year, including the Harold Matthews Cup competition (Under 16s) where Sam played. Sam’s plan to play the 2020 season as part of the Green Machine does not look set to resume, however, if Group 9 does commence their competition, the talented youngster will no doubt thrive.
Gash, 14, attended open trials in October, where a squad of 30 was chosen, before being trimmed to 22, four weeks before Round 1 which was held on February 8.
Starting on the wing in his appearances, Gash had scored 18 points through one try & seven conversions during the Raiders five competition games. Canberra had one bye in the first 6 rounds, two matches included victories against the Dragons & the Roosters.
Receiving no word as yet on the Raiders plans for him for 2021, Sam said players have been provided a fitness and gym program by the club.
It would be safe to assume Canberra won’t let Gash slip through their fingers, given the fact he forced his way into the starting 13. He gave away more than 12 months to some team mates and opponents and is still eligible for the Harold Matthews Cup again next season.
With Cootamundra unfortunately not fielding an Under 15s side this season, Sam was planning on playing his final season out in Wagga, for the Kangaroos club, but that has also been put on hold for now.