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Subscriber only NEW Norths A-Grade coach Michael Williamson concedes his team will be rusty for their opening game of the Rugby League Ipswich season after a first round bye. However, Williamson was just as concerned about former Tigers mentor Gary Lawrence as his side prepares to tackle Fassifern at Harrisville on Saturday night. Former Toowoomba Clydesdales premiership-winning coach Lawrence was appointed in the pre-season to take over from Mick Newton for the 2021 season. However, Lawrence has stepped aside due to health issues. Having overseen major junior development and premiership successes at Norths in recent years, Williamson accepted the club s invitation to take on this year s A-Grade side.
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Subscriber only A NEW coach, focus on youth and hopes to rebuild a women s rugby league team. Norths are gearing up for what club president Jason Brennan hopes is a more normal season following last year s COVID impacts. But after the Tigers had a productive season making the Volunteers Cup grand final involving Toowoomba sides, the annual player poaching has started. Norths have lost some key players already to Souths Tigers in the Toowoomba competition. However, with former Toowoomba Clydedales premiership-winning coach Gary Lawrence on board, Brennan is keen to build on the club s positive progress in last year s restructured A-Grade competition.
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Subscriber only OVER many decades, Ipswich has been home to some of the finest sporting empires in Australia. From international footballers, rugby league players and baseballers to well-known cricketers, swimming icons and hockey achievers, the region has provided some exceptional moments. In the latest QT sporting series, 34 of the best Ipswich sporting dynasties are celebrated, highlighting many memorable moments and sharing some successful family traits. Five more dedicated Ipswich families are showcased in today s fourth part. Ipswich Hockey Association president Margret Mantell is proud of her strong family connection to the sport. Picture: Rob Williams 15. MANTELL/WOODFORD families: Playing together with unique connection