In an exciting development for the Western Clydesdales RLFC, five talented Colts players from the 2023 season have not only been retained but have also earned their spots in the highly competitive Hostplus Cup squad for the upcoming 2024 season.
These young stars - Braden Leigh, Darcy Carswell, Kaden Buhse, Flynn Kaiser-Capewell, and the 2023 Colts Player of the Year, Brock Patti - have demonstrated their immense potential and commitment to the club, making them valuable additions to the senior squad.
Braden Leigh: Rising Star
Braden Leigh, a big-bodied outside back with a keen eye for gaps in the opposition's defense, has been turning heads since his Colts debut after relocating from Western Sydney. In the 2023 season, Leigh showcased his exceptional speed and game vision, amassing try assists and demonstrating excellent defensive skills. His retention and promotion to the Hostplus Cup squad are well-deserved and speak volumes about his promising future with the Clydesdales.
Darcy Carswell: A Hardworking Asset
Darcy Carswell is another outstanding talent from the Colts squad who will continue to don the Clydesdales' colours in 2024. Known for his defensive workrate, Carswell, a Highfields junior, has proven himself as a valuable player who rarely misses a taclke. His adaptability and strong work ethic make him a key asset for the squad's depth and success in the upcoming season.
Kaden Buhse: The Versatile Game-breaker
Kaden Buhse is a name that fans will want to remember in the 2024 Hostplus Cup season. A Gatton Hawk with an unyielding work ethic, Buhse's retention and promotion are a testament to his relentless pursuit of excellence. His versatility on the field provides great coverage in the outside backs and his unwavering commitment to the Clydesdales are qualities that the senior squad will benefit from immensely.
Flynn Kaiser-Capewell: A Workhorse
Flynn Kaiser-Capewell's work-rate is unrivalled. The Oakey Bears junior does all the one percenters on the field and training paddock. He is the kind of player others love playing alongside. A hard-working forward who plays with heart, determination and effort. A player who can make an impact straight out of Colts.
Brock Patti: The 2023 Colts Player of the Year
Brock Patti's outstanding performance in the 2023 Colts season, earning him the prestigious title of Colts Player of the Year, solidifies his position in the Hostplus Cup squad for 2024. Patti's exceptional leadership, rugby league intelligence, and exceptional work rate set a remarkable example for his peers. His promotion is not only a reward for his incredible year but also a signal of the club's trust in his potential to excel in the senior team.
The retention and promotion of Braden Leigh, Darcy Carswell, Kaden Buhse, Flynn Kaiser-Capewell, and Brock Patti from the Colts to the Hostplus Cup squad is an exciting development for the Western Clydesdales. These young talents bring a mix of speed, versatility, power, precision, and leadership, all of which are essential for success in the highly competitive Hostplus Cup. Their journey from the Colts to the senior squad reflects the club's commitment to nurturing and promoting homegrown talent, and fans can look forward to an exhilarating 2024 season with these players in the ranks. The Western Clydesdales are shaping up to be a force to be reckoned with, and these young stars are a big part of the equation.