The Australian "Outback" Under 20's Tackle team recently showcased their talent and determination at the World Championships held in Edmonton, Canada. Competing against top teams from five continents, the Outback’s made their mark in an event filled with intense action and high stakes.
Australia travelled further than any nation competing at the IFAF U20s World Junior Championships and were the first team to arrive in Canada.
In their opening match, the Outback faced a formidable Japanese team and suffered a disappointing 50-6 loss. However, true to their fighting spirit, bounced back in spectacular fashion, delivering a dominant performance against Panama, scoring 21 unanswered points and securing a shutout victory.
The teams resilient defence played a crucial role in securing the victory, refusing to break under pressure and in doing so setting the stage for a memorable win. Wide receiver Ben Heath emerged as a star performer for the Aussies, racking up 254 all-purpose yards to rank third overall in the tournament. His impressive stats included 189 receiving yards and 62 return yards. Defensively, Harrison Pratt shone brightly, finishing as the competition’s second-leading tackler with a total of 11.5 tackles. Wide receiver Mason Field also made significant contributions, catching 5 passes for 50 yards against Panama, including a pivotal touchdown which doubled the team’s lead.
The Outback's journey continued with a tough hit out against Canada 2, where they took an early lead and kept the hosts in check at 7-7 before falling behind to trail 17-7 at halftime. Despite a determined effort, the Australians couldn’t keep pace with the Canadian second-string side, falling to a 45-7 defeat as the hosts pulled away during the third quarter. Jay Summers scored a 10-yard pass from quarterback Isaac Woodhouse, and Harrison Pratt added the extra point, showcasing the team’s ability to compete at the highest level.
The Australian "Outback" Under 20's Tackle team has demonstrated tremendous growth and potential throughout the World Championships. Their performances highlight the depth of talent in Australia’s junior tackle football scene, promising a bright future for the sport. The experience gained on the world stage will undoubtedly serve these young athletes well as they continue to develop and strive for future success.
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