THERE’S a lot of star quality and representative class about the Orange CYMS backline in 2014, but 20-year-old winger Zac Rue bucks that trend for all the right reasons.
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Helping the club snap a four-game losing streak with a 32-14 premier league win over Blayney last weekend, Rue brings enthusiasm and dedication to the green and golds’ bid for back-to-back Group 10 titles.
A bantamweight in build that’ll provide the Wade Park faithful with a comical contrast to opposite winger Semisi Katoa, Rue jumped at the chance to play in the top grade and will line-up on CYMS’ right edge for just his second game of premier league footy on Sunday against Oberon.
“It was definitely a surprise,” Rue said looking back at his call-up last weekend.
“There’s a lot of good outside backs in the club and I’m sure they’ll be back towards the end of the year, but I’m just hoping to make the most of my time in first grade.
“It’s always been a goal. I didn’t think it was realistic this year, but Mick (Sullivan) gave me the heads up last week and of course I was willing to give it a go.
“I just love playing footy and being around teammates.
“I just love getting on the field, it’s my hobby really. I really enjoy it.”
Sullivan is hoping Rue’s enthusiasm for the game becomes infectious among the CYMS squad.
“Positionally, he’s fantastic,” CYMS’ captain-coach said.
“Size has always been an issue with Zac, but positionally and speed-wise he’s great.
“I’ve probably been soft in the past, but at the moment I’m giving guys who’ve shown they’re enthusiastic a chance.
“We’ve got Robbo (Jarrod Robbins) there in reserve grade and Ali (Beale) is back as well, but Zac deserves his chance and it’s great to have the same side two weeks in a row.”
A Canowindra native, Rue has been with CYMS since the under 15s and has featured predominantly in first division for the green and golds since the beginning of 2013.
Ahead of tomorrow’s game with Oberon, the university student said last weekend’s win over Blayney was important for CYMS to gain some much needed momentum leading into the backend of the year.
“There’s no doubt Oberon will come here with a bit of extra purpose after their loss last week, but hopefully we can keep building,” Rue said.
CYMS tackle Oberon from 1.30pm on Sunday at Wade Park
ORANGE CYMS: 1 Dan Stuart, 2 Zac Rue, 3 Scott Piper, 4 Tim Bassmann, 5 Semisi Katoa, 6 Ben McAlpine, 7 Mick Sullivan, 8 Des Knight, 9 Sam Hill, 10 Brent Colley, 11 Riley Law, 12 Kyran Bubb, 13 Ben Gosper; Bench: 14 Matt Penny, 15 Zac Bohan.