Maari Ma and Deadly Choices Presents a Search for the next Rugby 7’s Star

Talented local Indigenous rugby players will have the chance to try out for the 2024 Olympics in Paris thanks to a partnership between Maari Ma Health Aboriginal Corporation and Deadly Choices – a health promotion initiative of the Institute for Urban Indigenous Health in South East Queensland. 

The First Nations Rugby 7’s tour is coming to the far west this Friday March 29th and talent scouts will be looking for exceptional local Indigenous players. 

Maari Ma CEO, Bob Davis said the day will launch the Maari Ma and Deadly Choices partnership and he couldn’t be more pleased. 

“This round robin event will be huge for our communities. 

“It’s for Indigenous boys and girls / men and women aged between 14 and 24 and will take place at Wilcannia next Friday morning, for Clontarf students in Broken Hill at 2pm and at the Memorial Oval for all keen Broken Hill, Menindee and other players within the Maari Ma region at 4.00pm. 

“We’ll have NRL legend and 2001 Dally M Medalist Preston Campbell there on the day. 

Preston was a premiership winner with the Penrith Panthers in 2003, before returning to the Gold Coast where he played out the remainder of his career with the Titans. 

“Preston is an Ambassador for Deadly Choices and will highlight to all participants the value of maintaining healthy, active lives. 

“We’ll also have Glen Ella -former Australian rugby union great and one of the famous Ella Brothers who played in many representatives sides from district, through to State and the Wallabies, starting as a schoolboy. 

“Glen will be representing Rugby 7’s as their ambassador. 

“This is a great opportunity for our young players and we are very pleased to be working on this with partners Deadly Choices to see if we have an Indigenous rugby Olympic star” Mr Davis said. 

Mr Davis said Maari Ma’s Mobile Health Clinic will be at Memorial Oval on the day conducting ATSI Health Checks. 

“Our partnership with Deadly Choices is aimed at  promoting the importance of improving health for individuals and their families by eating well, exercising regularly and giving up smoking. 

“Those who have a health check or are up to date with their health check will be eligible for an Indigenous All Stars footy shirt” Mr Davis said.