Marlugu takes on International Stage

Marlugu Dixon, captain of the GPS Premier Women’s side and a long-time member of the GPS community will represent PNG at the Hong Kong World Rugby 7’s series this weekend.

Having represented PNG previously at this exact tournament in 2014, Dixon is not unfamiliar with the pressures of performing at an international level. She explains that the positive attitudes and competitiveness within training camps has prepared the side accordingly.

“It’s pretty challenging, I have a training program which I have been trying to juggle with full time work.”

“I’m feeling pretty good, I believe I have done the best for myself to prepare for the tournament and I believe the girls are feeling the same way. Camp has been positive and everyone has really come together.”

Continuing her captaincy for another year, Marlugu has played a crucial role in the GPS community and her efforts have not gone unnoticed. Vira Kite, day one member of our Women’s program praised her contributions.

“Dicko is our captain and her pursuit for higher honours has been inspiring to everyone. She’s a fierce leader on the field that everyone follows and sets the bench mark for training off the field with her commitment and dedication.”

“We are all super proud. I get a bit emotional thinking about how far she has come and can’t think of anyone more deserving.”

Dedication and passion for the game has got Marlugu to where she is today and our club is grateful to have been a part of the journey.

“I can’t imagine playing for any other Brisbane team or club. The girls in the team are like family, they literally have your back on the field and I have made some lifelong friends out it.”

“The club itself is so supportive of our women’s team and generally has great club culture. I have gained a lot of experience in playing at GPS. Continuously learning from my coaches, the girls around me and the wider GPS community.”

Vale Daryl Clifton Latter

It is with great sadness that the Club announces the passing in Sydney on the 9th January 2019 after a long illness, of well-known Club identity, Daryl Clifton Latter aka “Coolangatta” Latter came to GPS Old Boys Rugby Club ( Jeeps) via Norths and Eastwood in Sydney in 1964. He was part of a strong Newington College Sydney connection at the time and was to become a commanding presence in the Club from the time of his arrival until transferred to New Guinea with Rothmans in 1969.

Daryl played 104 A Grade Games for the club from 1964 to 1969. He represented Queensland on 5 occasions.

He was a lovable larrikin and will be solely missed by his team mates and club members of the time.

MAY HE REST IN PEACE

New Life Members

At the AGM last Thursday, Peter Garbett and Tony Mee were made Life Members of GPS Rugby Club. Both have had distinguished playing careers with the club and have been heavily involved in obtaining sponsorship. Peter is a Past President and coach both in Seniors and Juniors. Tony is a tireless volunteer who is always ready to help around the club. Congratulations to both of them.

2019 Premier Grade Coaches Announced

I am delighted to inform all members and interested GPS rugby supporters that we are now in the position to announce the Premier Grade coaching staff for the 2019 season.

Elwee Prinsloo – Head Coach

Elwee has been involved at GPS as an assistant coach in both 2017 and 2018 seasons. He is also overseeing the club’s coaching and rugby performance in his role as Director of Rugby. He is very committed to leading a team of experienced coaches and support staff in the quest to establish Jeeps as a true rugby force in the Brisbane competition.

Brendan Gabbett – Assistant Coach

GPS would like to welcome Brendan to the club after spending 20+ years at the respected Brothers rugby club playing more than 100 games in Premier grade, before taking up coaching. Brenden coached Reserve grade for 5 years and assisted in various coaching roles in Premier grade during the last 3 seasons. He is a very open-minded coach that will add value through his fresh approach but more importantly his passion around team culture and performance. Brenden will look after the defensive portfolio.

Nick Fogarty – Assistant Coach

Fogs is well known around the GPS club with excellent previous success in reserve grade before expanding his knowledge through moving into a Premier Grade head coach position at local rivals Norths. During his time at Norths he made a massive impact on the way they approached the game both on and off the field. This led to a much-improved culture and performance over the last 2 seasons with Norths narrowly missing out on play off in 2018. We are excited to have Fogs back home where he will look after backs starters, restarts and counter attack.

Manager – John Richards

JR has a very long history of involvement in the GPS club with all 6 his boys playing at Jeeps at some stage with both Michael and Nic still involved in premier grade. JR has also been in numerous positions from manager to President over a period of 25 years. We are extremely lucky to have a man of his stature and pedigree involved in the group again.

Strength and Conditioning – Rory and Kieran Maguire

The Maguire boys are back for yet another season. Since they’ve started as S&C coaches in 2017 they have enjoyed some great success with the Premier grade group playing in two finals and winning one. Their experience working with elite athletes daily is certainly a great asset for our boys here at the club. Both brothers have a very unique and detailed approach to strength and conditioning that will certainly lead to an even better player for coming seasons.

Vale Peter Peppin

The GPS Rugby Club Inc. extends its condolences to the family of former committee member, Peter Peppin. Peter joined the GPS Rugby Club in 1981 from the QIT Rugby Club. Peter was a member of the management committee of the club from 1983 to 1987 and his sons Simon, Damien and Cameron played for the club. The club extends its deep sympathy to his widow, Janice and to his sons.