RUGBY LEAGUE: Carlos Smith and Jake Speed were judged the best academy players from Warwick State High School in the Clontarf Academy Regional Rugby League Carnival at Hamilton Oval.

Seven academy teams from Warwick, Toowoomba, South Burnett, Dalby and Goondiwindi areas played in the carnival. The final was won 10-8 by Dalby academy from Barambah yesterday. The same two teams met in last year's final with Barambah the winners.

Smith played for Barambah in the final and scored three tries, including two in succession for the boys in blue and gold.

The Clontarf Foundation aims to improve the education, discipline, life skills, self-esteem and employment prospects of young Aboriginal Torres Strait Islander men and by doing so equipping them to participate meaningfully in society.

Since its inception in Perth in 2000, the Clontarf Foundation has built a still-growing national network spanning 83 academies and delivering the program to more than 5500 boys.

Utilising a combination of in-school support and a rich array of extra-curricular activities, each academy uses local-based staff to engage the boys in diverse experiences designed to complement and enrich their school experience.

International forward Shane Webcke presented the trophies and spoke on the loud speaker at half-time when he stressed the importance of defence for any team behind on the scoreboard.

He also praised the quality of the play at the carnival and the camaraderie.

Boys from Warwick East, Warwick West, Warwick Central and Glennie Heights state schools enjoyed an introduction to the Clontarf way when they played a game before the grand final.