THE Warwick and District Junior Rugby League team travelled to Bundaberg last weekend, where they competed in the inaugural Barry Brimelow under 15s Carnival, hosted by the West Bundaberg Junior Rugby League Club.

The Barry Brimelow was organised by the Juniors Committee of West Bundaberg Football Club, with six teams playing in round-robin style across two days.

Playing each opponent once, the Warwick Chargers battled it out throughout the entire weekend, playing three games on the Saturday and two on Sunday.

The team, having only met for six training sessions before the carnival, gave a strong all-round performance, with one win, three draws and a loss-placing fourth overall.

Chargers coach Glenn Brown said it was the first time an under 15 team has been formed for a developing regional carnival, allowing the players to move in and out of positions throughout the games, displaying football skills they might not have previously known about.

Brown commended the boys for their efforts over the two days, playing exceptionally well as a side with little experience together.

"Because it was a development carnival, we weren't really looking to win, but the boys showed terrific sportsmanship and really came together as a group.

"I want to commend all the boys, especially those in development who really performed," Brown said.

The 20-man squad consisting of players from local league clubs including Suburbs, Collegians, Wattles, Stanthorpe and Goondiwindi were acclaimed by many at the carnival for their sportsmanship.

President of the West Bundaberg Juniors Committee Paul Stevenson said the boys were in close contention for the team spirit award, judged on respect for officials, spectators and other teams.

"I was really impressed with how they behaved on and off the field towards the referees and the other teams," Stevenson said.

Trainer David Fleming was also impressed with the team's on-field performance.

"It was hard getting the team together with the Warwick and District competition finals at the same time, but the boys really fought hard," he said.

West Bundaberg is expected to hold the carnival again next year, with an aim to expand the number of teams from six to 10, despite only one playing field being available.