The IAS Lawn Bowls Squad competed in a NSW State Brett Duprez Development 7 a-side series at Taren Point BC on Sunday 22nd May. Named after former NSW junior bowler, Commonwealth Games Gold Medalist, Bowls NSW John Young Hall of Fame member, NSW, Australian Legend and IAS Graduate Brett Duprez.
The Series consisted of 6 Teams including the National Under 25’s team (NTC), NSW State Boys, NSW State Girls, Hunter Academy, Central Coast Zone 15 and the IAS teams.
The IAS team was represented by Noel Stopher, Justin Rumble, Jarrod Beckford, Matt Softley, Darren Wolter Gumley, Courtney Sopher and Perry Avnell. IAS squad members Kayleigh Darlington and Chloe Koziol both represented the NSW State Girls team.
The IAS team played the NTC team 1st round and won the Pairs discipline and held a draw until the final bowl in the Fours, our singles discipline was defeated however performed outstandingly against one of Australia’s best. This result captured the attention of all selectors and spectators as our team spirit and competitiveness was instantly recognised by all at the venue.
This effort and enthusiasm continued throughout the day, which was extremely impressive.
Rnd 2 IAS v NSW State Boys our Pairs won again Singles -6 and Fours -11.
Rnd 3 IAS v Hunter Singles -16 Pairs +4 and Fours + 1,
Rnd 4 IAS v NSW State Girls Singles -6 Pairs draw 9 all and Fours -2.
Rnd 5 IAS v Central Coast Singles -10, Pairs +11, Fours + 10.
Over 5 matches against some of Australia’s best players, the IAS Pairs discipline of Justin Rumble and Jarrod Beckford remained undefeated and best performing pair for the series, which is a fantastic effort.
The IAS squad set a fantastic example to all other teams in this event and received tremendous praise from State and National selectors.