Billy Beetson, the grandson of rugby league Immortal Arthur Beetson, is helping lead the NSW Combined Independent Schools’ charge at this year’s Under-15 ASSRL Nationals after missing selection just 12 months ago.
A year on from that disappointment, the Roosters-contracted backrower has bounced back in style, earning his place in a squad chasing its third national title in four years when the tournament kicks off in Townsville later this month.
‘Totally different player’ leading with humility and hunger
“He tried out last year and he didn’t make it and the way he has come back and trialled this year, he has improved so much and clearly learned a lot,” NSW CIS team manager Clint Maguire said.
“He is a totally different player to who he was last year. I don’t think the last name impacts him. In all my dealings with him, I found he is down to Earth and just wants to learn. He wants to be a better footballer.”
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Beetson will be joined by two other standout talents, Panthers-contracted 6-foot-4 prop Urijah Brown, labelled “a freak” by staff for his mix of power and playmaking vision, and Barker College speedster Lorima Seuseu, who will be central to the team’s attacking threat at fullback.
The squad has been moulded around a clear philosophy defined during their pre-tournament camp at Narrabeen.
“We have a set of non-negotiable principles around what CIS stands for,” Maguire said. “To be connected, impactful and selfless. To show commitment, intent and smarts.”