Deasy was chosen in the under-U17 Junior Gold Cup squad with Northern Inland late last year.

He gained selection after attending some vigorous training and selection camps in Armidale last year, which involved players from throughout the Central North and New England zones.

Scone Junior Rugby Club president Michelle Edwards said it was great to see him recognised.

“This will be a great experience for Connor, playing in a national competition,” she said.

“This is the second year of the competition and the experience our players gained from last year was not only confidence building for them but also invaluable to the teams they played in throughout the rugby season.

“It will give Connor the chance to play against the best in his age group.

“The Junior Gold Cup is an excellent innovation, giving direction for players to achieve higher levels of competition and achievement from regional areas.”

The Junior Gold Cup is a recognised pathway competition in the Pathway to Gold program for players in the under-17 and under-15 age groups to get experience at a national level.

There are 24 centres in total competing across the two divisions.

“Connor’s first game will be against our nearest rivals, Hunter, on February 15 and we wish him all the best throughout the competition,” Edwards said.