Talented young Manly captain Josh Feledy can certainly live up to the meaning of ‘leading by example’.
The 16-year-old has crossed for an incredible 19 tries in nine games for the Sea Eagles in the U17s NSWRL competition this season.
A hard running centre who can certainly hit a hole at speed, Feledy is a real competitor who has that X-factor about him that is sure to see him continue to rise through the Sea Eagles ranks in coming seasons.
In one game alone, Feledy crossed for six tries in the 40-0 thumping of the Newcastle Knights in Cessnock. Feledy has also crossed for a double in four games and recorded a hat-trick against Balmain.
Furthermore, he has formed a deadly combination with boom five-eighth Latu Fainu, who threw the final pass in five of Feledy’s six tries against the Knights.
Sea Eagles Coach Adam McEwan said Feledy was a quality person on and off the field.
Josh is outstanding. He is a great leader of our team
Sea Eagles Coach Adam McEwan
“I really like his demeanour. He is tough, he is respectful. There is no self interest in what he does. Josh is a team first guy and he does what he says he is going to do.
“He doesn’t expect the players to do anything that he is not prepared to do. He is just a tough, well natured kid.
“As for his ability, it is always comforting for a coach to have a player like Josh who can convert any half chances into points and he has certainly enjoyed running off Latu.”
For Feledy, victory over the Parramatta Eels in Saturday’s Grand Final at Leichhardt Oval would be a perfect way to finish off a superb season with the Sea Eagles, who finished the regular season as minor premiers.
Feledy said he was proud to lead such a talented and committed team.
“To be able to get through the season undefeated so far is a great feeling. There is so much spirit in this team,’’ Feledy said.
“The thing about this team is we never drop our heads and our energy is always positive. It goes a long way.
“We never turn on each other, even if we are behind. We just focus on what we have to do and remain positive.
“We are a team that believes that we can create something from nothing. There are so many talented players in this side and we all work as one.”
Harold Matthews Cup Grand Final
Manly vs Parramatta
Saturday, May 1, Leichhardt Oval, 1pm
Entry: $5 adults with children 12 and under free.
The Grand Final will be live streamed on the NSWRL FaceBook page
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