GREAT EFFORT: Despite not having a coach or training like the other competitors, Brock Maynard finished 9th in the state at the NSWLAC in Sydney last weekend.
Some people are blessed with one skill if they’re lucky then there are those like Forbes Public School youngster Brock Maynard, who after finishing 9th in the NSW Little Athletics Track and Field Javelin competition on the weekend, is now gearing up for a run in the Western Region AFL side to travel to Byron Bay in May.
Along with Maddox Bruem, the pair have been picked to headline a U12s side that some say are an outside chance for the title. Toby Smart is the shadow reserve.
Yet for the affable 11 year old, it all comes naturally and he takes each selection and award with the same no nonsense and grace as he does everything.
“I like playing sports as it’s fun and a great way to meet people and make friends,” said Brock.
“AFL is a little new to me as I know and prefer rugby league but it’s fun,” he said. “Both are very different to javelin!”
Maynard threw 24.3m, only 64cms short of 8th which would’ve seen him take a place in the money round top 8 shoot-out but poor weather and the fact he is still learning about the sport and gaining big match experience counted against him at the last moment.
“It was a great experience and I hope I can go back again,” he said. “I do enjoy javelin though if I had to pick I would say I love rugby league the most,” Brock said.
And who’s his tip for the NRL title in 2021? “Penrith Panthers of course!” Of course.