Two months ago, St Joey’s boasted four teams – 13 years, 14 years, 15 years and 16 years – in the Newcastle Knights All Schools Knockout at McDonald Jones Stadium.

That feat alone etched the local institute into the competition’s history books.

And, just last week, the under-13 side claimed the state champions tag after winning the inaugural NRL Trophy in Sydney.

St Joey’s pipped the highly-rated Country Cup titleholders Kiama High School 18-16 at Campbelltown Stadium.

The school’s rugby league coordinator, Royce Geoffrey, praised the boys for a big performance.

“The effort from the team was outstanding,” he said.

“These young men are professional on and off the field – and make our community at St Joey’s proud.

“After taking out the NSW All Schools Championships, we were invited to compete in the initial NRL Trophy.

“Now, St Joey’s is the first-ever winner of that event.

“Many thanks to the teachers, coaching staff and parents who supported us, transported the players, washed the jerseys and ran the water.”

Geoffrey admitted it was the “best the boys had played and one of the best junior games” he’d witnessed.

“In the end, it was our toughness and willingness to turn up for each other that got us across the line,” he said.

“We were led from the front by the man of the match Nikoli T, as well as an extremely strong Tangi H in his first game back from injury. 

“Ben J also brought a lot of impact from the bench. 

“Our back-row in Archie B and Jaxon S were devastating in defence, while crafty hooker Talon H continually put his body on the line and steered our forwards around.

“Jordan M and Riley P came up with some huge runs and added a lot of spark to our game. 

“Braith J was superb in defence and with the ball, while the back three of Jacob C, Oliver S and Drewe G caught every ball that was kicked and got our sets started.

“The halves Aajay W and Callum D controlled the game beautifully with the former kicking three from three and the latter creating a lot of opportunities.

“Special mention goes to Brock S for being a part of the day, supporting the guys and helping us in a time of need.”

To cap off a big week, St Joey’s also returned home with the Kurt and Matthew Gidley Cups.

The under-14s captured the nine-a-side competition from Swansea High and the under-15s knocked over San Clemente in the decider.

“Both were very tough games – and hard-fought victories,” Geoffrey said.

“The boys really dug deep.”