Souths Juniors throws a ball, by Menios Constantinou - 31st March 2008
(Credit: Southern Courier)

It's arguably the best junior rugby league competition in the world, and this year it turns 100.

To celebrate, the South Sydney District Junior Rugby Football League, better known as Souths Juniors, is throwing a party at the AJC Centre, Royal Randwick.

Former cricketer Michael Whitney, a proud Souths junior with the La Perouse club, will host the Centenary Ball on May 16. He'll be joined by what Souths Juniors president Keith McCraw described as "a who's who of rugby league".

Boasting more than 40 international representative players, Souths Juniors is without doubt the most successful junior league in Sydney. So what's the secret to its success?

"The area's a rugby league stronghold, and there's a great tradition of rugby league greats," Mr McCraw said. "Also, the licensed club helps to make the game affordable to all. We have a lot of disadvantage kids in the area, but they run out on the field in the same jersey, socks and shorts as every other player, and a lot of those disadvantaged kids have gone all the way to the top."

The competition's Team of the Century, compiled by Ian Head, Alan Clarkson and six other league experts, will be unveiled at the ball. Souths legends Eric Simms, George Piggins and Bob McCarthy are among those in the running to be named in the side.

Tickets to the Centenary Ball are $150 a head. To RSVP, phone 9314 4271 or email kgorman@southsjuniors.com.au

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