OUT of the blue, Ag College imposer Dave Armstrong has landed a stunning opportunity to debut with the ACT XV in tomorrow’s clash with Tonga A in Canberra.
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Southern Inland Rugby Union’s premier number eight, Armstrong has been hand selected for the Brumbies second tier squad for a chance to impress the Super 15 franchise.
Still riding the glory of a remarkable representative campaign with SIRU last season, Armstrong’s electrifying talent forced ACT XV coach Nick Leah to save a spot on the bench for the 23-year-old from Junee.
Speaking yesterday, Leah said there was “absolute potential” for Armstrong to follow the footsteps of former Brumbies player James McCormack if he impresses coach Jake White on tomorrow.
“You only have to look at James McCormack to see it can be done,” Leah said yesterday.
“In 2005 he captain-coached Grenfell to the grand final and then he was given an opportunity like this and six months later he ran on for the Brumbies.
“Our thing is we want to make sure there’s pathways for guys in regional areas who have moved home for economic reasons, and they realise that if they play good footy there’s the potential to move up.
“If you look at the Super 14 teams, very close to half of them came from regional areas like Wagga.
“We know Wagga and the whole region is really fruitful for developing sporting professionals.”
Leah said he was forced to take notice of the SIRU star after Armstrong was named player of the Brumbies Provincial Tournament last year.
Armstrong will start on the bench in Sunday’s clash with Tonga, and Leah expects he should enjoy at least 20 minutes game time.
If Armstrong plays well, Leah said he would not be surprised if he is asked to come back for further training with the Brumbies.
“It’s a great opportunity for these players to step up, but it’ also for us, we don’t want to miss out on any potential that’s out there,” he said.