In a coup for the region, ACT Brumbies sent all 35 players from their squad to Wagga with the likes of David Pocock and Henry Speight among those entertaining the big crowd at Jubilee Park Sporting Complex.

On their Super Rugby bye weekend, the Brumbies spent the day in Wagga mixing it with juniors from across Southern Inland.

Brumbies back Andy Muirhead considers himself a 'concrete cowboy' so he was happy to head to the game's grassroots.

"It's unreal being out here. It's always good to come out to the country," Muirhead said.

"Obviously it's a big day and big turnout, a lot of kids and we're really enjoying it. It's really refreshing seeing so many younger kids and obviously the older fans as well, getting behind us. It's always good to have a chat and get their opinion."

Muirhead said the Brumbies players had no hesitation in spending part of their bye weekend in Wagga.

"The boys enjoy it, especially being as a squad, everyone gets around each other and it's good fun. A bus trip out here, have a bit of fun on the bus and come out here and bond as a team," he said.

"With everyone out here, it's pretty easy to have fun. At the end of the day, it's about giving back to the community that helps us play every week."

Wagga Crows Junior Rugby Union Club president Paul Spain said the Brumbies' appearance capped off a successful day.

"It's a great day, plenty of kids, it's just so wonderful to see and it's about these kids having fun and loving the game of rugby," Spain said.

"They all are and it's so positive. It's really powerful to have the Brumbies here for the first gala day to give that boost. To happen straight away is going to be beneficial for everyone and certainly for Wagga as a club it will be.

"From our under sixes right through to our under 16s, seeing all these kids and their love of the game will increase from something like today and if the skills go with it, even better."

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