Fresh off some strong performances at the under 18s national championships, Waratahs have rewarded Nathanael Mooney with his starting debut.
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The 17-year-old has come off the bench twice this season, but has been named at flanker for the ladder leaders' clash with Tumut at Conolly Rugby Complex on Saturday.
Mooney helped ACT to third place in the titles last month and combined some strong form in second grade, has forced his way into the side.
Co-coach Michael Davis believes he's earned a shot in the top grade.
"He's impressed when he's been on there and it was probably a slower start to the year as he got injured and then went away to the rep carnival," Davis said.
"But he's playing well enough to be considered and with a few blokes unavailable he gets his chance.
"It's a good effort for him, especially considering he's 17."
The Mater Dei Catholic College student made his first grade debut for Marrar in the Farrer League last season, but the talented sportsman has decided to focus more on rugby union this season.
It's helped him crack into the strong Wagga side.
With Mooney coming in at flanker, Jock Munro returns to his more familiar role at hooker to tackle the Bulls while Tony Ritchie drops back to second grade.
Waratahs have also made a change to their back line after bouncing back to winning ways against CSU last week.
With James Grimmett out with a hamstring injury, the back line has been reshuffled.
Joe Reynolds comes back into the side to take on his former club meaning Blake Hart returns to fullback with George Mallat shifting onto the wing.
Waratahs also have a new look for the clash.
They are wearing special white jumpers to coincide with the Friends of Rugby luncheon for the Black Dog Institute on Friday.
They will be auctioned off after the game.
The Waratahs, Tumut and Southern Inland logos are emblazoned on them.
Davis is looking forward to the club being able to assist the cause and support mental health.
Tumut's high injury toll has seen them slip to seventh on the Southern Inland ladder.
However Waratahs are expecting a tough test from a side who haven't been beaten by more than 10 points in their last three games, including clashes against top four sides Ag College and Albury.
Davis believes defence will be the key.
"They are a big pack and love to rumble it up the middle," he said.
"We will have to be ready for them and play to our strengths when we've got the ball - hold onto it and try to frustrate them."
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