The highlight of the championships was Dane being named in the New South Wales side and was honoured further by being named vice captain.

Jai turned out with Country under 14s and Dane the Country under 15s with both boys enjoying the experience of playing soccer at a National level.

They came up against some superb young players from the big centres in their age groups.

Teams came from NSW (three), Victoria (two), Queensland (two), South Australia, ACT, Western Australia and Northern Territory.

The under 14s finished ninth and the 15s a disappointing 12th, but both Lithgow boys can hold their heads high after turning in outstanding efforts that gained the praise from their coaches and Country officials.

The boys are on a high with Jai’s under 14 Western Panthers Football Club finishing fourth in the Super Youth League competition.

Dane, an outstanding goalie, helped his under 15’s Western Panthers Football Club to finish first in the Super League competition.

Both are outstanding all round sportsmen and excel in a number of sports.

They are now looking forward to touring the United Kingdom early next year in what should be a trip to remember.

They are the sons of Craig and Jo Straney and Troy and Debbie Russell.