Mitch Tye named 1st Grade Captain for 2018
Mitch Tye running around as a Wests Junior
Mitch's father, Andy playing for Wests in 1984
Wests Rugby announce Mitch Tye as the new First Grade Captain for Wests, ahead of the season opener against Easts tomorrow.
“Being named Captain is a real privilege. I have played for Wests since I was five-years old and have seen and experienced our club’s proud history and culture. To be named First Grade Captain is one of the proudest moment of my life,” Mitch said.
The Tye family’s history and roots run deep within the club, Mitch’s father, Andy commenced his rugby career wearing the mighty Lion on his chest back in 1973. Mitch’s rugby career with Wests was inspired by his father (Andy), who played 183 games (84 in 1st grade) for Wests, with Andy also having coached junior teams for a long time and has assisted with seniors during his long standing association with the club.
“Mitch has been following the First Grade team since the days when he would come with me to watch Wests win titles in the early 2000's, so I know being named First Grade Captain means a great deal to him," Andy said.
“I am very proud that Mitch has been named First Grade Captain for the 2018 season. I have played for Wests, coached and supported the club since I first became involved as a junior in 1973,” Andy said.
Mitch, has been playing for the club since 2000, when he debuted in the Under 7’s as a five-year old and went on to play over 100 games for Wests Juniors, a milestone achieved by few.
Mitch is an impactful breakaway, who was named Players Player in 1st Grade in 2017 and has scored 12 tries, across his 27 first grade caps since starting his senior rugby career in 2013. Following a solid training session last night, Mitch is feeling positive about the season opener.
“The team is feeling excited going into our first match against Easts. We have had a hard pre-season, focusing on our defence and fitness. Hopefully this shows through on Saturday.”
Wests versus Easts, the battle of the directions starts at Jamison Enclosed tomorrow. Get down to the Lions’ Den tomorrow afternoon to cheer Mitch on as he leads First Grade out ahead of kick-off at 3:15pm.
Wests V Easts
1st Grade: 3:15 pm
2nd Grade: 1:50pm
Colts: 12:25pm
3rd Grade: 11:05am
4th Grade v RMC: Friday night 7:00pm @ RMC