Although suffering losses across the board during Ladies Day at Rugby Park on Saturday, the Inverell Highlanders felt like winners after raising more than $8,000 for charity.
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Club secretary, Lou Wilson said with perfect weather conditions the Highlanders went up against tough competition- the Tamworth Pirates.
First grade and women's sevens wore special Ladies Day jerseys which were later auctioned off to raise money for three Highlander 'stars' who will compete at the Stars of Sapphire City Dance for Cancer next week.
With a decent crowd on ground, and ladies living it up in their exclusive sidebar area with a delicious grazing table and pop-up clothing shop, the Highlanders took the field.
Unfortunately, first grade went down in a hard-fought game 24-10. Pirates were in fifth place on the ladder, with four wins from seven games while Inverell sat second last, with just one win.
In second grade, the Pirates were far too good taking a 47-26 point win. Female Pirates dominated over Inverell in the first game of the day, winning 31-5. The Highlanders tried to fight back during the second game. The final score was a close 17-12 to the Pirates.
Results of the day did not effect the evening's mood as locals stayed to support the jersey auction in the clubhouse.
"Inverell's community and local businesses are so supportive; it was an amazing auction with a fair few bidding wars. We ended up raising $8,400 for the three boys [Ryan Smith, Will Mann and Josh Stewart].
"Some jerseys went for $550 and $540 each. We can't thank everyone who placed a bid or supported the auction enough. Everyone was in such a positive environment and dug deep for a worthy cause."
The three boys, and their partners, will take the stage on Friday, June 14 to dance for cancer. Performing a choreographed dance routine, the three rugby boys will be competing against 10 other local celebrities.
All money raised from Stars of the Sapphire City Dance for Cancer will go towards Cancer Council NSW providing accommodation to Inverell residents travelling for treatment.
Known for his luscious locks on and off field, Mann parted ways with his hair after the auction to further raise money for the cause.
"Will can carry any look it seems now, there's just something about that guy. He can pull off any look he wants- including the bald look," Wilson laughed.
In round nine, the Inverell Highlanders will travel away taking on Quirindi Rugby Club who sit bottom of the ladder.
