Calling all Vodafone Warriors members and fans – make your vote count now to help new signing Matt Allwood make the 20-man Indigenous All Stars squad for the Harvey Norman Rugby League All Stars encounter at Cbus Stadium in Robina on Friday, February 13 next year.
The 22-year-old, signed for three years from Canberra, has been training with the Vodafone Warriors since they started their preseason programme on November 3.
With 11 NRL appearances behind him after two seasons with the Raiders’ NYC side in 2011 and 2012, the speedy Allwood is a contender for the centres, on the wing or as a wild card choice in the Indigenous All Stars team.
Vodafone Warriors members and supporters can now vote online for Allwood and the rest of the squad. Voting will close on January 9, 2015 with teams to be announced on January 19.
For more details and to have your say on who will pull on the Indigenous All Stars jersey, please visit www.nrl.com/allstars
The Indigenous All Stars squad will be coached by Laurie Daley set to play the Wayne Bennett-coached NRL All Stars.
Tickets are on sale through www.ticketek.com.au/Allstars
Johnathan Thurston, who captained the 2013 Indigenous All Stars, said: "I am really thrilled to see the return of the Harvey Norman All Stars to the Gold Coast next year. I have some very fond memories from the previous games and camps there and I can't wait to go back.
"Not only does the All Stars concept provide an exciting game for everyone to watch at the start of a new rugby league season, it provides a deep sense of community and has a tremendous impact off the field.
"It gives our Indigenous players a special opportunity to celebrate our heritage with our people, families and friends.
"I feel privileged to be involved again and especially to have another opportunity to lead the Indigenous All Stars side. That's a huge honour that I will cherish."
Since the All Stars concept was introduced in 2010, profits from the match have been invested in indigenous community programmes including mentoring sessions, workshops, cultural activities, assistance with learning, behaviour and attendance, self-esteem, leadership, communication and social skills.
A host of community-based events will be organised by the NRL's One Community programme in celebration of the All Stars event.
