Kempsey’s Owen Blair has made a name for himself as one of the best rugby league players on the North Coast, but now the flashy fullback will test his ability in rugby union as he earned selection into the National Indigenous side to compete at the National Rugby 7s Championships in Brisbane on December 7 to 9.
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Blair was identified after producing a great performance at the annual Indigenous Ella 7s tournament at Coffs Harbour.
Blair was selected into the National Indigenous side because of his skill, speed and flair.
The 22-year-old was shocked to earn the call up to the representative team, as he has only played rugby union a handful of times.
While the Port City Breakers fullback’s rugby union experience is limited, Blair admits his play style suits the format.
"It definitely plays into my strengths,” Blair said.
“There’s a lot more space on the field to do what I want.”
The National championships will give Blair an opportunity to showcase his ability in front of rugby union scouts.
However, Blair hasn’t placed any expectations on his shoulders but said he is open to a transition to rugby union if opportunities come his way.
“I am always trying to earn more selections into rep sides but if anything happens, it happens, I am not worried about it,” Blair said.
The NSW Country Under-23s representative is also weighing up a return to the Macleay Valley Mustangs but he won’t make a final decision until closer to the season commencing.
Blair would be a massive signing for the Mustangs as he has been instrumental in the Breakers reaching the grand final for three consecutive seasons.
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