Redcliffe Dolphins Flashback - Cam
Cherry

A dedicated approach to injury treatment, including long sessions in the Roma municipal pool, has paid dividends for youthful prop, Cam Cherry. Cherry broke an ankle in the first Woolies pre-season match of the year against Souths at Dolphin Oval.
The injury undoubtedly prevented him from making any of the Winfield State League squads although he was back playing before the revolutionary competition was finished. That itself was a tribute to his hard work.

While the ankle was still in plaster Cherry was swimming in the Roma baths trying to speed up the healing. ?I tried a plastic bag around the plaster to ensure it wasn?t damaged and the pool manager helped me with my swimming exercises?, Cherry said. ?When the plaster did come off I walked underwater and swam as much as I could to strengthen the ankle. Since I have resumed playing I have not had any problems with the ankle?.

Like his older brothers (and Redcliffe stalwarts) Mark and Steve, Cam gets back to his home town, Roma whenever he is able. Although not selected in the squad, he did not miss Redcliffe?s final State League match against Toowoomba at Roma on May 2. The Cherrys began their league with the Cities club in Roma and like Cities favourite son, Arthur Beetson, signed with Redcliffe when it was time try ?city? football.

Cam (short for Cameron) made his first grade debut against Brothers at Lang Park last Sunday and impressed with solid front on defence, hard running and good hands. And to top off a memorable debut he scored a try in the 11th minute of the second half after lead up work by fullback, Trevor Benson and half Colin Part. Steve Cherry also scored a try in Redcliffe?s 16-0 win.

With Brisbane prop, Peter Griffiths suspended for two more weeks, Cherry has a strong chance to consolidate his grip on a first grade jersey. Still only 20, he forms a youthful front row with 22 year-old hooker, George Trudgett and 21 year-old fellow prop Tony Kajewski.


This story is from a Brisbane Rugby League News in 1982.