They are now, along with Tim Ryan, officially NSW Country Junior Rugby Union Representatives.

Earlier this season Ryan was named in the U14 NSW Country side whereas Merrick and Vaughan made the U16 NSW Country Squad.

This means they had to prove themselves last weekend at Sydney Juniors Regional Carnival.

Ryan also played there but did not have this extra pressure.

However, he will not get the opportunity to once again tour New Zealand like the older Merrick and Vaughan when the representative season comes to an end.

The older boys visited the spiritual home of Rugby Union in April with their club side. But, if Ryan’s track record is a guide it will only be a matter of time before he gets the same opportunity.

Vaughan says the prospect of another trip across the Tasman is still an exciting one.

“We went to the South Island to Christchurch with our club side but this time we will be going to Auckland on the North Island,” he explains.

“It’s like a religion over there.”

The boys also know it will be tougher this time around as they we will playing at a higher level.

Before they get too excited about the trip, the boys  have to fulfill their domestic rep duties.

Marcus Vaughan says they will travel to the ACT next weekend to play in Canberra, and then play Sydney in the City versus Country clash in Kiama the weekend after.

“They have a break before playing in the NSW Invitational in the first weekend of the September/October holidays,” he explains.

“And then it will be straight on the plane for the three game tour of New Zealand.”

He says Ryan will also play in Canberra and Kiama. All three of the talented forwards are men of few words and when asked if they aspire to play at a professional level were nonchalant.

Merrick says he just wants to play his best and doesn’t feel any pressure despite having a father who played for Australia. His Dad is local Rugby legend and former Wallaby, Steve Merrick.