Sasha-May and Thomas Flegler Recognised for International Sporting Achievements

Flegler cousins from Tully who have represented Australia in Netball and Rugby League in 2023 have been recognised by Council for their outstanding achievements in sport.

Playing for Australia in the 18 and Under Netball team of the 2023 Commonwealth Youth Games Fast5 competition, Sasha-May Flegler became an inaugural champion when Australia won gold against South Africa.

Thomas Flegler’s meteoric rise through the ranks of NRL in 2023 saw him represent Queensland in the State of Origin, and Australia in the 2023 Pacific Championships.

Cassowary Coast Mayor Mark Nolan presented them both with a plaque of recognition last year at the  December  Local Government Meeting in their home town of Tully, saying that it’s not every year that a regional township of 3,000 people produces two international sports stars.

“The Flegler family clearly doesn’t do anything by halves,” Mayor Nolan said.

“Producing two international sports stars in one year is quite the achievement.

“Sasha-May Flegler has been a talented and dedicated team player representing Tully Netball Club since the age of 8 years old.

“And Thomas Flegler was raised through the ranks of Tully Tigers Rugby Leage Club before his recruitment to the NRL by the Brisbane Broncos in 2019.

“They’re an inspiration to us all.”

Quotes attributed to Sasha-May Flegler

“I’m so proud to tell people I come from Tully and it’s lovely to be acknowledged.

“Lots of people take sport so seriously but it’s when you just enjoy it and want to turn up every week that it’s the best.  Tully really provides that opportunity for young kids.”

Quotes attributed to Thomas Flegler

“It’s pretty special coming from a small town.  Tully’s produced many people who’ve made it to a high level in the sporting world. 

“It’s a privilege to be acknowledged by Council and hopefully we can inspire some younger kids in the area to follow in our footsteps and reach their goals too.

“Growing up as a kid all I wanted to do was play for A-Grade in Tully.  We lived and breathed footy as young kids, and getting out there with my mates and playing park footy on the weekends is something you don’t forget when you make it to the level that we’re at right now.”