Round 14 at Viking Park carries extra significance for two Eagles reaching major club milestones this Saturday. Congratulations to Klayton Thorn on his 50th game and Jack Huckstepp on an extraordinary 100 games for the Gungahlin Eagles — two players who represent the very best of what this club stands for.
KLAYTON THORN — 50 CLUB GAMES
Klayton Thorn’s journey to 50 games for the Gungahlin Eagles is one of the most impressive stories in ACT rugby in recent years.
A product of Waverley College and the Randwick Juniors system, Klayton arrived in Canberra through the Brumbies Academy pathway and immediately made his presence felt. His breakout 2022 BentSpoke John I Dent Cup season announced him as one of the most exciting young talents in Canberra rugby and set the foundation for everything that followed.
Since then, the trajectory has been nothing short of outstanding. In 2024, Klayton was named the MacDougall Medallist — awarded to the ACT Rugby Best and Fairest player — following a superb season with the Eagles. He also claimed the John Hunter Memorial Trophy as the competition’s leading try scorer. Two of the most prestigious individual honours in ACT rugby, in the same season.
Known for his speed, vision, and ability to change a game in an instant, Klayton has become a key figure within the Eagles. Fifty games is a fantastic achievement and a testament to his talent, professionalism, and contribution to this club. The best is still to come.
Good luck today, Klayton.
JACK HUCKSTEPP — 100 CLUB GAMES
One hundred games. For Jack Huckstepp, that milestone is not just a number — it is a reflection of everything he has given to the Gungahlin Eagles Rugby Union Club over the years.
A proud Daramalan College product, Jack has grown from a promising junior into one of the club’s most respected figures. Through dedication, consistency, and an unwavering commitment to the Eagles jersey, he has become what many would describe as everyone’s favourite Eagle — and that is a title earned, not given.
Jack leads by example in everything he does. His work ethic sets the standard. His toughness is uncompromising. His selflessness puts the team ahead of himself every single time. On the field he does the hard work that doesn’t always get noticed — but his teammates and coaches know exactly what he brings, and they value it enormously.
One hundred games is a fitting reward for a player of Jack Huckstepp’s character. A true clubman, an outstanding teammate, and a respected leader who has left a lasting mark on the Gungahlin Eagles family.
Here’s to the next 100, Hucks.
GET DOWN TO VIKING PARK THIS SATURDAY
Two milestones. One incredible occasion. If you’re making the trip to Viking Park this Saturday 18 July, cheer on Klayton and Jack as they reach these significant landmarks in their Eagles careers.
Up the Eagles!
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