A little 'Double Dave' in Wallaby gold: How the Central West raised this future star

"Double Dave" Jessiman is considered a legend in Central West rugby union circles, but a younger Jessiman might just be set to shoot the family name into a whole new stratosphere.

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For a decade, David Jessiman was a stalwart for the Mudgee Wombats, earning multiple selections for the Central West Blue Bulls representative side in the process.

A little 'Double Dave' in Wallaby gold: How the Central West raised this future star

But it's the legend's 16-year-old son, a former Mudgee Wombats rugby union and Mudgee Dragons rugby league junior, who is in the spotlight on this occasion.

Will Jessiman has starred for The Southport School's first grade side in the Queensland GPS competition as well as the Queensland Reds Under-16s side in 2026.

He scored five tries, equal most in the four-round competition, for the Reds during the 2026 Super Rugby U16 competition, including a score in the narrow 30-29 loss to the NSW Waratahs in the decisive final round.

Now, Will has been selected for the Australian Rugby Union Under-16s National Team.

It's a long way from his days in junior bush footy to the green and gold.

"Growing up in a country town like Mudgee was a great start for [Will]," David Jessiman said.

"He was exposed to both rugby codes from a young age, made some great mates and developed a real love for the game. Country rugby clubs are such an important part of the community, and the Wombats and Dragons certainly played their part in his early development.

"Having played for the Wombats myself for many years, Will spent plenty of time around the club, watching games, running around with the other kids and being part of that environment.

"I'd like to think some of my involvement rubbed off on him but, ultimately, his progression has come down to his own commitment and love of playing."

Will Jessiman playing for the Queensland Reds Under-16s. Picture supplied.

The Wallabies team will play against the NSW Waratahs' Under-17s, with the sets of players partaking in a week-long training camp.

Jessiman has also played for the Burleigh Bears juniors in the pipeline for the Queensland Cup rugby league competition.

His spectacular, 65-metre try effort off a clearance kick against the Waratahs Under-16s showed just how much talent the young back has.

"Being selected to represent Australia at 16 is a fantastic achievement, but he knows he has a lot of hard work in front of him," David Jessiman said.

"There's something pretty special about seeing a kid who started out running around at Jubilee Oval and Cahill Park to make the Australian 16s team. We're grateful to everyone who's played a part in helping him along the way."

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