But, the same can’t be said for a few of their star players.

Pirates’ trio Nick Dobson, Chad Joseph and Tom Emes, along with Vikings David Tunstead, Paul Chaplin, Jono Edwards, David Barnes and youngsters Logan Marshall, Luke Chaplin and Mitch Hetherington will represent the Mid-North Coast Axemen in Brisbane.

The Axemen’s senior and under 19 squads are scheduled to tackle the Gold Coast Eagles this evening and Sunnybank tomorrow, which also coincides with Australia’s clash against South Africa at Suncorp Stadium.

“It’s good to have some Port Macquarie boys, from both clubs, in the rep teams,” said Pirates captain-coach Jordan Macey, who will miss the match due to injury.

“It gives them something to build on, especially the young guys.

“Sunnybank, Digby Ioane’s side, will definitely be a challenge.”

On the local front, the Pirates hold a massive 17-point advantage over the Vikings on the competition table.

Port Macquarie, yet to suffer a defeat in 2010, sits on 68 with the Hastings Valley outfit next on the ladder with 51.

Coffs Harbour’s pairing, the Crushers (48) and Breakers (39), round out the top four.

“I’m happy with where we’re placed,” Macey said.

“You’d have to be, being undefeated and in top spot.

“But, everyone’s worked hard within the club.

“We have a few injuries at the moment, so the break this weekend will be good.

“Then it’s back to business with three rounds remaining before the semis.”

When the competition resumes on Saturday, July 31, the Pirates host the Crushers at Stuart Park, the Vikings travel to Kempsey for a showdown with the Cannonballs, and the South West Rocks Gaolers lock horns with the Breakers.