SOME players just have that knack when it comes to success - it follows them.
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Port Macquarie's Paul Seward will hope to continue his unblemished State of Origin record when he dons the sky blue in the over-55 division on June 18 and 19.
You see, Seward is one of those unassuming, quiet achievers in touch footy who doesn't make a fuss, but who also knows what wearing the colour of your state is about.
"This is the third age division in a row where I've played and I'm still undefeated," he said.
His humour is unmatched.
"I play against old blokes; I don't consider myself an old bloke so that's why I keep making the team," he said.
Despite a 40-year involvement in the sport, Seward admits he still gets a "buzz" whenever he is informed of his selection for New South Wales.
"When you are notified that you've been picked in the team, it's really satisfying," he said.
"It's reward for your effort because there are thousands of touch players around the state, so to know you're one of the rare few who are the best makes you really proud."
He admits playing for the Blues is the pinnacle of touch football, more so than donning the green and gold.
"It's a deadset honour, it really is," he said.
"When you play for your state, everyone wants to play because the cost isn't prohibitive. When you play for Australia you have to pay your way so a lot of the better players don't play."
Port Macquarie will have a strong representation at Coffs Harbour with another five players selected in their respective divisions.
Kim Latimore, Beau Montgomery and Tahney Luck will play for the senior mixed Blues side, while Anna Gleeson (women's 35s) and Wayne Gleeson (men's 45s) will also head to the C.ex International Stadium.
"Our touch association is over-represented for our population base," Seward said.
"We had a few others who were picked to trial and didn't make it, but sometimes you've got to be in the system first to make it .... especially when you're from the country.
"They're a bit city-centric so to break in from the country is a huge achievement."
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