Wauchope have previously been represented in the NSW State Cup, but 2022 shapes as being the association's first-ever time they have competed in the Junior State Cup.
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But they're not over the line just yet.
Association president Aaron Ison confirmed they would field teams in the under-12 and under-14 boys divisions for the February 25-27 event in Port Macquarie.
"Our juniors have grown a fair bit and we've gone from 10 teams up to 40 teams over the last three or four years," he said.
"That means when you have the local competition, now there is the opportunity to create pathways for players into representative programs. We're still very raw and it will be a steep learning curve, but we're more than happy to have those sorts of team numbers at participation level.
"We're just starting out."
Mr Ison confirmed the under-12 and under-14 divisions were where they had seen the most growth in recent years.
"That's where we have most of our numbers and a higher standard in those age groups," he said.
They still, however, face a hurdle before the opening match where affiliates are required to provide an adequate number of qualified referees.
Wauchope are required to provide three level-two accredited officials which would allow their two teams to compete at the event.
Officials must be of a certain standard.
"We've got until the end of the week to make it happen and if nothing can eventuate, then the teams will be withdrawn," Mr Ison said.
"We've got limited people who want to referee. Two years ago we put 25 people through a level one referees course, but none of them want to do a level two course which is disappointing.
"It's a great opportunity and we're stoked to have teams, but the obstacles are the referees at the moment. Our backs are against the wall."
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