He started as a backrower, got shafted to the wing, filled in at outside centre and then full back, made an appearance in the Oxford Dictionary’s definition of versatile and still doesn’t even know what position suits him best. He’s James Dargaville.
The UC Vikings utility grew up on Sydney’s northern beaches and played his junior rugby with Warringah. After a comparatively unsuccessful stint playing with Warringah Colts, Dargaville signed with Sydney University in 2012 and immediately made a habit of winning, helping the club take out the First Colts premiership in his debut season.
He was subsequently selected to don Australian colours for the first time as they travelled to South Africa to compete in the U20’s Junior World Championships.
For all his successes though, there’s no doubt that Dargaville’s 2015 efforts will be his most remembered to date, after the utility back played eight games for the Canberra based Super Rugby side. His selection in the 2015 Brumbies squad came off the back of two outstanding seasons in First Grade with Sydney University, which saw him cross the chalk 24 times.
His 2014 form was deservedly recognised and earnt him a spot on the wing in the Shute Shield team of the year. His eye catching performances didn’t stop there though, as Dargaville flexed his muscles and flaunted his try scoring prowess to finish atop the Sydney Stars try scorers list for the inaugural NRC competition.
Dargaville’s still fledgling Brumbies career could best be described as a rollercoaster ride that has some loops to go yet. The Sydneysider played the role of understudy in a star studded backline, thriving in an environment that included seasoned Wallabies Henry Speight, Joe Tomane and Tevita Kuridrani.
He would go on to make his Super Rugby debut against the Reds, capping a memorable night when he bagged a bit of meat in the dying minutes of the contest.
The move to Canberra ultimately saw Dargaville change his NRC alliance, turning out for the UC Vikings in the second instalment of the NRC. Joining a number of his Brumbies teammates in the Red and White of the Vikings, the versatile back brought with him a season of Super Rugby experience and proven try scoring record.
Dargaville’s tackle busts and rock solid defence has been a feature for the Canberra Vikings thus far in 2015, as they remain undefeated following four consecutive wins.
