Carey, representing NSW, and McPhillips playing for the ACT, were there to participate in the National Under-12s Rugby League Competition.

The Magpies juniors both performed well, with Carey's NSW side falling just short of taking out the tournament.

The week-long competition included a rest day, which involved a game of wheelchair basketball and a trip on a crocodile feeding tour. The youngsters also had talks with those representing the NRL.

The competition was played in a round robin format, with each state playing a game every day until at the end of the week, just Queensland and NSW were left standing.

Carey played in the centres, on the wing and in the second row, and said he had a wonderful time despite the fact his side lost in the grand final 4-0 against Queensland.

"I like the sport because it's fun and you make good friends, and I'm competitive as well," he told the Tribune.

Carey, who was selected in the NSW team from a pool of around 8000 kids, said he loved the trip to the Northern Territory.

"It was really interesting but it was good to play on different fields in front of pretty big crowds."

McPhillips' ACT side finished sixth in the end, a good result considering the size of the Canberra region.

During the winter, both boys play rugby league of a Saturday and rugby union on Sunday making them two of the best young athletes in town. 

But both admit that one of the main reasons they are so successful is because of support from their parents and the various coaches they have.

"I'd really like to thank my mum and dad, and all my coaches, I wouldn't be able to play without their help," Carey said.

McPhillips also told the Tribune that he was appreciative of all the support he had got this year. He also thanked those who offered help which allowed him to make the trip to Darwin in the first place.