Future league stars: 160+ players to watch in Lisa Fiaola, Harold Matts, Tarsha Gale and SG Ball Cup
They’re the young male and female talents ready to explode onto the scene this junior reps season. We look at the 160+ players to watch in Lisa Fiaola, Harold Matts, Tarsha Gale and SG Ball Cup in 2024.
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They’re the future of rugby league right before our eyes.
Showcasing the best rising male and female rugby league talent in the state, season 2024 is shaping as the biggest yet with four competitions across the U17s and U19s divisions.
We take a look at the 160+ players to watch across the Lisa Fiaola, Harold Matthews, Tarsha Gale and SG Ball Cup competitions this year.
JUMP TO
Lisa Fiaola Cup - Harold Matthews Cup - Tarsha Gale Cup - SG Ball Cup
LISA FIAOLA CUP
DANIELLE SECKOLD (PARRAMATTA)
Five-eighth/centre
After she was a co-leading scorer in last year’s competition, that experience and confidence will only help her to grow through this year’s edition.
NIKITA E (PARRAMATTA)
Second-row
Has been building to this point and earmarked as a future talent when training with the Fiaola squad at just 15 in 2022. Is among the hardest hitters in the competition.
WAIARIA ELLIS (PARRAMATTA)
Five-eighth
Has a background in union and touch as well where she has also excelled. A classy half who is so skilful at such a young age.
DIOR O’DAVIS (NEWCASTLE)
Halfback
The daughter of club legend Robbie is looking to forge her own path in the famous red and blue. She’s a talented half who is set to play a key role in the side.
SUMMER DOWELL (NEWCASTLE)
Second-row
A product of Scone who has really made the coaching staff take notice with an impressive pre-season.
EMILY MCARTHUR (NEWCASTLE)
Lock
Will start the season at lock but the bottom age player can fit in just about anywhere. Rated as a super athlete by the club and gives them a real X-factor.
NAIOKA TUIPULOTU (PENRITH)
Utility
The Hills Sports playmaker is a St Marys junior who is not only light on her feet, but can burst through the line in the halves or at hooker.
JENNIFER TUILAGI (PENRITH)
Prop
The hardworking middle from Emu Plains is a fit and mobile prop who is dangerous, fit, aggressive and can also cross the stripe,
ALYSSA GIBBONS (PENRITH)
Centre/wing
A remarkable athlete who can go all day, another Emu Plains talent in Gibbons is a quick prospect in the outside backs.
JADE ELFORD (PENRITH)
Fullback
The daughter of former Panther Shane, the St Marys product is building her own reputation as a classy fullback who can also stop tries.
MARETTA FUIMAONO (PENRITH)
Front-row
Represented at NSWCCC level, the St Clair forward brings a lot of energy to the forward pack and can break tackles at will.
ALISSIA MISA (ST GEORGE)
Hooker
A crafty player around the ruck but can also slot in the halves if needed. A positive player out of dummy half and brings a lot of energy to the team.
MERCEDEZ LISONE-SIAEA (ST GEORGE)
Front-row
Has come to the club from Melbourne so is looking to make the most of the opportunity. A strong runner with a handy offload, and also has a good pass on her.
EMMA WARR (ST GEORGE)
Centre/wing
She might be new to the game but she has picked it up strongly, training hard in the pre-season and putting on some big shots in the trials, showing she’s not afraid to put her body on the line.
SHENAE CASSIDY (NORTH SYDNEY)
Fullback
A nice addition to the team from North Queensland, Cassidy is an excitement machine who can full multiple spots in the backline but will strike from fullback early.
KATHREEN SIALE (NORTH SYDNEY)
Front-row
Takes the hard carries with the ball and makes plenty of metres while doing so. A defensively solid player as well, making her the complete package.
ELLIE BRANDER (CENTRAL COAST)
Front-row
A player that has put in the hard yards during the pre-season and will continue to do so on the field. Rewarded with captaincy for the season.
SIENNA THOMAS and ELLA KNOWLES (CENTRAL COAST)
Halfback/Five-eighth
Two players who will make up a lot of the team’s creativity, both have been given a license to show off their flair in 2024. They’ve caught the eyes of officials as smart, balanced footballers.
JESSICA STONESTREET (CRONULLA)
Second-row
The sister of Sharks NRL squad winger Sam, Jessica is a hard running forward and intimidating defender. A De La Salle junior who has an appearance at the U16s Nationals to her name.
FELILA FAKALELU (CRONULLA)
Front-row
After a good season with the Wests Tigers, the prop makes the move to Cronulla. Noted for her strong charges in the middle.
MILLA CAINE (CRONULLA)
Lock
The daughter of former Tiger and current media personality Joel, Milla has shown her versatility in the trials by filling a number of roles. Tackles hard and gets through a mountain of work.
ARIJANA ZAMMIT-KAIPO (SOUTH SYDNEY)
Hooker
Has played fullback and halfback previously but will own the dummy half role. A quick player who can cause a lot of headaches for opposition teams around the ruck.
KIARA MCGREGOR (SOUTH SYDNEY)
Halfback
A tall half who isn’t scared to take on the line, McGregor boasts plenty of athleticism and hits quite hard in defence.
VERONICA SEFO (SOUTH SYDNEY)
Front-row
Someone that has impressed officials during the pre-season and looks to be a key force in the middle. A natural leader.
LOGAN FLETCHER (SYDNEY ROOSTERS)
Fullback
Still just 16 years of age and is already 6-foot tall, the Bondi United junior is an elusive player when she runs the ball and has a mean goalkicking boot.
ANASTASIA LEATUPUE (SYDNEY ROOSTERS)
Halfback
A standout in the trials and her experience in the league academy is showing. A talented, well-rounded player who is a NSW Schoolgirls representative.
LACEY CROSS (SYDNEY ROOSTERS)
Lock
Possesses plenty of leadership qualities and is a traditional ball-playing lock that will link well with the halves throughout the year.
KOFFI BROOKFIELD (ILLAWARRA)
Hooker
A very exciting prospect who has had the benefit of a stint training with the NRLW side. Represented the Country U17s last year despite being a year young.
TAHLIA O’BRIEN (ILLAWARRA)
Utility forward
A versatile threat who returns to the Fiaola Cup squad. Her versatility and leadership makes her a key asset to this team.
TAHANNI KAUFUSI (ILLAWARRA)
Front-row
A player that takes on information, soaks it up and puts it to good use on the field, Kaufusi is set for a big season in the middle.
ELLIE BARNETT (WESTS TIGERS)
Halfback
Has been named captain and with her Oztag and touch football background, she brings along a skill-set that makes her an elusive player with the ball.
ANGEL SCHAAFHAUSEN-MINO (WESTS TIGERS)
Lock
A middle forward who can go all game. Full of energy, a defensive weapon and another leader in the middle of the field for these girls.
LUCYANNAH LUAMANU (WESTS TIGERS)
Second-row
Another good communicator who will cause havoc out on the left edge this season. Has a good read of the game and is damaging with the ball.
MARY-JANE FETUAO TAITO (CANTERBURY BULLDOGS)
Hooker
Brings plenty of pace and energy to the Bulldogs ruck and doesn’t shirk the tough work in defence.
GIOVANNA SIAPO SUANI (CANTERBURY BULLDOGS)
Prop
Arrives from New Zealand where she will be out to further her reputation as a powerful force with the ball and relentless tackler.
TRINITY TAUANEAI (CANTERBURY BULLDOGS)
Lock
Another highly skilled forward from across the ditch, Trinity brings deft ball skills and is a real handful taking on the line.
HAROLD MATTHEWS CUP
REILLY CASWELL (MANLY)
Fullback
A dual-code talent who has looked good with the junior Waratahs as well, Caswell is lightning fast and will be a key attacking weapon at the back for the Sea Eagles.
PHOENIX TAUASA (MANLY)
Utility forward
In his second year of Harold Matts and the Penrith junior will be looking to hold down a starting spot after adding plenty of punch from the interchange as a year young player.
LACHLAN VELLA (PARRAMATTA)
Centre
Has a knack of finding himself in the right place at the right time, and having the skills to capitalise. Provides plenty of spark and will be a target out wide for the halves.
OCEAN VAIVELA (PARRAMATTA)
Front-row
Was one of the most damaging bench forwards across the entire Harold Matts comp last year and it’s scary to think he’s only going to get better with a year of experience behind him.
MATTHEW KERETI (MELBOURNE)
Fullback
Was a standout player in the Schoolboys Cup who proved elusive at the back. Showed he can cross the stripe with ease and will be their main attacking weapon.
ELIJAH PO CHING (MELBOURNE)
Lock
An Altona Roosters product who gets through a mountain of work. Loves doing the hard yards and has rep honours with the Victorian U15s under his belt.
LOCKYER-AZILE FOLIOLA (MELBOURNE)
Hooker
Really stood out as a year young player for the CAS at the U17s Nationals, and the dynamic dummy half looks set to cause havoc around the ruck this season.
ZILDIJAN TAFILI (CANBERRA)
Front-row
In his second year of Harold Matthews after a shoulder injury prematurely ended his season. Motivated from that experience and has come back a real leader among the team.
JACK MILNE (CANBERRA)
Lock
Makes the trek from Parkes to be a part of the team, and his dedication is matched by his ability. A tough player who hits hard in the middle.
TROY CODEY and JAMIE COWLING (CANBERRA)
Halves
An exciting and skilful combination who have been given the keys to the team. Both have shown great signs and look set to handle that responsibility.
DIESEL HAGAN (NEWCASTLE)
Hooker
Backs up from last year where he suited up for every game. Hagan will take plenty from that experience and from all reports has improved further in what is a great sign for the Knights.
KYRAN BLAIR (NEWCASTLE)
Fullback
Also returns to the fold and is turning heads as a real attacking force for Newcastle. Natural improvement will see him play a key role in a very strong team.
ITULA SEVE (CANTERBURY)
Front-row
Returns for another year after giving the Bulldogs plenty of go-forward in a premiership season. A local junior who is damaging from close range and a City U16s representative.
MASON PHILLIPS (CANTERBURY)
Hooker
A Queenslander who comes back for his second season in the U17s competition. Lights up play around the ruck and his short kicking game is a strong point of his attack.
MATTHEW BARAKAT (CANTERBURY)
Halfback
The local junior has come through the academy and is rewarded with the halfback jersey. Brings a tactical kicking game and strong direction that can help the side go back-to-back.
ROMAN TUAIMAU (PENRITH)
Second-row
Comes back for season two of Harold Matts and there are strong opinions of the young edge forward after making the Australian Schoolboys by way of Patrician Brothers.
CHARBEL KHEIRALLAH (PENRITH)
Second-row
Showed plenty of talent last year, earning the club’s emerging talent award to go along with his City U16s jersey. The St Clair junior is devastating when he gets room to move.
MARCELLUS IAKOPO (PENRITH)
Centre
Looked big and strong last season, and has only improved since then. Also on the radar of rugby union after turning out for the junior Waratahs.
OLIVER LESTER (CRONULLA)
Fullback/halfback
Elusive, speedy and gearing up for his second season is the Como Jannali junior. Looked superb with the ball in hand last year and has the ability to fill a number of roles.
ELIJAH COOPER (CRONULLA)
Wing/centre
More than capable of filling either of the outside back positions, Cooper is a tall player who is quick and has the ability to offload strongly at the line.
THOMAS DELLOW (CRONULLA)
Back-row
Looks to have a bit of quality about him, emphasised by his City U16s selection. A classy edge forward who can bust the line as well as put a shot on.
DARCY SMITH (CENTRAL COAST)
Back-row
Comes into the U17s side on the back of a man of the match effort in last year’s Andrew Johns Cup premiership. A talented player who brings a heap of physicality.
JAI CALLAGHAN (CENTRAL COAST)
Utility
You can slot this young player in just about anywhere. Capable of filling spots at fullback, hooker or in the halves, Callaghan gives effort in every facet of the game.
RILEY ILHAM (CENTRAL COAST)
Back-row
The captain of the team who is coming back from a serious ankle injury. The edge forward inspires his fellow players and is considered a leader in every area on and off the field.
TYLER BIRNIE (BALMAIN)
Halfback
Looks to be a promising playmaker and he has the experience of coming up against a number of players at this level while on club duties at St Clair. Gets his shot to impress.
TAJ HANDSAKER (BALMAIN)
Hooker
Comes to Balmain from the Sunshine Coast where he caught the eye. Looking for his chance at the higher level of play and has made officials take notice with some strong trial form.
HAYDEN ELKRIS (BALMAIN)
Back-row
Entering into his second season of Harold Matts so the expectation will be on him to lead this side, but the talented edge forward is certainly up to the task.
BEN STRINGER (NORTH SYDNEY)
Fullback
Comes back for his second year at the Bears at this level and has been named co-captain. Was one of their most consistent last season and they will need more of that from the livewire fullback after he spent some time with the Storm NRL squad over the summer.
BENJAMIN ASKEW (NORTH SYDNEY)
Utility back
You can slot him almost anywhere in the backline. One key quality is his dedication to the playing group, travelling up from Jervis Bay to cement his spot in the side.
TANNER MAHON (SOUTH SYDNEY)
Front-row
Didn’t look out of place despite being a year young in 2023, and his efforts in the forward pack have been rewarded once again as they look for him to lay the platform.
LOCHLIN MOSES (SOUTH SYDNEY)
Lock/second-row
Can take on any role in the back-row, but what is most impressive is the defensive pressure he applies. Hits hard and has the silky hands to match. Earned his spot as captain.
LACHLAN WATERS (SOUTH SYDNEY)
Utility back
Boasts the ability to fill in just about anywhere in the backline. A speedy customer who has great vision that has certainly impressed the coaching staff.
TOM MCKENNA (SYDNEY ROOSTERS)
Second-row
A local junior who has progressed through the elite academy. Named as captain for this season and officials are expecting big things of him. A real leader as an edge forward.
REX BASSINGHTWAITE (SYDNEY ROOSTERS)
Fullback
Highly sought after by both league and union, the Dubbo product has a great game sense and is lightning fast. Can pass on the run to perfection and brings an X-factor to the side.
LACHLAN METCALFE (SYDNEY ROOSTERS)
Halfback
Shapes as a nice addition to the side from Parramatta. Played very well in the trials to secure the halfback jersey and can really impress with two years of Harold Matts in front of him.
KAAWYN PATTERSON (WARRIORS)
Hooker
Been a standout in the pre-season after captaining a touring Auckland side last year. Good out of dummy half and brings leadership to this young group.
LENNOX TUILOMA (WARRIORS)
Lock
Has shown a lot of guts to live away from home, the Christchurch lock will put all that hard work into action and show why he is highly regarded by officials.
JOSEPH RATCLIFFE (WARRIORS)
Fullback
The race for the number one jersey was hotly contested, but Ratcliffe earned the right to wear it first up after showing his skills over the summer months. Looks a lively player.
JACK TALBOTT (ILLAWARRA)
Fullback
Was named as the Andrew Johns Cup player of the year after a scintillating season. He gives the Steelers incredible energy at the back and can turn a game in an instant.
LEEROY WEATHERALL (ILLAWARRA)
Utility forward
There’s eyes on him and for good reason. Weatherall is a tall, lean and powerful forward who can do the job wherever is asked of him. He rips in and gives his all with every play.
COOPER MORRISON (ILLWARRA)
Centre
Despite being a year young has put himself in the picture for selection with an outstanding pre-season. His numbers in the gym are a testament to his elite fitness.
ALEX FUTIALO (ST GEORGE)
Front-row
Took it all in his stride last year and has made the adjustments to really step up over the summer. Named as captain and primed to lead the way with a strong season in the middle.
WILLIE HEHEA (ST GEORGE)
Front-row/lock
Has the versatility to fill a number of spots in the middle, the Cabramatta junior has been excelling on the training paddock, showing why he deserves his place in the team.
AHMAD ASSAAD (ST GEORGE)
Fullback
Talks from the back and keeps his defenders in check like a good fullback does. Assaad is a reliable last line of defence and just as deadly when he gets a chance in open space.
MADDAX FUI (WESTERN SUBURBS)
Front-row
Brings the experience of a handful of games last year and has taken that all in his stride to really lead the way at training and lock down a place in the forward pack this season.
ALEX ISDALE (WESTERN SUBURBS)
Halfback
On the back of a strong pre-season he gets the chance to take control of this side at halfback, and has the skills to do that at a high level.
ONITONI LARGE (WESTERN SUBURBS)
Five-eighth
Highly promising talent who is attracting attention from league and union, where he has earned state and national honours. Enters his second season of Matts and will be a superb player to keep an eye on.
TARSHA GALE CUP
MARIAH FASAVALU-FA’AMAUSILI (CANTERBURY)
Centre
Comes to the club from Parramatta and despite being a year young, can push for selection. A tackle breaker who has a City U17s representation to her name.
ABBY AROS (CANTERBURY)
Fullback/centre
Was used in dual positions during the trials. Forced her way into the side last year and is one of the most exciting prospects in the competition. Should be on NRLW radars.
AMBRYN MURPHY-HAUA (CANTERBURY)
Halfback
Returns for another season and took her strong TG form to club level with Milperra last season. A strong and reliable defender to back up her elite playmaking.
LILLY-ANN WHITE (NEWCASTLE)
Fullback
Had an outstanding 2023 and was subsequently rewarded with an NRLW development deal. She’s someone that can lead from the back and put herself in player of the year talks.
EVIE JONES (NEWCASTLE)
Five-eighth
Played alongside White and is also in the NRLW system for later in the year. An energetic player who provides a real spark to the side.
EVAH MCEWEN (NEWCASTLE)
Back-row/centre
Continues the strong family presence at Newcastle with brother Jermaine (SG Ball), Evah came from the Fiaola country carnival squad and has done nothing but impressed officials.
AALIYAH HAUMONO (PARRAMATTA)
Halfback
After a stint at Manly, the daughter of former first grader and boxer Solomon links with the Eels. A tough player who has plenty of experience playing against older women.
RYVRR-LEE ALO (PARRAMATTA)
Second-row
An All Saints Toongabbie talent who has shown her power on an edge to create plenty of opportunities for her outside backs.
CAITLIN PEADON (PARRAMATTA)
Centre
Was among the most consistent with Parramatta last season, took that form back to Toongabbie where she was a leading scorer, and looks set to reach new heights.
JAIDA STABEN (PENRITH)
Halfback
Picked up the emerging talent award last season and the goalkicking half will be determined to go one step further this year and guide Penrith to the finals.
MONTANA MCLEAN (PENRITH)
Hooker
Another emerging talent award winner in McLean returns and is expected to be a force around the ruck, building off the platform she laid last season.
JULIE NOTISE (PENRITH)
Fullback
A proven try scorer who will make a lot of people take notice. Led the way for tries in her first season with St Marys under-17s last year, showing just a glimpse of her potential.
TIA-JORDYN VASILOVSKI (CRONULLA)
Fullback
Has played in the Australian Schoolgirls and has shown plenty as an attacking fullback with plenty of pace and a healthy aggression to take the game on.
MANILITA TAKAPAUTOLO (CRONULLA)
Second-row
Comes to the club from Canterbury and the Australian Schoolgirls rep gives them a lethal addition on an edge. The Westfield Sports captain will bring leadership to the group and is an NRLW development player.
STEPHANIE FAULKNER (CRONULLA)
Lock
One of the most promising players in the competition. Was crowned the club’s female pathways player of the year and has already earned her spot in the NSW Sky Blues academy.
LATISHA KAITAP (NORTH SYDNEY)
Halfback
Being monitored by NRLW scouts and for good reason. Has an elite boot in both general play and kicking for goal, and the north Queensland recruit looks set to shine.
SIENNA DEELEY (NORTH SYDNEY)
Lock
Comes back to this level after getting a taste of Harvey Norman and she’ll bring back those leadership qualities as team captain. Another Bear who is being watched by NRLW clubs.
INDIA DYBALL (CANBERRA)
Lock
Comes back to the side and will do so as captain. A hard-running middle forward who capped off a stellar 2023 with the coach’s award.
ELISE SIMPSON (CANBERRA)
Fullback
Brings a rugby union background to the side, including representing the Australian Schoolgirls. She looks set to impress in a new code.
GRACE MAXWELL (CANBERRA)
Second-row
The Raiders have recruited Maxwell from Cooma and the country girl will bring plenty of toughness when she lines up on an edge.
TANEISHA GRAY (ST GEORGE)
Utility
A tall player who can fit in as a half, in the back-row or out in the centres, that’s how versatile she is. Has a great athletic ability and is good with the ball in hand.
DALIA NABHAN (ST GEORGE)
Hooker
Possesses plenty of quick footwork that makes her a lethal weapon out of dummy half. Can bring an impact off the bench for the Dragons.
ALAIYAH WILLIAMS (ST GEORGE)
Fullback
Someone who has really come along since joining the team, bringing a toughness and competitive edge to St George from the fullback position.
IMOGEN HEI (SYDNEY ROOSTERS)
Hooker
Was a key part of their premiership success last season and the Bondi United talent was rewarded with an NRLW contract. Among the best passers in the competition.
TYRA EKEPATI (SYDNEY ROOSTERS)
Fullback
Another in the NRLW system on a development deal, Ekepati can play in the outside backs but is best suited at fullback where she can direct traffic and chime in with her explosive ability.
ALIYAH NASIO (SYDNEY ROOSTERS)
Lock
Such is her ability, Nasio played Harvey Norman at just 17 years of age last season. An Australian Schoolgirls rep who is strong, powerful and destined for higher honours.
MIA-ROSE WALSH (ILLAWARRA)
Centre
Comes back to the Steelers after leading the club’s try-scoring tally in 2023. A fast talent who has an incredible game knowledge and plays with no fear at all.
HOPE MILLARD (ILLAWARRA)
Front-row
Her strong play last year saw her represent Country and the classy middle forward looks set to elevate her game to another level. A mature player beyond her years.
MARIA PASEKA (ILLAWARRA)
Utility back
Graduates from the Lisa Fiaola program and has put herself right in the frame as a year young player with her attitude and dedication throughout the pre-season.
SHANELLE LYONS (SOUTH SYDNEY)
Centre
Was one of the Rabbitohs’ leading tryscorers last season and returns to the side faster and stronger. Provides the side with a lot on both sides of the ball.
LENNIECE WRIGHT (SOUTH SYDNEY)
Lock
Comes from Queensland and has been a standout in the pre-season, with a strong kicking game for a forward and her leadership qualities on full display.
NANCY SULLIVAN (SOUTH SYDNEY)
Front-row
Another of the Queenslanders who will be wearing red and green is Sullivan, and she will add plenty of strength to the middle after starring for the Sunshine Coast last year.
JALYA COMMINS (SOUTH SYDNEY)
Hooker
A new recruit from the Steelers and what she lacks in height she makes up for in heart. A strong competitor who doesn’t take a backwards step.
TIANA-LEE THORNE (WESTS TIGERS)
Fullback
A natural choice as captain for the side, Thorne was a star player last year and has signed a three year deal with the Tigers. Don’t be surprised to see her make her NRLW debut this year after going very close to doing so in 2023.
CHEYENNE BAKER (WESTS TIGERS)
Front-row
Baker makes the move from Newcastle and she adds so much-needed firepower to the forward pack. She was instrumental in the run to the finals last year and she can help lift the Tigers off the bottom.
SG BALL CUP
SIMIONE LAIAFI (MANLY)
Front-row
Brings a lot of mobility and size to the forward pack and will have the added benefit of confidence after performing strongly at the ASSRL U18s last year.
ALTON NAIYEP (MANLY)
Utility back
Comes to Manly after starring in Queensland at the underage level, where the outside back led the competition in tries for the Mal Meninga Cup. An exciting prospect.
RILEY BURKE (MANLY)
Fullback
Gets his chance to shine after an incredible season in Central Coast A-grade. Was a scoring machine there and his lightning pace back at the U19s level will be something to watch.
HUGO PEEL (MELBOURNE)
Fullback
Got his chance on the wing as a year young player in 2023 and the rugby union convert looks to switch to the back and demonstrate his skills with ball in hand.
NISIFOLO FAUONUKU (MELBOURNE)
Centre
A towering player who will make his presence felt in attack. Comes on the back of a strong showing for the Combined Affiliated States at the ASSRL U18s.
SULI POLE (MELBOURNE)
Front-row
Another who got his shot in the side last year, will be all the better for that experience and the Sunbury Tigers junior already boasts a Victorian representation at Schoolboys level.
JYE LINNANE (NEWCASTLE)
Halfback
One earmarked for the future, Linnane had a great campaign to help them reach the grand final last year and trained with the NRL squad pre-Christmas. Also made his A-grade debut with Kurri in the strong Newcastle comp.
JERMAINE MCEWEN (NEWCASTLE)
Second-row
Was a powerhouse throughout the season with some strong carries and rock-solid defence on his edge. Someone who’ll be pushing for Flegg and NSW Cup later in the year.
MALACHI SMITH (NEWCASTLE)
Hooker
A player who constantly improved throughout the year in 2023, gets the benefit of training with the NRL boys which will only help his growth.
SEBASTIAN PIUKALA (PARRAMATTA)
Front-row
Returns for another season of SG Ball and gets the call up to the starting side. His bench impact in the middle was enormous for the Eels last year.
DEVONTE VAIVELA (PARRAMATTA)
Centre/wing
Can fill in both positions in the outside backs and was a real standout during the finals campaign to help Parramatta lift the trophy. A quality finisher.
JUNIOR FAGALELE (PARRAMATTA)
Fullback
A highly regarded junior who steps into the fullback spot. Is also an adept half and a real leader of the team who will do whatever is necessary to get the job done.
LOGAN SPINKS (CANTERBURY)
Back-row
Makes the move down from Canterbury’s northern academy and is a regarded Australian Schoolboy who is highly skilled and a real leader as a new addition to the team.
MITCHELL WOODS (CANTERBURY)
Halfback
Steps up to the SG Ball level as a year young player and on the back of leading the side to a Harold Matthews title. The Bulldogs fought hard to keep him from AFL and you only need one look at him to realise why.
ALEX CONTI (CANTERBURY)
Five-eighth
A Junior Blues representative who has come to the Bulldogs from Balmain, Conti has a great boot on him and looks to form a dynamite partnership with Woods.
KYE RAVEN (PENRITH)
Lock
A homegrown talent who looks to have a bright future. Named the club’s MVP in Harold Matthews last season and has a NSWCCC representation to his name.
ISAIAH SCANLAN (PENRITH)
Utility forward
Comes to Penrith from Queensland where he captained the Tweed Seagulls. Can play on an edge or in the middle and was part of the Queensland U18s side.
COOPER HALE (PENRITH)
Wing/centre
Capable enough of filling both outside back spots and has shown himself to be a real flyer who can make things happen out wide.
JETT CLEARY (PENRITH)
Halfback
The younger brother of superstar Nathan, Jett will get the chance to take over the halfback role this season. Has shown ability and is in the right system to reach his full potential.
RILEY POLLARD (CRONULLA)
Halfback
Shapes as a pivotal signing for Cronulla after playing with Penrith last season, Pollard looks to be a high quality playmaker more than capable of earning higher honours.
ALEX CHALLENOR (CRONULLA)
Lock
Was named as Cronulla’s junior reps player of the year on the back of a terrific Harold Matthews season. The De La Salle junior is more than ready for the step up.
NIKORA WILLIAMS (CRONULLA)
Centre
Will be a year young but that won’t worry the barnstorming centre, who went on to line up for the Australian Schoolboys.
CHARLIE HEIDKE (ILLAWARRA)
Utility back
A real speedster from the South Coast who turned heads with his pre-season attitude and his try-scoring prowess with Berry Shoalhaven Heads at a local level.
TOBY RUMBLE (ILLWARRA)
Utility back
Another Steeler with speed to burn, Rumble can fill in just about anywhere in the backline. He helped the Illawarra South Coast team claim the Laurie Daley Cup with a clutch try.
DREW LANGDON (ILLAWARRA)
Back-row
Gets his chance to secure a spot in the second row on the back of an impressive pre-season. He’s a former Country representative who can make an impact in attack.
KIAN EDMED (BALMAIN)
Lock
Named as captain for the season and with good reason. A highly promising player who has incredible bloodlines through his father Steve (former Tiger) and brother Tane (Waratahs).
COHEN BENSON (BALMAIN)
Five-eighth
Balmain has brought Benson across from the Penrith system and he’ll be chomping at the bit to showcase his talents. Really impressed the coaching staff with a strong pre-season.
MARC TANNOUS (BALMAIN)
Halfback
Been in the Tigers system for a while and now gets his chance to take over the team at halfback. Look for him as one who can have a breakout season.
BILLY ARENA (NORTH SYDNEY)
Hooker
Nobody has been training the house down more than Canterbury recruit Arena. He has impressed officials so much that he has been named captain after an incredible pre-season.
THOMAS EPERE and NASH HILLIER (NORTH SYDNEY)
Front-row
Both have a similar path of entering their second year of SG Ball. They’ve shown a lot of leadership both on and off the field, as well has having all the skills necessary for big men.
XAVIER CACCIOTTI (CANBERRA)
Hooker
Was one of the best players in the Laurie Daley Cup last year, scoring 12 tries in five games. Officials believe he has the skills to go all the way and gets his chance to shine this year.
OWEN HROMOW (CANBERRA)
Lock
Displayed leadership beyond his years to captain the side while a year young last year. A City U18s representative who is only set to improve on the back of an incredible season.
ELVIS NAUER-WOOD (CANBERRA)
Front-row
Also wore the City U18s jersey and the big forward has done plenty of developing in the off-season to have him primed for a huge year in the middle.
RODNEY TUIPULOTU VEA (WARRIORS)
Front-row
Returns to the fold from last year. He played a couple of games as he made his way back from a badly broken leg. A big body who can cause damage.
MALAKAI CAMA (WARRIORS)
Wing/fullback
An exciting prospect who has made the leap from union to league. He’s impressed coaches with his speed and X-factor.
KAYLISS FATIALOFA and JD AULOA (WARRIORS)
Second-row and hooker
The co-captains both return to the side and are all the better for that experience. Their leadership will be called upon to get the Warriors into finals contention.
JASON HALLIE (SOUTH SYDNEY)
Front-row
There’s some big opinions on this front rower from Cairns, who has built his reputation as a dominant middle. He’s a player that will turn heads.
MATTHEW HUMPHRIES (SOUTH SYDNEY)
Halfback
Comes back after playing Harold Matthews in 2023. Will take plenty from that and is someone who looked better as the weeks went on. Can take the next step.
JACOB FONG (SOUTH SYDNEY)
Centre
Another Harold Matthews player stepping up in grade. Has shown enough on the training paddock to suggest he can make the leap and star.
ZAC SARFATI (SYDNEY ROOSTERS)
Fullback
Got the chance to train with the NRL squad over summer and looks set to channel that power and communication into a breakout season. Can save tries as well.
BLAKE STEEP (SYDNEY ROOSTERS)
Lock
On an NRL development deal and will skipper the side this season. Returns from injury and the Port Macquarie product is ready to show why he’s eyeing off further honours.
DE LA SALLE VA’A (SYDNEY ROOSTERS)
Front-row
Another on an NRL development deal and has spent some time training above. A Toowoomba product who is a big boy with an even bigger engine.
ZACH FITTLER (SYDNEY ROOSTERS)
Second-row
The son of Roosters legend Brad continues to impress with every appearance, and he steps up to SG Ball as a year young player, not that it will daunt him in the slightest.
JACOB HALANGAHU (ST GEORGE)
Second-row
Was one of the Dragons best in Harold Matts last year to go along with his Australian Schoolboys and NSW U17s honours. A strong, fierce competitor who is so hard to bring down.
CYRUS STANLEY-TRAILL (ST GEORGE)
Second-row
Signed a four-year deal with the Dragons that will see him earn a spot in the NRL squad in 2027, an obvious sign the club sees a wealth of potential in the damaging ballrunner.
SHADI HAMMOUD (ST GEORGE)
Five-eighth
Will take on a lot of the leadership in the side having the benefit of a year in this grade already. Has a good kicking game and can take over a contest.
MITCHELL TAOTUA (WESTERN SUBURBS)
Second-row
Comes to the Magpies from Manly and has done everything right in the pre-season to put him in the frame. Talented player out on an edge.
HEITH PRITCHARD (WESTERN SUBURBS)
Five-eighth
Can play in the halves or hooker, and has been named as captain in a team with plenty of leaders, a positive sign of how well this young man is regarded within the club.
HARRY DELANEY (WESTERN SUBURBS)
Second-row
Was a strong performer at Laurie Daley Cup level and has really stepped it up in the pre-season to force his way into the side. Looks a nice type in the back row.
Originally published as Future league stars: 160+ players to watch in Lisa Fiaola, Harold Matts, Tarsha Gale and SG Ball Cup
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