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SG Ball Cup season preview: Every club profiled ahead of the 2023 NSWRL junior reps season

Some of the biggest young stars in the game are set to feature as the SG Ball Cup season gets underway once again. NewsCorp previews all 16 teams ahead of the season launch this weekend.

Replay: NSWRL finals - Newcastle Knights vs Penrith Panthers (SG Ball Cup)

FUTURE NRL stars are set to make their impact as the SG Ball Cup returns for another season.

Pitting the best U19s talent in Australia against each other, the competition has a long history of breeding future first graders, and this year is set to be no different.

Penrith’s success was one of many for the club last year, but there are plenty of sides hot on their tails, including a Western Suburbs side calling up multiple players from their dominant Harold Matthews Cup premiership in 2022.

NewsLocal previews all 16 teams competing in this year’s competition. See how your team will fare:

Jonathan Sua. Picture: Jonathan Ng
Jonathan Sua. Picture: Jonathan Ng

CANTERBURY-BANKSTOWN BULLDOGS

Captain: Iverson Matai

Coach: Mitchell Lewis

Players to watch: New recruit Michael Gabrael just joined the club from Parramatta, and despite being a year underage for SG Ball he is expected to hold his own in the team. Local junior wingers Jonathan Sua and Jordi Mazzone both played Jersey Flegg at the end of last season and have been brought back for their second season in the competition. The pair are tall and athletic and have great ball carrying skills.

Surprise Packet: AJ Jones has relocated from Auckland for this season and although he is still learning the game, snippets of his talent in training have been extremely promising.

Why they will be competitive: A strong preseason has built a very strong and cohesive team, and has gone back to basics for skills to ensure the whole squad is on the same page. Some of the players have also had experience playing for NSW and Australian representative teams, and can bring a wealth of experience.

Last season: 6th (Eliminated Finals Wk 2)

Squad: Taye Cochran, Jonathon Sua, Jordi Mazzone, William Afualo, Michael Gabrael, Kallum Weatherall-Stacey, Charlie Sorovi, Daniel Cocoran, Joash Papalii, Iverson Matai, Maraki Aumua, Joseph Teaupa, Joshua Coinakis, Josese Lanyon, Latrell Fing, Pat Young, Fanafou Seve, Jack Underhill, Jermaine Pangai, Thomas Fisher, Massimo Mari, Bailey Myers, Shaun Stanley, Amir Yatim, Lajuan Vito, AJ Jones, Jed Reardon, Sione Lolohea, Dakai-Lilo Bolotagici, Mohammed Rajab, Nayten Jansen and Jake Lane.

NSW's Ethan Ferguson will line up for Newcastle. Picture: Zak Simmonds
NSW's Ethan Ferguson will line up for Newcastle. Picture: Zak Simmonds

NEWCASTLE KNIGHTS

Captain: Myles Martin

Coach: Matt Nicoll

Players to watch: With four or five players from last year’s team, which finished in second place, backing up again this season, the squad will look to their quality and experience in the current campaign. They include exciting Cessnock fullback Fletcher Sharpe and centre Ethan Ferguson, who was last year selected in the Australian Schoolboys side. Meanwhile, skipper Myles Martin, who joined the club from Parramatta, is expected to lead from the front with his work in the middle.

Why they will be competitive: The Knights are a really powerful team through the middle with some skilful edge back-rowers who will pose a threat out wide. Expect to see plenty of ball movement, in addition to the club-wide focus on defensive steel.

Last season: 2nd (Eliminated finals Wk 2)

Squad: Fletcher Sharpe, Jack Dodd, Logan Aoake, Kyle Colburn, Ethan Ferguson, Kyle Mccarthy, Ivan Sua, Jai Linnane, Taj Blackman, Travis May, Myles Martin, Jack Petitt, Tama Whareaorere, Brock Thomas, Caleb Garvie, Beau Slade, Elijah Salesa-Leumoana, Jermaine McEwan, Jayden Harris, Cooper Begini, Rory Whitby, Bailey Carmichael, Beau Watson, Jordan Blundell, Mayson Metcalf, Jerome Falemoe, Harper Collins

Manly young gun Tylor Bunting. Picture: Supplied
Manly young gun Tylor Bunting. Picture: Supplied

MANLY-WARRINGAH SEA EAGLES

Captain: Tylor Bunting

Coach: Brett Fulton

Players to watch: Tylor Bunting is returning from a successful 2022 SG Ball season where he went on to play some games in Jersey Flegg and also be named in the NSW U19 train on squad. He has trained exceptionally well and has been named captain for the 2023 season. Koby Douglas is new to the team, he is a big powerful centre that has plenty of pace and a good fend, will be hard to handle. Max Hayley is a former centre turned back rower, skilful with speed and strength to match, will strong performer. Teapo Stoldman is new to the team he is a strong centre with good footwork and pace. Has been a great addition to the squad and we are expecting a big season from him.

Why they will be competitive: The Manly side has a good mix of hungry youngsters, future NRL talents and a good core of players that will have them right in the hunt for the SG Ball Cup in 2023. They have some new faces who will add size and on the back of a solid pre-season, you can see them return to the finals.

Last season: 8th

Squad: Hussein Gharib Anani, Rene Bagon, Jakob Biet, Tylor Bunting, Josh Clark, Koby Douglas, Noa Faatui, Latu Fainu, Jake Fulton, Max Hayley, Lehi Hopoate, Broden Konz, Leremia Lealaiaulotu, Remi Mant, Devante Mihinui, Rory Morgan, Thomas Nable, Lenny Plati, Jedd Pratt, Ajay Puafisi, Roy Quiroz-Mapusua, Beudeen Reid, Jake Smith, Teapo Stoltman, Connor Tandberg, Maxwell Taotua, Mitchell Taotuam, Antonio Taufa, Nepote Taufa, Isaia Tuifua, Tevita Tukuafu, Zedrick Tupulua, Aajay Watts

NEW ZEALAND WARRIORS

Captain: Tanner Stowers-Smith

Coach: Adam Blair

Players to watch: Sio Kali is a highly-rated winger out of renowned St Paul’s College rugby league nursery. Was named in Blues rugby union under-18 development squad but committed to Warriors. Tanner Stowers-Smith hails from Christchurch, he played rugby league for Halswell and rugby union for St Bede’s College. A middle forward, he’s the great grandson of former Kiwi and Canterbury rugby league legend Pat Smith. Patrick Moimoi is a De La Salle College product, Moimoi, a centre, is another player with a dual rugby league-rugby union background. Also named in Blues rugby union under-18 development squad but has chosen rugby league.

Surprise packet: Eddie Ieremia is a back rower who has come out of nowhere to impress football staff. Picked after representing One New Zealand Warriors at rugby union’s World Schools Sevens late last year.

Why they will be competitive: Confident this new squad will be competitive. Ample talent but expected it may take a week or two to get up to full speed due to the fact the players have had no opportunity to play meaningful football. Covid era meant the Warriors were unable to field an SG Ball for the past three years.

Squad: Allan Talataina Malama, Alvin Chong-Nee Ben Peni Calum Pereira Daytona-Lukiz Tupuhi-Tuoho, Dennis Sofara, Eddie Ieremia, Etuate Fukofuka, Francis Tuimauga, Harry Durbin, Jacob David Auloa Jnr, Jeriko Filipi-Talisau, Julian Drinnan, Kayliss Fatialofa, Kesa Silver, Makaia Tafua, Patrick Moimoi, Phranklyn Mano Le Mamea, Presley Seumanu-Tigafua, Raphael Sio, Ratu Naborisi, Rodney Tuipolotu-Vea, Sefanaia Cowley-Lupo, Selu (Leka) Halasima, Siale Siulangapo, Sialetili Faeamani, Sio Kali, Taimana Whakatau, Tanner Stowers-Smith, Te Hataterehapaerau Reid, William Piliu, Ieti Samuelu

Blaize Talagi of the Eels. Photo: Jeremy Ng
Blaize Talagi of the Eels. Photo: Jeremy Ng

PARRAMATTA EELS

Captain: Charlie Guymer

Coach: Steve O’Dea

Players to watch: Charlie Guymer has previous captaincy experience with the club, and was a shining light last year when he was named as the club’s best back in SG Ball. The centre was also part of the Junior Blues squad. Five-eighth Blaize Talagi is also part of that squad, and such is the livewire talent’s ability, he’s on a development contract with the first grade side. The roster comprises of many who were involved previously in lower age competitions, though it has a variety of local and recruited players. Involved in lower age before, more recruited players.

Why they will be competitive: Around 8-9 players were given the opportunity to train with the NRL group for two days a week before Christmas along with experience with the fleet program, has helped in the players’ preparation and will bring a wealth of knowledge and experience to the rest of the team.

Last season: 11th

Squad List: Charlie Guymer (c), Apa Twidle, Blaize Talagi, Cainan Hardiman, Charbel Chehade, Cody Parry, Declan Murray, Devonte Vaivela, Domenico De Stradis, Dylan Brettle, Ethan Sanders, Jack Burrows, Joshua Lynn, Kobi Hurford, Lance Fualema, LeBron Tuala, Matthew Arthur, Mohamed Alameddine, Patrick Spence, Raffaele De Stradis, Reilly Canning, Richard Penisini, Sam Squire, Sam Tuivaiti, Sebastian Piukala, Tuvaka Palu, William Lewis

Salesi Foketi. Picture: Julian Andrews
Salesi Foketi. Picture: Julian Andrews

SYDNEY ROOSTERS

Captains: Michael Abdow and Benaiah Ioelu

Coach: David Swann

Players to watch: Salesi Foketi has been part of the Roosters pathways system since arriving from New Zealand at the age of 15. An enforcer either in the middle or on an edge, Salesi runs with power and hits like a sledgehammer in defence. Now in his second season of SG Ball, his game is set to reach a new level.

Local junior Michael Abdow has been part of the Tricolours system since he turned 13. An Australian schoolboys rep at just 15, the impressive backrower turned heads after being named player of the tournament. In 2023, the experienced big game player will be vital to the Roosters’ title aspirations.

De La Salle Va’a hails from Toowoomba and has made a big impression since joining the club last year. A big, mobile front rower who causes problems for opposition defences and can get through a mountain of work.

Surprise packet: The Central Coast’s Cade Mellon is a natural footballer, and can play anywhere across the park. Another to progress through the club’s pathways, he is expected to be a prominent feature throughout the 17-week competition.

Why they will be competitive: The Roosters have arguably been the best side in the competition for the last two years. The 2021 and 2022 sides both finished as undefeated minor premiers before coming to grief in the finals. Now, once again they field a formidable squad, one that will be desperate to hoist the trophy.

Last season: 1st (Lost Grand Final)

Squad: Michael Abdow, Cayden Barnes, Hayden Barton, Jackson Delisle, Ben Dufficy, Kye Durie, Jake Elliott, Salesi Foketi, Noah Goodman, Noah Hill, Benaiah Ioelu, Siaosi Kaliti, Kade Maguire, Cade Mellon, Braydan Purcell, Haydan Ritchie, Ethan Roberts, Zac Sarfati, Malachi Smith, Jayden Smith, Blake Steep, Javahn Stevenson-Hala, Kalem Surya, Ben Taylor, Cassius Tia, Cooper Toy, De La Salle Va’a

Penrith Panthers player Moustafa Dirani. Picture: Jonathan Ng
Penrith Panthers player Moustafa Dirani. Picture: Jonathan Ng

PENRITH PANTHERS

Captain: Luke Hanson

Coach: Scott Thompson

Players to watch: NSWCHS schoolboys representative Moustafa Dirani is a lock who played in Penrith’s premiership winning squad last year. He’s one of a number of players on the edge of doing something special in the group. Bayden Moran will partner him in the back row and he’s another that has been going along well during the pre-season and is one of a few that has the potential to kick on in the future.

Surprise packet: “The good thing with our system is they’ve all done exceptionally well and officials are proud of the way they have approached things to date. It makes it hard to separate everyone.”

Why they will be competitive: “There’s quite a few backing up from last year with around eight players from last year’s title. That gives them a good, solid foundation of players that have been there and won it. There’s a good mix of second year players and the new crew coming in. They’ve done everything they needed to do, so we will see how it unfolds from there.”

Last season: Premiers

Squad: Timothy Selaff-Burns, Ethan Hutchings, Francis Manuleleua, Wilson De Courcey, Poutoa Hotere-Papalii, Riley Pollard, Luke Hanson, Jakeb Vailalo, Yehya Ayache, Luron Patea, Bayden Moran, Hudson Brown, Billy Phillips, Jenson Tuaoi, Tana Papu, Ahmani Leilua, Cooper Ferrari, David Afu, Nick Murphy, Jiriah Liddiard, Moustafa Dirani

Joseph Jaber of the North Sydney Bears. Picture: Sam Ruttyn
Joseph Jaber of the North Sydney Bears. Picture: Sam Ruttyn

NORTH SYDNEY BEARS

Captain: Malakye Enasio

Coach: Tony Clarke

Players to watch: Tom Peters is a tough, no nonsense hooker from the Erina Eagles who relishes work in the middle. Ever the opportunist, look for Tom to take advantage of quick play-the-balls and capitalise on tired defenders.

Popular Bathurst recruit Jesse Limon is a tall powerful finisher on the wing who is just as happy rolling up his sleeves and helping the team out of trouble. A real energy player, Jesse is admired both on and off the field.

Surprise packet: A recent rugby convert from the Western Force, Brad Avery joins the Bears from Western Australia. Electric on his feet and a quick learner, the will-o’-the-wisp has a handy knack of popping up in the right place at the right time, and could be one to follow.

Why they will be competitive: “The Bears have all the makings of a super competitive team in 2023. With a focus on a hard, simple and effective style of play, the team will surprise many this year with their uncompromising and exciting style of play,” said Tony Clarke.

Last season: 13th

Squad: Josh Durkin, Jesse Limon, Cooper Magann, Max Martin, Zinzan Kahu, Sebastian Plastier, Nash Hillier, Malakye Enasio, Matthew Newlyn, Alex Fonoti, Clay Sing, Thomas Peters, Nicholas Ashdown, Christian Loleni, Nabil Ali, Brock Sing, Haysley Macdonald, Thomas Epere

Tyrone Munro (left) and Jye Gray. Picture: John Gass
Tyrone Munro (left) and Jye Gray. Picture: John Gass

SOUTH SYDNEY RABBITOHS

Captain: Jye Gray

Coach: John Sutton

Players to watch: “Jye Gray came down from Queensland. He won the Mal Meninga Cup player of the year, and he’s super quick and good with the ball. Tyrone Munro had a pre-season with first grade and is super talented. He’s tall and rangy, and scored four tries on the weekend on the wing. Thomas Fletcher is a second rower who also had a pre-season with first grade. He’s a big fella who runs hard and is a good defender. He’s put on a lot of size and we expect good things from him.”

Surprise packet: “Dane Towns has really impressed me with his skill. We have a few that can play fullback but we’ve given him the nod. He’s silky at the back, can set up tries and score them himself. He’s come from the clouds to claim that number one spot.”

Why they will be competitive: “Having a few of the boys there from last year helps. It wasn’t such a good year and we were disappointed. This year we’ve bought really well with a few players from Queensland coming into the squad. I think we have a good balance with forwards going forward and backs that can score from anywhere. If we can link it all up I think we’re in for a good year.”

Last season: 10th

Squad: Jye Gray, Dane Towns, Tyrone Munro, Daniel Wright, Drew Williams, Haizyn Mellars, Leroy Murray, Brent Hawkins, Setefano Sele, TJ Herring, Thomas Fletcher, Mateus Heslin, Liam Le Blanc, Bailey Smith, Lenox Risati, Peteru Pritchard, Bailey Scholes, Ryan Casey, Jacob Veiru

Lyhkan King Tongia will join the Steelers in 2023. Picture: Kevin Farmer
Lyhkan King Tongia will join the Steelers in 2023. Picture: Kevin Farmer

ILLAWARRA STEELERS

Captain: TBA

Coach: Russ Aitken

Players to watch: According to Steelers officials, Dylan Egan is a name to be remembered. A no-nonsense Gerringong back-rower, Egan enters the season in top-top shape following an impressive NRL pre-season. Look for the Steelers to flourish on the back of his physicality and competitiveness. Lyhkan King-Togia was lured to the Dragons from the regional Queensland town of Dalby. Listed to join next season’s NRL training squad, the livewire half is expected to light up the competition with a healthy mix of skill and pace. Monster prop Jett Lui has excelled during his debut NRL pre-season. With a dominating physical presence and professionalism, the Leeton junior is tipped to climb the Dragons ranks.

Surprise packet: Already destined for higher honours, Kyan Hjaltason is a crafty and scheming dummy half who asks plenty of questions around the ruck. A genuine surprise packet, the darting hooker will be one to keep an eye on as the Steelers’ big men march up-field.

Why they will be competitive: It’s the first year Russell has worked with these boys, but it’s been an impressive pre-season and he is liking to look of his squad in the trials so far. Russell believes his team has a high footy IQ, and believes they’ll question some teams going forward with the style of footy they play. They want to be as competitive as possible and exceed the benchmark ladder position they set last year.

Last season: 5th (Eliminated finals Wk 1)

Squad: Viliami Amone, Ethan Cliff, Dylan Egan, Taj Ford, Kane Graham, Jacob Haeata, Te Umuariki Heremia-Tukere, Kyan Hjaltason, Neasan Jha-Langley, Lyhkan King-Togia, Isaac Laughton, Callum Leikvoll, Jett Liu, Campbell Lyons, Zak Maarbani, Toby Miller, Ramses Munro, Seth Pearman, Wesley Pring, Jack Quine, Campbell Rubie, Toby Rumble, Bailey Sassall, Judd Stevenson, Hamish Stewart, Darnell Te Ahuru, Vaenuku Vatuvei, Ashton Ward, James Walsh.

Loko Tonga (right) will play for the Dragons this year. Picture: John Gass
Loko Tonga (right) will play for the Dragons this year. Picture: John Gass

ST GEORGE DRAGONS

Captain: TBA

Coach: Willie Talau

Players to watch: Loko Tonga is a towering prop who starred for Ipswich State High School in last year’s National Championships. Already turning heads since arriving at Kogarah, the powerful forward is a born leader with endurance and a destructive carry.

Nick Tsougranis is a strong and aggressive backrower from Arncliffe Scots juniors. Always a handful on the edge, he has already progressed through to Jersey Flegg and is destined for higher honours.

Corey Ackers is an energetic foot-to-the-floor explosive ball carrier. Capable in the back-row or lock, the Arncliffe Scots product is poised to join the Dragons NRL training squad in the coming seasons.

Surprise packet: In a squad blessed with potent forward stocks, Carlos Pauli is a new hardworking recruit who is expected to create havoc with his dynamic charges.

Why they will be competitive: With former Kiwi and Samoan international Willie Talau coming on board as coach, you can be sure that St George will always be up for the battle, irrespective of their opponents reputations.

Last season: 14th

NSW representative Chevy Stewart joins the Raiders in 2023. Picture: Zak Simmonds
NSW representative Chevy Stewart joins the Raiders in 2023. Picture: Zak Simmonds

CANBERRA RAIDERS

Captain: TBA

Coach: Peter Marrapodi

Players to watch: Gun fullback Chevy Stewart arrives in Canberra after a standout year for Cronulla in last season’s Harold Matthews competition. Fit and firing after completing his pre-season training with the NRL squad, the speedster will provide plenty of flare out wide and havoc through centrefield with his deadly anticipation.

The younger brother of Canberra NRL prop Ata Mariota, Niu is an impact player fast tracking his own path to higher honours. One of the bigger front-rowers in the competition, Mariota’s fitness has risen to another level after several disrupted pre-seasons.

Surprise packet: Hunter recruit Jake Clydesdale is the brother of former Newcastle and Canberra hooker Adam, and it’s where the similarities end. A front-row powerhouse, Jake is a country kid with a great attitude who coach Peter Marrapodi expects will surprise many with his impact up the middle.

Why they will be competitive: With several key signings joining the best of last year’s Harold Matthews semi final combination, the Raiders are expected to be a force. Marrapodi sees his squad’s fitness and hard working values as a point of difference, and believes he has the halves required to exploit the team’s inevitable go-forward.

Last season: 9th

Squad list: Chevy Stewart, Eddie Tiana, Elvis Nauer-Wood, Ethan Alaia, Jack Anderson, Jack Clutterbuck, Jack Piccirilli, Jacob Iosefa, Jake Clydesdale, Jalen Afasamaga, Jaxen Yow, Jaxon Lavender, Jayden Wolfe, Joe Roddy, Jordan Chapman, Keahn Skipps, Lekani Mpaso, Mark Tuialii, Niu Mariota, Noah Martin, Owen Hromow, Owen Pattie, Ryan Woolley, Samuel Gash, Siamani Leuluai, Tahrell Feavai, Trent Jefferey, Vena Patuki-Case, Xavier Cacciotti

Lawson Cotter training for Cronulla-Sutherland Sharks ahead of the 2023 NSW SG Ball Cup. Picture: Contributed
Lawson Cotter training for Cronulla-Sutherland Sharks ahead of the 2023 NSW SG Ball Cup. Picture: Contributed

CRONULLA-SUTHERLAND SHARKS

Captain: Lawson Cotter

Coach: David Howlett

Players to watch: Lawson Cotter and Lachlan Crossle are both local junior league players with strong running games. Cotter is an edge back row, and has been highlighted by academy and talent manager Glenn Brailey as an exciting prospect. Meanwhile, front rower Crossle is known for his fitness and hard work on the park. Both players got a taste of SG Ball level last year and will bring needed experience to the side.

Why they will be competitive: Officials have assembled what they believe are strong squads, with a good combination of local talent and positional-specific recruited players. With a bit of luck with injuries, they’re aiming for progression in 2023. Players graduating from a grand final appearance in last year’s Harold Matthews Cup will push their claims of a finals appearance.

Last season: 7th

Squad: Jett Forbes, Osca Catton, Talanoa Penitani, Jacob Taulani, Richard Whalebone, Dylan Christensen, Bryce Sait, Lachlan Crossle, Taj Bailey, Felix Faatili, Lawson Cotter, Luke Raymond, Samuel McCulloc, Junior Taupau, Cruiz Devine, Zane Watson, Riley Lester, Blake Woodger, Jai Davies

Suliasi Prescott of the Melbourne Storm. Picture: Penny McCredie
Suliasi Prescott of the Melbourne Storm. Picture: Penny McCredie

MELBOURNE STORM

Captain: Josiah-Ekkehard Neli

Coach: Jason Warr

Players to watch: “Lock Josiah-Ekkehard Neli and front rower Zayvian Langkilde-Fale both finished last year playing some Jersey Flegg. Josiah is a really willing player, he’s aggressive and plays well and truly above his weight. Zayvian is a strong ball carrier and does all the right things in defence. Suliasi Prescott has spent the pre-season with the NRL development ad is an elusive dummy half coming back after last year.”

Surprise packet: “Young centre Siulagi Pio has got a great frame on him and brings a great attitude to the club. We’re expecting some big things from him.”

Why they will be competitive: “This is the best pre-season we’ve ever had. There’s been interruptions the last couple of years but none this time. The boys have been training really well and are looking to put their best foot forward. 75 per cent are top age players, whereas in previous years we’ve had to rely on bottom age to come through. It’s a good platform having a season under their belts which helps with cohesion.”

Last season: 15th

Squad: Bishop Walker, Clayton Tapelu, Daniel Boe, Dickie Terepo, Edward Stowers, Ethan Van Gelderen, Hugo Peel, Ioane Lui, James Finau, Josiah Moreli Alama, Kobi Heurea, Kristian Tornatore, Levi Osei, Leviticus Amiatu, Matthew Logopati, Muao Kaisala, Nelson Solo, Nisifolo Fauonuku, Philip Telea, Reece Winston, Rhylis Hohepa, River Richards, Rua Ropoama, Semisi Liu, Siulagi Pio, Suli Pole, Vincent Fifita

Elijah Mataale. Picture: Adam Yip
Elijah Mataale. Picture: Adam Yip

BALMAIN TIGERS

Captains: Josh Feledy and Tony Sukkar

Coach: Gaven Sheehan

Players to watch: “The name on everyone’s mouth is Josh Feledy. He transferred from Manly to the Wests Tigers. He’s been training with the NRL squad in the pre-season and we might see him in the first few rounds (of SG Ball). Another is a local Tony Sukkar who is a forward and a very likely prospect coming back into SG Ball. He’s a powerful player with a lot of maturity. He’s been training in the NRL squad along with Oliver Lawry. He’s a big unit at over six foot tall, and has great skills and is a strong half.”

Surprise packet: “I had a big wrap on this player from last year but unfortunately he got injured in the trials. Elijah Mataale has come back 5kg fitter and trimmer. He looks a great prospect. He’s a middle front rower. Another is John Ibrahim who looks great as a running lock.”

Why they will be competitive: “If you look at both teams last year, not a lot of people gave us a hope in SG Ball and we finished only one point out of second. What I see in this group is balance across the field. We’ve got some good forwards, good backs and some key players in those positions. You look at Wests and a few others that will be strong, we’ll likely sit under the radar. We’ll continue to build nicely and there’s no real weaknesses across the field. Our top 18-20 players look strong.”

Last season: 3rd (eliminated Finals Wk 1)

Squad: Lipina Ata, Lachlan Broedlow, Levi Conti, Jonas Cook, Bryson Demanuelle, Kian Edmed, Jesse Eljuga, Josh Feledy, Michael Feledy, Aiden Harb, Johnny Ibrahim, Cameron Kanaan, Hosea Kedzlie, Will Kennedy, Keenan Lawandos, Oliver Lawry, Lotu Lavilavi, Zaid Lehn, Jackson Lill, William Malloy, Elijah Mataale, Billy McNickle, Adam Mehrez, Brendan Naicori, Charlie O’kane, Velangi Otahaha, Joe Schmitzer, Jekope Sovau, Gabe Stuart, Tony Sukkar, Jordan Tut Chapman, Kaisara Tuimauga, Wade Zreika

Kit Laulili’i. Picture: Richard Dobson
Kit Laulili’i. Picture: Richard Dobson

WESTERN SUBURBS MAGPIES

Captain: Kit Laulili’i

Coach: Joey Saukuru

Players to watch: “We’ve had three training at the top level. Kit Laulili’i is a ball-playing lock and brings real leadership to the team He’s a year young for SG Ball but is very mature minded and leads from the front. Zac Clarke is an edge back rower who can also play at the six. Tallyn De Silva is a classy nine that gets out and runs. The club has managed to lock him down which is good for his development, we rate him really highly.”

Surprise packet: “Heath Mason is a good, running half and a really nice kid. He was in the Emerging Blues over the summer and went into camp with them. Heath was part of the Harold Matts team last year that went undefeated last year and is a St Greg’s product who trains hard and is really aggressive.”

Why they will be competitive: “In last year’s SG Ball we had 11 year youngs and nine of them have stayed on with two moved on to other clubs. Plus we have the young guys coming up from Harold Matts so we have a decent side of local talent. There’s about 95 per cent that are locals, sprinkled in with Australian Schoolboys player Chris Faagutu (from Queensland), I think we can give it a really good shake.”

Last season: 12th

Squad: Brycen Anae-Roberts, Teancum Brown, Lachlan Bush, Zakauri Clarke, Tajh Colquhoun, William Craig, Tallyn Da Silva, Christopher Faagutu, Sosefo Finau, Lachlan Galvin, Tino Tavana, Luke Keppie, Kit Laulili’i, Jeremiah Leatigaga, Ofele Lene, Raymond Lole, Heath Mason, Jordan Miller, Thomas Pati, Elijah Pettit-Young, Heith Pritchard, Solomone Saukuru, Mou Taumaletila-Maulolo, Junior Taungatua, Masei Tavui, Harrison Valevatu, Daniel Waqa

Originally published as SG Ball Cup season preview: Every club profiled ahead of the 2023 NSWRL junior reps season

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Original URL: https://www.couriermail.com.au/sport/sg-ball-cup-season-preview-every-club-profiled-ahead-of-the-2023-nswrl-junior-reps-season/news-story/d10b421951a754b25ef4ebc0bb0e2631