Macarthur RL season preview: Every club profiled ahead of the 2023 season
The Macarthur season gets underway on Saturday night, March 25. With a new team on board and plenty of player changes, see how all 11 teams are shaping up in our 2023 SEASON PREVIEW.
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The southwest’s premier rugby league talent are set to showcase their skills once again in the Macarthur Premiership season.
With the South West Goannas back in the top-flight, the 11-team competition will kick off on Saturday night, March 25, when the Oakdale Workers host last year’s runner-up the East Campbelltown Eagles.
Played over 18 rounds, reigning premiers the Camden Rams are once again expected to be among the frontrunners when the top five teams turn towards the finals on August 20.
NewsLocal has reached out to every club competing in this year’s competition. See how your team will fare:
CAMDEN RAMS
Captain: Brad Speechley and Mason Cerruto
Coaches: Brad Speechley and Mason Cerruto
Home ground: Kirkham Park
Major new signings: Toby Huxley (Mounties Ron Massey Cup), Jack Miller (Mounties RMC), Harrison Meredith
Departures: Josh Goulton (retired), Joseph Napoletano (retired), Corey Makelim, Kienan Tempest (Wests Tigers Jersey Flegg), Junior Taungatua (Wests SG Ball), Lindsay Munro (Parramatta Jersey Flegg)
Players to watch: Backrower Toby Huxley returns to Camden after sharpening his skills with Mounties in the Massey Cup. A noted 80-minute workhorse, he’s destined to become the pack’s spiritual leader. Another from Mounties, Jack Miller is just as capable in the pack or at centre.
Hugh Prebble was a member of last year’s undefeated Camden reserve grade side. A strapping centre with pace and strong defence, he’s on track for selection in the top grade.
Surprise packet: Playmaker Harrison Meredith took a break from the game last year. Still in his early 20s, the former Wests SG Ball skipper and junior Ram promises plenty once he regains his magic touch.
Why they will be competitive: After last season’s cleansweep, the Rams could become victims of their own success. With the departure of several aspiring reserve grade stars alongside a number of top grade regulars, the Rams’ ability to maintain top-billing over 18 rounds will be tested.
Although with last season’s Macarthur first grade player of the year, Danny Fualalo, leading a premiership pack including two handy recruits, there’s still plenty to like about the Rams. Especially in a team backed by the strike power of Brad Speechley and Mason Cerruto.
Opening three rounds: The Oaks (H), South West Goannas (A), bye
Last season finish: Premiers
Number of titles (Group 6, Macarthur): 10 – 1948, 1951, 1978, 1994, 1997, 1998, 2000, 2002, 2016, 2022
CAMPBELLTOWN CITY KANGAROOS
Captain: David Fauonuku
Coach: David Fauonuku
Home ground: Fullwood Reserve
Major new signings: Jye McRae (Blacktown Workers Sea Eagles), Christian Urso, Harley Sanchez (St George Illawarra Jersey Flegg), David Fauonuku (Leichhardt Juniors)
Departures: Michael Stevens, Alex Seve, Tukaha Kyriacou (Picton), Rua Hona (Picton), Nicholas Soloa Toomata (Picton)
Players to watch: Signed to replace outgoing skipper Michael Stevens, Jye McRae is a quality hooker from the NSW Cup known for controlling the game’s tempo. Chris Williamson backs up for a 15th season, where the City stalwart’s threatening lines in attack and reliable defence will once again prove invaluable.
Former Canterbury junior rep Christian Urso returns to Campbelltown following several seasons off. A halfback, Urso will fill the boots vacated by Alex Seve. Harley Sanchez is a tough middle forward who brings a formidable work ethic after spending last season with St George Illawarra’s Jersey Flegg side.
Surprise packet: Tyrone Tsagalias is a promising 18-year-old local talent destined for a shot in the top grade. Just as comfortable at fullback or halfback, the dedicated speedster is committed to improving his craft.
Why they will be competitive: After a six-year absence, David Fauonuku returns to fill the captain-coach role vacated by Stevens. With a host of big name departures, Fauonuku will lean on the experienced duo of Shannon Gallant and Williamson to help fine tune a line-up expected to include 12-13 new faces. Scheduled to face heavyweights Picton and East Campbelltown in the opening fortnight, City’s new combination will be under pressure to find their groove.
Opening three rounds: Picton (A), East Campbelltown (A), Campbelltown Collegians (H)
Last season finish: 3rd
Number of titles (Group 6, Macarthur): 11 – 1946, 1949, 1969, 1970, 1971, 1973, 1974, 1975, 1980, 1983, 2017
CAMPBELLTOWN COLLEGIANS
Captain: TBA
Coach: Glen Debono
Home ground: Bradbury Oval
Major new signings: Netane Masima (Wests RMC), Samuel Kimi-ioani (Moorebank Rams), Jaycob Oloaga (Moorebank Rams)
Players to watch: A local junior, Netane Masima returns from the Massey Cup after taking part in last year’s Fiji World Cup campaign. A halfback with good foresight, Netane’s experience and leadership will perfectly compliment Collegians’ young squad.
Another local, hard working backrower Samuel Kimi-ioani returns after spending last season with the Moorebank Rams. A damaging runner with ball in hand, his great work ethic promises to harden Collies’ edge defence.
Middle forward Jaycob Oloaga also returns home after a stint in the Sydney Shield with Moorebank. Known for tough defence and a high workrate, Oloaga’s signing will provide the senior forwards plenty of support.
Coach Glen Debono is buoyed by the new signings and believes they’ll combine to bring out the best in the club’s three returning veterans, Aaron Tearki-Varu, Raka Poaru and Alefelio Moata’ane.
Surprise packet: Asked to name a surprise packet, Debono highlighted Tukimaka ‘Mucka’ Fuapau, Norwin Latu andAJ Afimilona as three unknowns capable of stamping their own footprint in 2023.
Why they will be competitive: Coming off a disappointing 2022 where they finished with the wooden spoon, Collegians have done well over the summer to build a core of well credentialed talent. How they gel remains the big unknown, and like several other fresh faced combinations in the competition, they’re bound to cause their fair share of surprises.
Opening three rounds: Narellan (A), Oakdale (H), Campbelltown City (A)
Last season finish: 9th
Number of titles (Group 6, Macarthur): None
EAST CAMPBELLTOWN EAGLES
Captain: TBA
Coach: Richard Barnes
Home ground: Waminda Oval
Major new signings: Logan Muir (Wests RMC)
Departures: Johnny Da Silva (retired), Bryce Wilson (Bulldogs Jersey Flegg), Tevita Petelo (Storm Jersey Flegg)
Players to watch: The Smith brothers offer plenty of grunt. There’s Jurrado the ball playing prop and Felix, a noted hole runner and hard hitter on the right edge.
Regular playmaker Brett Lahey brings plenty of big game experience, and with club veteran Johnny Da Silva stepping aside, he’s a chance to join the engine room as a ball-playing forward.
At 19, Abiarthur Tuilaepa is poised to call the right centre position his own, and is one of a handful of young Eagles ready to make a name for themselves.
Surprise packet: Dominick Tutunoa returns after an injury plagued 2022. With a rugby union background, his utility value shouldn’t be underestimated.
Why they will be competitive: Following a decade-long absence from local competition, last season’s grand final defeat saw East Campbelltown finish just one game shy of a miracle return. With several key departures in the spine and no major signings to date, East Campbelltown’s charge towards the finals is once again expected to intensify mid-season with the addition of several NSWRL junior reps.
Opening three rounds: Oakdale (A), Campbelltown City (H), Picton (A)
Last season finish: Runners-up
Number of titles (Group 6, Macarthur): One – 2012
MITTAGONG LIONS
Captain: James Grehan
Coach: James Grehan
Home ground: Mittagong Sports Ground
Major new signings: Kieran Rankmore (Shellharbour Stingrays), Blake Barbuto (Brisbane Tigers), Troy Martin (Nowra Warriors), Nick Eccleston, Liam Cassidy
Departures: Kieren Moss (Group 7)
Players to watch: At 37, former NRL journeyman Bryson Goodwin returns to the Southern Highlands and is expected to suit up at either centre or fullback.
Upfront, no nonsense prop Troy Martin can be relied upon for a quick play-the-ball, while fellow bookend Ben Arandt returns after cleaning up the club’s major awards last season.
Still only 22, hooker Blake Barbuto joins the Lions from Queensland Cup side Brisbane Tigers. Raw-boned lock Kieran Rankmore always gives 100 per cent, and is a key signing from the south coast following an impressive 2022 that included selection in the victorious Country representative side.
Surprise packet: Captain-coach James Grehan singled out halfback Thomas Maloney as one to blossom in 2023. With a ton of skills and a big voice, Grehan believes the experience of last year combined with extra guidance will take his game to another level.
Why they will be competitive: On their day, Mittagong matched it with the competition’s best last year but lacked the depth to cover the absence of several big names. Now with a more balanced squad, the combination of rising talent and hardened regulars has the Lions primed for a consistent season.
Opening three rounds: South West Goannas (H), bye, Narellan (H)
Last season finish: 8th
Number of titles (Group 6, Macarthur): 10 – 1937, 1945, 1959, 1962, 1963, 1964, 1967, 1988, 1991, 1995
NARELLAN JETS
Captain: Levi Dodd
Coach: Levi Dodd
Home ground: Narellan Sports Ground
Major new signings: Levi Dodd (The Oaks), Eddie Faalua, Tala Mapesone, Shane Kiel, Josiah Tamasi (ex RMC and Sydney Shield), Zakauri Clarke (Wests SG Ball)
Departures: Jacob McKinnon (Oakdale)
Players to watch: The well travelled and well respected Levi Dodd arrives from The Oaks to guide the Jets’ rebuild. A highly skilled playmaker, he could spend time down back in the No.1 jersey while he finds his bearings.
Rising half Tyreece Rea-Milford is just as capable directing traffic from five-eighth or at No.7. Reads the game well, and will be looked upon to spark Narellan’s attack.
Eddie Faalua brings the power to the Jets’ middle. A big forward with NSW Cup experience, he offers plenty of clout in both attack and defence.
Surprise packet: Kayden Jones-Moore is an up-and-coming hooker set to cause waves at the Jets. Still only 17, the Port Macquarie junior could start the season in the under-18s, but with plenty of pace and smarts, the noted fitness freak could force his way into Narellan’s best 17.
Why they will be competitive: After a difficult 2022, Narellan return to the top grade largely as an unknown quantity. But with an array of top-notch talent, with settled combinations they promise a few upsets.
Opening three rounds: Campbelltown Collegians (H), Thirlmere (A), Mittagong (A)
Last season finish: N/A
Number of titles (Group 6, Macarthur): Two – 1996, 2004
OAKDALE WORKERS
Captain: Kyle Fraser
Coach: Kyle Fraser
Home ground: Sid Sharpe Memorial Oval
Major new signings: Cleveland McGhie (Ryde Eastwood), Jacob McKinnon (Narellan), Bailey Steadman (South West Goannas)
Departures: Mitchell Brasington (The Oaks), Matthew Brasington
Players to watch: The departure of the Brasington brothers leaves a gaping void in the halves, but with Bailey Steadman arriving to partner brother Jake, Oakdale’s creative genius continues to be a family affair.
After spending the majority of 2022 at fullback, Jake Steadman is poised to unlock his underrated ball skills from the front line. While Bailey, the skipper and half in last year’s South West premiership, will be given a chance to shine from either fullback or in the No.6 jersey.
Workaholic prop Michael Bullock returns for another season, while towering winger Hamish Oxley’s high workrate at both ends of the park will be a welcome addition following an injury ravaged 2022.
Surprise packet: Incoming captain-coach Kyle Fraser is delighted with the signing of classy backrower Cleveland McGhie.Tall and athletic, the 27-year-old brings a wealth of experience from the Massey Cup and his early days in the Canterbury and Canberra pathways.
Why they will be competitive: Last season a patched up Oakdale went within a blade of grass of advancing to the second week of the finals. Now, with a host of returning talent alongside several new faces, Fraser believes the club’s depth and upfront grunt has it ready to mix it with the best in the competition.
Opening three rounds: East Campbelltown (H), Campbelltown Collegians (A), Thirlmere (H)
Last season finish: 4th
Number of titles (Group 6, Macarthur): Two – 1993, 2011
THE OAKS TIGERS
Captain: Mitchell Brasington
Coach: Mitchell Brasington
Home ground: Dudley Chesham Sports Ground
Major new signings: Mitchell Brasington (Oakdale), Daniel Payne (Picton)
Departures: Levi Dodd (Narellan), Cooper Smith (Canterbury - Flegg)
Players to watch: An imposing front-rower with a big engine, Evrett Vaurasi possesses a strong all-round game and will once again look to inspire the Tigers pack.
Mitchell Brasington returns from Oakdale and alongside star Picton recruit Daniel Payne, the playmaking duo are set to become a real headache for opposition teams.
Surprise packet: Following an injury disrupted 2022, fullback Daniel Smith’s explosive footwork in combination with Payne – who scored 16 tries for the Magpies last year – is bound to cause havoc.
Why they will be competitive: They’re not the biggest side going around, but with key recruits Brasington and Payne directing the ship, you can bet the Tigers will be entertaining. A strong reserve grade side ensures there’s plenty of depth and with a strong camaraderie from under-18s to first grade, the Tigers will compete on a united front.
Opening three rounds: Camden (A), Picton (H), South West Goannas (H)
Last season finish: 7th
Number of titles (Group 6, Macarthur): Three – 1976, 1977, 1992
PICTON MAGPIES
Captain: TBA
Coach: Jake Tonitto
Home ground: Victoria Park
Major new signings: Ihaia Kohunui (Avondale), Tukaha Kyriacou (Campbelltown City), Rua Hona (Campbelltown City), Alec Susino (Penrith NSW Cup), Nicholas Soloa Toomata (Campbelltown City), Jarrod Brackenhofer (Penrith NSW Cup)
Departures: Daniel Payne (The Oaks), Tony Williams (South West Goannas), Tony Satini (St Mary’s)
Players to watch: Alec Susino’s signing follows the high profile departure of Tony ‘T-Rex’ Williams. A strong and resilient middle forward, Susino played 18 NSW Cup games for last year’s premiership winning Panthers, and capped off a fine year with World Cup selection for Italy.
Another Penrith recruit, the well travelled Jarrod Brackenhofer replaces The Oaks bound Daniel Payne. A quality No.6, the 29-year-old is equally capable at dummy-half or as a loose forward.
Diminutive winger Harrison Foster backs up again after topping the try scorers’ list with 20 last season. A genuine crowd pleaser, the lively speedster only needs half a chance to lift fans out of their seats.
Surprise packet: Campbelltown City recruit Rua Hona should start at centre for the Magpies. With quick feet and acceleration off the mark, the former Wests Harold Matts half brings versatility and experience beyond his 21 years.
Why they will be competitive: Despite several key departures, astute recruitment arguably has Picton better placed than last season. With a handful of battle hardened champions including Anthony Provost, Tim Dengate and Matt White, the Magpies still maintain the nucleus of a formidable combination in a season where the club will field an under-18s team for the first time in three seasons.
Opening three rounds: Campbelltown City (H), The Oaks (A), East Campbelltown (H)
Last season finish: 5th
Number of titles (Group 6, Macarthur): 13 – 1935, 1966, 1981, 1985, 1986, 1987, 1999, 2005, 2009, 2013, 2014, 2015, 2018
THIRLMERE-TAHMOOR ROOSTERS
Captain: Kye Madden
Coach: Kye Madden and Darren McLeod
Home ground: Thirlmere Sports Ground
Major new signings: Hayden Sutton (St Marys), Vincent Leuluai, Curtis Scott (re-signed), Blake Ferguson (Leigh)
Players to watch: Damaging prop Vincent Leuluai returns to Thirlmere after missing the previous two seasons. Having already played in the NRL, the 27-year-old will be one to watch once he gets several games under his belt.
Since strutting his stuff in the junior reps with Illawarra and Cronulla, pacy fullback Hayden Sutton has long been on the cusp of higher honours. Still only 21, he joins Thirlmere after playing his part in last year’s successful St Mary’s Sydney Shield outfit.
Props Matthew Scott and Kye Madden are both capable of big-minutes and a quick play-the-ball. And with Mitchell New offering plenty of zip from dummy-half, big name recruits Curtis Scott and Blake Ferguson should see plenty of action.
Surprise packet: Last season’s Macarthur under-18s player of year James Lee is a genuine talent capable of covering multiple positions. Now in the mix for a top grade spot, he’s every chance to pop up on a wing or at fullback.
Why they will be competitive: Following back-to-back premierships, the Roosters’ golden era was cut short by the pandemic. Last year got off to a promising start, and even with the unexpected departure of coach Jason Ferris they only just missed the finals. Now fit and firing after a strong pre-season, Thirlmere’s healthy mix of locals and big names should translate into September action.
Opening three rounds: Bye, Narellan (H), Oakdale (A)
Last season finish: 6th
Number of titles (Group 6, Macarthur): Six – 2001, 2003, 2006, 2008, 2019, 2020
SOUTH WEST GOANNAS
Captain: Tony Williams
Coach: Tony Williams
Home ground: Onslow Oval
Major new signings: Tony Williams (Picton), Ignatius Piliae (Bankstown Bulls), Spencer Fili, William Ben (Bankstown Sports), Cyrus Lyden (Narellan Jets), Orlando Manase (Chester Hill Hornets), Ratu Manoa Satala (Kaiviti Silktails), Penaia Leveleve (Kaiviti Silktails), Jordan Strickland (ex Campbelltown City Kangaroos), Rinaldo Palumbo (London Broncos), Johnny Taulaga (Tertiary Cup, rugby union)
Departures: Bailey Steadman (Oakdale)
Players to watch: Former damaging City prop Jordan Strickland comes out of retirement to front the Goannas’ middle. While super fit Silktails hooker Penaia Leveleve is poised to strike in combination with chief organising half Johnny Taulaga.
Elusive fullback Wylleon Baker lit up the Goannas’ premiership tilt last season. Now surrounded by elite talent, the lanky and gifted mover is tipped to reach new heights. Rinaldo ‘Ronny’ Palumbo is a journeyman backrower from the London Bronco’s who made a name for himself at last year’s World Cup as the only Italian try scorer in the loss to Australia.
Surprise packet: Former Manly and St George junior rep Orlando Manase is a talented prop committed to a big season. Capable of big minutes, he’s one to keep an eye on as the season unfolds.
Why they will be competitive: With a host of new signings, the Goannas return to Macarthur’s top-flight with a mix of seasoned professionals and an unwavering exuberance of youth. Taking over the reins as captain-coach, star recruit Tony Williams will be challenged from the get-go to deliver a winning combination.
In an early season hurdle, South West’s Onslow Park headquarters will be off limits until the completion of the annual Camden Show.
Opening three rounds: Mittagong (A), Camden (H), The Oaks (A)
Last season finish: Premiers (Macarthur Open Age Gold)
Number of titles (Group 6, Macarthur): None
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