NewsBite

Updated

2024 Lisa Fiaola Cup season preview: Every club previewed ahead of U17s girls season

The Lisa Fiaola Cup brings the best U17s girls together in a historic season. We have your ultimate guide to the new season with our in-depth preview of all 13 clubs set to take part in 2024.

The 2024 Lisa Fiaola Cup season preview. Picture: James Baird/NewsLocal Sport
The 2024 Lisa Fiaola Cup season preview. Picture: James Baird/NewsLocal Sport

The Lisa Fiaola Cup season is fast approaching as the U17s girls create history in the first year as a fully fledged competition.

This will serve as the pathway towards the Tarsha Gale Cup and ultimately help to provide the next generation of NRLW stars.

Check out our full season preview of all 13 clubs set to take part in this year’s competition.

JUMP TO

Canterbury Bulldogs - Central Coast Roosters - Cronulla Sharks - Illawarra Steelers - Manly Sea Eagles - Newcastle Knights - North Sydney Bears - Parramatta Eels - Penrith Panthers - South Sydney Rabbitohs - St George Dragons - Sydney Roosters - Wests Tigers

CANTERBURY BULLDOGS

Jayde Freeman. Picture: Sean Teuma
Jayde Freeman. Picture: Sean Teuma

Captain: TBA

Coach: Michael Stuart

Why they will be competitive: Canterbury’s mission to join the NRLW steps up a cog with involvement in the inaugural Lisa Fiaola Cup competition. With the implementation of a scholarship program for talented female players from throughout NSW, QLD and New Zealand, the Bulldogs made giant strides in last season’s U19s Tarsha Gale Cup.

Now with more rising juniors on the books in the U17s, expect Canterbury to be ultra competitive and tough to handle.

Key fixtures: Parramatta (round one). Canterbury open the season on home turf against Parramatta at Belmore, and in a competition full of new faces with plenty of unknowns, both sides will be eager to make an early impression.

Trinity Tauaneai in a recent trial match for Canterbury. Picture: Sean Teuma
Trinity Tauaneai in a recent trial match for Canterbury. Picture: Sean Teuma

Players to watch: The Bulldogs promise to be entertaining in centrefield with hooker Mary-Jane Fetuao Taito leading the charge in attack and defence. Tough and energetic, she is a strong defender and has the skills to back her explosive speed from dummy half.

A popular figure on the Auckland rep scene, Giovanna Siapo Suani is a sound defender and hard running forward with a massive engine who revels in big minutes.

Another of the Bulldogs’ rising stars from New Zealand, Trinity Tauaneai is an aggressive lock forward who has already made a name for herself in Wellington. Leads from the front with a mix of power and deft ball skills, and is one of several on the books considered to have a very bright future in the game.

Squad: Abbey Fuz, Aliahana Fuimaono, Amirah Abdallah, Asha Taumoepeau-Williams, Caliche Toki-Rimene, Emily Castillo, Evelyn Roberts, Georgia Clydsdale, Giovanna Siapo Suani, Heilala Fifita, Jayde Vicki Freeman, Josinah Talatupe Filisi Tauiliili, Kiana Rebekah Tagi Vatubua, Lahnayah Daniel, Lilly-Jane Williams, Mary-Jane Fetuao Taito, Meleseini Finehika Makaui, Nazlyn Waaka-Rhind, Olivia Faith Vaalele, Paige Tauaneai, Patience Teao, Rastalia Smith, Seriah Palepale, Taylah Rachel Salapo, Tejahla-Jane Daniels-Maifea, Tenaria George, Trinity Tauaneai

CENTRAL COAST ROOSTERS

After competing for years in the regional carnival, the Central Coast Roosters will take part in the fully fledged Lisa Fiaola Cup for the first time in 2024. Picture: supplied
After competing for years in the regional carnival, the Central Coast Roosters will take part in the fully fledged Lisa Fiaola Cup for the first time in 2024. Picture: supplied

Captain: Ellie Brander

Coach: Jayme Fressard

Why they will be competitive: There are exciting times on the Central Coast, with the Roosters entering the fully fledged Lisa Fiaola Cup for the first time. After advertising an open invitation for any under-17 girls on the Coast to join the summer squad, the Roosters have picked the eyes out of the local talent by narrowing it down to a top 25. “It’s really important to give Central Coast girls and opportunity to play rep footy close to home and with their friends,” said Roosters NRLW head coach John Strange. And while it will be the first time for the team in the full competition, having participated in the regional weekend carnival last year, Strange is confident that the squad – coached by Roosters’ NRLW star and Central Coast local Jayme Fressard – has the ability to make waves. “They are a typical Central Coast rep team, where they’re very skilful, very tough and very smart footballers. Never the biggest, but very skilful, tough and smart.”

Key fixtures: Newcastle (round one). In their debut season, the Roosters kick things off in round one against local rivals the Newcastle Knights at Morry Breen Oval. It doesn’t get much better than that.

Sienna Thomas will be one to watch for the Roosters. Picture: Contributed
Sienna Thomas will be one to watch for the Roosters. Picture: Contributed

Players to watch: Putting in the hard yards in the middle, front-rower Ellie Brander will be looked upon as a leader not only of the pack but the squad in general for the Central Coast’s debut season. She’ll be well supported in the forwards by backrower Gemma Wooden, who despite playing up a year has impressed throughout the pre-season.

In the backline, fullback/centre Mia Vaotuua is a very exciting young prospect, while spine players Sienna Thomas (halfback/five-eighth) and Ella Knowles (five-eighth/fullback) are expected to provide plenty of attacking flair with the ball in hand.

“They’re both well-balanced runners, smart footballers and are very skilful,” said Strange. “There are that many good rugby league players coming out of the Central Coast.”

Squad: Emilee-Rose Hall, Mahlie Cashin, Ellie Brander, Jemma Wooden, Brandy Simpson, Molly Pittman, Mia Vaotuua, Jayda Durham, Marley Gristwod, Breanna Bigeni, Madison Massey, Meg McPhail, Sienna Thomas, Grace Dabin, Kiara Konz, Makenna Hammond, Tyra Field, Indy Rosen, Ella Knowles, Katie O’Mara, Tory Nelson-Staunton

CRONULLA SHARKS

Cronulla Sharks during a recent Lisa Fiaola Cup trial match at Redfern Oval. Picture: Sean Teuma
Cronulla Sharks during a recent Lisa Fiaola Cup trial match at Redfern Oval. Picture: Sean Teuma

Captain: TBA

Coach: Robbie Taylor

Why they will be competitive: Following a successful introduction to junior reps last season, Cronulla have welcomed the return of several key players. And with the addition of some classy recruits, the Sharks have shown in the trials that they are a side on the up.

Key fixture: Wests Tigers (round one). Cronulla open their season on home turf against a Tigers outfit they should match up well against. With the challenge of Parramatta and the Roosters to follow, a round one victory could well shape their season.

Players to watch: Jessica Stonetreet returns better for last year’s experience. The sister of Sharks NRL squad winger Sam, she is a hard running forward and intimidating defender. A De La Salle junior, last season she packed down in the second-row for NSWCCC at the under-16s Schools National Championships.

Voted among the top forwards for the Wests Tigers last season, Felila Fakalelu has transitioned to the Shire for another season of under-17s. Dependable through the middle, watch for her to ignite the Sharks attack with her powerful charges.

Cronulla’s Jessica Stonestreet returns for another season of Lisa Fiaola Cup. Picture: Sean Teuma
Cronulla’s Jessica Stonestreet returns for another season of Lisa Fiaola Cup. Picture: Sean Teuma

The daughter of former Wests Tigers goal kicking winger Joel, Milla Caine is a tough utility player returning for a second season of Fiaola Cup. A NSW CIS under-16s rep last season, she can play in the pack including in the No.9 jersey, and in the trials used her pace at fullback.

Squad: Milla Caine, Charlotte Teplicanec, Kahlea Fisher, Georgia Rake, Jade Pawson, Ashton Daley, Ella Ropata, Angela Agavale, Keely Latta, Taisha Kelly, Jessica Stonestreet, Maia Stowers, Tara Brown, Emily Teplicanec, Felila Fakalelu, Isabella McDonald, Summer Anderson, Molly Weppler, Jaeva Bentley, Chloe Shepherd, Ana Lole, Tully Rayner, Tameika Dorahy, Tashia Kelly, Manaia Cooper, Sam Stewart, Chloe Toko, Charlotte Hall

ILLAWARRA STEELERS

Koffi Brookfield of the Illawarra Steelers Lisa Fiaola Cup side. Picture: Kevin Merrigan
Koffi Brookfield of the Illawarra Steelers Lisa Fiaola Cup side. Picture: Kevin Merrigan

Captain: Tahlia O’Brien

Coach: Brad Reh

Why they will be competitive: The Steelers were untouchable in last year’s competition, undefeated in all four of their games and boasting a superstar squad.

While some have moved up to Tarsha Gale, there’s a number who return in 2024 and will look to stamp their mark on the revised competition.

“I think we’ve got a bit of a target on our backs,” Reh said.

“We’re pretty well rounded across the park. We’re definitely not a big side, compared to what I’ve seen from sides like the Eels and the Bulldogs. We probably rely more on our skill-set, hopefully that brings a bit more expansive footy.

“Finals is definitely the goal, top four for sure, we’ll be aiming as high as we can.”

Key fixtures: Parramatta (round four) is a matchup coach Reh has on his mind already, one that “we’re all excited about”.

Tahlia O'Brien scores a try for the Illawarra Steelers Lisa Fiaola Cup side during a trial. Picture: Kevin Merrigan
Tahlia O'Brien scores a try for the Illawarra Steelers Lisa Fiaola Cup side during a trial. Picture: Kevin Merrigan

Players to watch: Hooker Koffi Brookfield is an exciting prospect contracted with the Dragons, having had a bit of experience training alongside the NRLW squad last season. She’s a leader out of dummy half for the side and made the Country under-17s side a year young in 2023. Tahlia O’Brien is a versatile threat with “plenty of potential” returning for her second year of Fiaola. She’ll play in the forwards, but can also play back-row or even in the backs if needed. Tahanni Kaufusi is another to keep an eye on from the forward pack. “A bit of a sponge” according to Reh, always keen to absorb new information and improve her game, she’ll likely operate out of lock forward.

Squad: Kayliah Alvey, Halle Barrett, Koffi Brookfield, Maddy Bullock, Holly Czornobej, Alex Down, Alysha Eti, April Gray, Ella Greatz, Michala Hardy, Arley Hourn, Kate Howle, Tahanni Kaufusi, Kiara Kostovski, Jayda Lalic, Maddison Lewis, Bella Lord, Sibeal McNamara, Halle Muik, Tahlia O’Brien, Bridget Shearer, Tori Shipton, Skye Spencer, Armani Tanioria, Eliza Taylor

MANLY SEA EAGLES

Captain: Leisl Hopoate

Coach: Daniel Markham

Why they will be competitive: The squad they’ve put together features a good core of local juniors and young girls ready to take their opportunity with both hands.

Junior club combinations will play a big part in their early success as the team starts to gel, and they’ve got enough good players in the side to make their impact felt in this competition.

A good start to the season will be key for the confidence of these young girls.

Key fixture: St George (round two). They were handed a first-round bye, so the Sea Eagles will be all ready to go when they come up against the Dragons in the second round at Kogarah. It’s a good opportunity to get their season off to a winning start.

Kalolaine Brown is a Tongan junior representative. Picture: Contributed
Kalolaine Brown is a Tongan junior representative. Picture: Contributed

Players to watch:Kalolaine Brown has represented the Tonga U16s and will take her place in the centres for the Sea Eagles. She’s got the key attributes of speed and strength to cause havoc on an edge. Narraweena junior Leisl Hopoate captains the team. She will line up at fullback and the netball talent brings plenty of height.

Squad: Liesl Hopoate, Alannah Sliman, Kalolaine Brown, Ava Vaefaga, Rene Owen, Ember Joseph, Kelsey Berryman, Sonaiva Kini-Samuelu, Olivia Saley, Navara Mataipule, Georgie Lawton, Hollie Bent, Suilolo RIchter, Shayla Walker, Bronte Edwards, Azariah Taii, Paula Halaholo, Molly Shrivell

NEWCASTLE KNIGHTS

Captain: Emily McArthur

Coach: Hannah Southwell

Why they will be competitive: It will be a history-making season for the Knights’ under-17s women as they take part in the Lisa Fiaola Cup main competition for the first time after spending the last few years in the regional carnival variation of the tournament.

With the pick of the Hunter region’s top young talent, including some who played in the under-17s country carnival last year, the club has assembled an exciting squad that they think will be very competitive in its debut season.

“They’re a talented little crew made up of local players throughout our region and Group 21,” said Knights’ head of pathways Michael Dobson. “I’ve got some high hopes for them moving forward.”

Coached by NRLW superstar Hannah Southwell, the players have made good progress adapting to the demands of representative football in what is their first experience in a week-to-week rep competition.

“It’s a first pre-season for all these girls, so it’s a good introduction for them and they’re getting some good coaching,” said Dobson.

The Knights will be coached by NRLW superstar Hannah Southwell. Photo by Jenny Evans/Getty Images
The Knights will be coached by NRLW superstar Hannah Southwell. Photo by Jenny Evans/Getty Images

Key fixtures: Central Coast (round one). As the first season in the full competition proper, the Knights are raring to go for the round one clash on February 3. It just so happens to be against local rivals the Central Coast Roosters, and will be an exciting time for both clubs in what will be their first game in the competition.

Players to watch: With a name that brings plenty of joy to the ears of Knights fans, Dior O’Davis – the daughter of club legend Robbie – is a talented half who is expected to play a leading role for the side over the course the season.

In the forwards, second-rower Summer Dowell from Scone has impressed throughout the pre-season, while bottom age player Emily McArthur has been a standout wherever the club has thrown her. “She’s just an athlete. You could play her anywhere on the football field: from through the middle to the outside backs,” said Dobson.

Squad: Makenzi Nelson, Addison Tallon, Dior O’Davis, Stevie Botham, Breanna Rawlins, Maronay Smuts, Isla Hodgson, Lauren Filip, Scarlet Hagan, Brooklyn Davico, Lily Porter, Summer Dowell, Emily McArthur, Sophie Hedley, Evie Gimbert, Rubie Drake-Brockman, Evie Purukamu, Macey Cox

NORTH SYDNEY BEARS

Alyssa Pearsall of the North Sydney Bears Lisa Fiaola Cup side. Picture: James Baird
Alyssa Pearsall of the North Sydney Bears Lisa Fiaola Cup side. Picture: James Baird

Co-captains: Alyssa Pearsall and Eden Melham

Coach: Bruce Tuaimau

Why they will be competitive: While not as experienced as some teams, Tuaimau trusts in his team’s work ethic and willingness to learn to help them compete this season.

“Their hard work at training has been great,” he said.

“We’ve started off a bit slow with our trials. Having such a big squad we’ve been trying to get the combinations right. Once they’re finalised we’re hoping they will work.

“They’re really engaged as a group. With our main squad we had 30 in the catchment with a lot never playing 13-a-side league. For a lot this is their first experience of tackle in that setting.

“We’ve added 10 girls and hope their experience will get us through some tough games, and a lot of our locals are really enjoying the experience within the team.”

Key fixtures: Parramatta (round eight) and Roosters (round one). Tuaimau considers the Eels up there with the pinnacle of the competition, so will use that as a good guide. The Roosters were too strong for the Bears in a trial, so the club is looking forward to the challenge in the opening week.

Kathreen Siale will be one to watch in 2024. Picture: James Baird
Kathreen Siale will be one to watch in 2024. Picture: James Baird

Players to watch: Shenae Cassidy has been a handy pick up from North Queensland and she is an excitement machine that can fill multiple positions in the backline. She’s someone who will make her mark. Kathreen Siale is really strong with her carries and defensively really sound. She brings a strong presence on the field.

Squad: Alyssa Pearsall, Aleesha Martin, Amaya Sanchez, Annika Yasa, Chloe North, Eden Melham, Elissa Langi, Fipe Vakacavu, Freya Cairns, Hannah Weber, Jayda Yammouni, Kathreen Siale, Kayla Killick, Liana Ngatai Mauri, Maddison Bond, Madison Hazel Clarke, Marwa Fayad, Mya Francia, Mya Lloyd, Nancy Bogsio, Shenae Cassidy, Skye Morrissey, Tahira Armeda, Timeka Collins

PARRAMATTA EELS

Captain: TBA

Coach: Chris Orsini

Why they will be competitive: The Eels were the dominant force in the Lisa Fiaola Cup last season, taking down some key clubs by big margins.

Other clubs have certainly taken notice and a few have labelled them as the team to beat this season.

Conceding just four tries in as many games, a few from that squad will return this time around to build a team that will have the club very excited, as well as serving as the future NRLW talents of the Eels.

Key fixtures: Canterbury (round one) and Roosters (round five). Both of these teams were very impressive in the trials and if the Eels want to be challenging for the title, the Bulldogs and Roosters shape as two main contenders. Their opening round clash at Belmore shapes as one of the games of the weekend.

Waiaria Ellis is a promising athlete for Parramatta. Photo: Bryden Sharp
Waiaria Ellis is a promising athlete for Parramatta. Photo: Bryden Sharp

Players to watch: Danielle Seckold was a co-leading scorer in last year’s competition and the classy five-eighth will only benefit from that experience in the longer form competition. Waiaria Ellis could partner her in the halves and with a background in touch and rugby union, she has all the skills in her bag. Nikita E hits hard in defence and has been earmarked for this side since 2022 where she trained as a 15-year-old.

Squad: Aaliyah Soufan, Alaianne Toia, Alleya Scrivens, Ana Vave, Anika Penitani, Bailey Ma-Chong, Danielle Seckold, Essence Alo, Evelyn Kuwendu, Fiafia Freedom Crichton Ropati, Fontayne Tufuga, Georgia Bezzina, Jasmine Rorani, Kaylee Andrews, Khyliah Gray, Leonia Vei, Leyla Oueik, Logan Lemusu, Mere Sivo, Mitszy Cairns, Nikita E, Odesza Toia, Sharon Latapu, Shire Thocolich, Sienna Bonello, Sovita Hagedorn, Taylah Falaniko, Tia Matthews, Tiani Faiva Tulemau, Waiaria Ellis

PENRITH PANTHERS

Captain: TBA

Coach: Matthew Reid

Why they will be competitive: With a newly formed squad assembled to compete in the first competitive Lisa Fiaola Cup competition, Penrith pathways manager Lee Hopkins was hesitant to predict how the season may unfold.

But with more than 10 strong performers making the cut from last season’s local under-17s grand final between St Marys and Emu Plains, fans can expect the young Panthers to give a decent account of themselves.

Key fixture: Parramatta (round nine). It’s a long way down the track, but Penrith’s final round clash with Parramatta may well have more riding on it than western Sydney bragging rights. In a battle of the junior heavyweights, the result is sure to influence the make-up of the finals.

Jade Elford finds space for St Marys. Picture: St Marys Rugby League
Jade Elford finds space for St Marys. Picture: St Marys Rugby League

Players to watch: Educated at Hills Sports, playmaker Naioka Tuipulotu is light on her feet and the St Marys junior can bust the line from the halves of hooker.

Upfront, Jennifer Tuilagi is a hard working prop from Emu Plains. Fit and aggressive, she’s dangerous from close range and is no stranger to crossing the stripe.

Quite the athlete, Alyssa Gibbons is another from Emu Plains. Electric out of the blocks, she is tough to contain from centre or wing.

Equally dangerous is St Marys’ Jade Elford. The daughter of former Penrith and Wests Tigers premiership winner Shane, the fullback is known for her reliability on either side of the ball.

A NSWCCC rep, St Clair forward Maretta Fuimaono brings the energy to the pack. Capable of big minutes, she’s a genuine tackle-breaker and one set to thrive in the new format.

Squad: Aaliyah Womal, Alyssa Gibbons, Anita Ropati, Chava Hanna, Constance Omeli, Fatafehi Mahe, Georgie Zahra, Giavanna Leo, Hannah Ison, Isabella Papaa, Jade Elford, Jaeahna Latu, Jennifer Tuilagi, Kiah Taotofi, Maretta Fuimaono, Marleya Elekana, Matilda Vella, Meekah Viiga, Mya Muller, Naioka Tuipulotu, Natia Gallagher, Salamasina Pupualii, Savannah-June Lealaiauloto, Sienna Bruce, Summer Seymour, Tolutoluhama Fakalangi, Tyler-Eve Mair

SOUTH SYDNEY RABBITOHS

Veronica Sefo of the South Sydney Rabbitohs Lisa Fiaola Cup team. Picture: Sean Teuma
Veronica Sefo of the South Sydney Rabbitohs Lisa Fiaola Cup team. Picture: Sean Teuma

Captain: Kiara McGregor

Coach: Mick Daley

Why they will be competitive: With five or six players better for last year’s introduction to junior reps, coach Mick Daley likes what he sees.

“The returning players are bigger, stronger and wiser for last season’s experience,” he said.

“The squad now has access to more facilities and everyone is getting used to training three nights a week.”

With the assistance of Rabbitohs Harvey Norman star Patricia Raikadroka and Gary Hart, Daley believes Souths can make an impact.

“It’s an exciting squad with lots of talent and a competitive streak, now it’s up to us to get the best out of each player.”

Key fixtures: Steelers (round one) and Panthers (round two). Despite building bonds during the pre-season, there’s nothing like the questions posed by a legitimate contest. And with two difficult assignments in the opening fortnight, it won’t take Souths long to identify exactly where they rank.

Players to watch: Former fullback Arijana Zammit-Kaipo possesses electric footwork and plenty of nous to call the No.9 jumper her own. Orchestrating the attack, Kiara McGregor is a tall and athletic half with all the skills who loves to take on the line and sting the opposition in defence.

Still only 15, Victoria Loleni is blessed with a big motor and solid frame who thrives in the tough stuff upfront. Joining her in the middle is Veronica Sefo, who has impressed in the trials with her skills and leadership.

Squad: Jessamine Aloalii, Lani Anderson, Jessica Brightwell, Sophia Brightwell, Amalia Casey, April Chappell, Ella Churchill, Tahlya Dower, Kirrawahn Duckett, Catea Duff, Aliyah Gordon, Sybella Hayne, Sienna Israel, Olivia Jarrett, Hannah Kalland, Amelia-Rose Leha, Victoria Loleni, Leilani Makalio-Harris, Keilani Manu, Keisha Marsh, Lilli McGannon, Kiara McGregor, Claudia Nairn, Teaira Rehutai, Emma Rushworth, Veronica Sefo, Jaleesa Smith, Jayla Suey, Markaylah Talanoa, Kylar Vecellio, Aaliyah Zabat, Arijana Zammit-Kaipo, Josephine Zapantis

ST GEORGE DRAGONS

Alissia Misa is one to watch for the Dragons. Picture: Sean Teuma
Alissia Misa is one to watch for the Dragons. Picture: Sean Teuma

Captain: TBA

Coach: Gary Fa’afua

Why they will be competitive: It’s the first time the Dragons have fielded a team in this division, with coach Fa’afua relishing the new challenge at hand.

“I think we’ll be competitive. After the last three trials we are confident that the goals we have set are not beyond them,” Fa’afua said.

“Obviously it’s a tough competition and it’s our first time fielding a team, so hopefully the girls can find their feet early. No game is ever easy and we need to back ourselves.

“I think the girls as a new team are starting to gel, but still looking to improve on what they’ve done so far.

“We are confident of having a good crack at it and representing our district well.”

Key fixtures: None jump out at coach Fa’afua immediately, saying “it’s a tough question because all the teams look strong”. Illawarra Steelers (round seven) will provide a tasty Illawarra derby that the Dragons will undoubtedly look to emerge on top of.

Emma Warr is another exciting prospect for the ‘Red V’. Picture: Sean Teuma
Emma Warr is another exciting prospect for the ‘Red V’. Picture: Sean Teuma

Players to watch: Alissia Misa is a crafty hooker who can also easily fit into the halves. She brings a great energy to the team with her play out of dummy half and with her positivity. Mercedez Lisone-Siaea is playing front row and is one of several girls who has come to play at the club from Melbourne. She’s a strong runner with a handy offload, as well as the ability to throw the ball when needed. Emma Warr is another to watch from centre or wing. New to the game, she goes about her business quietly, but has trained hard in pre-season and showed in her last trial that despite her slender frame, she has no fear in defence and is a terrific runner.

Squad: Latisha Akuoko, Jaimee-Lea Anderson, Matilda Asplet, Cheyanne Burling, Zarli Collins, Carolina Cook, Summah Corea, Taylah El-Ters, Hannah Gray, Shelby Kohunui, Mercedez Lisone Siaea, Zaliah Lynch, Anissa Mccue, Alissia Misa, Cherish Niusere-Maiva, Amelia Phillips, Morgan Simon, Rylee Siteine, Markenzy Siumaka Vaha, Evangeline Taauso, Zena Tarabolsi, Leilani Tongi-Finau, Makayla Towerton, Vanessa Walker, Emma Warr

SYDNEY ROOSTERS

Logan Fletcher. Picture: Sean Teuma
Logan Fletcher. Picture: Sean Teuma

Captain: TBA

Coach: John Maher

Why they will be competitive: Roosters head of pathways Blake Cavallaro believes the U17s girls can continue the recent success the club has enjoyed in the underage female space through the Tarsha Gale side.

With the expansion of competitions throughout the southeast, more opportunities have been presented to give young girls in the Roosters catchment the chance to perform.

“Last year for the first time they ran a tackle competition in the Sydney Roosters area,” he said.

“Matraville Sports High took out the Katrina Fanning Cup (U14s) and there are a lot of talented girls coming through the school system.

“They compete at a good level. With the talent and skill level coming through the grades, the growth is exciting.”

Key fixture: Illawarra (round five). The Steelers set the benchmark last season and with the expansion to a full competition, playing them right in the middle of the year will show how the Roosters can compete with the big guns.

Players to watch: Anastasia Leatupue has been part of the league academy for the last couple of years. In the halves, Cavallaro rates her skills at 15 as among the best he’s seen at the age. An all-round talent who has represented the NSW Schoolgirls. Lacey Cross plays at lock-forward and has some good leadership qualities. She’s a ballplayer and will be pushing others to do their best. Logan Fletcher has come through Bondi United and plays fullback. Standing at 6-foot tall at 16, as well as slice through the line she can also slot goals from the sideline.

Squad: Jade Byrt, Lacey Cross, Jaidanah Douglass, Faith Drollet, Tyra Dymock, Logan Fletcher, Orla Graham, Cote Haroon, Madison Hemopo, Tsharnti Jerrard, Bae-Phoenix Kelly, Anastasia Leatupue, Mequynne Logan, Elouise Maher, Jaydariah Mapusua, Ayva Papalii, Samurai Pati Ah-Cheung, Evanjelika Phillips, Tehillah Prasad Molly Rennie, Irae Savea, Mila Spies, Maddie-Jean Stockman, Talea Tonga, Gracie Williams

WESTS TIGERS

Angel Schaafhausen-Mino returns for her second season of Lisa Fiaola Cup. Photo: Contributed
Angel Schaafhausen-Mino returns for her second season of Lisa Fiaola Cup. Photo: Contributed

Captain: Ellie Barnett

Coach: Scott Clark

Why they will be competitive: Coach Clark believes one of the strongest attributes of this group is their willingness to buy in.

“They’re a young group of girls that are willing to learn. Coming from different demographic areas from the inner city down to Campbelltown and bringing a group of girls together from different areas, they’ve shown an ability to learn off each other,” he said.

“We have a lot of girls that have played other sports like touch footy, Oztag, rugby union, and represented heritage sides like Tonga and Samoa.

“We brought it right back to basics this season. They’ve been willing to listen, learn and deliver it. In our first trial there was a lot of good league played.

“There’s a lot of good attributes in this side. They play a good, attacking style of footy, and if they see something, they have the confidence to back themselves.”

Key fixtures: Newcastle (round three) and Canterbury (round seven). Clark believes a road-trip to take on a tough Knights outfit early in the season will give a good indication of where they are at and what they need to build on. He expects the Bulldogs to be up among the leaders and a match late in the season will bring a finals-like intensity.

Players to watch: Ellie Barnett is a halfback with an Oztag/touch football background who is a good organiser, very skilful and has a good kicking game. Angel Schaafhausen-Mino is a middle forward who leads with her actions. She brings a lot of energy, is defensively sound and goes all game. Lucyannah Luamanu brings the team together with her communication and is a very competitive player. A second-rower who is very strong on the left edge, a good runner and can read a game very well.

Squad: Agnews (Jewel) Faaui, Alavina Tu’ifua, Aliana Fasavalu-Fa’amausili, Ana Taviliniu, Angel Schaafhausen-Mino, Annelise Hall, Elanor Ward, Ellie Barnett, Faith Masina, Hannah Maher, Hayley Firman, Ilaisaane Vunipola, Isabel Mcmenemy, Isabella James, Isabelle Fitzpatrick, Izabel Williams, Kealii-Jordan Muru, Layla Tima, Liliola Ward, Lily Hall, Lucyannah Luamanu, Lusinita Taviliniu, May Fuimaono, Mikayla Faletau, Naomi Cowley, Paige Attard, Rhiannon Bonner, Sakari Ritchie, Sienna Robertson, Talia Pele-Taula, Worship Kailea

To view the list of currently named Lisa Fiaola Cup squads, click here.

Add your comment to this story

To join the conversation, please Don't have an account? Register

Join the conversation, you are commenting as Logout

Original URL: https://www.dailytelegraph.com.au/newslocal/sport/2024-lisa-fiaola-cup-season-preview-every-club-previewed-ahead-of-u17s-girls-season/news-story/3227eb3d6ff069b7e13f7bb7771764fb