Penrith District Rugby League: Preview of every club for season 2025
Local Penrith RL kicks off this weekend as nine teams battle for the Don Feltis Cup. Discover all the key signings and departures at each club in our ultimate guide to season 2025.
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Local footy is back with the nine best A-grade teams in the Penrith region primed for this weekends opening round of the Don Feltis Cup.
In a major change, newcomers Riverstone join the race as the high-flying Emu Plains set out to claim a historic three-peat.
We’ve reached out to all the coaches for our season preview. See how each team is shaping up.
JUMP TO
Brothers - Cambridge Park - Colyton - Emu Plains - Minchinbury - Riverstone - St Clair - St Marys - Windsor
ST MARYS
Captain: John Faiumu
Coach: John Faiumu, Tama Taoho – assistant
Home ground: St Marys Leagues Stadium
Major new signings: Royvirianthy Faimanifo (Minchinbury), Josh Fraser (Glenmore Park), John Faiumu (St Marys RMC, ex-Penrith NSW Cup)
Major departures: Josh Baravilala, Xavior Vaoliko Savesi, Tyrone Glassie
Players to watch: The arrival of John Faiumu as captain-coach is expected to provide stability to what can be a revolving top-17. Will count on his extensive experience at Penrith to guide the team around the park.
Regular playmaker Malaki Malaki is set for a change of scenery in 2025. Known for his eyes up approach and strong defence, he is set for a move to lock.
Veteran backrower Josh Fraser is an astute signing from Glenmore Park. Enters round 1 following strong form in the trials and is set to become a prominent leader.
Former Minchinbury outside back Royvirianthy Faimanifo is likely to be unavailable for the opening rounds, but if the speedster can replicate last season’s form, he’s sure to score plenty of tries.
Surprise packet: Largely an unknown quantity, Fijian winger Sailosi Torovi has the potential to become a crowd favourite. Relatively new to the game, the former rugby union speedster leaves nothing in the tank with every touch.
Why they will be competitive: Last year was one to forget for St Marys in the A-grade competition. After almost finishing with the wooden spoon, the proud club has quickly moved on in a bid for a fresh start.
After representing the club last season in the Ron Massey Cup, former NSW Cup forward, John Faiumu, takes over as captain-coach.
“We have a whole new bunch of boys playing this season,” said Faiumu, who is expected to play in a variety of positions depending on the makeup of the game-day squad.
“There’s always players floating between Sydney Shield and A-grade, which adds to the challenge. I may play in the pack or slot in the halves if needed.”
In a role that includes maintaining the morale of players who drop down from Sydney Shield, the rookie coach is already off to a strong start.
“Everyone wears the same jersey regardless of grade, and we are all playing for the same club,” he said.
“Part of my job is to make sure everyone has a positive attitude, and to ensure I make myself familiar with each player.
“It’s been good so far, everyone has a positive mindset and it helps having similar systems in each grade.”
Opening round: Riverstone, The Kingsway
Last season: 8th
ST CLAIR COMETS
Captain: Tinirau Arona
Coach: Jason Pettit-Young
Home ground: Peppertree Sporting Complex
Major new signings: Kyle King (Wests Tigers Jersey Flegg), Liam Vella (Brothers SS), David Sisifa (Brothers SS), Luke Puru (Wentworthville SS), Connor Puru (ex-South Sydney pathways), Damian Richardson (Brothers RMC)
Major departures: Josh Kalati (St Marys SS), Jordan Kalati (year off), Haratio Edwards (Brothers SS), Leha Fakatava (Brothers SS), Malakai Houia (Brothers SS)
Players to watch: Backrower Kobe King and goal kicking hooker Bryson Demanuele were outstanding in 2024, and form the core of a key group of returning players.
Among the key signings, pathways half Kyle King joins brother Kobe at the Comets, where he will be joined at the scrum base by former Sydney Shield five-eighth Liam Vella.
Former Ron Massey Cup outside back Damian Richardson is another to transfer from Brothers. Equally effective at fullback and centre, he brings pace and well-rounded skills.
In the pack, backrower David Sisifa shapes as a powerful addition on the edge. While upfront, the arrival of Luke Puru from Wenty covers the departure of Josh Kalati.
Surprise packet: After spending a season away from the game, Antonio Mau is one to keep an eye on during his return to St Clair. Strong in defence, the centre has a strong carry.
Why they will be competitive: The Comets turned the corner last season, returning to the finals after they finished the regular season in third place.
The arrival of Tinirau Arona proved pivotal in the turnaround. The respected forward returns, while former assistant coach Jason Pettit-Young takes over the coaching role vacated by Ayden Pittman-Lyon.
While there’s a host of changes to the playing roster, the Comets are arguably stronger with the arrival of a broad mix of experienced talent.
“About eight players chose to move on after last season,” said Pettit-Young ahead of his first season at the helm of an A-grade side.
“Most of the boys that left are testing themselves at a higher level, which is good to see and we wish them all the best.
“We have recruited well and are keen to build on the momentum from last year. It’s a well rounded and competitive line-up, and Tinirau knows how to lift the boys to a higher level.”
Opening round: Brothers, Parker St
Last season: Semi final
EMU PLAINS
Captain: Tom Romer
Coach: Tom Romer
Home ground: Leonay Oval
Major new signings: Mitch Smith (Brothers SS), Brendon Hearne (Penrith Waratahs), Jarrod Brackenhofer (Picton Magpies)
Major departures: Sam Cookson (ADF), Ryan Jervis (Oberon)
Players to watch: With 21 four-pointers last season, elusive winger Daniel Warren topped the try scoring chart and also bagged a double in the grand final. Still recovering from a knee injury, he’s not expected to return until round 7.
Young hooker Albert Mahe proved a valuable addition last season and shared his time between U19s and first grade. Durable around the ruck, he’s had a massive pre-season and looks primed for another big year.
In a major threat to opposition teams, scheming halves Isaac Thompson and Cameron Williams are once again expected to keep the scoreboard ticking over.
In the pack, energetic backrower Alex Myles is a weapon on the edge, while out wide, imposing centre Greg Alderson has promised the coach one more season.
Former Brothers prop Mitch Smith is a major addition. Uncompromising, he adds another layer to an already distinguished front six.
Surprise packet: With the departure of two-time premiership-winning backrower Sam Cookson, Brendon Hearne arrives as a capable replacement. Aggressive both with and without the ball, he’s a proven winner, having helped The Oaks secure a reserve grade title in the Macarthur competition two years ago.
Why they will be competitive: After coaching Emu Plains to back-to-back titles for the first time in the club’s history, Darren Bell hands over the reins to durable skipper Tom Romer, who steps up as captain-coach.
Boasting the majority of the squad that edged out Colyton in a thrilling decider last September, Romer takes charge of a team perfectly poised to achieve a miraculous three-peat.
“It’s a great group, it’s mostly local boys who just want to get out and play for each other,” said Romer.
“We’ve only lost a couple from last year. Backrower Sam Cookson has joined the army and prop Ryan Jervis has returned home to Oberon.
“With our new recruits, I still think we’re in pretty good shape. Quite a few of us remember the days when the club used to struggle, so the motivation is always there to make sure we don’t slip up.”
Opening round: Cambridge Park, Allsopp Patterson Oval
Last season: Premiers
CAMBRIDGE PARK
Captain: Lachlan Crossley
Coach: Kodah Karipa
Home ground: Allsopp Patterson Oval
Major new signings: John Hanson (Brothers), Blake Mindipi (Wagga Brothers), Patrick Niko, Junior Kusitasu, Harry Hahn
Major departures: Will Broadhead (retired), Cameron Keene (Wentworthville SS), Jake Gibbons (retired), Laurie Gibbons, Shannon Mackey, Reece Lipowicz, Jack Mallet
Players to watch: Barnstorming five-eighth Marli Sini finished last season in stunning form, almost carrying the team to the semi-finals. He enters the new season eager to complete unfinished business.
A weapon on the edge, Jordan Cardona got better with every outing last season. A big and mobile backrower, he can expect to see plenty of action.
Starting hooker Corey Simpson is known for his craftiness around the ruck and his impressive footy IQ.
Former Brothers lock John Hanson fills the void left by Will Broadhead. In the halves, new recruit Harry Hahn has mixed with the best in Papua New Guinea, while Patrick Niko adds experience on the wing.
Of the up-and-comers, teenage backrower Junior Kusitasu is one to keep an eye on in his first season of senior competition.
Surprise packet: A former PNG rugby sevens international, Blake Mindipi has all the skills to become a cult hero at Cambridge Park. Explosive in the No.1 jersey, he can pick apart the best defence and kick goals too.
Why they will be competitive: They were hot and cold last year, but when they were on, Cambridge Park showed they can match it with anyone.
After squeaking into the finals, they gave St Clair a massive fright before their season ended in a thrilling quarter-final at Federation Forest.
Now, after a swag of changes in the off-season, incoming coach Kodah Karipa takes over a squad full of fresh recruits and a handful of proven performers.
“Ten of our younger players from last season have headed to Europe, but we could see some back in the squad during the closing rounds,” said Karipa, who after two seasons as trainer steps up to replace former coach Aaron Mallet.
“It’s pretty much a brand new team this season. We’ve picked up five players with a background in PNG who have come for a run this season.
“There’s some exciting talent among them. Most were part of the side that took out Kokomos Nines last September in Queensland.”
The retirement of Will Broadhead sees hardworking middle Lachlan Crossley take over as captain. Now in his fourth season, the new skipper takes over a squad brimming with confidence.
“After a strong finish last season, we’re excited about this year,” said Karipa.
“We’ve fielded young teams over the past couple of seasons, but with the new recruits we now have experience across the park and will be pushing to finish in the top three.”
Opening round: Emu Plains, Allsopp Patterson Oval
Last season: Quarter final
RIVERSTONE RAZORBACKS
Captain: Geordi Morris
Coach: Sione Pousini
Home ground: Basil Andrews Playing Fields
Major new signings: Isaac Guba (Western Clydesdales Q Cup), Connor Moore (Glenmore Park), Emad Saad (ex-Minchinbury)
Major departures: Sione Pousini (retired), Rhys Sciglitano (Hills Bulls RMC), Travis Milner (Hills Bulls RMC)
Players to watch: Diminutive playmaker Emad Saad might be the lightest in the Don Feltis Cup, but don’t be fooled. With a background in OzTag and no self preservation in defence, he’s sure to entertain.
Isaac Guba made a name for himself coming through the Roosters pathways. A robust, tackle-breaking centre he spent last season in the Queensland Cup.
Brumbies recruit Connor Moore slots in at hooker. Blessed with all-round skills, his vision and timing to go it alone are standout qualities.
Surprise packet: Electric fullback Sunny Riley transitions to A-grade after leading the Razorbacks to last year’s U19s Division 2 title. Lean and agile, he has an uncanny knack for popping up in the backfield.
Why they will be competitive: Last year the Razorbacks fell one game short of reaching the Division 2 grand final. However, according to new coach and recently retired backrower Sione Pousini, the timing of the club’s elevation makes sense.
“The club has been talking about it for a while, and it makes sense in our 110th season,” said Pousini.
“There’s a long history of success in Div-2, and there’s good numbers and self-belief among the group.
“It’s an exciting time for the club, and we are seeing lots of former players return and put their hands up to play in the top grade. We had 65 attend the pre-season across all grades, and we’ll have to cut that back to 50 before round 1.”
Excited to be tested by the rise in standard, Pousini likes how the squad is shaping up.
“We’ll field a young side in A-grade, the average age will be 21,” he said.
“We are a tight-knit community group focused on progressing our U19s to the senior grades.
“Five to six A-graders are returning from last season and we’ve picked up several quality recruits.”
Opening round: St Marys, The Kingsway
Last season: Barry Nicol Shield – prelim final
WINDSOR WOLVES
Captain: Eton Lindsay
Coach: Dennis Curry, Col Murphy – assistant
Home ground: Windsor Sports Ground
Major new signings: Sam Hollis (ex-RMC), Inoke Vunipola (ex-Group 9, NSW Cup), Campbell Byrd (Glenmore Park), Ben Attard (returns)
Major departures: Connor Mason (St Marys RMC), Troy Dargin (South West Goannas), Cohen Benson (Balmain SG Ball), Tyrone Shelley (retired)
Players to watch: Sam Hollis, a major signing, returns after several years away from the game. May need a few rounds to find his feet, but when at full throttle, the tireless prop’s efforts won’t go unnoticed.
In a Wolves pack loaded with class and power, the arrival of Inoke Vunipola adds another dimension. A natural intimidator, he’ll be counted on to set the standard upfront.
No one works harder for Windsor than backrower Eton Lindsay, but Aidan Ryan isn’t far behind. A terrier in attack and defence, his utility value across the park is second to none.
When it comes to lighting it up, backline stars Tori and Riki Willie are never short of tricks.
Surprise packet: One of the stars in Windsor’s 2023 U19s team, Ben Attard returns after a season on the sidelines. Super quick, the rising halfback is likely to fill the boots vacated by Cohen Benson.
Why they will be competitive: A regular in the Wolves’ mix, Dennis Curry takes over as head coach in his fourth season at Windsor.
The loss of chief organisers Connor Mason and Tyrone Shelley are significant, but Curry is confident the squad has all bases covered.
“It’s a strong squad, there’s a good mix of youth and experience,” said Curry, who was assistant to Troy Dargin during last season’s surprise preliminary final loss to Colyton.
“There’s a lot more speed than previous years and we have good depth. A lot of the players are involved in sponsoring the club at various levels, and there is a real purpose among the group.
“The boys are still burning about the finish to last season, and a big part of my job is to make sure they’re mentally ready when they take the field every week.”
Opening round: Colyton, Windsor Sporting Complex
Last season: Prelim final
BROTHERS
Captain: TBA
Coaches: Damien Lane, Nikolas Savage
Home ground: Parker Street Reserve
Major new signings: PJ Tevaga (Berkeley Vale), Raymond Mikaele (Ryde-Eastwood SS), David Faaeteete (Wentworthville SS 2023), Eddie Wulf (rugby union)
Major departures: Harrison Reid-Porter (Colyton), John Hanson (Cambridge Park), Brendan Randall (Emu Plains), Braidan Goodchild (Hills Bulls RMC)
Players to watch:Siaosi Huihui turned heads midway through last season. Tall and explosive, the long striding former Tongan rugby international showcased his sevens skills, scoring seven tries in limited appearances. Still learning the game, he’s only going to get better.
Brothers might have lost some upfront grunt, but they won’t be lacking size with the arrival of Eddie Wulf. A genuine skyscraper, the mobile lock brings experience and leadership following stints in the Manly pathways and Shute Shield rugby.
Well travelled utility forward PJ Tevaga returns to Brothers after spending last season on the Central Coast. Equally effective at lock or hooker, his rise through the ranks from the Penrith pathways includes time in Sydney Shield.
Of the young brigade, Cooper Bonney and centre Ejaya Agbere have been earmarked to step up from under-19s.
Surprise packet: Nudging two metres, David Faaeteete is difficult to miss. Played for Wenty a couple of seasons ago and his size and strength are sure to be a valuable addition.
Why they will be competitive: After a slow start last season, Brothers turned the corner and charged into the finals in fourth spot. While they’ve lost several big names, co-coach Damien Lane is confident of a strong showing in 2025.
“Some players have left and quite a few have moved to Sydney Shield, but we’ll still field a pretty strong side,” said Lane.
“Nathan Jones and Jaxon Savage are among a core of key players returning from last year and we’ve gained quite a few experienced players to cover for those who have moved on.
“Our trial results don’t look great on paper but we used those games to give 40-45 players a run. I can’t wait for the season start, and we’ll get a better guide how the top squad is shaping up during the opening rounds.”
Opening round: St Clair, Parker St
Last season: Quarter final
COLYTON COLTS
Captain: Ben Bragg
Coach: Todd Councillor
Home ground: Cec Blinkhorn Oval
Major new signings: Harrison Reid-Porter (Brothers), Lifi Tiakalifi (Minchinbury)
Major departures: Shaun Va’alepu (South West Goannas), James Ross, Kohen Wright (Newcastle competition), Billy Thompson (St Marys SS)
Players to watch: Fullback Jesse Poulsen almost carried the Colts to the premiership last year. Electric on his feet, the dynamic No.1 was named player of the grand final in the Colts’ two-point loss to Emu Plains.
The arrival of Harrison Reid-Porter from Brothers provides depth in key positions. A gifted playmaker, he orchestrated a couple of important come-from-behind victories last season, and has the ability to cover in the No.9 jumper.
Inspirational skipper Ben Bragg is always one to keep an eye on around the ruck. Always in the thick of the action, the hooker often backs himself from close range and finished last season with seven tries.
Workaholic prop Leslie Kini got better with every outing in 2024 and is once again set to become the cornerstone of the Colyton pack.
Surprise packet: Edge backrower Ravuama Akauola is an unknown quantity. Brought up on rugby union in New Zealand, he’s done all the hard stuff in the pre-season and is shaping up to make a big impression.
Why they will be competitive: With a record that includes 12 seasons guiding the St Marys juniors, Todd Councillor takes over the reins from departing coach Scott Thompson who is now assistant for Penrith in the NSW Cup.
“The boys had a cracking season last year, and with the bulk of the squad returning everyone can’t wait to go again,” said Councillor, who coached the Blacktown Red Belly Warriors for three seasons.
“There’s some new faces, but we’ve still got Jayden Murphy-Hinton and Damon Finn running the show in the halves. Everyone is getting around each other and we’d like to replicate the connection the boys showed throughout their finals run last season.”
Opening round: Windsor, Windsor Sporting Complex
Last season: Runner-up
MINCHINBURY JETS
Captain: Carl Winterstein
Coaches: Ryan Jones, Gavin Dunn
Home ground: Federation Forest
Major new signings: Brad Pittman (St Patricks)
Major departures: Royvirianthy Faimanifo (St Marys)
Players to watch: Rising young half Jayden Kouka has already caught the eye of respected judges and is currently honing his craft with St George in SG Ball. A Jets junior, he’s expected to make the No.7 jumper his own following the retirement of club legend, Ryan Jones.
The arrival of Brad Pittman is a welcome addition. A tireless defender, the reliable middle forward can also cover at dummy half.
If you missed vision of Tuafale Aiomalaga last season, you’re missing out. An absolute beast from close range, the 23-year-old wrecking ball made a habit of scattering defenders on his way to the tryline.
Surprise packet: A young hooker, Ben Spiers is expected to make the transition from U19s this season. Knows how to control the ruck and is nippy behind a dominant pack.
Why they will be competitive: The Jets finished with the wooden spoon last season, but they caused plenty of surprises with a belated surge in the closing rounds. In 2025, Ryan Jones joins Gavin Dunn in the coaching hot seat as they aim to get the majority of last season’s squad heading in the same direction.
“The focus of the pre-season has been on bringing up players from C-grade (U19s),” said Jones.
“We haven’t really made a point of recruiting big names. We want to continue improving on what the boys produced at the end of last year. The squad have worked through a tough pre-season and have made a big effort in buying into the culture of the club”
Opening round: Bye
Last season: 9th
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