Souths Juniors: 20 of the competition’s most exciting players set to ignite A-grade finals series
The finals of the Souths Juniors competition is here, featuring NRL premiership winners and future stars. We take a look at the 20 players who are set to ignite the A-grade finals series.
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There’s been washouts, forfeits and everything in between, but the finals for the Souths Juniors competition is finally here.
With one of the most even seasons in recent memory, the big names are set to stand up when it counts the most.
We take a look at the 20 players who are set to ignite the A-grade finals series:
CRAIG MCKENZIE (ALEXANDRIA ROVERS)
The former Roosters Jersey Flegg player has been a standout player in the competition from the outset.
Playing in the centres, McKenzie is among the leading scorers this year and is giving every indication he can rise to the next level in the finals.
DENVER BURNS (ALEXANDRIA ROVERS)
Was named the player of the match in last year’s reserve grade final, Burns has easily made the step up to A-grade.
Such a hard worker in the middle and his fitness levels have helped him continue to reach new heights.
JAYDEN RILEY (ALEXANDRIA ROVERS)
Always a threat out wide whether he’s in the centres or on the wing due to his lightning pace and ability to beat his marker.
Another coming off a reserve grade premiership who has looked good at the top level, look for the halves to feed him early ball.
KAREEL PHILLIPS (ALEXANDRIA ROVERS)
The clutch gene is well and truly in Kareel Phillips. Is a multiple grand final player of the match in Souths Juniors, most recently with Matraville in 2022.
His experience in big games will be crucial for a Rovers team that has returned to this level for the first time in years.
KEANU WRIGHT-DUNROBIN (COOGEE DOLPHINS)
Played with the Dolphins at the start of last year and has returned over the back half of the season to give them an edge at fullback.
Quality young player who has been in the junior reps system in Queensland, he’s a dangerous player who can make things happen from nothing.
ROY ASOTASI (COOGEE DOLPHINS)
Any concerns about how the former New Zealand captain would handle his return to footy were swiftly alleviated when the competition got a look at him.
Still in incredible shape, Asotasi hasn’t missed a beat in the games he’s played and will shape as a major X-factor who can break a game open.
BENE BONSEMBIANTE (COOGEE DOLPHINS)
The rugby union convert has impressed officials this season to not only hold his spot but cement a breakout season.
Used as a centre throughout 2024, his defensive presence has been superb and not much gets past him.
MARK DAOUD (COOGEE DOLPHINS)
Been a high level player for a long time, with the peak being named in Lebanon’s World Cup train-on squad.
Daoud often rises to the occasion when it matters, including sinking a winning field goal in an elimination final last season.
JASON CLARK (COOGEE WOMBATS)
One of the Rabbitohs’ fan favourites and he’s looking like he hasn’t missed a session since retiring from the top flight.
A Wombats junior who has come into the side over the back half of the year, he has the influence to tear the finals apart with his play.
EVAN MANNING (COOGEE WOMBATS)
Brings some great experience with the Rabbitohs pathways, including playing Jersey Flegg and leading SG Ball in scoring for 2021.
That attacking threat is something the Wombats will be looking for, particularly in their opening finals clash against the best defensive team in the Dolphins.
BEAR WILLIAMS (COOGEE WOMBATS)
Part of the South Sydney NSW Cup team and has played three games at that level on the back of some superb form at A-grade for the Wombats.
Coogee is hoping he will be part of their plans because he’s capable of mixing it with the big boys in the middle and standing tall.
JAMES KOKKINOS (COOGEE WOMBATS)
Saw some time with the Rabbitohs in Jersey Flegg last season and remains around the system as part of the NSW Cup squad.
Best suited at lock but we’ve seen him play in the front row as well, he’s barged his way over for a few meat pies this season.
MATTHEW MAKK (MASCOT JETS)
The leader of the pack and a player who could get through a mountain of work and still give you 10 tackles after full-time.
Has the engine to go all day and brings a great toughness to the biggest forward pack remaining in the competition.
AARON GRECH (MASCOT JETS)
The veteran influence of Grech can’t be understated, particularly with his craftiness around the ruck.
The former Maltese international has been a welcome addition to Mascot this year and is helping guide around a big forward pack.
WES AND GEORGE LOLO (MASCOT JETS)
The twin brothers have Mascot running through their blood so it’s no surprise to see them come on board this year to try and end the A-grade drought of the Jets.
Along with Sione Tovo they form one of the most intimidating forward packs in the league, and Mascot will need them to fire on all cylinder if they are to advance.
TAINE WOODFORD (SOUTH EASTERN SEAGULLS)
A great comeback story of determination and a never say die attitude, Woodford brings plenty of pathways experience to South Eastern.
He’s a second rower with plenty of mongrel and he’s a genuine tryscoring threat out on an edge.
GEORGE BURGESS (SOUTH EASTERN SEAGULLS)
The former Rabbitohs premiership winner came to the Seagulls mid-year and has played a big part in helping them reach the finals.
He was one of the most devastating runners of the ball in his prime and with good mate John Sutton steering the ship, he’ll be fired up in the post-season.
MITCH REEVE (SOUTH EASTERN SEAGULLS)
Has provided a great utility value to South Eastern with his ability to play in the outside backs and even in the back row.
Brings a good combination of speed and size, and he’s not scared to get in and take the tough carries out of yardage when needed.
COOPER STEVENS (SOUTH EASTERN SEAGULLS)
There’s a lot to like about the way he guides South Eastern across the park and he’s formed a great partnership with Connor Higgins in the halves.
In a team full of experience both on and off the field, Stevens stands up as a real leader among the side.
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