Young guns: 80+ players to watch at Touch Football Junior State Cup Southern Conference
The NSW Touch Football Junior State Cup gets underway this weekend with the boys and girls in the Southern Conference. We take a look at the 80+ players set to shine in Wagga Wagga.
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A big three weeks of touch football gets underway with the first of the Junior State Cup events.
Wagga Wagga will play host to some of the best boys and girls in the state in the Southern Conference.
Check out the 80+ players to watch as teams look to book their spot in the final.
JUMP TO
U10 Boys - U10 Girls - U12 Boys - U12 Girls - U14 Boys - U14 Girls - U16 Boys - U16 Girls - U18 Boys - U18 Girls - Referees
U10 BOYS
ANDERSON and ISAIAH HYAM (WOLLONGONG)
Middle/Link
The nine-year-old twins are a dynamic duo for the Devils. Anderson plays middle and link, excelling with his speed, footwork and game awareness. Isaiah plays middle, being extremely quick and possessing a ‘never give up’ mentality. Both juniors have a great attitude and are very coachable. They’re a massive part of the team and have a bright future.
GEORGE RIZK (PARRAMATTA)
George is a naturally gifted and instinctive player with skill and speed and born to play footy. George is a leader with a competitive drive and winning attitude who can dominate any time he steps on the field. George has game and he certainly brings the X-factor.
ALEXANDER LICHAA (PARRAMATTA)
Alexander is a team first player who has a willingness to learn and is prepared to put in his best effort on every play. He is reliable and is prepared to work hard for playmakers in the team. He will defend hard and do a job for the team. Wagga could be his opportunity to step up.
JACK BISHOP (COOLAMON)
Jack has an old head on young shoulders. The younger kids in the team look up to him and rely on him for some attacking brilliance. He has speed to burn and reads the defence well. In a young side he will have his work cut out, however, we have no doubt he will rise to the challenge.
KY BLATCH (COOLAMON)
Ky is one of the younger team members, yet at seven years old he knows his role and plays it well. He runs a perfect settler or buddy and is low to the ground in anticipation of sneaking a diving try. Dont underestimate his ability to duck and weave, as his agility is his strength and he will beat anyone one-on-one.
U10 GIRLS
MADDI TIMMINS (WOLLONGONG)
Link
Madi’s strengths include speed and hitting holes. Brings experience and friendship to the side.
NAOMI MATTHEWS (WOLLONGONG)
Middle/Link
Has a mean drive and stepping game, plus makes a lot of touches. Always encourages teammates and has a positive attitude.
SOPHIA GIUMELLI (CANBERRA BRINDIES)
Middle
Sophia is the playmaker and one of the team’s hardest workers. She is an excellent defender, who shoots up in defence and is rarely beaten in a one-on-one contest. In attack, she has an excellent change of direction and is the best exponent of throwing a dummy.
HAILEY ROLLER (CANBERRA BRINDIES)
Link
Hailey is one of the team’s attacking strike weapons, but also saves the day with excellent chase downs in defence. She has excellent speed, agility and endurance.
STELLA SINCLAIRE (HILLS)
Wing
Pocket rocket built low to the ground and will be a massive influence on the game, both in defence and attack. Amazing awareness for a player so young. If the young Hills girls go well this weekend, defence will be a key and Stella will be leading the way.
CHLOE-JADE FAHIM (HILLS)
Wing
CJ has amazing footwork and speed. Loves to attack and has great vision. Will score a lot of tries this coming weekend. A player to watch this weekend and into the future.
OLIVIA LANGMACK (PARRAMATTA)
Middle
Olivia has shown great leadership within her team. Her experience, positive attitude and commitment to the team and training makes her a great asset to Parramatta.
EVA ENOSI (PARRAMATTA)
Middle
Eva has a great commitment to the team by giving her best effort in every game and training session. Brings experience and adaptability to the side.
U12 BOYS
BRODY NORRIE (WOLLONGONG)
Wing / Link
Norrie is a speed machine out wide with reliable defence and a great finishing ability. The 11-year-old is a consistent performer in big games and never lets his side down.
PAULI LAGO (WOLLONGONG)
Middle
An attacking weapon on the field, Lago has the ability to break a game open with his fast footwork and brilliant passing. One to watch in the future as he grows in the sport.
NIXON ARMSTRONG (HILLS)
One of their most experienced players and the team captain, plays strike attack for the team. Good vision, agility and passing game, strong leadership both on and off the field.
KOPAE WAKELY (HILLS)
Another experienced player within the team and is the vice captain of the side. Good at downing the ball and setting up players, good at running the quickie.
CHARLIE ROBINSON (COOLAMON)
Middle
The co-caption and a 2023 Players Player who will be looking for another big carnival this year. Reads the game well and is one of our keys into setting up their attack on the line whilst also having plenty of energy in defence trying to shut down the oppositions momentum.
LOGAN HALLIBURTON (COOLAMON)
Middle/Link
Sheer speed to burn who if given the smallest gap will make the most of the opportunity and hurt the opposition. Provides the team with X-factor and feeds of his teammates energy. Loves to chase down his opponents once they have made a break in defence.
COOPER DOWLING (WAGGA)
Wing
Barely gets a rest off the field, but that doesn’t stop him finding the try line with his excellent support play. His biggest asset is his invaluable talk in defence and attack.
CHANCE BROOKS (WAGGA)
Link
One of the hardest workers in the team. Reads the play well and keeps a lookout for his short-side quickie.
MATTHEW SCANLAN (ST GEORGE)
Middle
Strong player through the middle of the field and is always ready to take a cheeky quick tap-and-go. He always gives 110% in every game is not afraid to dive through the line.
CRUZ YOUSSEF (ST GEORGE)
Wing
A strong and determined player, full of spirit despite being the youngest addition to the team. Very good at keeping the talk up in defence from the wing and will work hard to stop a try.
U12 GIRLS
GRACE TALBOT (PARRAMATTA)
Link
Lightning fast, great running onto the ball with terrific ability to create gaps and close the deal. Defensively works hard and both anticipates and covers for those around her.
KIARA HAYWOOD (PARRAMATTA)
Middle
Great driving and uses her speed well to get the team to the try line. Kiara is then able to talk to and organise those around her to set up moves and attack the line.
ALEXIS FOXE (HILLS)
Middle
A future leader of the female program. Alexis has developed good eyes up footy and ball skills at such a young age. Her speed and drives through the midfield creates the opportunities for other players to finish. Great potential and very coachable.
GRACE BEHRENS (HILLS)
Middle
An extremely versatile athlete with a great set of hands. Grace continues to strive in every aspect of the game, and always working as a team player. Grace is reliable in all positions, demonstrating her adaptability across the park. Her defense is strong. Strong in both attack and defense – a player of the future for Hills.
PIPPA CLARKSON (COOLAMON)
Middle/Link
Team captain, fearless leader and ultimate competitor. Always leads by example never shying away from a challenge and competes hard on every second of every play until that final whistle blows. She has a great skill set, has speed to burn and an electric step which often leaves defenders swiping at thin air.
CHLOE MATTINGLY (COOLAMON)
Middle/Link
The vice captain and this girl is all guts and determination never afraid to roll up her sleeves and do the dirty work some may avoid whether chasing hard and covering in defense or driving the ball out of her own end. Great communicator who helps steer the troops around the field. Possesses a great skill set and always leaves everything out on the field.
INDIGO STAFFORD (WOLLONGONG)
Middle
It’s a fourth Junior State Cup for the promising 11-year-old, excelling with her speed and ability to read the game. She brings great skill, leadership, good vibes and experience to the side.
OLIVIA EASTWOOD (WOLLONGONG)
Wing
12-year-old Eastwood brings a great determination and drive to improve her craft. She’s got a positive attitude and humour to bring up the morale of her side.
ISABEL BAGGIO (WAGGA)
With lightning fast speed and power on the field, Baggio can strike in attack and break through the defensive line. As co-captain she leads by example and communicates well with her team, setting a positive example. She organised her troops in attack and follows this up with her quick defensive skills. She also loves a sneaky intercept.
TE WAI KAHUROA (WAGGA)
Has incredible speed and agility, matched with her defence and ability to read the play. She works tirelessly in defence and never gives up, also an absolute work in attack.
U14 BOYS
KAI BOLTON (SAPPHIRE COAST)
Middle
Co-captaining the U14s, 13-year-old Bolton has great footwork, lightning speed and a great attitude. He will never give up and has a strong belief in himself and his team. Has an excellent ability to read the play and adapts to what is in front of him.
NATE BOBBIN (SAPPHIRE COAST)
Middle
The other co-captain of the U14s, 13-year-old Bobbin is the fittest player in the team. He’s a great organiser and an excellent defensive player. An ultimate professional both on and off the field.
SAM MCMAHON (WOLLONGONG)
Middle
Brings good talk to the side on and off the field. The 13-year-old is switched on at trainings and on game day, enjoying defence on the line.
BROCK PETERS (WOLLONGONG)
Middle
13-year-old Peters is a strong communicator who works well with the boys around him, bringing great energy and passion to the side.
LUCAS AHOLAHI (PARRAMATTA)
Link
A dynamic link with graceful movement, lightning speed and he is difficult to defend against anywhere on the field.
SAKA TUPOU (PARRAMATTA)
Link
Saka has quick movement on his feet with great balance and acceleration, hard to stop close to the try line.
AIDEN CLARK (CANBERRA BRINDIES)
Middle
Aiden is a powerful and energetic middle with great skills refined through years playing rugby league. Aiden now brings this experience to the touch football field, working tirelessly in defence and augmenting his instinctive attacking style with a wicked step, sharp passing and incredible diving technique.
ANGUS O’BRIEN (CANBERRA BRINDIES)
Wing
Angus is the consummate team player, who trains hard and plays even harder during games. He makes great decisions to capitalize on half chances in attack and to snuff out attacking raids from opposition teams in defence.
AIDAN STUDDERS (HILLS)
Wing
A winger with blistering speed. Fast over distance and very quick on his feet. Watch for Aidan to turn a nothing play into a finish in the corner. A smart player who knows his role both in attack and defense.
JUDE ELARO (HILLS)
Link
Jude loves to defend even more than he loves to attack – An undervalued quality in the game of touch football. A link with height and a long wingspan making it very tough for attackers to find a way around him. Jude’s strength is an asset in attack when it comes to rucking and gaining critical momentum.
NATE SUCKLING (WAGGA)
Link
Strong player all round with explosive speed and good reading of the game.
HUDSON EVANS (WAGGA)
Middle / Link
Very talented player, quiet and unassuming but is a real game changer.
U14 GIRLS
LILY CASSAR (WOLLONGONG)
Link
‘LJ’ plays a number of different types of football codes which gives her well-rounded ability for the Devils. The 14-year-old is one of the youngest in the team, but can play anywhere she’s needed with her versatile threat. Her biggest strength is that she is skilled to pass long balls. She’s a keen learner and likes to absorb knowledge from the older girls to improve her skills.
MADDISON REYNOLDS (PARRAMATTA)
Middle
Maddison is an all round player who adapts to any position, but this year is one of the middles. Madi is a great team player and very selfless in her approach to playing touch. She is often setting up tries and working hard to get her team mates across the line. Whatever role Madi is given she does well and is a great mentor to the younger players.
LYLA READING (PARRAMATTA)
Middle
Lyla is looking forward to State Cup this year after missing out with an injury last year. She is emerging as a great leader. She is a little pocket rocket, lightning-fast on the field always finding the try line. Lyla’s best asset is her positive attitude both on and off the field always trying to motivate her teammates.
ELLIE HICKS (WOLLONGONG)
Middle
Hicks uses her skills and communication to direct the team to follow the game plan. Always pays attention and puts in the effort to be better with every training session.
LILY GRIGGS (WOLLONGONG)
Link
Possesses great skill and speed, but her biggest asset is the energy she brings to her team. The positive way in which she uses that energy in game motivates her teammates and creates a great environment to be apart of.
ABBEY HUNT (WAGGA)
Has the ability to pick up the ball and run at incredible speed. She can scoot from anywhere on the field and is mastering her line attack. As co-captain of her side, she works hard for the team in attack and defence.
HALLE BAGGIO (WAGGA)
Baggio has incredible line attack and has the ability to set up tries in any set play. Her quickies and dives on the line are made possible with her long reach. As co-captain she leads by example and always supports her teammates.
PAIGE PLUM (WAGGA)
Has the longest stride which allows her to run effortlessly through the defensive line. In defence she has an incredible reach and is hard to score past.
U16 BOYS
TATE MAGUIRE (SAPPHIRE COAST)
Middle
Vice-captain of the team, Maguire is a great instinctive player who can step off both feet and is brilliant at diving for the try line. The 14-year-old drives hard through the middle and always gets over the advantage line. Excellent in defence as well.
TAMA ROBIN (SAPPHIRE COAST)
Link
The 14-year-old has a great running game and is skilled at passing the ball both ways. Drives hard through the middle of the field, and is defence is always communicating, leading by example on and off the park.
FLETCHER COUCHMAN (WOLLONGONG)
Link
Couchman is a smart player who can adapt his game quickly, floating between ad-lib and structured touch very well. He provides attacking prowess when driving down the field and often finds holes for his supporting players.
LUKE HASSARATI (PARRAMATTA)
Middle
Luke is a key ball player for the Parramatta 16 boys, who boasts an excellent passing game, notably his right to left long passing. He also possesses an extremely hard work ethic in defence and a level head, a player that the team can always rely on.
KOBY SCHARENGUIVAL (PARRAMATTA)
Link
New to touch football, Koby is electric in attack and reliable in defence. He brings great athleticism and is a major point of difference when on the field. Koby also possesses the ability to play multiple positions, which will be extremely useful over the weekend.
ISIAH CORNFORTH (CANBERRA BRINDIES)
Middle
Isiah is a highly competent player who is comfortable in defence or attack with a good footy brain. Isiah brings speed and a great diving game. As team captain he will lead by example. Isiah has also represented in rugby league and union.
LUCAS RYAN (CANBERRA BRINDIES)
Middle
The player they call ‘Rhino’ is a speedy middle who has been a standout player coming through the lower age groups. A wonderful passer of the ball who is dangerous in attack and is equally adept defensively. ‘Rhino’ has also represented ACT in rugby and athletics.
SUNNY STEYN (WESTS MAGPIES)
Middle
An electrifying presence on the field, showcasing remarkable awareness and vision in his gameplay. Despite competing in an older age group, he exhibits strong leadership qualities as the co-captain of the U16s side, with maturity beyond his years. His relentless competitiveness sets the tone for the team, with his quick feet and speed giving him the ability to conjure scoring opportunities out of nowhere, making him a danger anywhere on the field.
PAYTON TARAU (WESTS MAGPIES)
Link
Possesses an understated yet remarkable speed on the field, surprising opponents with sudden bursts of agility during set plays. His passing game stands out as unparalleled, whether it’s launching powerful and precise long balls, or seamlessly executing deceptive short passes that catch defenders off guard. Despite his exceptional skill set, Tarau maintains a modest demeanor, quietly excelling in his role without seeking attention or acclaim.
JACE LUCAS (WAGGA)
Middle
An experienced middle who is entering his seventh Junior State Cup. A crafty player who works hard on his set-up in attack and can score a sneaky try diving under tired defence. He also takes huge pride in his tight defence through the middle.
JESSE WRIGHT (WAGGA)
Link / Wing
Extremely competitive and full of enthusiasm, Wright has good ball skills and is one of the better finishers in the game. Look for him to score tries out wide, finishing off some moves.
U16 GIRLS
JADE POTTER (SAPPHIRE COAST)
Link
14-year-old Potter has excellent speed and agility when driving her team up the middle of the field. Her greatest strength is her striking stepping ability, as well as her ability to find holes and dive over the line for tries.
HANNAH STOKAN (SAPPHIRE COAST)
Middle
Captaining the U16s is Stokan, 15, with her superb ball skills and speed through the middle. She plays eyes up footy, putting her teammates through holes, or throwing a dummy and getting through herself. She is a smart and patient player who keeps the structure of the game rolling until she is ready to strike.
JESSICA SMITH (WOLLONGONG)
Middle / Link
An experienced ball-player who values hard work. She is a determined team player who is always willing to learn and improve her game. A key playmaker is the Wollongong side.
TEMEIKE WITHERS (HILLS)
Middle
An all-rounder who’s skill set is outstanding for her age. At 15 she is the younger side of this age group, however what she brings to a team is so exciting. Mieke’s ability to read the play when attacking is awesome. She can pass both sides, runs nice lines and has great foot speed and agility. Mieke is quietly spoken, however her contribution to this team is top class.
DAVINA RAGHVANI (HILLS)
Middle
Davina will use her experience of playing her second year in the 16’s division and Senior State Cup 20’s to lead the team at Wagga. She is a great organiser who is able to play eyes up footy and is always challenging the opposition defenders especially with her dummy half running. Davina is strong in the ruck and is able to finish plays, whether it be a great dive to score or finding one of our players with her passing game. Davina gives 100 per cent and is on track for a successful JSC tournament.
CARAMELA KOLOPEAUA (WESTS MAGPIES)
Middle
Has shown outstanding improvement year after year and is currently in the best form of her life. A fierce competitor and a real athlete endowed with speed, agility and physical toughness. She is truly one of the leading lights for the Magpies’ women’s program, if she continues with her current trajectory.
CHARLIE HADDAD (WESTS MAGPIES)
Link
A natural athlete and a fierce competitor, Haddad plays every game with incredible intensity, as if it were her last. Playing a year young, she backs up her remarkable athleticism and speed with maturity beyond her years, currently in outstanding form at present. Haddad is undoubtedly a future potential star of the game.
MARIA KATSELAS (ST GEORGE)
At just 14, Katselas is an up-and-coming touch superstar. Her dedication to training and always working hard for her team is what makes her a valuable member at St George Touch. Her coaches ay watch out for her speedy dive, or sweep, on the line.
RYLEIGH DELACOUR-BATCH (ST GEORGE)
The heart of the team who has been given leadership roles of club and team captain. She is always willing to develop her skills and give her all to every game she plays. She is an absolute competitor in all games.
U18 BOYS
HAYDEN GROSE (WOLLONGONG)
Middle
Started playing touch in U12s and hasn’t missed a season since. Originally just playing to play with mates, he now plays to develop his rugby league skills, as he plays for the Thirroul Butchers. Will captain the Devils U18s this year, demonstrating leadership to his teammates both on and off the field.
DANE GROSVENOR (PARRAMATTA)
Middle
In his final year of JSC, Dane is primed for a huge tournament. He is a hard working middle but don’t let that fool you he has a nice left to right pass that will surprise teams in Wagga. After a great learning year in Snr touch in 2023 he is ready to take his game to the next level in 2024. He is a leader within the team and JSC 24 will be his best tournament yet.
DARBY CROWLEY (PARRAMATTA)
Middle
Darby will be close to the fittest touch player in Wagga for the 2024 JSC. He is a hard working middle who will never give up on anything. And his team first attitude makes him an asset to any team he plays in. After making his Vawdon Cup Men’s Premier League debut in 2023 and winning titles at Vawdon and State Cup in the Men’s Div 1 he is ready and raring to continue the winning streak this weekend.
RUEBEN BUCKMASTER (CANBERRA BRINDIES)
Middle
Rueben has benefitted from starting playing at a very early age with his dad and mates. He has a natural talent with vision for both a short passing game as well as a running mindset. He works tirelessly in defence and will be one of our key playmakers and leaders. Rueben is also one of their club captains.
LACHLAN BOURNE (CANBERRA BRINDIES)
Link
Lachlan is relatively new to touch but possesses excellent vision, agility and ball playing ability. He is a very instinctive player and provides a great communications link for the team. His strong rugby background in the full-back and fly-half positions translates well to touch, complementing his strong evasive and coordination skills.
RYAN CHARLWOOD (HILLS)
Link
A player every team needs – going about his business with a minimum of fuss and fanfare. Considered one of the best defensive links of his age group and his work off the ball is second to none. Rewarded for his consistent performances throughout 2023 with a place in the NSW Emerging Blues squad. Ryan will be entering his final Junior State Cup campaign as both the team and club captain. A natural leader.
ALEX MCILWRAITH (HILLS)
Wing
One of the best wingers int he conference, Alex is an emerging powerhouse who has been awarded Players Player at his last two tournaments as one of the youngest players in the Under 20’s division. He is now primed for his debut in the U18’s division in 2024. Alex is known to play big minutes out of necessity and dominates the midfield for his team. An extremely difficult customer to get around whether in the midfield or defending his own line. Watch for his double efforts when protecting his try line. A real athlete on the rise.
NOAH COLLINS (YASS)
Middle
A solid performer who continually pushes his limits, demonstrating explosive speed through the middle and is a role model that promotes a positive influence on team dynamics. Works well communicating and developing less experience players and appreciates the value of a team approach in achieving success. Dual sport background, playing league as a fullback for the Yass Magpies U19s.
BRODIE DOYLE (YASS)
Middle
A consistent performer who goes about his business and drives the team around the field. He is an emerging leader for this team at just 16 years old and is developing well to step into leadership roles in future -years. Mentors less experienced players and templates a deeper understanding of the game, which promotes team cohesion, development and joint effort. Another dual sports background, playing AFL with Belconnen Magpies.
BRODY DUCK (ST GEORGE)
Middle
Leading from the front like any good captain, Duck dominates the field with his unmatched attacking prowess. Whether it’s weaving through defenders or launching precision passes, his skill set sets him apart.
JACKSON GUYER (ST GEORGE)
Middle
Recently moved into the middle. With each game Guyer proves himself as a rising talent in the touch football scene. His innate instincts, coupled with relentless dedication, sets him apart as a player to watch.
U18 GIRLS
LILY QUIGLEY (CANBERRA BRINDIES)
Link/Middle
Lily was named in the U16s NSW merit team in 2023. Lily is one of the fittest players running around and has incredible agility and a great long ball. Lily reads the game very well and often breaks the line. She is small in stature but has a big engine. Lily is also one of the club captaions.
LILLY PICKERING (CANBERRA BRINDIES)
Link
Lilly is very new to the game and this is her first Junior State Cup. Lilly is still only 14 but does not look out of place in the 18s team. At the recent ACT Territories Cup Lilly was named ‘player of the final’ Lilly has good speed off the mark and is a great finisher.
WAIARIA ELLIS (HILLS)
Has spent two years in the Women’s Premier League, and debuting in the Australian u18s team in 2023, ‘Baba’ will be a force in the U18s Girls competition with her excellent footwork, vision, and capacity to read the game.
PYPER MARCHANT (HILLS)
A very consistent player who will lead Hills from the front as captain in 2024. An excellent worker who does the hard yards in attack and defence. Having now played two years in the Women’s Premier League and on the back of her 2023 NSWCHS cap, Pyper will bring great experience to the team.
DYLAN AIR (WOLLONGONG)
Link / Middle
Don’t let her smile and friendly personality fool you. When she steps on the field she means business. Tenacious and driven, Air is the ultimate team player with speed and agility to burn defenders.
MISHA MCCARTHY (WOLLONGONG)
Middle
The voice of the team. She organises her teammates in attack and defence. Fantastic at ad-lib and eyes up footy. An integral part of getting the team together.
SHAYLA WATSON (WAGGA)
Middle
Watson is the ultimate team player on the field with excellent leadership skills and a quick touch footy brain. She has the ability to lift other players and make the team better. Tough and uncompromising, she’ll do whatever it takes to win.
ELLA SEMPLE (WAGGA)
Link
Semple is as quick on her feet as she is between the ears. She has always possessed great pace, and has added to that an expansive passing game and an ability to read the opposition. Always talking, both on and off the field, her enthusiasm for touch footy and life is infectious.
REFEREES
JACKSON LAMONT (HILLS)
Awarded with his Level 2 badge at Senior State Cup in 2023, Jackson will be one of Hills hardest working Juniors in the competition. Always respectful and smiling, Jackson ensures a fun environment for our young athletes.
JAMES O’BRIEN (HILLS)
James will be stepping onto the field as a Level 3 referee for this campaign. His energy and great temperament ensures games are consistently played in the right spirit and with mutual respect.
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