With this year’s Harvey Norman U19 women’s competition set to kick off on February 18, we’ve gone around the state unearthing the best up-and-coming talent on show.

The expansion of the competition will see teams play twice as many matches in 2023, meaning there are twice as many opportunities for players to catch the eye of NRLW coaches and scouts.

From Far North Queensland to the south east corner of the state, these are the players to watch in 2023.

Teams have been listed alphabetically.

BRISBANE TIGERS

Tigers coach Paul Nieuwenhuyzen said he was reluctant to single out any players from his squad because “we have a great squad’’.

But he did say while the pre-season had been slightly disrupted with 13 girls involved in under-17 or under-19 Titans’ trials, things were coming together.

“As a club we are very proud,’’ Nieuwenhuyzen said.

“I have been impressed with all of the players’ dedication to training and their commitment to playing rugby league. Many of our players travel long distances,’’ he said.

The squad will be captained by Delilah Eliu.

Her vice captains will be Tahliya Tavita and Estanoa Faitala.

BURLEIGH BEARS

Tweed’s cross-town rivals, the Burleigh Bears, have endured a more disrupted start to their campaign, with new head coach Spencer Taplin barely having a chance to put his feet under the desk.

Taplin took over from Salam Bettridge in the lead up to the club’s defeat to the Seagulls, having previously worked as a QRLW assistant for the Bears under Tahnee Norris and as Tweed’s head women’s coach in the state competition last year.

Far from deterred by last week’s loss, Taplin used his side’s trial against Easts Tigers on Brisbane as the chance to cement his outfit moving towards the season launch this weekend.

Having worked extensively in women’s rugby league in New Zealand and Australia, the Burleigh mentor was hopeful this representative campaign would start top transition into a more competitive club outlet on the Gold Coast.

He said as the game grew and accelerated at such a rapid rate, the grassroots of the code needed to be strengthened to ensure the plateaus of the NRLW had the foundation to develop even further towards professionalism.

“It’s happening quite fast here the growth in the women’s game, and what I’m starting to pick up is that transition from club to NRLW and the representative football,” Taplin said.

“There’s a bit of a gap for playing club to NRLW and then Queensland. The growth in the women’s game is definitely there but it’s probably more how it’s sort of happened is what to be mindful of.

“What you don’t want is girls making that big jump too quickly into that representative footy. “The players need to understand what that looks like and how important club footy is to their program. That why going back to your clubs that have done so much is so important, it’s key to the game but it’s key to individuals; it keeps them grounded.”

Outside backs — Bella Thompson, Isabelle Farthing, Marli Jurd, Paige Turner-Rau

Already with two years of experience at this level under her belt, Bella Thompson is in line to become one of the most enigmatic forces in the competition.

The livewire fullback has been praised by Taplin for her constant willingness to learn and hone her craft, in particular for her ability to respond to mistakes.

Taplin referred to a moment in the trial clash with Tweed, where straight after making an error she rebounded and scored shortly after.

It was that attitude the new coach used an example to the rest of his squad about how to act against adversity.

“She’s someone to look forward to in the future with that sort of mindset. After the first trial I played a video clip of her, she attacked the ball but made an error and dropped it. It was more her response, we watched it as a team and I said watch the response,” Taplin said.

“She transitioned from the error to responding to a job really quick and she pushed up in the next couple of plays and scored. That was straight after that error, and I said to the girls this happens in a game, this is how you respond.

“That’s what I liked; that’s attitude, that’s character, that’s what we want.”

Meanwhile the sister of a current Titan is bracing for a massive role in the backline.

Paige Turner-Rau is tipped to take up a centre spot, one of the many positions her brother Paul Turner has taken on throughout his short NRL career.

Taplin said while they were still working on instilling as palpable a professional work ethic in the youngster as possible, there was no doubt a wealth of natural flair within her just waiting to be tapped into.

“She’s a bit green but man definitely she’s got something there, a bit of talent and natural skill there,” he said.

“Paige just has some natural flair, just that natural sort of awareness and natural skills, she just needs a bit more help around understanding her role I suppose.”

Halves — Kyra Tusa, Matisse Bettridge, Sienna Laing, Sienna Norris, Zali Bettridge

Having come through the junior Titans ranks, Mattisse Bettridge will now be out to command the Bears outfit.

The halfback has traits which Taplin has identified as being core to the success of a half; already he can tell she has been exposed to elite environments.

While he admits Bettridge still requires some fine tuning in when to attack and when to compose the side, he had no doubt she would develop those characteristics in quick time.

“I can tell she’s been in the system here, she does a couple of things I can see where she’s been taught this and that in terms of her position,” Taplin said.

“I just have to help make her grow in that half role and get her to understand a few elements of it she needs to keep fine tuning. It seems like she’s been a dominant half for quite a while, what I picked up she sort of commands the ball a lot.

“I know where I can help her is understanding when to pull the trigger or not. She’s definitely a dominant half, it’s just needing to keep increasing that IQ in her position and when to pull the trigger is one thing I like that.”

Middles — Azariah Wallace, Aleyas Manipori, Maaria Ngati, Makia Lehrer-Simon, Matekino Gray, Natalee Rixon, Yasmin Elabbasi

Such is his adoration for what she brings to the field, Taplin is confident Yasmin Elabbasi will warrant a call up to the senior ranks this season.

The lock forward is already a member of the Titans Academy, brought up from the Northern Rivers having been identified as a future middle for the Gold Coast club.

And Taplin said it was the tenacity she brought in putting in the hard yards and saving the moments of flashy brilliance for her teammates that stood out.

“What I liked about her was she didn’t mind the nitty gritty stuff, rolling up her sleeves getting us forward. That says a lot about a player, it’s not all the flashy stuff,” Taplin said.

“At the back end of (the trial) she got some moments where she used her footwork and has a left fend as well.

“She doesn’t mind that physicality and I think she would go all right in the BMD physically.”

Aleyas Manipori and Azariah Wallace are tipped to win a tight race to the starting front row spots, however Matekino Gray looms as another contender given her inclusion in the Titans Academy.

Taplin said across his front row options there were no “one-dimensional” players — each came with strong footwork and that could prove a key cog in the way Burleigh attack this season.

Second Row — Elle Sommerville, Sian McNeill, Grace Granville, Grace King, Jazz Cook-Heafey, Kaliyah Browning, Keely Harris, Matilda Jessiman, Milla Ferguson, Mhia Taylor

Taplin admits the backrow contenders are up in the air, with a host of players up for the role typically plying their trade out wider in the centres.

Sian McNeill, however, appears to have a stranglehold on one of the edge spots, having expressed in the position to the coach.

Coming from a rugby union background, McNeill has been said to have shown a desire to own the role, but Taplin said the closing days of the pre-season would be used to determine who best suited the demands of the job.

“It’s up in the air, last week I have them a go in positions they thought they belonged in and then after seeing what they displayed in the skillset now it’s about putting them in positions I think their skillset suits,” Taplin said.

“In the second row you’re such a key element, people don’t appreciate how important that role is.

“Definitely you hold an edge and you protect your half outside you. You’re protecting them and holding an edge.

“Defensively you’re like the glue on that edge, and on attack you’re so key to creating space and if your lines aren’t right or your timing is off you’re not holding defence and creating space.

“It’s such a crucial role in defence and attack … you get it right it’s so much easier for your halves to work.”

Hookers — Lily Kolc, Nadia Windleborn

Already Lily Kolc has displayed the makings of a future NRLW champion.

The crafty hooker may be in the under-19s setup again to start the season, but with five QRLW appearances to her credit she appears destined for greater exposure to the elite level.

Kolc finished the 2022 QRLW campaign with a bang, scoring a try in each of her final two appearances while making three linebreaks. Prior to that, she was credited with three try assists in her two clashes before.

Taplin confirmed Kolc would start in Round One, however his counterpunching option off the bench has given him just as much cause for excitement.

Titans Academy squad member Nadia Windleborn has impressed already for her tenacity and energy at dummy-half, and Taplin believes her impact off the pine could prove one of his most crucial weapons.

“She’s a pocket rocket; she is quick and full of energy,” Taplin said.

“She’s really young and green but definitely not shy of asking questions. I don’t mind that, it tells me they want to learn and I promote that.

“At the moment our strength is our middle from what I’ve seen so far. You come up with a game plan that suits the strengths of the team.”

CENTRAL QUEENSLAND CAPRAS

The CQ Capras are ready to make a big impression in the Harvey Norman under-19 women’s competition this year.

Coach Walson Carlos is pleased with how his squad has come together, and there were good signs in their first pre-season hitout in which they beat the Redcliffe Dolphins.

“The girls were a bit further progressed than I expected them to be, which is exciting for myself and the coaching staff,” he said.

“They were really pushing up and supporting each other off the ball in attack and in defence, there was good line speed and they were really working for each other.”

Australian schoolgirls representative Lilly Yarrow and Queensland players Alenna Whipp and Luca Howarth will be key to the Capras’ prospects, as will Bundaberg duo Caitlin Tanner and Harmonie Fauid.

The Capras play the Townsville Blackhawks in Round 1 on February 25.

Kirby Richardson (fullback): A Yeppoon Seagulls A-grade player in 2022 who is relatively new to the game. Is a major running threat who is set for a big 2023.

Luca Howarth (fullback/winger): Queensland schoolgirls rep in 2022. Classy runner of the footy and great finisher on the wing. Talented fullback also.

Waverley Marsh (centre): Daughter of former Queensland Origin player PJ. Raw athlete with speed and power. Dangerous when given any space.

Harmonie Fauid (centre): Bundaberg product. Shares a lethal combination with Caitlin Tanner on the right edge. Destructive ball runner

Gail Wini (winger): A Capras under-19 player last year, she brings experience and reliability. Safe and strong carry in attack.

Shauna Barnham (five-eighth): Natural ballplayer. Recruited back to Capras after starring for Marsden State High School last year. Player with untapped potential.

Caitlin Tanner (halfback): Bundaberg product. Comes from a great footballing family and has a knowledge of the game rare for her age.

Lilly Yarrow (front row/lock): Australian schoolgirls rep last year who is headed for the NRLW. Already the consummate professional at a young age.

Alenna Whipp (hooker): Crafty, clever hooker who is bound for bigger things. Constantly challenges the defence. North Queensland Cowboys Academy member.

Delaney Claridge (front row): Gladstone Wallabys player. Imposing in stature and delivers on the field with a strong running game and solid defence.

Chloe Tipman (second row/centre): Talented athlete who is a handful running on the edge. Strong defender. Rockhampton Brothers A-grade player.

Tiaan Harbin (second row): One of the leaders of the team. Solid, hard working and inspirational player.

Tori Dakin (front row/lock): 2022 Queensland Country rep. Nightmare for opposition defences with her unique running style. Effective against tired forwards

Mackayla Oakley (winger/five-eighth): Woorabinda product. A cerebral player who is equally adept in the halves or on the edge.

Mattice McLeod (centre/wing): Emmaus College product whose older sister Ihndara is in the Capras women’s squad. Strong carrier of the footy and good defender on edge.

Miah Powell (utility): Capable of playing any position in the backline and hooker. North Queensland Cowboys Academy member.

Tamika Little (winger): Great teammate. Speedy, reliable winger who can play fullback and hooker also.

Brianna Mauger (front row): Good size and strength. Solid defender in the middle and strong carrier of the football. North Queensland Cowboys Academy member.

Laynie Sweet (hooker): Electric speed out of dummy half. Diminutive in stature but excellent defender with a huge heart.

Shayla Powell (front row): As tough as they come. Plays above her weight in the middle. Player of the future. North Queensland Cowboys Academy member.

Lyndsey Major-Booth (front row/lock): Woorabinda product. Plays the game in a brutal fashion, producing some bone-rattling hits. Strong ball runner in the middle.

Britney Rothery (second row): Speedy, raw talent. From the famous Rothery footballing family, daughter of former Canberra Raider and Capra Alan Rothery.

Sophie Davison (lock/second row): Very high workrate in defence and attack with quality output. Rockhampton Brothers A-grade player.

Kiarah Tull (front row): Destructive ball runner capable of playing front row or on the edge.

Mia Curtis (winger): A flyer on the wing. North Rockhampton State High Hawks player.

Mackayla Champion (halfback): Crafty, deceptive halfback with strong passing and kicking game. Identified Australian Rugby 7s talent.

Taylor Hook (front row): Strong runner and hard worker. Rockhampton Brothers A-grade player.

Lilly Field (front row): Tough, uncompromising middle forward. Emu Park Emus A-grade player.

Tamia Dyer (second row): Destructive ball runner and big hitter. Capras under-17 rep last year.

26-player squad: Aaliyah Gyemore, Alenna Whipp, Brianna Mauger, Britney Hooper, Caliah Saltner, Chloe Buttigieg, Dae-Shawna Row Row, Heidi Sullivan, Ivy Kris-Jasperson, Josephine Anderson, Kearna Howe, Layne Ivey, Lillian Yarrow, Luca Howarth, Meg Skuthorp, Montanna Whipp, Nataliah Backo, Natasha Nay, Prue Peters, Savannah Power, Summer Jade Nicholls, Taiah Ardley, Taliegha Leefe, Tamika Little, Tiaan Harbin, Waverley Marsh

IPSWICH JETS

Tiresa Elika: Tiresa outplayed the Newcastle Knights in the recent under-17s Titans future Academy trial game, making huge metres in the middle while dominating with strong defence.

Selected for the under-18s Australian Schoolgirls team which played Fiji last year, Elika’s discipline will likely help develop her game further, in what will be an exciting year of women and girls rugby league this year.

MACKAY CUTTERS

The Cutters under-19 women’s outfit is one of the strongest in the competition and will benefit from the return of Players’ Player award winner Lily Peacock.

Joining Peacock as a returning favourite is Lara Hutchinson, who was a key player for the side in 2022 and will be looking to capitalise on last year’s teachings.

Three stars who trained alongside the inaugural BMD women’s side this pre-season will also look to put their newest skills to the test.

Lillby Sueha, Emily Bella and Kayla Shepperd have all benefited greatly from their time with the premier side and will look to capitalise on this advantage in the upcoming season.

30-player squad: Abby-Rose Bowman (Wanderers), Amarah Body, Amber Ansell (Carltons), Ataliah Love (Brothers), Caeley Lowe (Carltons), Chelsea McLeod (Norths), Ciara Thomson (Magpies), Clarissa Baira (Souths), Eden Grigg (Carltons), Ella Millen (Carltons), Emily Bella (Brothers), Eva Neilson (Norths), Eve Doull (Carltons), Grace Watt (Wanderers), India MacPhee (Brothers), Isabelle Bartolo (Wanderers), Jalen Pauling (Norths), Kayla Shepherd (Wanderers), Lara Hutchinson (Wanderers), Leila Dunne (Norths), Leila Doyle (Norths), Libby Surha (Norths), Lily Peacock (Wanderers), Macy Bright (Moranbah), Montana Schmidtke (Carltons), Page Brodel (Norths), Sophie Novosel (Magpies), Summer Jones (Magpies), Takiah Buchanan (Carltons), Tannah Comiskey (Moranbah)

NORTHERN PRIDE

State representative players, the sister of a Matildas star and a group of the region’s most talented young talents make up the Northern Pride’s under-19s women’s squad for the 2023 season.

But it is the approach to training, which featured a watershed moment for the Pride, which has coach Flori King-Smith optimistic about the future.

For the first time, female footballers involved at the Pride have had tailored gym programs, as well as women’s-only session, as the Hostplus Cup club took a leading hand in the growth of the women’s game in Far North Queensland.

Run by strength and conditioning coach Tim Holdsworth, the sessions are open to both U19s members and the BMD Development Squad (open-age), and King-Smith has already noticed the difference.

“Whether you’re in the academies or HPC, he monitors and teaches techniques, gives the coaches feedback, then we hold players accountable,” she said.

“I absolutely noticed the improvement.

“The aim is to develop the players to be fitter, stronger, faster.

“Doing that, building these resources, we’ve been so lucky because we’ve had the BMD Development squad, it’s allowed for the club itself to cater to the women’s space.

“Now, what they’ve got are women’s only sessions where they can attend and be surrounded by other female athletes which is fantastic.”

It is why the expectation for this season is centred about elite performance, and why King-Smith is so keen to see this crop players in action.

Aerielle Hobbler and Montana Mook-Kusu being the experience and muscle up front as they work towards a potential future in the NRLW.

Hobbler has been part of the Pride’s U19s setup for the past few seasons, and last year represented Queensland in the first Australian 16-18 years schoolgirls rugby league clash.

Mook-Kusu, who was born on Saibai Island, lived her dream in what was a milestone season for the young forward.

A Pride and Kangaroos member, she starred for the Queensland Sapphires at the national championships and earned a place in the Queensland U19s State of Origin side as a 17-year-old.

Utility Shantelle Ale has greatly improved over her time in the Pride system, while playmaker Taesha Potts is making every post a winner.

Louise Fowler has also thrived in the sport.

The sister of Matildas star Mary, Fowler has a deep background in football, having most recently been part of Edge Hill United’s dominant Premier League side, but she starred at hooker for Cairns State High last year.

The natural athlete has adapted well to the 13-player code, and is expected to make a splash.

“I’m excited to see some of the young ones coming through like Mackenzie Stephen, she’s come along really well,” King-Smith said.

“There’s some other grassroots players in this space like Taesha Potts, who’s in the halves, Louise, Mayleen (Oppermann), then there’s May-May (Hobbler) and Montana as well who’s been there previously.

“Then there’s the young players who are coming in and looking towards them and follow their expectation and performance.

“We have a few players who haven’t been noticed – Aneice (Mitchell) and Tomiko (Hirakawa), Shantelle Ale our utility was in the halves last year but can also play in the core or edges.

“It’s hard to pinpoint one person, but rugby league is a team sport, and if everyone can contribute to the positions they play, it will be exciting.”

28-player squad:

Fullbacks: Elenoa Regunamada, Krystal Waters, Mayleen Oppermann

Outside backs: Aneice Mitchell, Elenoa Regunamada, Krystal Waters, Mayleen Oppermann, Pamela Joe, Charlotte Nona, Tomiko Hirakawa

Halves: Louise Fowler, Shantelle Ale, Taesha Potts

Hookers: Eden Grace, Louise Fowler, Pamela Joe

Middle forwards: Ella-Timena Nona, Lily-Jay License, Lexeen Mathieson, Montana Mook-Kusu, Jytte Wallace, Noretta Sipi

Edge forwards: Mackenzie Stephens, Montana Mook-Kusu, Shantelle Ale

Utility: Aerielle Hobbler, Malita Mailman, Tehel Hayman-Rubach

NORTHS DEVILS

Grace Giampino: A front rower or second rower, coach Jake Rowden said Giampino had strong first up contact in defence while also being a devastating ball runner. She was a natural leader.

Cedella Matatahi: A hooker Cedella is a noted strong communicator who has vision while also possessing a massive engine

Tayla Sykes: The Devils will have Skyes as their five-eighth, with her strong running, footwork and great kicking game an asset.

Blessing Leota-Williams: Another strong communicator, she is great under pressure, level headed and a leader.

REDCLIFFE DOLPHINS

The Redcliffe Harvey Norman 19s will be looking to ramp up its success rate as the players strive to help the Dolphins achieve its goal of fielding an NRLW side in the near future.

Coached by Jason Goulding, the Dolphins have invested heavily in its women’s program and off the field no stone has been left unturned to prepare the girls for 2023.

“Our program compared to last year is chalk and cheese,’’ Goulding said in reference to a battling 2022 season.

“It has been a whole of club approach from Terry Reader through our Queensland Cup staff and our junior volunteers, with all stepping up to offer their skill set for the better of the program.’’

He said such was the interest in representing the Dolphins, he had 48 girls attend three come and try days during the off-season.

As a result Redcliffe has a squad of 35 which gives them great depth.

Expect the young women to play an expansive brand form rugby league. “Sides will know they have come up against us,’’ Goulding said.

““It is about us getting the female program right and moving forward into the future.’’

Players to Watch:

Grace Filipo: A young footballer, Filpo is a real natural who has both toughness and skill. She will be used as a utility player.

Reegan Hicks: Hicks will be an impact player, using her strength, skill and pace as a back rower.

Armarni-Lea Auvae: Watch for this strong, athletic middle forward who has good hands.

SOUTHS LOGAN MAGPIES

Players to Watch:

Savannah Tato: The hard running forward will be the leader of the pack and has the potential to be elevated into the BMD senior competition when the 19s is finished.

Jaydika Tafua: A second rower, she is a good defender who reads the game well.

Mackenzie Baty: The strong hooker or halfback is a smart player and another in contention for the BMD if she plays to her potential.

Jada Toleafoa: Another edge player, she defends strongly and runs the ball hard.

SUNSHINE COAST FALCONS

Head coach Dennis Moore, former Maroochydore Swans A-grade premiership winning coach, said he was excited to see how his side progressed through the season.

“It’s my first time coaching women’s rugby league so it’s a bit different to what I’m used and probably different for them too but the girls have improved a lot,” he said.

“A lot of them don’t have a big rugby league history or background so I’m pretty happy with their progress at this point.”

Moore said he was looking forward to round one.

“We had a good hit out in our first trial game against Norths Devils so I’m looking forward to seeing how we go in our other pre-season trial games,” he said.

“Training is one thing and they’ve been showing some good signs but proper matches will give us a better gauge and see where we go from there.”

Taylor Fitzgerald

“Taylor played at nine in our first trial match and was really strong,” he said.

“She’s very professional in how she gets about her business and how she does her job.

“She’s a quality number nine.”

Tianna Fry

“Tianna was strong in the middle of the park in our first hitout,” he said.

“There’s some work to do and improvement to come but she’s shown promising signs and produced a good start to the year.”

Kahurangi Hetaraka

“Kahu was strong in patches in our opening trial,” he said.

“Her fitness needs to be better as an edge second rower but she showed a lot of good signs and is an exciting prospect.”

Shannyn Harm 

“Shannyn is one of our centres this season,” he said.

“She’s carrying a shoulder injury at the moment but was really strong and solid when she was on the field.

“I was really happy with her game and what she can bring to the side.”

Makayla Everding

“Makayla is our number six and captained the side in our first trial,” he said.

“She was really strong, we’re still sorting out combinations and patterns but she’ll improve with the more games she gets under her belt.”

Everding also represented the Queensland under-19 Sapphires team at the Women’s National Championship in 2022.

Nancy Sullivan

“Nancy was strong when she was on the park, again her fitness was down a bit but we expected that with a lot of the girls as we haven't had a big pre-season,” he said.

“She played on the edge and in the middle as our lock and was really promising.”

Lila Parr

“Lila at halfback was also really strong,” he said.

“She’s got good vision and passing skills.”

Takoda Thompson

“She played in the halves as well and was really good,” he said.

“We’ve got some good playmakers in the squad so adding Takoda to the mix is exciting.”

TOWNSVILLE BLACKHAWKS

This year’s Townsville Blackhawks under-19s women are planning on playing a faster and more attractive style of play in 2023, and coach Rob Hall believes he has just the right players for it.

With a mix of experience and youth, the squad features 26 of the region’s most talented girls as they prepare to step into senior football.

Hall said the addition of some livewire speedsters out wide would allow his squad to play an expansive style of rugby league.

“We’ve got a much faster team than we’ve had in the past, last year we were sort of pretty big and powerful,” Hall said.

“This year we’ve got a lot of speed through there, so we’re going to play a pretty quick style of footy and hopefully an attractive style too.

“We’ve got a couple of younger girls that are coming in that we’re looking at pretty closely for those outside backs.”

Hall said the team was one of the youngest squads last season, but would reap the rewards of that experience this year.

“These girls are essentially the first crop of girls who played footy all the way from 12s, right through,” Hall said.

“There’s a fair whack of talent in that, so now we’re just starting to see the rewards that are coming through now they’re 18 and we’ve got a couple of girls who are 19.

“We’re starting to pick our age up a little bit from last year where we had a whole heap of 17-year-olds, but they will form the core of the Blackhawks women’s program for years to come.”

Read our breakdown of every player in the squad below.

Halli Barker – Outside Back

Barker plays her club rugby league at the Western Lions, where she went up into the women’s open competition last year and won the competition.

Entering her second year with the Blackhawks, Hall said he would utilise Barker in the outside backs.

“She was with us last year as an outside back and she moved into the backrow for the Lions at a point,” Hall said.

“She’s a bit versatile in that, she covers the ground well and the Blackhawks will be looking to use her as an outside back.”

Eadie Baxter – Outside Back / Centre

Baxter has signed on with Brothers in the local competition, and is one of the new members of the squad that was identified by the Blackhawks through school football with St Margaret Mary’s College.

Hall said Baxter caught the eye of coaching staff at a rugby league nines tournament hosted by the Southern Cross Catholic College.

“We were also tipped in as she’s part of the Cowboys Gold Stars Academy squad,” Hall said.

“She’ll be playing in the outside backs, probably in the centres is where we’re looking at using Eadie.

“She’s pretty new but she’s a very good trainer, she’s fit, moves well and has good hands.”

Anna-Mina Bin-Awel – Backrow

Coming off two years playing for the Queensland Country under-17s, Bin-Awel is one of a couple members of this Blackhawks squad that hails from the Torres Strait Islands.

Hall said a positional shift this season could see the Townsville team unlock the devastating forward’s freakish potential.

“She played the last couple of years in the centres, but she’s moving into the backrow for us this year, so we’re expecting that it will be a good transition,” Hall said.

“She played a little bit of a backrow for us last year as well. She’s a powerful ballrunner and really likes the physical stuff.”

Remi Bishop – Centre

Joining the Blackhawks for her third season is Bishop, who was one of the team’s inaugural women’s team members.

Bishop plays locally for Centrals and came through the Southern Cross Catholic College system.

Hall said he was hoping she would find the same form that led to her breakout season in 2022.

“Last year was a standout year for Remi, she hadn’t played a whole heap of footy but last year she was one of our better players, topped our tryscorers and through that earned herself an opportunity in the Queensland Rubys 19s,” Hall said.

“She’s just gone in leaps and bounds, she’s a country girl from Charters Towers way.

“Remi is a strong, athletic, well-balanced runner and she’s fast across the ground.

“She’s just going onwards and upwards so we’re expecting big things out of Remi this year.”

Cecelia Brown Chinfat Hawkins – Backrow / Utility

Coming back for her second year with the Townsville Blackhawks, Brown Chinfat Hawkins offers a lot of versatility to the side.

Hall said he would be looking to use her power game in the backrow in 2023.

“‘CC’ can fill anywhere, she played at 14 for us last year and spent a bit of time in the backrow and she could play in the centres in a push if she has to, or jump in at nine,” Hall said.

“She’s defensively strong, a really physical sort of player who likes to get in there and mix it up.

“We’re looking to give her some time in the backrow, she’s not a huge body, but she plays well above her weight and could also play lock moving forward.”

Thalia Clarke – Halves / Centre / Backrow

Clarke is a cross-sport athletes that joins the team from the St Margaret Mary’s College school system, and she’s also been added to the Cowboys Gold Stars Academy squad.

According to Hall, she was a netballer, touch footballer and all-round sports-lover.

“She’s really tall, has fantastic hands, and came over as a half with a big body,” Hall said,

“Initially we’d been looking at her playing centre or backrow, but recently she’s impressed me with her skill set and how she can link with Jairel (Martin-Savage).

“She’s a calming influence, pretty quiet, she can pick a ball up from anywhere and is deceptive with how she moves across the ground, so that’s pretty exciting.”

Hannah De Daunton – Lock / Middle Forward

De Daunton is another of the side’s Western Lions contingent, who came through Kirwan and played with the Blackhawks last year.

Hall revealed the devastating defender was the recipient of two bellringer awards in 2022, an honour bestowed on the player who delivered the biggest hit each game after video review.

“She was pretty much our defensive go-to,” Hall said.

“Hannah’s back again, she’s a very strong tackler and she captained the Townsville under-17s last year and they won the North Queensland Championships that they played.

“She’s rock solid.”

Carly D’Emden – Centre / Halves

One of the new players in the team, D’Emden has been added to the squad via the Cowboys Gold Stars Academy for junior players.

Playing her football out of Herbert River, Hall said she had been a standout for the Crushers.

“She came into Herbert River’s senior side pretty young and she’s had a couple of really good years with the seniors, we’re really excited to bring her into the team, she’s a good tryscorer,” Hall said.

“I’m excited to see how she goes and expecting her to play a big role.

“She plays centres or she can play in the halves, so she will probably be fighting for one of the halves positions initially or slipping into the centres depending on how we look come round one.”

Sally Frohloff – Hooker / Utility

Another player from Charters Towers, Frohloff came was part of the Blackhawks women’s squad last year but didn’t feature prominently.

Hall said her determination in the training paddock, and her ability to play multiple positions, would land her some game time in 2023.

“She’s come back here and is training the house down, she’s in town now from the Towers to go to university,” Hall said.

“She can play nine, lock, centre – she’s one of those who will be fighting for that 14 position.

“She can cover a whole lot of positions, so she’s going to give herself every chance to play with that because if we get an injury in the backs she can slot in there, no dramas, and also probably wants to make nine her home so we’ll give her a crack at that.”

Makeilla Gibson – Halves / Fullback

Gibson is a livewire half or fullback that comes from the Torres Strait and played for the Queensland Country 17s last year.

She came through the 17s system with Centrals in Townsville, and Hall said he was looking forward to working with the excitement machine.

“She moves really well, and can play in the halves or at fullback,” Hall said.

“She’ll be fighting for a spot in the halves, though she’s still pretty young so just making her way through there and picking up some experience will be good.”

Ashlyn Hoey – Outside Back

Hoey is a former rugby union player from Charters Towers who could see herself get big minutes this season for the Blackhawks.

“Ashlyn’s lightning fast but only slightly built, she came in for a train and trial and she’s earned herself an opportunity with her hard work,” Hall said.

“Quick, exciting and tough – being that she’s from the Towers – she’s really set herself up through the way that she’s handled the training and everything so far.

“I’m pretty excited to see how she goes when we get out there and she’s someone we’ll be looking to probably pair up with Remi (Bishop).”

Adele Jensen – Middle Forward

Jensen plays her footy for Western Lions and Kirwan, and is one of the younger girls in the squad at 17.

Despite her age, Hall said she could be a bolter for a place in the team come Round 1 if she continued to impress at training.

“She’s a middle forward, but could play in the backrow too in a push,” Hall said.

“She’s a big body and she has really impressed in training that we’ve done here, she has impressed us with her conditioning.

“She’s travelled here form Cardwell, she was a Herbert River youngster who came down to Townsville to get an opportunity to play at Western Lions, and she has really impressed in her time in the training camps.

“A lot of the younger girls are brought in to training for experience to go forward, but Adele has fought her way not just into the 26, she’s fought her way into considerations for Round 1.”

April Major – Lock / Five-Eighth

Major was with the Blackhawks last year and made her debut in the last game played in Townsville against the Capras.

Coming to the team from Southern Cross Catholic College and Western Lions, Major is a player that can offer a lot to the team.

“April plays lock or she can play five-eighth, she’s a ballplayer, fantastic tackler – she’s got a really good tackling technique low down – and is only slightly built but she plays well above her weight,” Hall said.

“We’re looking at her as a ball-playing lock to give the team some extra width in attack as we’re planning to play a little bit more footy this year.”

Jairel Martin-Savage – Halves

One of Townsville’s most exciting young women’s players, Martin-Savage wowed the crowd with her dazzling display for the Western Lions in their RLTD grand final win, earning herself player of the match honours.

Hall said she would play a big role for the Blackhawks in her second year in the team.

“She’s a big part of our footy side and she will most likely be taking one of the spots for us in the halves,” Hall said.

“She had a fantastic year last year, so at 17 years of age she played three games for us and got us around the park for three wins.

“She went back to her club side Western Lions and played juniors, then went into the open women’s and was player of the grand final, and played in a number of Indigenous carnivals at the end of the year and was player of the carnival there as well, so she has just excelled and is going from strength to strength.

“She’s a pretty casual character, but she’s exciting to watch. Her maturity allows her to play well above the age that she is, and she’s a big part of our footy side over here.

“She’s a natural footballer, we try not to rein her in too much. That will be our plan, we just want to get forward and then Jairel can get the footy in her hands when she wants and nine times out of 10 she makes the right decisions.”

Carolynn Morgan – Outside Back

Morgan moved to Townsville last year from Norfolk Island along with teammate Sera Sedrata.

They both came over to get more opportunities to play rugby league, and Morgan attends Kirwan and plays for Centrals.

Hall said if she continues to improve in her return from a knee injury, Morgan could cement herself a spot in the outside backs.

“Carolynn is an outside back, and also played a little bit of halves and nine on Norfolk,” Hall said.

“She’s working her way back from a knee injury, but it looks like she’ll lock down a position in the outside backs.”

Bronte Morrison – Halves / Hooker

Morrison is another of the 17-year-olds in the team, and Hall said she was a part of his plans for the future of the Blackhawks squad.

“She’s been really good through our pre-season training playing as a half, and she can play at nine as well,” Hall said.

“She’s here with a long-term view to make sure we have continued success, so bringing her in and giving her a bit of experience in there at this year will be the go.

“She’ll be training with us right through and if needed we can slot her in in the halves or at nine.”

Theophelia Mosby-Nona – Middle Forward

One of two sisters in the team that hail from the Torres Strait Islands.

Theophelia Mosby-Nona played for the North Queensland Gold Stars last year in the BMD Premiership, so she’s already a premiership-winning player and she also played Queensland under-19s in 2022.

Hall said he was excited to include Theophelia’s younger sister Zaleah in the squad, giving them a rare chance to play together before Theophelia graduates to the senior game.

“It’s onwards and upwards for Theo, this is her last year for us and she’s been with us for three seasons now,” Hall said.

“She’s probably looking at taking a bit more of a leadership role with the squad.

“It’s fantastic to have her sister Zaleah in the squad and it will be a great opportunity for the two Mosby girls to play together, so I’m pretty excited about seeing that.

“Theo is a hard-running middle forward who can play backrow as well, she just rips and tears on the field.”

Zaleah Mosby-Nona – Fullback / Outside Back

Younger sister Zaleah is 17 this year and is a completely different footballer to Theopheila – but no less talented.

“Zaleah is just as tough as her big sister but is more of an outside back, plays fullback or outside back and over time I could probably see her moving into the nine jersey if she really wanted to,” Hall said.

“She’s also a very good talker, covers the ground really well and is rock-solid under the high ball.”

Neve Rankin-Johnson – Hooker / Lock

Originally form the Northern Territory, Rankin-Johnson does her schooling at the Cathedral School in Townsville.

She can play lock or nine, and Hall said she could spend time as a utility due to her defensive talent and ability to play multiple positions.

“She’s a rock-solid defender and just a fantastic person to have around the crew,” Hall said.

“She was injured last year and was unavailable for selection with a hamstring injury, but trained her way right through and really committed herself to trying to get back, but she just ran out of time.

“We had the opportunity to bring Neve back and she’s fighting fit and ready to go, so I’m really looking forward to letting her go.

“She’ll be fighting for that spot at nine or the 14, defensively she’s very good and also a tough ball carrier.”

Logan Roncato – Hooker / Halves / Outside Back

Roncato is a football convert who joins the Blackhawks from the Burdekin.

In her second year in the squad, Hall is planning a positional change to get her more involved.

“She played on the wing for us last year just to give her the opportunity to play at that level and get exposed to it,” Hall said.

“She played the season for Burdekin in the halves as five-eighth, and she’s played fullback for the northern schools team and she’s training at fullback for us, but we’re sort of looking at her in and around that nine spot.

“She’s very quick, she has a lot of acceleration off the ground and she is super fit. She’s another one who isn’t massive but works really hard and has really improved defensively over the last couple of seasons, and really put a lot of work into it.

“I’d like to see her move into a bit of a nine because I think she’ll be a real livewire there if she builds her running game.

“She’s just a competitor, she competes in everything, she competes in every drill we have here, competes in every fitness thing and she’s always at the high end of the fitness testing.

“She’s come over from soccer where she spent a bit of time so she had a hard decision about whether she was going to pursue rugby league or soccer, and thankfully for us rugby league won out.”

Sera Sadrata – Middle Forward

Sadrata is a Fijian player that came to Townsville from Norfolk Island with Carolynn Morgan.

Hall said she had recently been added to the Cowboys Gold Stars Academy.

“She’s a big middle forward and played last year with Centrals in the women’s competition and just got better and better as the year went on, as we knew she would once she got the opportunity to play regular football,” Hall said.

“She’s a fantastic young lady, she works really hard and she’s got a high work rate on the field.

“She’s just getting better and better every week, so we’re hoping she continues on that.

“She’s really hard to handle, she’s tall, strong, very good defensively, has a good offload, so we’re just hoping that she just continues on with the improvement that she’s been doing.”

Vanessa Scarborough – Hooker / Halves

Scarborough plays for the Western Lions and was with the Blackhawks squad last year, but was unlucky to miss out on a spot in the 18.

Hall said her steadying influence on the side was always a benefit to the team.

“Vanessa is a nine, but also spent a little bit of time so far in the pre-season training in the halves,” Hall said.

“She’ll be fighting it out for the spot as a nine or potentially we’ll have a look at her going into the halves.

“She’s another one that doesn’t have too many errors in her, she’s a good worker and she’s a good team person to have around.

“She’s a very steadying influence on the footy side, she never gets too flustered.”

Lily Twiname – Fullback / Outside Back

One of the new players in the squad, Twiname was identified by the Blackhawks at the Catholic College nines.

“She has a touch football background and she’s one of the fittest players we have here, she was the fastest we had in our 1.2km that we ran when we first came back into camp,” Hall said.

“She’s quick across the ground, she’s played fullback for Townsville and this is her first venture into the 19s statewide comp.

“We’ve got high hopes for Lily, we’re looking at putting her into fullback and she’ll probably be fighting that out with Zaleah for the spot back there.

“She’s another one that’s fit as, she’s quick and she has the skills that she’s brought over from touch.”

Chloe Watson – Middle Forward / Backrow

Watson comes from a rugby league family – both her sisters play league and are great players.

Hall said he would look to use her size and skill through the middle of the park.

“Chloe is a big-bodied backrower or middle forward with fantastic ball skills. She can throw an offload and she’s just a competitor,” Hall said.

“Last year she came on when we were in a bit of trouble against the Capras and scored two tries out of just leaving people on the ground, just that desire to want to be a winner.

“She’s just a footballer and I couldn’t leave her out, she could move to the backrow at a push, but we think she’ll pretty much just be used through the middle as she can pass really well which is what we want out of our fronties, so that’s where she’ll be rolling.”

Lhylla Williamson – Backrow

Williamson was with the Blackhawks squad last year, and Hall revealed she was one of the team’s success stories for 2023.

“She wasn’t able to fight her way in to get a jersey last year but she was part of our extended squad,” Hall said.

“She worked her backside off to get back here. She’s really made some unbelievable changes in her training capacity.

“She’s come in here and you can tell she really wanted it from the day she walked in the door, and she’s been training the house down.

“Lhyalla will be looking to play in the backrow, she is one I’m pretty excited about. She has a really big body and moves really well, and she’s got herself really, really fit.

“I think she can play a big role for us out on an edge. She’s strong in defence, but I like the way that she likes to stand in tackles and can use her hands as well.

“I’m pretty excited with the condition that she’s got herself into, and that she was really hungry for this, so I’m looking forward to seeing what she can bring.”

Bridget Wilson – Backrow / Middle Forward

The two Wilson girls rounding out the side could be twins, but they’re not – Bridget is 17 and Maria is 19 – and they also have another younger sister.

“They’re nearly identical, two really big, tall bodies,” Hall said.

“Both of those girls we saw up in Charters Towers for a competition, and they’re both going to play for the Charters Towers Miners this year after coming over from rugby union.

“Both of them are into the Cowboys Academy side as well.

“As the younger of the two, Bridgette could play a role for the team in 2023, but the experience she gains will make her a player to watch in the future.”

Maria Wilson – Backrow

Hall said Charters Towers player Maria’s size and skill would see her cause trouble for defences in 2023.

“Maria will probably play in the backrow for us, she’s got fantastic skills for a big body,” Hall said.

“With her rugby union that she’s played, you can tell she’s really advanced with the way she carries the football.

“As a big body, she could probably play in the middle for us, but with the skill set that she’s got we’re looking to play her on the edge to give us a big target for us in attack.

“We definitely see Maria playing a role for us this year.”

26-player squad: Halli Barker, Eadie Baxter, Anna-Mina Bin-Awel, Remi Bishop, Ceecelia Brown Chinfat Hawkins, Hannah De Daunton, Carly D’Emden, Sally Frohloff, Makeilla Gibson, Ashlyn Hoey, Adele Jensen, April Major, Jairel Martin-Savage, Carolynn Morgan, Bronte Morrison, Theo Mosby-Nona, Zaleah Mosby-Nona, Neve Rankin-Johnson, Logan Roncato, Sera Sadrata, Vanessa Scarborough, Lily Twiname, Chloe Watson, Lhylla Williamson, Bridget Wilson, Maria Wilson

TWEED SEAGULLS

Anthony Swain called for his young squad to “face their fears” and pave their paths to towards the NRLW.

And based on what the Tweed under-19s women’s coach has seen in the pre-season, it will not so much be a case of whether they can reach those plateaus but rather if rugby league can retained the multi-talented squad.

Thus far the Seagulls have gone from strength to strength, culminating in a final trial victory over the Burleigh Bears 28-16 on Saturday.

The likes of Charlize Ratu and Jaida Faleono have shone in other sports already, with Ratu chosen in representative netball and rugby union outfits, while Faleono has be brought into the Australian 7s development squad.

Swain said he had no doubt several youngsters in his midst had the tools to go far in the 13-woman code, and this coming Harvey Norman U19s season could be the most pivotal in their sporting careers.

“I think the time will come over the next two years where they’ll have to make the decision where they’re going to roll,” he said.

“I think this year for me especially is more a development year, I’m not too concerned about where we finish and how many wins; it’s getting the girls to come back next year.

“I just had to really break us down to coach them pretty much from scratch and start fresh and teach them really the game of rugby league. A lot of them are only new to the game and a lot of the girls that have been playing haven’t bee exposed to this level of football.

“A lot of the girls are outstanding in other sports, so it was just a matter of bringing them all together and teaching them rugby league. I knew a lot of these girls could play rugby league, it was a matter of facing their fears and having a crack and they’ve really surprised me.”

Outside Backs — Madison Tavita, Mercedez Taulelei-Siala, Brianna Watkins, California Barrett, Deanna Makin, Charlize Ratu, Tahlia Mitchell Darley, Phoenix Raine Hippi, Savannah Roberts-Hickling, Gabrielle To’o, Charlotte Day, Ava Swain

She may come from a background in representative netball, but Charlize Ratu has announced herself as a future star of rugby league. In fact, Swain is yet to see the young centre miss a tackle.

Ratu’s presence in Rugby 7s has blessed her with the running game needed to pose a threat out wide, particularly in one-on-one situations.

The teenage phenom was one of seven players to make her rugby league debut in last week’s win over Burleigh, and Swain noticed plenty of aggression come out of Ratu he was eager to work with.

“I haven’t seen her miss a tackle yet; she plays rugby 7s as well and she’s moved into the 13-a-side game and she’s been great,” Swain said.

“I can’t knock her, she’s got a good wraps in her first game and on the weekend it really showed how good and far she can go.

“She was strong and talked well, she gives us lots of energy out wide and the more she can get the ball in her hands the better we’ll be.”

Livewire fullback Mercedes Taulelia-Siala has put herself on course to claim the Seagulls No. 1 jumper, having demonstrated a level of maturity at the back which bellies her age.

Meanwhile Swain’s daughter, Ava, has made the jump from representative OzTag to give a shot at rugby league’s elite a crack, and the centre has already cemented herself as the fastest player in the squad.

“She’s been a Queensland oztag player nearly every year since she was young and plays a lot of netball but has transitioned to rugby league to follow in the footsteps of the family,” Swain said.

“She’s the fastest runner in the team so we’re looking to get her involved and the ball in her hands with a bit of space.

“We haven’t timed her yet, but she’s won every race and she’s been defending really well and has some interest from the BMD (QRLW) coach.”

Halves — Jordan Warneke, Sharnallii Peckham, Leilani Ahsam, Vienna Hobson, Siena Smith, Taylah Fuiava

The sister of a Seagulls legend is plotting her rise to the NRLW, and is set to take the reigns in the under-19s competition.

Sharnallii Peckham, sister of Tweed Queensland Cup skipper Lindon McGrady, is expected to join forces with Vienna Hobson — albeit with plenty of competition for the jobs nipping at their heels.

Swain said Peckham had emerged as every bit the player McGrady has turned out to be, equipped with the same skillset that has led to the captain passing 100 Q Cup appearances.

“She’s come from Goondiwindi, she travelled twice a week last year to play in the Toowoomba competition and has come to the Gold Coast chasing her dream I suppose,” Swain said.

“She’s only small but she’s shown enough in the last week of training and in the game the other week (to suggest) she has a big future in rugby league.

“She’s the exact (same as McGrady), just with the game awareness, she knows when to run and when to pass and she’s very elusive.”

Peckham is expected to be partnered with Vienna Hobson, who has defied her small stature to emerge as a genuine leader of the side.

While there will be strong competition from the likes of Taylah Fuiava — who has been lauded for having the best passing game of the age group — Swain said Hobson would take on the general kicking duties, courtesy of her acute game sense for when to attack and when to play for territory.

“She’s only small but she’s a very good little halfback and knows exactly where the team needs to go at certain times of the game,” he said.

Middles — Kiana Mc’cabe, Tamika Smith, Sarah Qaranivalu, Sara Matherson-Johnson, Sovika Pousini, Lahlia Everingham Mills

So willing is Tamika Smith to bleed for her team, Swain admits she “gets cranky” whenever she is asked to come from the field.

The Seagulls prop is tipped to be the enforcer for Swain’s side throughout the season, bringing plenty of energy and heart typical of many of rugby league’s leading props.

However the Tweed mentor may only get to utilise Smith for so long, with the teenager expected to earn a call up to the QRLW side come Round One.

“She’s one of the key ones. She’ll spend half the season in our side and once the BMD starts she’ll roll in,” Swain said.

“She’s really good; she’s strong and very powerful. I didn’t need to be there before the game (last Saturday); she brought the energy, the fun and she brought the resilience once we started playing.

“She didn’t give up at all.”

Swain is expected to miss the services of Sovika Pousini for the opening rounds of the campaign, having recently undergone surgery on her collarbone.

Sarah Qaranivalu is also in line to own the number 13 jumper, earning praise for her ability to “clean everything up” and utilise her experience on the field to guide the team.

Second Row — Jaida Faleono, Kali Ainsworth, Mia Dendle, Lana Makin

Fresh off her inclusion in the Australian Rugby 7s development squad, Jaida Faleono is now tipped to dominate the Tweed Seagulls edge.

The nippy edge forward has already proven to have the mettle to thrive on the biggest stage, having been brought into the Titans Academy, and Swain has lofty expectations of the teenager.

“The energy she brought on the weekend was outstanding and just her attitude is just ‘no one is getting passed me, I’ll do everything in my power to stop you’,” Swain said.

“She’s big, strong and you can tell she’s got into the weights to find her body. I’ll be looking for her attacking on that edge, she’s really strong with a good offload.”

Hookers — Allira Watson, Kharis Birney

While he may not have a plethora of hookers at his disposal, Swain will take solace in the fact the two he has will form a crucial one-two punch out of dummy half.

Kharis Birney may be new to the game, but Swain has seen enough in her from the opening trials to appreciate there is plenty of ability in the young livewire.

Meanwhile Allira Watson has come through the ranks and according to Swain has established herself as the premier trainer in the squad.

“She’s very willing to learn and excel in her rugby league career more than anyone in our side,” he said.

“She’s been probably our best trainer most definitely, just with her toughness and her willingness to better herself. She’s gone under the radar but certainly will be on it.”

WESTERN CLYDESDALES

A 22-player squad that is soon to be finalised, the U19s coach Russell Jones is coaching the side for a third season.

Having trained “fantastically” through the pre-season, and with the fixtures staring on the 25th of February, Jones is looking for a solid season from his players.

Mackenzie Zeller – A Highfields junior, this Zeller’s second season in the U19’s competition.

At just 17 she is already the sides captain, kicking off her campaign already with a hat-trick in her first match. Not a big talker, Zeller leads by example through her powerful style of play and physicality.

Regan McMillian – Her first year in the side and only 16 years-old, McMillian had an outstanding first game. A Brothers junior, she has the ability to make “fantastic" underline runs. McMillian also has a very strong left handed fend and a good left foot step.

Chloe Palliser – Playing in the halves, the 16 year-old is coming back from an ankle injury. The Souths junior is a great organiser of her side, frequently taking on the line with impressive ‘show-and-go’s.

Anna Dingley – A senior in the side at 18 years-old and in her second season, the Newton junior was in the Qld Sapphires last year. Having missed some games and a few training sessions, she in back on deck full time. She has been described as a strong and very capable player.

22 Player Squad List:

Head Coach: Paul Boase, Assistant Coach: Scott Schultz.

Anna Dingley (Newtown), Cheyenne Zirbel (Brothers), Morgan Tyson (Brothers), Elly Close (Oakey), Mariah Brown (Highfields), Lucy Davies (Brothers), Chloe Pallisier (Souths), Gemma Gray (Valleys), Libby Dunn (Gatton), Reyna Core (Highfields), Shontai Saunders (Highfields), Rashae King (Souths), Kirra Howard (Oakey), Mackenzie Zeller (captain) (Highfields), Rianna Haverhoek (Brothers), Breanna Hoskins (Dalby), Dorothea Amber-Tabuai (Newtown), Chelsea Middleton (Brothers), Jessica Fitzgibbons (Highfields), Katelyn Collie (Highfields), Reagan McMillan (Brothers), Taylor Logan (Highfields).

WYNNUM MANLY SEAGULLS

Unfortunately no information from the club was forthcoming for the under-19 girls, but that won’t stop us from trying to bring you regular coverage of their campaign.