Best of the best Year 7-10 talents from South East Queensland we saw during 2024
NRL clubs take note: Here’s the top 170 schoolboy SEQ junior rugby league players from Years 7-10 we saw while covering the 2024 season.
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Tipene Moyes, Charlie Webb, Cornelius Kelsall, Baxter Best, Kobie and Noah Te-Kiri - these are names which won’t mean much to most people just now, but astute NRL talents scouts know exactly who they are.
This Super Six were among the top 170 junior schoolboys we saw this season across Year 7-10 competitions in south east Queensland.
FOUR CODE FOOTY SPECIAL: THE BEST 50 SCHOOLBOYS WE SAW THIS YEAR
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We present the most comprehensive list of up-and-coming schoolboy rugby league players from around SEQ here.
THE TOP JUNIOR LEAGUE TALENTS WE SAW IN 2024
Tipene Moyes (Marsden SHS)
A Renouf Shield (Year 8) powerhouse, Tipene Moyes was arguably the most influential player in his age group this season.
A lock, his strength, leg drive and footwork on either side of the ruck often proved too hot to handle in his age group.
In one game he scored all six of the tries scored by his team - and he kicked the goals as well.
Charlie Webb (Wavell SHS)
Where once Webb’s name was whispered, now you’ll hear mention of him everywhere you go when NRL clubs are discussing the country’s most promising junior prospects.
The son of North Queenslander and Warriors fullback Brent, young playmaker Charlie played two successive seasons in the Queensland 14-15 years’ schoolboys.
He has that competitive edge.
Baxter Best (Ipswich SHS)
A fullback or centre, Baxter Best is ahead of the pack in his age group.
The Broncos-contracted Year 9 student is the brother of NSW representative Bradman Best, and relocated from New South Wales to Ipswich two years ago where his father originally hails from.
He is slick.
Kobe and Noah Te-Kiri (Kings Christian College)
No, you are not seeing double if you ever see Kings Christian College’s Year 9 side play next season.
Kobe was a dynamic hooker in this year’s Year 8 Struddy’s Cup side who could score tries from a long way out, while making desperate leg tackles from marker.
His twin brother Noah was tough at No. 13, featuring an ability to unload in contact.
Then in rugby, Kobe was a livewire scrumhalf and Noah a boundless breakaway.
Cornelius Kelsall (Keebra Park SHS)
A Queensland schoolboys selection this season who was snapped up by the Dolphins, Kelsall displayed his class when he returned from a knee injury to make an instant impact in both the semi-final and grand final for Keebra Park SHS.
Keebra Park SHS won the Walters Cup competition with Kelsall key in their push through the finals.
Billo Wotton (Wavell SHS)
Originally from tropical Palm Island off Townsville, the Broncos’ contracted centre pushed his way into the Queensland 14-15 Years side where he made a telling impact.
He is an electric outside back, fast on his feet and strong through contact.
There is plenty to like about the fearless Year 10 student who sheds tackles in his sleep.
Israel Lotaki (Keebra Park SHS)
An x-factor with extreme tackle-breaking ability, speed and footwork.
Israel Lotaki wore the No. 1 jersey this season where shone in the Walters Cup competition, the Storm-signed outside back shifting from the centres to work his magic in space.
Success follows him, Lotaki a key member of Keebra’s Renouf Shield premiership winning side two seasons ago.
Lennox Whaiapu (Keebra Park SHS)
The top front rower on display in the Walters Cup semi-finals, Whaiapu played his way into an NRL contract with the Titans after spearheading his side to the Walters Cup premiership.
The young brother of Whailer (2023) and Anton (2024) played above his weight.
Billy Mulheran (PBC SHS)
Put a wildcard watch on this fellow from northern New South Wales.
He can top the tackle count while impacting matches with his leg drive, mobility and handling skills.
The kid is a top gun middle forward talent.
Grayson Wharakura (Marsden SHS)
The towering Year 10 fullback was like a bulldozing middle forward in the Walters Cup.
Signed by the Melbourne Storm, his post contact metres complemented his ability to drift wider while also delivering deft passes before the line.
He is a young giant who has made an impression since coming over from New Zealand early last year.
Jordy Hotere (Wavell SHS)
Another Kiwi talent honing his craft in Queensland, Hotere got better with each game for Wavell SHS this season in the Walters Cup/
Hotere was a tremendous defensive five-eighth who was also able to free his outside back division with ease.
He is a Gold Coast Titans signee whose work rate on the defensive end definitely stands out.
Simione Tauelangi (Keebra Park SHS)
This outstanding outside back had a top notch season and was among the first players chosen in the Walters Cup Team of the Season.
He was a versatile outside back who took aggression with him regardless of the role he was playing.
Innocent Baruani (Ipswich SHS)
Ipswich SHS’s Year 9 student Innocent Baruani was an all-effort edge forward whose line running was a joy to watch across the Walters Cup season.
He was a tough, balanced athletic forward with catch and pass skills and great leadership qualities.
Walker Taualupe (Marsden SHS)
The Marsdon Makos had a good one in Renouf Shield left centre Walker Taualupe.
A fearless type, he prided himself on never dying in contact and fighting hard for extra metres.
He was also an excellent covering defender from what we saw.
Calvin Doolan (Forest Lake SHS)
He’s a black book talent.
A fullback, Doolan was fast, skilful and elusive who, aside from his dangerous running game, used his pace to reel in rivals who had breached the first line.
The tall, tone-setting fullback played in the Year 7 Struddy’s Cup competition this season and stood out from the crowd.
Rame Neemia (Wavell SHS)
The Hancock Cup right second rower knows how to tackle.
You can just see that he has played countless hours of backyard footy or park footy down the street and he isn’t the first Neemia to leave their mark in Wavell colours.
His older brother Demascus was a defensive hardman and Rame looks to have some of his older brother’s toughness.
Moses Fotuaika (Mabel Park SHS)
A promising big man with a big motor, strength and footwork, Fotuaika was a big factor in Mabel Park’s second successive premiership in the Brisbane Broncos Old Boys (BBOB) Shield premiership.
Lachlan Hillman (St Mary’s College)
St Mary’s always harboured a few aces in the pack and one such forward is the athletic No. 13 Hillman. Like so many from up on the range, Hillman works hard to complement his clever handling around the forwards. A Broncos Academy member, he is a leader who not only captained the winning DeVere premiership side (Year 10), but also captained the Queensland White 14-15 years outfit at the national championships. He was Queensland White’s Most Valuable Player award recipient.
Kane Buchanan (Keebra Park SHS)
Kane Buchanan was another high-quality BBOB talent across the finals series whose reads in defence challenged his rivals.
He was also an attacking threat, a highlight being his 45m try in the grand final against Mabel Park SHS.
Kyron Arthy (Redcliffe SHS)
The powerful Kyron Arthy came from Perth this season and made an instant impact in the Walters Cup where he excelled at centre or as a left edge forward.
He deservedly made the Queensland 14-15 schoolboys side on the back of his strength and tackle breaking ability.
He has every chance of featuring in the Langer Trophy next season for the resurgent Redcliffe SHS Eagles.
Max Fife (PBC SHS)
Max Fife was an elite utility around the ruck in the Walters Cup, someone who could swing between lock and halfback.
He had a grand pass, a relieving kicking game and a tremendous tackle technique.
He was the type who played above his weight.
Ira Yeatman (Ipswich SHS)
An excitement machine, this Innisfail product was a thrilling prospect who could bob up in a variety of positions on the field and threaten.
He was a magician with room to rove and ball in hand, someone who could light up a game with his off the whim playmaking.
Despite being on the smaller side, Yeatman fronted up like a middle forward on the defensive end.
Nik Wharakura (Marsden SHS)
The twin brother of Grayson, Nik was a towering Walters Cup prop whose stride, leg power and post contact effort made him difficult to contain.
He is signed by the Melbourne Storm.
Tomu Cook (Ipswich SHS)
Ipswich SHS has an elite crop of juniors coming through from Year 7-10 sides which all made finals, and one of the best is left centre Cook who shed tackles and ignited the attack for the school’s Year 10 team.
In his first season Down Under, Cook made a startling impression as a damaging left centre who got quicker with each stride.
Zack Lotaki (Marsden SHS)
Zach Lotaki was a tough-as-teak middle forward who played without fear in the Walters Cup.
When he was on, he hit as hard as anyone in the competition - and then would do it all again next ruck.
He had a V8 engine.
Harvey Smith (Keebra Park SHS)
Harvey Smith was a great all-rounder at halfback.
A footballer with a touch background, he was a running threat with quick reflexes, but also a nice team No.7.
He was the starting halfback in the Walters Cup team of the season and rightfully so. He played through injury in the grand final and still had a mighty impact.
Earlier this month the Runaway Bay maestro was named the Under-16 Division 1 Player of the Year.
Mairangiatea Walker (Marsden SHS)
The light-footed Walters Cup centre played his way into a Gold Coast Titans contract after a whirlwind season that started with the Ipswich Jets and finished with Walters Cup grand finalists Marsden SHS.
As the season went on Walker was more confident and as such, more potent thrusting his side forward.
Cleveland Mackay ((Mountain Creek SHS)
He is the Year 9 Struddy’s Cup Player of the Season, a footballer with footwork, speed around the ruck and boundless energy.
He’d be a great teammate because he has that ability to produce something out of nothing.
Ryley Taylor (PBC SHS)
Hard running Renouf Shield prop Ryley Taylor was terrific in the middle third of the field where he was the Reds’ go-to man when metres needed making.
The Tweed junior was often the head of the snake in the Reds pack, with his clever, angled runs getting PBC moving forward.
Cohen Cochrane (Redcliffe SHS)
A local junior, Cochrane, a hooker or lock, was the Redcliffe SHS Eagles’ top forward in the Walters Cup off the back of his exhaustive workload.
He set the highest of standards.
Jack Neuendorf (Ipswich SHS)
The Hancock Cup prop was a tough-as-nails combatant who would have been a joy to play alongside.
We know where the Ipswich SHS middle forward gets his strength from - two weeks ago Neuendorf won a bronze medal in the 15 years shot put at the Queensland Representative School Sport Track and Field Championships.
Boston Nau (Wavell SHS)
A fullback, centre or five-eighth, the smart New Zealand-born utility played for Queensland White 14-15 Years as a winger.
He was dynamic for Wavell this season playing at fullback.
James Peni (Redcliffe SHS)
A towering prospect who played in the Queensland White 14-15 Years team, Peni is at his best playing centre but could develop into an edge forward.
He is one of many youngsters from tough rugby league country around Burpengary, Caboolture and Woodford regions who now enjoy their school footy on the Peninsula.
Leo Briggs (Ipswich Grammar School)
A fleet-a-foot outside back, Leo Briggs originally hails from Innisfail in Far North Queensland, a region which has an extraordinary record at producing outstanding league players.
He represented the Queensland White 14-15 years as a centre and is coming through the ranks at Ipswich Grammar School whose rugby program is gathering some serious steam.
Xavier Newton (St Mary’s College)
The player of the final in the DeVere Cup competition, this young No.1 display his genuine speed and ability to create on numerous occasions. We look forward to glimpsing him again in 2025.
Christopher Vaimili-Toalepai (Marsden SHS)
This goal kicking fullback, winger or centre had the winter of dreams, impressing from start to finish this season.
Extremely reliable in defence and with the ball, he earned state selection in the Queensland White 14-15 Years side.
Kaiden Jennings (Mountain Creek SHS)
Mountain Creek SHS had a small army of fantastic players including Bennett Cash and Madgwick Makani, but the pick of the crop from our viewpoint was No. 13 Jennings who stood out with his fearless charges and up-and-at-them defence.
It was no surprise he was named man of the match in the Struddy’s Year 9 grand final.
Jonathan Alo (Redcliffe SHS)
Tall and athletic, the two season Queensland Schoolboys 14-15 Years representative is a real deal prospect.
His sky scraping frame helps, and he can play wing, centre or edge forward.
Just wait until he grows into his considerable frame.
Mitchell Heit (Mountain Creek SHS)
We just loved this bloke’s work in the Struddy’s Cup Year 9 grand final derby against Caloundra SHS.
There was no love lost and Heit was up for the battle, a Captain Tough in the centres where his strong defence prevailed.
Harvey Morris (Mountain Creek SHS)
In the grand final Heit, mentioned above, had a defensive partner in crime on the left edge - second rower Morris.
The versatile Morris, a Kawana Dolphins rookie, could make a living on the back of his work ethic - and that desire showed in the grand final.
Hayden Madders (Wavell SHS)
From a well known family at Wavell SHS, Madders was fast on his feet with a great passing game.
He could play in the halves and at hooker, although at five-eighth he looked in his element and it was this position from which he earnt Queensland schoolboys selection.
Lorenzo Peseta (Redcliffe SHS)
Redcliffe have an exciting junior crop in their ranks and a foundation player in the seasons ahead will be this young 14-15 years Maroons selection.
He is a middle forward with a big heart and a big motor who loves contact.
Peter Uilivai-Pita (Ipswich SHS)
Ipswich SHS have a player with footy smarts here.
A utility forward, Uilivai-Pita was a high energy, passionate type who was perfectly suited to representing Queensland (14-15 years, White team), at the national championships where he played dummy half with distinction.
SJ Pulepule (Marsden SHS)
He is a big bopper, but SJ Pulepule is not just a tough-carry prop - the Queensland schoolboys representative is a middle man with quick leg speed and a desire to play long minutes.
Max Murphy (St Mary’s College)
Murphy was outstanding in the DeVere Cup, with his smart hooker play and leadership a great enhancement to the side.
Ashton Taylor (Nudgee College)
He is from one of the world’s most famous rugby union nurseries but it is in the 13-a-side game where he excels.
An edge forward who made the Queensland 14-15 Years White side, he has an instinctive ability to hit a good line off his halves - while possessing an ability to flick a late pass.
Maquis Sando (Marsden SHS)
Maquis Sando was just tough, very tough, every time we saw him play.
From rugby league heartland - Logan Brothers - the No. 13 simply demanded state schoolboy selection.
Sando also had the joy of making the Under-15s Māori team earlier this season.
Murphy Phillips (Miami SHS)
The Gold Coast Titans have this rookie in their Futures’ squad, and it is little wonder.
From the famous Burleigh Bears junior catchment, halfback Phillips can control a game with his crisp passing while also looming large as a threat with his own flair.
Billy Spicer (Nudgee College)
They build them tough in Goondiwindi, and don’t you worry - Billy Spicer is tough.
Spicer hails from Goondiwindi and that gives you the impression he’d run through a farm shed wall for teammates.
The Redcliffe Dolphins Academy signee played edge forward for Queensland’s 14-15 Years side and as a fast-paced midfielder for the Queensland Reds Under-15s.
Iosefo Taateo (Redcliffe SHS)
A player with an ability to inspire teammates with his strong defence, Taateo can play centre, lock or second rower.
He was one of the top two or three players across the Struddy’s Cup Year 8 competition this season.
The most important thing with Taateo is getting involved because once he is, he adds another dimension to whatever team he is on.
Cordell Kirk (Ipswich SHS)
Astute South Sydney talent scouts have swooped to sign this outstanding prop, the brother of Langer Trophy player Reeco.
Few in the Year 10 age group carry the ball as strongly as Kirk does.
Chilli Tonelli-Smith (Nudgee College)
Another Dolphins’ signed rookie, Tonelli-Smith is a crafty hooker or half who has the ability to generate momentum for his forwards with his smart ball playing.
He has a sprinkle of flare this kid, a productive kicking game and plenty of courage on the defensive end.
Karter Iva (Brisbane SHS)
The Dolphins’ scouts have been scooping up promising young talent and Karter Iva is another who must have caught the eye with his strong defence and late footwork at the line.
He was a Queensland Schoolboys selection.
Diezel Guilonta (Marsden SHS)
Noted for being a great team man and a selfless type, this powerful forward brought aggression and toughness to both the Marsden SHS’s Year 9 side and also the Queensland 14-15 Years representative team.
Will Berrigan (Redcliffe State High School)
Will Berrigan followed in the footsteps of his brother, Nate, by playing for the Queensland 14-15 Years side this year.
Will is yet another talented junior player who is a part of Redcliffe SHS’s steady rise into the top tier Brisbane Broncos-sponsored schoolboy league competitions.
Jackson Winnett (St Mary’s College)
The Darling Downs district has a habit of nuturing outstanding halves and St Mary’s were habouring another clever No.7 in Winnett. He was crafty and created lots of try scoring opportunities.
Barry Taukolo (Nudgee College)
Barry Taukolo played strongly for Met North at the state championships where he earnt selection in the Queensland White 14-15 Years side as a winger.
The Broncos knew all about the outside back from Auckland long before his selection - the club has signed him to its academy.
Leroy Malone (Concordia Lutheran College)
What a graceful mover this rookie was in 2024.
With his flowing movement and athletic ability, it was little wonder this brilliant young talent from the Darling Downs found his place onto the Queensland 14-15 Years team sheet.
Derek Ahwang (Ipswich Grammar School)
Another lovely, natural outside back, Ahwang can swing between wing, fullback or centre with ease.
He is from prolific league country - Cairns - where he had been a leading junior prior to boarding at Ipswich Grammar School.
The quicksilver Ahwang has a bit of Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow about him.
Elijah Kadima (Ipswich State High)
The Ipswich SHS winger has improved significantly over the past two seasons and we suspect the best is yet to come.
He is a try scoring threat with finesse and a fend and speed to burn.
He has been a key player in Ipswich’s back-to-back premierships in this age group.
Isaiah Te Pairi (Brisbane SHS)
The Easts young gun impressed in both codes a devastating outside back.
From Brisbane State High, Te Pairi is a young veteran with a damaging running game.
Kingsley Bray (Brisbane SHS)
A typical, well organised halfback, Bray played his way into the Queensland schoolboys side where he brought a calm demeanour and productive kicking game to the squad.
Isaac Salei (Wavell SHS)
His brother Lauloto Salei was a very impressive lock for Wavell SHS in years past and a Queensland schoolboys representative in 2023.
Young Salei, a Year 9 student, is a splendid prop himself renowned for hard work.
He earnt a place in the Queensland schoolboys 14-15 years side this year.
Deshawn Compton (Keebra Park SHS)
A terrific little general with natural leadership qualities, Compton played his way into the state 14-15 years outfit thanks to his ability to bring his forwards onto the ball.
His sister Okalani, a hooker signed by the Broncos, was one of the most ferocious defenders in the NRL Schoolgirls Cup this season for Keebra Park SHS.
Lennox Ngata-Faofua (Redcliffe SHS)
Another high-quality junior from the Peninsula, Ngata-Faofua had an explosive aspect to his power running around the ruck which was rewarded by the state selectors.
Cruz Molo (Wavell SHS)
Here’s a high class edge forward talent, a rangy, hard working back row forward who was equally impressive in defence.
Kyanu Seiuli (Ipswich SHS)
Ipswich SHS has a wonderful junior catchment and one of the best emerging from the crop of young guns is this rookie back rower noted for being consistent and reliable.
Darius Birve (Caloundra SHS)
A livewire hooker with vision and beautiful hands, Birve is a little ripper who can tear a side apart off the back of a quick play the ball.
Ezekiel Filipi (Mabel Park SHS)
The future at Mabel Park SHS is in good hands with blokes like Filipi coming through the ranks. A Queensland 14-15 years representative, he has that explosive element to his game as a hooker or running No. 13.
Brooklyn Campbell (St Mary’s College)
Another beauty from the Darling Downs, Campbell is brave to the core, makes lots of tackles and works hard. It were these attributes which earned him a place in the Queensland 14-15 years schoolboys side.
Kingzen Lefono (Brisbane SHS)
A back rower, this athletic middle forward stands out for his nimble as well as physical presence. He also made the Queensland 14-15 years outfit.
Israel Faialaga (Wavell SHS)
Wavell SHS have some tremendous prospects in the ranks, and one such talent is this middle forward. His big frame can send defensive lines and give teammates momentum through his play the ball.
Josh Sapolu (Ipswich SHS)
A Brisbane Broncos Old Boys Shield ace, the Ipswich SHS fullback is the type of player who works his backside off while always being a danger with his tricky footwork.
Tallis Naleba (Ipswich SHS)
A pocket rocket in the Brisbane Broncos Old Boys Shield, Naleba was a jack-in-the-box with his lightning carries around the ruck.
Cavelli Mafi (Mabel Park SHS)
Mabel Park SHS’s fullback ace in the Brisbane Broncos Old Boys Shield, he worked overtime with the ball which tested opponents.
He had an ability to glide across the park in effortless fashion.
Onyx Poimafiti (Stretton State College)
He was an imposing middle forward presence who ran with no thought of self preservation.
Marky Howe (Mabel Park SHS)
Howe brought footy smarts to the Mabel Brisbane Broncos Old Boys Shield outfit, while having the ability to make thumping tackles.
Crafty.
Noah Smith and Noah Pulu (Mabel Park SHS)
Both Brisbane Broncos Old Boys Shield edge forwards, they gave Mabel plenty of attack on the fringe of the ruck.
Chris Perkins (Keebra Park SHS)
Perkins lit up the Brisbane Broncos Old Boys Shield semi-finals with a wonderful 70m solo try, and overall impressed as an effort player prepared to carry hard in contact.
William Liku (Wavell SHS)
Athletic and powerful No. 13, Liku was a try scoring threat this season off the back of his deceiving footwork in the Brisbane Broncos Old Boys Shield.
Sammy Steele Tupai (Keebra Park SHS)
Keebra Park has a good one here.
Tupai was outstanding in the Brisbane Broncos Old Boys Shield with his powerful left edge running. He soaked up contact.
Stelios Pekepo-Tevaga (Keebra Park SHS)
Stelios Pekepo-Tevaga was a tackling machine when we saw Keebra Park in the Brisbane Broncos Old Boys Shield. He was a traditional workhorse middle.
Seth Lotaki (Keebra Park SHS)
Another Lotaki from Keebra Park SHS who flashed into the limelight in the Brisbane Broncos Old Boys Shield with his strong defence and powerhouse running.
Psalams FuuFaa (Wavell SHS)
Don’t you just love a tackle hungry footballer? In the Brisbane Broncos Old Boys Shield, FuuFaa was a wonderful middle third defender who also chased clearing kicks and offered crisp service.
Talin Lelo (Keebra Park)
Lelo was an effort back three player who took on the look of an extra forward with his courageous runs from the defensive end.
Isaac Souter Robertson (Wavell SHS)
Robertson was another all effort player, a brave winger who defended above his weight in the
Brisbane Broncos Old Boys Shield semi-finals.
Brayden Rapata (PBC SHS)
A Renouf Shield left edge ace, the tall, rugged second rower loved the physical battle and was an outstanding player in this age group.
James Turner (Iona College)
Turner is an outstanding Year 10 hooker from the championship winning Iona College who played Connell Cup for Easts, as well as being the Met East starting hooker which is a huge achievement in a traditional rugby league stronghold region. He is a Melbourne Storm development squad member.
Jaxon Worthing (PBC SHS)
Worthing was an exciting Renouf Shield prospect who could score or create tries for his teammates. He had the ability to run in long range tries.
Mahara Wikaire (Ipswich SHS)
Wikaire is a rolled, gold Ipswich SHS dummy half who took great pride in his swift delivery to his halves. He also had an ability to challenge when he scampered from the ruck.
Malachi Kirk (Ipswich SHS)
The tall, 13-year-old playmaker was dangerous both creating for his teammates and going himself during the Renouf Shield. Kirk’s kicking game was also elite.
Wayne Conlon (Ipswich SHS)
Conlon impressed with his bravery playing fullback in the Renouf Shield. He was mistake free No. 1, who was able to absorb pressure.
Cooper Buchanan (PBC SHS)
He is a typical PBC SHS player whose foundation for his game is being reliable.
Finau Tafa (Mabel Park SHS)
Tafa stood out like a lighthouse because of his work ethic. A middle forward, he went all day in the Renouf Shield, a tackling machine and exhaustive runner of the ball.
Jayden Hape (Marsden SHS)
Talk about footy smarts. This hooker would top the class, that is for sure. He was a No. 9 who seemed to be able to anticipate the next move around the ruck. Marsden SHS have a good footballer in Hape.
Cruz Hola (Mabel Park SHS)
Don’t you just love a big hearted defender. While Hola can impact with the ball, we loved his defence in the Renouf Shield competition. The Mabel Renouf side had plenty of good workers, including his teammates Josh Kefu and Allistair Levika.
Steven Funaki (Wavell SHS)
A middle forward with a big, big motor, Funaki was a defensive axeman while also having an ability to unload in contact. He was the full package in the Hancock Cup.
Max Imrie (PBC SHS)
Reds hooker Imrie offered crisp service in the Hancock Cup and displayed plenty of energy in defence.
Makaio Tongia (PBC SHS)
Tongia was a Hancock Cup x-factor finisher who could run in a try or fly through the air to recapture possession.
MJ Otunuku (Keebra Park)
The sharp footwork of MJ stood out in the Hancock Cup, as did his leg drive in contact. He’d spin and rebound his way through defenders.
Gabriel Laing (Ipswich SHS)
An old fashioned prop, Laing was just tough, pure and simple, in Ipswich SHS’s march into the Hancock Cup grand final.
Xavier Takatainga (Keebra Park SHS)
Takatainga was big and strong and a constant danger with the ball, while also being a player you wanted to avoid when carrying possession in the Hancock Cup.
Ezrah Tangianau (Keebra Park SHS)
A bright spark hooker, Tangianau had vision and could generate attack with short or long passes when momentum was flowing his team’s way.
Kyanu Seiuli (Ipswich SHS)
He is an interesting prospect and we look forward to having a second look at him again this season. He is a mini version of Viliame Kikau of the Bulldogs, he was a right edge terror because of his size and power.
Ezra Sua and Noah Smith (Mabel Park)
Sua and Smith were among the players of the day when the Mabel Park SHS forwards paved the way for a second successive premiership.
Gillmex Vigo and Anmgelo Laaiva (Mabel Park SHS)
The premiership winning centres earn high praise for their defence, but also their
tough dummy half runs coming away from their defensive end. Footnote second rower Jahzion Wallace-Lui (Mabel Park SHS) as well. We enjoyed his defence in the BBOB finals.
Dazrus Tevi (Mabel Park SHS)
Tevi was a Mabel Park SHS mighty mite in the BBOB, dangerous lurking from the ruck off the back of his big forwards.
Blake Millar (PBC SHS)
Reds fullback Blake Millar impressed in the Renouf Shield with he was a defensive and ruck running hard man, while also having the ability to score from a distance to create or score himself.
Xane Jarvis and Jye Meads (PBC SHS)
Centre Jarvis caught the eye in the Renouf Cup with his right edge centre play both in attack and in defence where his desperate tackling impressed.
Meads was tough and uncompromising on defence and got the Reds rolling when he motored forward.
Toots Pirangi (Marsden SHS)
Toots Pirangi (halfback) was a silky-smooth ballplayer who had a sprinkle of class in the Renouf Shield competition.
Elijah Silivelio (Marsden SHS)
Left wing Elijah Silivelio was a fearless runner and daunting defender who maintained intensity across the length of a match.
Blake Tikinau (Ipswich SHS)
A Hancock Shield ace, Springfield Panthers junior Blake Tikinau was a glue player at halfback who could break out with a piece of individual brilliance.
He looked the full package, a crafty customer with the full package.
Leo Hunt (Ipswich SHS)
Tikinau’s halves partner in the Ipswich SHS Hancock Shield side, Hunt formed a nice partnership with his No. 7 and it will be exciting to see how they progress alongside of each other in the seasons ahead.
Steven Funaki (Wavell SHS)
There is no shortage of impact forwards scattered through the Wavell SHS ranks, and one just player is Funaki who was on a hit-and-run mission during his team’s Hancock Shield campaign.
Jasiah Parsons (Wavell SHS)
When we saw him in the Hancock Shield, Parsons was an eye-catching fullback, safe under swirling kicks, a No. 1 with plenty of involvements, he prepared to take a knock with his kick returns or dummy half scurries.
Ezekiel Levi (Ipswich SHS)
Mark down this Hancock Shield young gun. He was a tremendous worker, prepared to carry tough while having the smarts when handed momentum off a quick ruck. He was tireless.
Knight Tanielu (Wavell SHS)
Tanielu was Mr Persistent, an effort player who could hammer on the door until the opposition’s defensive line was battered down.
He is a young giant with the skills to be extremely effective in his role.
Taoso Taoso (BSHS)
A tall, natural athlete who plays edge forward, the Dolphins-signed Taoso was also an elite water polo player who this year had the distinction of being named in the Australian under-16 water polo side. We saw him playing for the Norths Connell Cup side during the summer.
Christian Cusack (Mountain Creek SHS)
Tireless in both attack and defence, captain Cusack stood out in the Struddy’s Cup Year 9s because he seemed to have a calm head in a crisis.
Thomas Lucas (Mountain Creek SHS)
Lucas would have spent hours in the backyard or down the local park tackling because his driving defence and speed off the line curtailed bigger opponents. He had great energy in the Struddy’s Cup grand final.
Ilai Mataafa (Forest Lake SHS)
Forest Lake SHS’s push into the Struddy’s Cup grand final all started with the middle forward crew of Locklan Ah Hong, Monson Tuileto and No. 13 Mataafa. We liked the work rate of this athletic forward.
Coby Page (Mountain Creek SHS)
Another impressive Sunshine Coast boy, centre Page was an aggressive runner in the Struddy’s Cup who threatened with his persistence.
Grayson Amosa (Forest Lake SHS)
Another member of Forest Lake’s Struddy Year 7 premiership winning side, second rower Amosa was the type of defender who’d plague an edge runner to death on the right side of the field.
Jose Flores (Forest Lake SHS)
Halfback Flores was both a nice organiser, but also an effective runner when he took the line on.
Braxton Dore (Mountain Creek SHS)
A crafty five-eighth, Dore had the special touch which could see him land a 40/20 off his left boot, or send a teammate into a half gap.
Ryan McPherson (Mountain Creek SHS)
McPherson was another big effort player in the Struddy’s Cup. He was a hard working hooker with energy off the defensive line and also smart with his ruck work.
Seth Walduck (Mountain Creek)
Walduck would have been a great player to be alongside because of his strong defence and willingness to carte the ball on the edge.
Leison Malu (Kings Christian College)
Kings were blessed to have dynamic twins Year 8 students Kobe Te-Kiri (hooker) and Noah Te-Kiri (lock), who we mentioned earlier, in the side, but Kings Christian College was not a two man band. Goal kicking halfback Malu was another top notice performer.
Papu Purcell (Kings Christian College)
Purcell has Kings grunt around the ruck with his strong carries, leg drive and desire to play the ball quickly. He could also impact in defence.
Ayvree Wetere (King Christian College)
Wetere was a three try hero in Kings Year 8 Struddy’s Cup grand final win over Redcliffe SHS. He was difficult to hold on the right edge when carrying, and locked down opponents in defence. Blaine Adams (King’s Christian College) also deserves a mention.
Tyler Wilson (Redcliffe SHS)
The defensive desperation of Wilson on grand final day in the Year 8 Struddy’s Cup said plenty about this youngster. We look forward to seeing him again in 2025.
Pierson Faapito (Redcliffe SHS)
Not unlike Wilson, teammate Faapito displayed plenty of courage under fire on grand final day.
Tippessa Lee (Marsden SHS)
The Dolphins-signed hooker or running No. 13 was as quick between the ears as he was off the mark around the ruck in the Walters Cup. He is one to watch, for sure.
Siai Papani (Wavell SHS)
Papani was an explosive forward in the Walters Cup who knew no fear. His defence was also threatening and we had no problem in naming him in our Year 10 Year of the Season earlier this year.
Romarion Tuitama (Wavell SHS)
Another rough nut from Wavell, the No. 13 also had dynamic footwork, leg drive at the point of contact and stung in defence across the Walters Cup.
Bennett Cash (Mountain Creek SHS)
Cash did everything possible to deliver his side a Struddy’s Year 9 premiership and earned a place on this list for his extra efforts. His teammate Madgwick Makani also deserves mention in this story.
Oliver Smith (Caloundra SHS)
Another wonderful Sunshine Coast prospect glimpsed in the Struddy’s Cup Year 9 competition, left edge second rower Smith is the type who takes his opposite on with the same intensity - regardless of whether it is the first minute or the last.
Qubin Anderson (Keebra Park SHS)
Livewire hooker Cubin Anderson has that x-factor about him, a dummy half or could start or roar off the bench and make an impact off the back of momentum. He also had a super ruck pass.
TJ Sauaso (Ipswich SHS)
TJ Sauaso has those natural deft touches only the best No. 7 possess. He steered his side around expertly and we look forward to having another look at him in 2025.
Max Wood (PBC SHS)
Wood was a damaging edge backrower with speed and footwork that made him a handful in his age group.
Viliami Vea (Mabel Park SHS)
Mabel Park SHS’s Walters Cup captain, centre Vea was a strike weapon who could produce a those highlight reel moments across the school season.
The Rochedale Tigers middle forward was a Met East selection.
Haki Kennedy (Marsden SHS)
Kennedy was an old fashioned bash and barge prop whose game was based around toughness, desire and effort.
Jaylan Naleba (Ipswich SHS)
Naleba had one of the biggest motors in the Walters Cup. A hooker, he went all game, week in, week out. The vice-captain was a great example to his side.
Cruz Hoit-Scott (Mabel Park SHS)
A prop, Cruz consistently led from the front in the tough areas of the field, while also having an ability to find the line in attack.
Cortez Kirkpatrick (Wavell SHS)
Meet Mr Consistency.
A reliable utility back in the high class Walters Cup competition, Kirkpatrick seemed to perform in whatever role he was given.
From fullback, in the halves, the Norths Devils junior representative used his footwork and communication to spark life into his team.
Cohen Aitken (PBC SHS)
A likely looking lad from PBC SHS, Aitken was a powerhouse back rower who challenged opponents whether he was fatigued or not.
He had that extra effort element to his game.
Nathan Phelps (Marsden SHS)
A clever Walters Cup five-eighth who knew how to get his side around the paddock.
Calm in a crisis, he never seemed flustered.
Dallas Davidson (Wavell SHS)
Don’t you just love an effort player like Davidson, a metre-eating prop who worked his backside off.
He was often seen thundering forward from the back fence for the Wavell Warriors and his energy and enthusiasm made a genuine difference for his school team.
Isaac Tokam (Mabel Park SHS)
A promising centre or second rower, Tokam was rock solid on the right hand side of the field where his speciality was shutting down dangerous opponents.
Harvey Longhurst (Redcliffe SHS)
A lock or five-eighth, Longhurst seemed to learn to pace his control of games this season.
He will be a great enhancement to the senior program in 2025.
MacGuiness Tiananga (Ipswich SHS)
Just dynamite.
MacGuiness Tiananga was the type of kid you wanted to see a second or third time.
There was not much of him, but his running game threat was ever present. He also had a clever short kicking game.
Amon Tu’aefe (Stretton State College)
Tu’aefe was a quick-footed fullback in the Walters Cup who could take advantage of a half gap.
In defence he was an excellent communicator from the back.
Liam Sanson (St Mary’s College)
A tough and aggressive at lock, he was your traditional middle forward hard nut, someone who never took a backward step in the DeVere Cup competition.
Jonah Stephens (Mountain Creek SHS)
A hard running prop from the Year 10 competition, Jonah Stephens’ work ethic and consistency were his points of difference.
Leo Michaels (Mountain Creek SHS)
One of the more talented No. 13s, he had natural hands with skill and a big work ethic.
Also noted this season from Mountain Creek SHS were hooker Rileigh Ruming and edge forward Braxon Boon who left his mark at times in the Connell Cup.
Jorvia Alo (Redcliffe SHS)
Like his older brother Jono who we mentioned earlier, Jorvia was another natural talent who played a little closer to the ruck in the Year 8 competition.
Will O’Neil and Riley Wilson (Redcliffe SHS)
Another two promising Year 8 forwards from the Peninsula, the boys played their roles strongly in the Struddy’s Cup.
Russell Mapatano and Blaine Adams (Kings Christian College)
A centre. Mapatano was an edge threat while half or fullback Adams mixed his clever vision with strong defence in the Year 8 age group for Kings.
Logan Ahau (Caloundra SHS)
He had a late start to the season, but he finished the Struddy’s Cup Year 9 competition with a flourish playing either fullback or lock.
Jai Glister (Caloundra SHS)
Another engine room effort player, Glister played bravely in the middle while doubling as the team’s Struddy’s Cup Year 9 goal kicker.
Tristan Hay (Mountain Creek SHS)
Hay was an eye-catching Year 9 Struddy’s Cup outside back whose defensive work ethic, scramble and toughness at the point of contact caught the eye.
He is in the Melbourne Storm Academy.
Dakoda Yung (Stretton State College)
Playing Walters Cup would have been a great education for this promising half with speed and agility.
Originally published as Best of the best Year 7-10 talents from South East Queensland we saw during 2024
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