The nine South East Queensland-based teams will play their first game of the new campaign on Saturday, February 18, with the rest of the state’s teams kicking off on February 25.

We’ve talked to the coaches and clubs to uncover the players who might make the biggest impact this season, and who might take their team to a premiership.

View the season fixture here.

BRISBANE TIGERS

Led by former dual international Lote Tuqiri, the Tigers will be out to make a statement in the statewide under-16s competition.

Kobi Floro: A big, mobile 6.4ft, 100kg front rower from Wavell SHS who brings great energy to the group - along with his big personality.

“He is a big target but I believe he can handle the added pressure,’’ said Tigers coach Lote Tuqiri.

The big bloke has attracted interest from NRL clubs.

Frank Howarth: The brother of extremely promising Storm rookie Jack, this young edge forward has come under the notice of the Broncos and for good reason.

He is big, mobile, a physical player who will be hard to stop.

“If he stays fit, he could be better than his brother,’’ Tuqiri said.

Now that would be worth seeing.

BURLEIGH BEARS

Behind Ryan Gundry’s selection approach was a desire to “think outside the box”; a hope that they could unearth the diamonds in the rough that could take rugby league by storm.

The Burleigh Bears’ Cyril Connell Challenge coach was not on the hunt for the typical footballer. He declared he wanted the youngsters who displayed the raw natural ability that could be honed into something truly special.

“We were looking for kids that were outside of the box a little bit and been overlooked in a lot of things previously,” Gundry said.

“We were looking to upskill them and give them a chance. We’ve got a good contingent of Queensland kids who were in the Queensland schoolboys (last) year and also in the South Coast team, but we were just looking for the diamonds in the rough.”

Outside Backs — Cooper Larman, David Bryenton, Freeman Raftstrand-Smith, Isaac Cullen, Quinn Timperon, Seth Gundry, Tolga Eden, Zane Andrews

Such has been the manner in which Isaac Cullen has dominated in the junior ranks, he drew the attention of arguably rugby league’s biggest juggernaut.

The Helensvale Hornets product earned a development opportunity with the Melbourne Storm, and now he is primed to fight for the Bears’ number one jumper.

While Cullen can ply his trade across the backline, Gundry believes fullback is where his finest attributes lie.

However that does not guarantee him the job.

Seth Gundry garnered Queensland schoolboys selection just last year, while David Bryenton has come across from New Zealand and impressed in an instant.

“He (Cullen) obviously has been identified in the talent that he has playing for Helensvale. He’s tall and rangy and he’s got a good turn of foot,” Gundry said.

“(But) we’ve got the Queensland fullback in Seth so he might start there, I’m not sure yet but we’ve got another young lad from New Zealand, Bryenton, who’s come over and he’s been impressing at training.

“We’ve got three pretty promising fullbacks there that I can choose from, but all three will be in the team it’s just a matter of who fill what role.”

While any of Gundry’s fullback options could fill spots on the wings or in the centres, the coach said there would still be several smokies ready to stake a claim to those roles.

Zane Andrews will come into the mix courtesy of a brilliant finish and blinding speed, while “Greek Adonis” Tolga Eden could factor in either the centres or second row.

“They’re quick, they’re fast and they’re not going to die wondering,” Gundry said.

“They’re a pretty confident bunch of kids and I just want to encourage them to play football and let their natural attributes shine through.”

Halves — Dallas Ingram, Daniel Rakena, Grady Payne, Marley McLaren, Zac Murphy

Gundry admits he will have a headache simply trying to determine his halves.

At last year’s Australian Schoolboys championships, Dallas Ingram lined up for the Queensland White outfit, while Marley McLaren took his place in the Queensland Maroon side.

Grady Payne and Zac Murphy then both come into the mix having guided their club outfits to grand finals, while Daniel Rakena looms as a “surprise packet” according to Gundry.

“He was out of the game for a little bit and he’s come back into the game. What I’ve seen of him at training he’s silky smooth, I’m looking forward to seeing how he goes,” Gundry said of Rakena.

“He’s got time, things just seem to happen in slow motion around him. It’s not a trait that a lot of people have but he seems to have it, we just have to use it.”

Despite the strong competition for the six and seven jumpers, McLaren seems to have a stranglehold on one of the spots.

The Currumbin junior has been identified by the Brisbane Broncos as a player of the future, having masterminded several strong performances at the Currumbin Eagles.

Gundry said it was his game management that stood out for a player so young; a characteristic that could set him apart heading into round one.

“He (McLaren) has been playing at Currumbin and he’s always been sort of above the pack in terms of his organisational skills and his game management,” Gundry said.

“We sort of don’t play a traditional six and seven role where we lock them in to one side, we’re happy for them to roam and that’s how we’re going to play.”

Middle Forwards — Cruz Tauaifaiga, Gabriel Salele’a, Harry Benbow, Kendrix Marsh, Luke Jones, Marley Igasan, Mateo Faleono, Reuben Dickson, Thomas Davies

Rule changes are afoot in the Cyril Connell Challenge, hence why this Burleigh pack will be blessed with more mobility than size.

He said the likes of Luke Jones, who has been renowned in junior levels for playing big minutes, will likely be the young man who sets the standard in the pack.

But across the board he said those in contention all possessed mobility and strong ball playing attributes which he believed would suit this new era of rugby league.

“We have a little bit of size in a few boys, but we’re definitely going for more mobility and skill,” Gundry said.

“We’ve got our philosophies where we think we can minimise the opposition, so to do that we need guys who are fit, agile, and able to get around the park pretty well.

“Luke has a big engine, he’s a worker. He wants to be a part of everything and he leads the boys around. He’ll set a standard for us in that middle third with our defence, so really looking forward to seeing what he brings.”

Marley Igasan has just started at Palm Beach Currumbin, having been brought over from New Zealand to join the Brisbane Broncos development pathways.

A dynamic lock who can also ply his trade on the edge, Igasan’s calibre fits in with the mentality Gundry said he was hopeful of his forward pack producing — agile with the ability to move the football around the park.

Having co-captained the New Zealand Maori under-15s team at the Pasifika Youth Cup last year, Igasan already displays himself as a leader of the future.

Edge Forwards — Hudson Pratt, Jakyea Te Huia, Kallen Boss, Nelson Makaafi, Talan Henderson, Te Ira Rudolph-Mokaraka, Zak Hutchings

Rugby league fans be on high alert for Nelson Makaafi.

While the coach said the likes of Kallen Boss would come into the mix courtesy of some brilliant late footwork close the defensive line, with others showcasing their assets as defensive work horses, Makaafi could be the young man who offers a crucial x-factor on the edge.

The teenager joined Jones and Ingram in the Queensland under-15s side last year, having trained within the Gold Coast Titans development pathways.

“Just with the quality of the halves we’ve got I’m looking forward to seeing him get ball in open space and using his physical attributes he has in trying to spot a weak defender and create a fast play the ball or run a good line for us,” Gundry said.

“He’s definitely someone to watch. He’s got good leg speed, he’s got a good turn of foot and he’s just someone I’m looking forward to seeing play.”

Hookers — Archie Sillar, Codey McConnell, Cooper Humphreys, Jax Damro

Even with four hookers to choose from, Gundry said several could factor in the final 17 given the range of skills they bring to the table.

A crucial one-two punch could be formed to combat the introduction of the six-again rule, with the likes of Cooper Humphreys building their game on strong defence while Codey McConnell was lauded by his coach as “electric out of dummy half”.

Archie Sillar will have his back against the wall to push for the number nine jumper in the final weeks leading up to round one as he overcomes a niggling injury, however Gundry was confident he would be fit and firing to come into consideration at the time.

However he stressed that in what is expected to be a much faster game, the utility value of a player such as Jax Damro could be a compelling case for selection.

“I think your utility is really going to come into the age group now,” Gundry said.

“Someone who can go in and play hooker for 10 or 15, go back to lock and jump into the halves if something was to happen and rotate through those three key positions.”

CQ CAPRAS

The halves pairing of Tyler Melrose and Will McLaughlin will bring the X-factor to what is a strong and talented CQ Capras under-16 boys line-up this year.

Coach Duane Carpenter is feeling “really confident” about his team’s prospects in the Cyril Connell Challenge after his 30-strong squad has worked tirelessly during pre-season.

“We’ve got strength across the park,” he said.

“It’s so competitive this year, I definitely haven’t landed on our top 17.

“I’ll definitely need the trials to make those decisions but it’s a good problem to have.”

Carpenter said Melrose and McLaughlin were forging a fantastic combination in the halves, while centre Eli McKay and second rower Harvey Mahoney would also have a big influence on the team’s performances.

The Capras will host the Townsville Blackhawks in their season opener on February 25.

CQ Capras under-16 boys squad for 2023

Archie Lloyd: Young, energetic half who is a great communicator. He is trying really hard to improve his game during the pre-season.

Brock Otto: Solid, tough, dependable front rower from Gladstone. Had a great game in the first pre-season trial against Redcliffe.

Caleb Hare: Solidly built and physically strong winger who played for Emmaus College and Rocky Tigers last season.

Chase Everingham: Tall, rangy and athletic edge player who is being converted to a specialist winger. Scored two good tries in the first pre-season trial against Redcliffe.

Cooper Young: Very tough and physical front rower from Gladstone. Never takes a backward step in heavy contact.

Eli McKay: Still very raw but is an incredible naturally talented athlete from Agnes Water.

Playing in the centres this season, his potential has been identified by the Dolphins and is currently under contract with them.

Ethan Little: Played for the Blackwater Crushers last season and has just made the move to The Cathedral College as a boarder.

The tall, strong backrower had has a chance to impress in the pre-season trials.

Harley Logan Biles: Harley only turns 15 this year, but has shown he has some impressive potential as an athlete and footy player.

Harrison Hill: What Harry lacks in height he makes up with in strength and determination on the field.

He led from the front and was the team’s best against the Redcliffe Dolphins in the pre-season trial.

Harvey Mahoney: St Brendan’s College student in his second year with this squad. A very powerful second rower who will be hard to handle this season.

Henry Kallquist: Hails from Taroom and currently boards at Rockhampton Grammar School. A tall and well-built player, he has been a big improver during pre-season training.

Jaiden Savage: Another player in his second season in this squad. Had a great game in the front row against the Redcliffe Dolphins in their pre-season trial.

Jake Coomber: Clever half who comes from Chanel College in Gladstone.

Jake Murphy: Very athletic and speedy edge player who played for St Brendan’s College and Cap Coast Brothers last season.

Jake Reily Oberhardt: Nuggetty, very strong and has great leg speed for a middle forward.

Also in his second year in this squad, he has just made the move from Emerald to St Brendan’s College this year.

Jay Marsh: Incredibly talented and physically strong for a player who only turned 14 late last year. The young pup in our squad but starred at #9 in the pre-season trial against Redcliffe.

Leo Fanuatanu: Another player who will turn 15 this year.

Currently lives in Emerald but does the kilometres every week to make all his training sessions. Freakish outside back who got his first opportunity in the trials.

Mason Broadhurst: Very quiet, but very reliable and has been our hardest working player during the pre-season.

He has shown the biggest improvement in his game which reflects his efforts.

Michael Busby: Very crafty dummy half who has a great passing and running game.

Only turns 15 this year, but already is showing maturity beyond his years.

Nate Kenealy: Tall, rangy and strong backrower from St Brendan’s and Emu Park.

Injury will keep him out of the trial games but will return when the competition games start.

Parker Gallagher: Tough and young front rower from Gladstone who thrives on the physical challenge of playing against rivals older than him.

Definitely put some of our biggest hits on against Redcliffe.

Phillip Yock: Hails from Cunnamulla in western Queensland and currently boards at St Brendan’s College. Very talented and dangerous outside back who is exciting to watch.

Reiner Grams: Also from St Brendan’s College, but calls Longreach home in between school terms. Tough edge player who got a start against the Mackay Cutters.

Samuel Luka Adams: Fiery red-headed front rower from Rocky Tigers and Emmaus College.

Another young member in our squad who never backs away from a physical challenge in any situation.

Tyler Melrose: Very talented player who did a great job steering the team’s attack in halfback and also as captain against Redcliffe.

Shaping up to be one of the team’s most dangerous attacking weapons this season.

Tyson Hinds: Ball playing fullback from St Brendan’s College who has a great build on him. Very dangerous down the short sides in attack.

Will Lloyd: Classy centre who has some great skills and athleticism.

Will McLaughlin: Played for Rocky Tigers and Emmaus College last season.

A dangerous and unpredictable half who will be very hard to defend against. Has some very impressive skills.

Zac Bateman: Queensland under-15 schoolboys representative last year who is currently contracted to the North Queensland Cowboys.

Undergoing rehab from shoulder surgery in the off-season with hopes he will be back at some stage this season.

Zakkaree Jenkyn: Quick and agile fullback who played for the Fitzroy Sharks and Rocky High last season.

IPSWICH JETS

The younger brother of Roosters sensation Sam Walker is among five players who will be key to the Jets’ premiership hopes in 2023.

Cooper Cracknell: The Queensland under-15 prop will be a forward leader who will set an example to his teammates.

The Jets have lost their main man from 2022, David Leota to Canterbury, but watch for Cracknell to step up to the plate.

Tyson Walker: The younger brother of Roosters NRL star Sam Walker, Tyson is another playmaker (five-eighth) who is a typical Walker in that he plays eyes up football.

He has a very good long ball and is dangerous in broken play.

But Walker is also starting to understand the importance of setting things up rather than playing off the back of limited opportunities.

Xzavier Timoteo: There will not be too many players who will finish a match against the Jets’ under 16s without plenty of bumps and bruises, and many of them will be caused by Timoteo who will play in the middle.

James Pou: New to the Connell Challenge environment, the No. 13 will complement fellow middle men Cracknell and Timoteo.

He is physical, loves the contact and hard work, but also has a good off load.

Neyon Tatio: Another newcomer to the Jets, Tatio has had an impressive off-season and will use his big frame to great effect in the backs, most likely from the wing.

MACKAY CUTTERS

Mackay’s premiership hopes will be led Camden Hopes, Kooper Shears, Mark Morrow and Cohen Jackson, with the Cutters kicking off their campaign against Northern Pride on February 25.

The squad: Kade Adamson, Jackson Aslette, Flynn Battaia, Coby Cabassi, Cooper Cavell, Justis Costigan, Saxon Crofts, Cooper Deguara, Sean Drew, Declan Grady, Jake Hinton, Camden Hopes, Cohen Jackson, Ryan John, Jacob Madsen, Darcy McFarlane, Isaak Mezzen, Mark Morrow, Kaden Muscat, Xavier Nott, Riley Parnis, Cohen Ross, Reuben Saron, Kooper Shears, Brian Smith, Lachlan Starr, Jack Townsend, Lachlan Whippy, Isaiah Wilson, Toby Woodall.

NORTHS DEVILS

The Devils will be talented - they always are - although on this occasion coach Shannon Tupara declined to single out his players or put pressure on them.

But expect them to be a good side.

NORTHERN PRIDE

VERSATILITY in key positions and the desire to fight until the end will be the foundation for Northern Pride’s success in the Cyril Connell Challenge this season.

Coached by former Cowboys and Maroons prop John Buttigieg, the Pride side features a mix of speed, size and spark which could be key to the Cairns club upstaging their northern rivals in the under-16 competition.

And the team’s ability to unlock their full potential could be at the heart of a decision Buttigieg must make about who will comprise three quarters of their spine.

D’Artanyan Connolly and Ira Yeatman are outstanding talents: both have electric speed, can create something out of nothing, and are as unpredictable as they come.

“|I’ve heard some feedback about him and Ira that when they get together, the combination is just electric,” Buttigieg said.

“D’Artanyan’s played state and national for touch; as quick as they come.

“I’m looking forward to see how they go. They play similar positions, both are fullbacks and halves, but we’re just working out the combinations at the moment.”

Add in a number of talented halves like Ben Walker and Chase Sheppard, along with quality hookers Cody Robson and Jackson Clark, and Buttigieg has a headache heading into kick-off in the 2023 campaign.

Walker and Sheppard have formed a handy combination.

Walker, the son of under-21s coach Bevan, has shown leadership qualities through his actions while Sheppard, the son of former Pride premiership winner and ex-Cowboys playmaker Chris, has shown the apple hasn’t fallen far from the tree when it comes to his organisational skills.

“Ben’s been a quiet achiever,” Buttigieg said.

“He’s stepped into that leadership role but he probably doesn’t realise it. He is quietly spoken, but when he talks the boys respond.

“Chase organises the team well so I’m keen to see that.”

Buttigieg has worked with this squad since November, with this roster the result of months of hard work and tough decisions by the staff as they settled on a squad they believe can best represent the Pride.

That isn’t just on the field, with development as footballers and young men also integral.

“Having a winning result is the best outcome, but it’s not the be all and end all,” Buttigieg said.

“We really want to see these guys develop so they move up through the grades, and hopefully we talk about training on paddock 1 with Ty (Williams, Hostplus Cup coach) and the boys.

“It’s about their development, and bringing them together as young men.

“We focus on a lot of things, not just on the field but the stuff we do off the field as well. we’ve been really pumping the club values into them and the boys have responded to that really well.”

As a result, Buttigieg has landed on a squad which is big on talent, has loads of potential, and is huge on heart.

“We’re not a big team but the ticker on some of these boys is really impressive,” he said.

“I see some of the boys here miss a tackle at training and they take it quite personally, they get a bit dirty on themselves.”

It’s that attitude which has him optimistic the Pride has the right group.

Cayde Miller will be one to watch, a “professional” who has set the example with his attitude as he recovered from a back injury.

“For a 16-year-old kid, he’s as close to a professional as I’ve seen,” Buttigieg said.

“He’s really impressed me.

“He is recovering from a back injury, but he’s so professional in how he recovers and gets himself right.

“And he’s really leading the team, he’s got some good talent about him.

“He’s lock or back row, put him in the middle, he’s a big strong kid.

“Everything about him, he lives and breathes footy, and he’s a good kid to coach.”

Alongside him is Cooper Meares, a relatively new arrival in the Far North who has trained his way into selection calculations.

“Cooper came up from Brisbane, and he’s been training the house down,” Buttigieg said.

“We’re impressed with what he did in the trials, he just did that hard front-rower stuff, where he just keeps getting up and keeps going.”

THE SQUAD

Fullbacks: D’Artanyan Connolly, Ira Yeatman, Jayden Mothe

Outside backs: Ben Callaghan, Braith Clubb, Daniel Brennan, Cody Robson, D’Artanyan Connolly, Elsiyah Laumatia, Jack Turner, Jayden Mothe, Jaxson Rayson, Jett Walker, Pitason Benioni, Tyler Pearce

Halves: Ben Walker, Chase Sheppard, D’Artanyan Connolly, Ira Yeatman, Urrwunhthin (Lennox) Hart

Hookers: Cody Robson, Jackson Clark

Middle forwards: Cayde Miller, Clynt Jarvis, Cooper Meares, Darcy Small, Iszak Keller, Jack Daniels, Jack Maloney, Jason Hastie, Johsan Daniel, Kai Cooper, Kyle Day, Shaun Nomani, Tyler Pearce

Edge forwards: Clynt Jarvis, Cody Weldon, Elsiyah Laumatia, Jett Walker, Kyle Day.

REDCLIFFE DOLPHINS

Experienced junior representative coach and selector Chris Little will again oversee the Connell Connell Challenge side this season.

While he’ll be expecting a full team effort, this talented trio are among those who will hopefully lead the Dolphins to success.

Brian Pouniu: The 2022 Queensland under 16 edge forward is a real dynamo who is sure to again be a handful at this level.

Mereki Warradoo: A Dolphins junior from the Moreton Bay junior league club, Warradoo is an exciting fullback talent who last year was voted best Queensland under 15 player at the nationals.

Jarius Halahala: A Redcliffe SHS student, the 2022 Queensland under 15 prop will be a real asset to the side with his strong, aggressive game. He also has great late footwork.

SOUTHS LOGAN MAGPIES

Souths Logan’s Connell Challenge outfit will charge into the season a tightly knit, committed group.

New coach Scott Bannon said “how strong the boys have got as a group’’ was the thing which had impressed him most.

“Coming from different clubs and having that rivalry for so long, it was a big focus to get the boys to play for each other,’’ Bannon said.

“That was my pre-season focus and the boys are now all like family, so now we can really focus on playing some footy.

“I couldn’t be more excited to see what these boys can do on the field.’’

Ezra Leota: A dummy half, Leota is an explosive player who is a little like his idol, premiership winning NRL star Api Koroisau. He is also very strong in defence and is always pinching those extra metres around the ruck.

Levi Bannan: Bannan will play either fullback or halfback and features ridiculous speed off the mark and great footwork.

He is a kid who plays with all heart and defends way above his pay grade.

He leaves everything on the field and his energy is infectious and that’s why he is an 100 per cent effort player

Sam Martin: Plays at hooker and is super calm and a natural born leader.

Martin plays a very intelligent game and is always three plays ahead. He loves big contact and is always looking for that shot that can change the game’s momentum.

Tom Parker: A Forest Lake product, the best way to describe Parker is silky smooth.

A fullback, his favourite player is Kalyn Ponga and they have a lot in common - he is incredibly dangerous with the ball in hand and his defence on the line is second to none.

Parker will save so many tries that you’ll lose count.

SUNSHINE COAST FALCONS

Falcons coach Tim Baldwin said he was eager for the start of the season.

“Pre-season has been good, the boys are still fresh to a professional program and environment but have learnt a lot,” he said.

“They’ve had to learn physically but also new terminology and a new way of doing things so they've pushed through some tough trainings both mentally and physically.”

Baldwin said the squad had been cut from 80, to 45, to currently 35 and will look to finalise his squad of 30 after the opening pre-season matches.

He said he hoped to further develop the players over the coming months.

“Obviously we’re focused on the development side of things with these younger guys and hope they continue to learn and grow their game and their overall knowledge of the game,” he said.

“Off the back of that we hope to put forward some good performances and with that comes some wins and a bit of success.”

Benjamin Hunter

“Benny will play in the back row,” he said.

“He’s tough, he’s built like a brick wall for a 16-year-old and is going to be very hard to stop as he runs a good hard line.

“He’ll be solid on the edge for us.”

Darcel Snowden

“This is Darcel’s second season in the Cyril Connell and he’ll play in the front row,” he said.

“He’ll bring that experience but also that solid go-forward and will be a leader for us upfront.”

Toby Irvine

“Toby will play in our halves and again will bring some good experience and direct us around the park,” he said.

“He’s tough but he’s also very skilful.”

Tyson Fallon-May

“Tyson will play at hooker,” he said.

“He’s very wise in that position and will be sniffing around the ruck when the forwards are lazy but also give good service to our halves.”

Jackson Koina

“Jackson will be one of our captains,” he said.

“He’s a real leader through the team and especially within the forward pack.

“He’s very mature but also has some great ball skills and is willing to give the defensive side of things a real crack in the middle.”

Charlie Coates

“Charlie will play in the front row,” he said.

“He’s just an absolute workhorse and is tough as nails.

“He’s a top player that loves the impact, plays tough and thrives in the gritty side of the game.”

Tyler Conquest

“Tyler will play in the backline,” he said.

“He’s elusive and is very quick as well.

“He’ll give our side some good speed and some good go-forward coming off kicks and wide plays.”

Ellyjah Birve

“Ellyjah is the other captain we’ll have,” he said.

“He’s very elusive, plays what’s in front of him and when he backs himself he’s going to be hard to stop.

“He’ll play in the halves and will put a lot of pressure on opposing defences.”

Baldwin said Birve is already on the books at the Melbourne Storm and represented the Queensland under-15s team in 2022.

“He’s already pretty well known and there will be a few eyes on him seeing how he goes this year,” he said.

Taj Burke

“Burkey is a bottom aged kid so it means he’s under-15s playing up but he’s another kid that has a lot of talent,” he said.

“He’ll be our starting second rower and is still learning his position and his role but makes that up in the talent he brings into the squad.

“He’s going to be a great player in the future and will definitely hold his own against the older players.”

Zayde Carfantan

“Zayde will play centre,” he said.

“He’s a great talker and will be hard to stop when he’s one-on-one.

“He brings a bit of toughness but is also strong in defence and attack through his ability and his communication.”

TOWNSVILLE BLACKHAWKS

With eight players hoping to play in the halves, this year’s Townsville Blackhawks squad for the Cyril Connell Challenge under-16s has no shortage of skill.

Early standouts for the two pivotal positions include Canberra Raiders-contracted Ryan Van Zanden and Cowboys-contracted Taakoi Benioni, but the message from coach Nathan Norford was that every position was still up for grabs.

“There is plenty of competition in the squad, no one has cemented their spots and I’m really looking forward to the next couple of weeks,” Norford said.

“There’s definitely options to move the side around, for example if he (Van Zanden) ended up at fullback you could have Cohen Dittmann and Dylan Gourley in the centres, so there’s plenty of different options there.

“All those choices can also be a negative in some ways, you want them to be practising as much as they can in their position, but it’s also good that we can look at different options and see how that works best.”

Only three of this year’s squad played Cyril Connell football last year, though only Dittmann and Gourley played for the Blackhawks (Benioni played for the Northern Pride).

That means there’s plenty of opportunities for leaders to put their hand up for big roles in the team, with Norford identifying a number of leadership candidates.

OUTSIDE BACKS / CENTRES: Heath Bethel, Cohen Dittmann, Dylan Gourley, Don Paiyala

Norford’s Blackhawks are stacked with talent out wide this year, with the two returning members of the squad – Dittmann and Gourley – both being talented outside backs.

While Norford said Dittmann would probably be given the first crack at fullback, his versatility provided plenty of options for the coach.

“He’s got speed to burn and he’s got really aggressive defence, he’s probably one of the ones to watch out for,” Norford said.

“He’s in the driver’s seat to be fullback, but he’s also a classy defender as well, so centre is definitely not out of his sights either.”

Norford said he hoped Gourley would be able to back up what he did in the Challenge last year and step up to become a leader in 2023.

Kirwan State High School’s answer to Justin Olam, and proven match-winner Don Paiyala is a dynamic player that has strength beyond his size and could be used at centre or on the wing.

Heath Bethel is another player with NRL links; both he and his twin brother Zane are signed with the Canberra Raiders.

HALVES: Lincoln Baker, Taakoi Benioni, Nayte Essery, Immanuel Kawane, Riley McIntyre, Jack Miller, Marley Proctor, Ryan Van Zanden

In the halves is where Norford will have his biggest selection headache.

Eight players have played most of their football in the halves, while the likes of Dittmann and Cooper Reinders could fill in in a pinch.

For some of the prospective halves, their versatility will work against them – for example Norford said Benioni’s big frame could see him selected at centre or in the backrow.

Western Lions danger man Immanuel Kawane and Riley McIntyre could similarly find themselves spending more time in the outside backs than controlling the play.

Ryan Van Zanden played for the Queensland Schoolboy Whites last year, basically a secondary team to the Maroons, proving he is knocking on the door of higher honours.

“He’s got a good kicking game and a big frame, he’s a big running half and he could play six, seven or even fullback,” Norford said.

Another exciting prospect is Jack Miller, who has recently moved to Townsville from the Palmerston Raiders in the Northern Territory.

“Jack is quick and he’s new to our system, but he’s going in leaps and bounds every training session,” Norford said.

“He’s quick so he could end up in the outside backs or he could end up in the halves.”

Norford described Nayte Essery as a quality player with a strong kicking game, and Lincoln Baker as a fast and talented youngster with a lot of potential.

Marley Proctor is another player who could see his adaptability work for or against him, depending on the game plan heading into a match.

HOOKER / UTILITY: Cooper Cox, Cooper Reinders

Besides Marley, who could see himself playing as hooker at times, it’s a two-horse race for jerseys nine and 14.

Cooper Cox and Cooper Reinders don’t just share a name, Norford said they could easily find themselves swapping roles depending on who was firing at training.

“They both complement each other really well, and it will be a good tussle between them to see who gets the utility spot and who takes that starting spot at hooker,” Norford said.

FORWARDS: Sitiveni Afu, Zane Bethel, Joe Briskey, Cooper Fletcher, Tom Iupati, Jack Kennedy, Bradley Kondisenko, Quentin Ofahulu, Dane Ransom, Eneliko Savelio, Diesel Taylor

The forwards create another selection headache for the coach, with most of the players’ selections based purely on talent and potential rather than where they fit into the starting team.

For example, lock forwards are over-represented in the pack, but Norford said it wouldn’t be an issue come game time.

“There’s a few locks in there, and we’re just going with the attitude that the best players will play,” Norford said.

“They could pop up in the centres, or even whether we start with three locks, I’m sure they’ll all run hard and tackle hard and play hard as a team.

“There’s a few players, including Cooper Fletcher and Sitiveni Afu, that could play out in the backrow if they need to as well.”

Looking most likely to be backrow selections are Eneliko Savelio, Zane Bethel and Jack Kennedy.

“Eneliko will be one of our leaders within the pack, whether it’s in the backrow or the core,” Norford said.

“He’s a big, powerful forward who has just moved from Bowen.”

In the middle, one of the standouts is Ignatius Park College student Sitiveni Afu, a cousin of China Polata, an NRLW player who moved to Townsville recently to look for an opportunity with the Cowboys.

Dane Ransom and Diesel Taylor are two more powerful forwards that never shy away from work on the field when it’s needed.

Joining the team from Ingham is Ben Hannant lookalike Bradley Kondisenko.

“Bradley is a very big unit, we’ll be looking to use his power and his strength through the core,” Norford said.

“He’s a big strong thing that’s just learning the policies and procedures at the moment, so if we can use his power the right way he can do some damage.”

Cooper Fletcher and Quentin Ofahulu are both lads from Bowen, while Tom Iupati and Joe Briskey will be looking to prove their ability to the Blackhawks coach before their first game against the Central Queensland Capras on Saturday, February 25.

TWEED SEAGULLS

Tweed Seagulls coach Neil Richards has praised the introduction of the six-again ruck infringement rule into the under-16s pathway, adamant it will instil greater discipline in the game’s next generation of stars.

While in turn the changes have created greater defensive fatigue, particularly when repeated infringements occur, Richards said it would accelerate the best talent towards higher honours.

“I think the interesting thing with the 16 age group is that possession is everything; if you’re not completing your sets and turning the footy over all the time it hurts you,” he said.

“It does in any game, but in this group you can see scores blow out if the possession is too much. I think it will teach kids to be more disciplined, and possession will be even more important.

“For these young men it’s the first step of their journeys to NRL players if that’s what they want to do. We’re trying to make good humans first, but I think it’s a good opportunity for them to start.

“It’s another change from club football. They excelled at club, worked hard and it’s experiencing something different.”

Outside Backs — Boston Hubbard, Dante Driscoll, Dylan Watkins, Fuifui Taitoa, Lincoln Gibbons, Madden Falaniko, Malcolm McCulloch, Ryder Abell, Ryder Bodley

They came somewhat out of the blue, but such was the way in which they trialled Richards felt compelled to reward Dante Driscoll and Malcolm McCulloch with a chance.

The Southport Tigers juniors are on course to take their club combination into the representative arena, having forged a palpable bond on the field.

With Driscoll and Fijian product McCulloch in the centres, Richards said the duo brought plenty of aggression and finishing class to the Seagulls backline as well as an understanding of each other’s games that often cannot be taught.

That in-built knowledge appears to be a theme for Richards’ outside men, with Madden Falaniko and Fuifui Taitoa coming into the Tweed fold with similar experiences: they are both from Beaudesert and have taken up spots at Marsden State High School.

“ (Falaniko) is one of those kids you like to have in a team; he’s loud with banter, a bit cheeky, but fun to have around,” Richards said.

“He’ll play in the centres for us and he’s a decent size body for a kid with a good combination with Fui, so they could team up for us.”

Meanwhile the battle for the fullback spot seems up for grabs, with the likes of Boston Hubbard, Dylan Watkins and Ryder Abell just some of the contenders.

Richards described Hubbard as a very clear Ryan Papenhuyzen fan — both for his haircut and the “electric” nature he brought to the field.

But while he said every time Hubbard touched the football sparks seemed to fly, someone of Burleigh convert Abell’s calibre could prove the smokie coming back from a minor injury.

Halves — Caleb Creswell, Harrison Doherty, Taj Lateo

He may be the “smallest player in the squad” but Harrison Doherty could soon find himself in a tug-of-war between sporting codes.

The young halfback has come up through the ranks at Palm Beach Currumbin and for the Eagles in club football, and has also announced himself as a future cricket prospect via New South Wales representative honours.

Richards described Doherty as “a ball of energy” who had the makings of a game-changing half.

“He’s a really good communicator, really buys into what we’re trying go do and understands the game really well,” Richards said.

“He’s a good game manager who punches above his weight defensively; he’s the smallest player on the field but he has a great attitude and mindset.”

However Doherty’s path to the scrumbase is not locked in, with Caleb Creswell and Taj Lateo looming as worthy rivals for the job.

“(Taj is) a really good communicator, a really skilful football player. He’s not the quickest or loudest but really good between the ears and understands his role,” Richards said.

“He’s very calm as a player and composed. They’re hard to find, you spend a lot of time with them and I’ve noticed with Taj that when he’s been under pressure he doesn’t get flustered and he’s still very clear with his communication.

“He’s really good halfback who I think will turn out to be quality in the couple of years.”

Middle Forwards — Benji Quinlan, Brodie Saunders, Ethan Jackson, Jonah Rangiwait, Malakai Mosaati, Patrick Knight, Tavake Tau’a’alo

Where the Burleigh Bears have gone for mobility in their forward pack, Tweed have assembled a group of some of the biggest teenagers in the region to take on the competition.

And according to Richards, one young man in particular will stand out too much to ignore.

Jonah Rangiwait has the potential to be anything in rugby league. According to Richards, the youngster “has to be 6ft2 and 135kg”.

But despite the 16-year-old’s obvious strengths on the field, yet another battle for his services could unfold in the future.

A product of esteemed rugby union nursery, The Southport School, Rangiwait could one day be forced to settle on which code could take him further.

“As fierce as he is, he’s quite skilful for a big guy. We’re not throwing the footy a lot in the middle, but he’s quite skilful and very, very strong and almost impossible to tackle one-on-one,” Richards said.

“I don’t get caught up on size but I think he’s one of those kids who will grow in this program. He’s very green but I can see there’s been a massive change in him already.”

Richards’ prop rotation is set to work symbiotically, with an enforcer and grinder expected to combine whether it be in the starting pack or off the bench.

He said while the likes of Patrick Knight, Malakai Mosaati and Ethan Jackson will get through a mountain of work on and off the ball, Rangiwait will be joined by Tavake Tau’a’alo as the young men who will be out to bully rival defences.

Meanwhile Benji Quinlan and Brodie Saunders will lock horns for the number 13 jumper, both coming into the mix blessed with skillsets honed from their days in the halves and at hooker.

Edge Forwards — Levi Rusin, Marlie Barry, Reece Gorman, Rhys Aldridge, Riley Partride, Skye Adams, Devon Bates

He had barely stepped off the plane, but one of the Gold Coast Titans newest young signing’s was quick to make his way to Seagulls training.

Devon Bates has joined the Glitter Strip club on a development deal from New Zealand, coming as a damaging edge forward to join a growing group of young talents in the role.

Within two hours of touching down in Australia he was training alongside his new Tweed teammates, impressing Richards in an instant.

“I was pretty stoked with Devon … he trained really well while he’s still finding his feet,” Richards said.

“He wants to learn, he jumped straight into a Gold Coast system which is probably a bit more advanced and asked lots of question. I can see why the Titans are interested.”

Richards will adapt several rookies into edge forwards moving towards the season launch, with Queensland basketball gun Skye Adams transitioning from the outside backs to the forward pack.

Levi Rusin was another Richards had “pencilled in” early courtesy of his scintillating form for Helensvale.

However in Marlie Barry the coach sees a relentless talent just waiting for a chance to be unleashed; even as he fights to overcome a niggling injury.

Hookers — Antonio Ta’omago, Hayden Watson, Jahkayis Mabbett, Reef McKay (utility)

One of the finest hookers to have graced the NRL is in his corner as a mentor, which could ensure the Tweed number nine jumper is Hayden Watson’s to lose.

The Marsden State High dummy-half has received coaching from South Sydney Rabbitohs great Issac Luke, who works in the school’s rugby league program.

While Richards first saw Watson dominate as a halfback, he believes the youngster’s ability to identify the ruck and his general sense for the game will hold him in good stead as a rake.

“He’s quiet but has all the skills in the word and a really good football game. He’ll be a nine for us, but with the rotation (of hookers we have) he can play in the halves and at fullback.

“He has a really good football brain. We’ve been fortunate for Issac to work with him, he’ll get some one-on-one (coaching).”

Coomera product Antonio Ta’omagocomes with plenty of promise in the halves, while Reef McKay will return from injury with an ability to also play anywhere in the spine as well as on the edge.

But it is in Jahkayis Mabbett, a recent signing with the Titans, who could truly be announced as a future NRL dummy half — even coming from a very different rugby league background.

“He’s new to the coast, signed with Titans and comes from a background playing for WA and all the junior rep sides there,” Richards explained.

“He’s predominantly a hooker for us, but can play in the centres and a few other positions.

“He’s been really impressive; he’s a quiet, typical Polynesian boy. He doesn’t say too much but is quite skilful.”

WESTERN CLYDESDALES

Almost a completely new side to last year, the U16’s are looking to prove themselves in their first year of ‘senior’ footy.

Head coach Ned Murphy said he is looking forward to the season and is hoping for winning results.

Brathien Scott – Having leadership qualities beyond his years and 16 years-old, Scott is the side’s utility.

Capable of playing in five-eighth and other play making roles, he will be key to the sides creativity in attack.

A Valleys junior, he has represented Queensland for both touch and league. This is his first year in the competition.

Shaun Elara – A solid unit in the front row, he has been described as a very explosive player.

At 16 years-old the lock and former Highfields junior will be integral to the sides efforts going forwards.

Harry Roninson - A good, hard running and hard tackling player, Robinson is a Valleys junior.

A second-rower, as well as a centre, his coach has called him a, “great kid, who works really hard.”

20 Player Squad List:

Head Coach: Ned Murphy, Assistant Coach: Jim Sankey.

Eamon Malone (Souths), Declan Reen (Valleys), Oscar Vukovich (Goondiwindi), Jared Castles (Brothers), Joseph LItidamu (Valleys), Koen Zerbst (Dalby), Lachlan McGrath (Valleys), Shaun Elara (Highfields), Riley Zanette (Highfields), Lachlan Lyons (Souths), Hunter Price (Valleys), Dustin Golding (Souths), Samuel Lowien (Highfields), Mitch Wilkes (Souths), Beau Collier (Roma Cities), Fletcher Tate-Roche (Valleys), Kail Eustace (Brothers), Brodie Hilt (Souths), Charlie Stafford (Gatton), Anthony Lonergan (Pittsworth).

WYNNUM-MANLY SEAGULLS

A fit and hardworking Seagulls outfit will be out to impress in 2023, with these three guns set to lead the way.

Tyler Periera: A half or fullback, he is a ball playing footballer who has been the stand out during pre-season training.

Ezekiel Jones: A clever dummy half with great skills, Jones also has an impressive running game.

Chaev Kolone: The big young prop is back after playing every game in 2022. He will be looking to lead the forward pack after shining for the Mabel Park SHS Walters Cup squad last season, helping them to an historic semi-final.

matthew.mcinerney1@news.com.au