FULL RESULTS: Southern Suburbs’ Sosiak named best outside back
Queensland league fans have spoken and selected the best outside back in the state from more than 100 nominees. SEE THE RESULTS HERE >>
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As far as Southern Suburbs are concerned, there’s no greater contributor on and off the field than Zack Sosiak.
The Cockatoos winger has been voted Queensland’s best outside back by popular vote, edging out fellow Cairns player Daniel Woodhouse (Kangaroos) and Kawana’s Dakota Tolhurst (Sunshine Coast).
See how every player polled below
“He’s (Sosiak) one of the first guys picked every week,” Southern Suburbs coach Paul Stevens said.
“He does a fantastic job week in, week out.”
Sosiak has been with the Cockatoos for virtually his entire playing career.
His grit and determination on the field has taken another step in his team’s 2022 campaign, with Stevens mentioning Sosiak’s shoulder “popped out” against the Yarrabah Seahawks two weeks ago before being “popped back in” moments later to resume playing.
“He’s a team-first kind of guy who knows how to finish off a try,” said Stevens.
“His form’s been outstanding this year, he’s just tough. He takes knocks every week and just keeps getting up.
“It’s fantastic achievement for him to be voted the best outside back in Queensland.”
TOP 10 FINISHERS
Zack Sosiak (FNQ) - 45 votes
Daniel Woodhouse (FNQ) - 41 votes
Dakota Tolhurst (Sunshine Coast) - 41 votes
Justin Asse (Rockhampton) - 19 votes
Memphis Waerea (Rockhampton) - 16 votes
Chris Woodbridge (Toowoomba) - 13 votes
Mitch Watson (Toowoomba) - 9 votes
Michael Carroll (Townsville) - 8 votes
Steve Franciscus (Toowoomba) - 7 votes
Dylan Carolan (Sunshine Coast) - 7 votes
Clubs not represented did not submit nominations.
Read through the full results below.
BRISBANE
Eddie Tautali (Wests Panthers) - 1 vote
Tautali is a player of considerable experience having played in the Intrust Super Cup, but he brings not only plenty of game knowledge to match day, but speed – pure pace which is a godsend to his teammates when he breaks into the clear.
Jack Smith (Normanby) - 1 votes
He is a try scoring machine, he has pace and is courageous. He weighs just 84kg but he runs like he has the body weight of 120kg behind him. And he scores tries. Indeed last season he averaged 2-3 tries each match, and has a similar strike rate this season.
Glen McGrady (Valleys) - 2 votes
The nephew of former Canterbury-Bankstown champion and NSWRL Rothman’s Medal winner Ewan, Glen McGrady has an uncanny knack of being able to break tackles and find the tryline.
Esera Tapeli Esera (Valleys) - 4 votes
He is one of the finest finishers in the BRL, featuring a strong carry bringing his team out of trouble.
Mitch Ayling (Brighton Roosters) - 2 votes
An elusive fullback or winger with speed and some of the safest hands in the competition.
Ethan Mumford (Carina) - 0 votes
A Brisbane BRL rep player, Mumford is a fullback and centre who impresses with his speed to burn. But he also has good game awareness and is a smart player.
Emanuel Tuimavave-Gerrard (Carina) - 1 vote
The first grade captain and centre is strong, powerful and has really good footwork at the line. He is also tough, having started the season at No. 13.
BUNDABERG/FRASER COAST
Shaun Collins (Wallaroos) - 1 vote
A fantastic left centre who has a great turn of speed and awesome power.
Reads the game perfectly in attack as well as in defence. A real 100 per cent player who also provides an X factor.
Johan McDonald (Wallaroos) - 1 vote
A fantastic up-and-coming winger or centre.
Known to work hard on and off the ball and loves the tough stuff when required.
Also regarded highly as a team man.
Jerry Pati (Hervey Bay) - 3 votes
Talented young centre or winger who is still learning the code but improving fast.
From a rugby union background in his native New Zealand, Pati has been touted as having the potential to head south to Brisbane at the end of the year to have a shot at higher levels.
Matt Shorter (Hervey Bay) - 0 votes
Capable at both centre or in the backrow, the rep junior is just starting to get back to his best footy after injury in recent seasons.
Tipped to go to another level this season.
Leyton Chambers (Waves Tigers) - 2 votes
A fullback or centre, Chambers is now in his fourth year at the club, being the senior side goalkicker and coaching a junior team.
Has a rep background and is proving a great club man.
Lachlan Dullway (Waves Tigers) - 0 votes
Arrived at the club a couple of years ago after being a rep player at school level.
Known to try his heart out each week and be the ultimate club man.
Tyrell Priestley (Past Brothers) - 1 vote
Capable at fullback, centre or in the backrow, Priestley is Mr Consistent, always turns up ready to play and willing to put in extra work to help his team win.
Known for his toughness and has played a part in winning premierships for Brothers in 2017, 2019, 2021.
Won players’ player and player of the year in 2021.
Jake Thompson (Past Brothers) - 0 vote
The centre or lock is an X factor player with the ability to break a game open from anywhere on the field.
Having represented the Qld Rangers team and also having played for the Sunshine Coast Falcons in the Queensland Cup.
He is a leader among his team and always seeks out ways to help his team.
CAIRNS
Ty Grogan (Atherton) - 6 votes
The goalkicking utility has become one of the form fullbacks of the 2022 season.
Grogan has scored almost twice as many points as his nearest rival through a combination of his accurate goalkicking and his ability to find the try line.
One of the most consistent members of the Roosters outfit.
Nathan Curcio (Atherton) - 0 votes
Curcio is a utility can play anywhere in the back five.
He has made a home at centre in this high-flying Roosters outfit, but has proven to be a team player and will slot in wherever is needed.
Lachlan Biondi-Odo (Brothers) - 2 votes
The promising Biondi-Odo has been impressive for Brothers at fullback, but he can play anywhere.
He has lined up at hooker and in the halves in recent time, but it’s at fullback he has the space and time with the ball, and the freedom to roam – which makes it more dangerous.
Biondi-Odo spent the pre-season with the Northern Pride and has the potential to take it to the next level.
THE BEST 100 PLAYERS IN THE 2021 CDRL SEASON
Devante Heron (Brothers) - 2 votes
The CDRL’s leading tryscorer so far this season, Heron has thrived since his move to Brothers.
His finishing ability is among the best in this competition, and on the end of a back line as strong and consistent as Brothers’ means he should have plenty of opportunities to score.
Dennis Dau (Edmonton) - 1 vote
A former Northern Pride representative in his younger years, Dau can play anywhere across the back five.
He has started primarily at fullback this season but his pace makes him a handy option on the wing, and he has the footwork to beat any defender.
Travis Harrison (Edmonton) - 0 votes
The long-time Edmonton man has been in the thick of the action for the struggling Storm side this season.
Harrison has spent most of his time this season at centre, but is equally at home on the wing, but his years of experience in the CDRL makes him an important member of the side’s defensive efforts.
Ayden Kris (Innisfail) - 0 votes
The Leprechauns’ leading tryscorer to start the 2022 season, Ayden Kris has proved to have the speed, footwork and defensive ability to thrive in the centres.
He has some experience in the Northern Pride’s development system, and is one of the young talents to watch in this competition.
Andrew Garrett (Innisfail) - 1 vote
One of many utility backs to thrive in the CDRL, Garrett is equally adept in the halves as he is at fullback.
Garrett showed how dangerous he can be when he was Innisfail’s custodian in their march to the 2021 grand final. He is elusiveness, has brilliant vision, and with speed and a solid kicking game gives the Leprechauns another genuine playmaking option on the field.
Will Messa (Ivanhoe Knights) - 0 votes
Messa returned to Ivanhoe Knights at the start of the year and played his way almost immediately into the Cairns representative team.
The fleet-footed winger has pace and strength up his sleeve, and is never afraid of hard work, which has shown in Ivanhoes’ good start to the year.
Rhy Young (Ivanhoe Knights) - 2 votes
The fullback has had an injury-interrupted start to the season but, when fit, is one of the Knights’ key weapons.
Speed, safety under the high ball and a developing passing game has Young placed as one of the competition’s premier custodians.
Bradley Stephen (Kangaroos) - 0 votes
The goalkicking veteran has proved time and again that he can play anywhere across the back line.
Predominantly a centre nowadays, where he played while contracted to the Northern Pride, Stephen has also slotted in at fullback and on the wing.
His acceleration off the mark often leaves defenders grabbing nothing but air, and he has the pace to escape most chases.
Daniel Woodhouse (Kangaroos) - 41 votes
The man known as “Woody” has developed into arguably the premier winger in the CDRL.
He has always had the footwork, turn of pace and ability to get around his defenders and score tries, but Woodhouse has added strength and confidence to his repertoire after spending the off-season with the Northern Pride.
Woodhouse has been earmarked for a Hostplus Cup debut later this year.
Trezman Banjo (Mareeba) - 1 vote
The 2021 CDRL rookie of the Year is one of the most promising youngsters in the region.
Banjo has the right mix of flair, footwork and finishing ability to be a threat anywhere on the field. A developing playmaking toolkit, accurate goalkicking and bit of pace on top makes him one of Mareeba’s go-to weapons.
Hubert Elu (Mareeba) - 1 vote
This Mareeba product has thrived since his return to the Gladiators in 2022.
He leads the Gladiators’ tryscoring leaderboard this year, but after starting on the wing has slotted in at fullback to cover injuries.
The junior Queensland Murri representative has great vision, footwork and pace, and has proved to be a key player in this Mareeba team.
Stanley Anau (Mossman-Port Douglas) - 0 votes
A skilful utility, Anau arguably made his biggest impact on the wing, where he is a lethal try scorer.
He has speed, handy footwork and is a noted goal kicker, which only gives him more opportunity to hurt his opposition.
He’s finished at or near the top of the tryscoring leaderboard for the past three seasons.
Matthew Gibuma (Mossman-Port Douglas) - 1 vote
A game breaker in every sense of the word, the Sharks fullback can strike from anywhere on the field.
Known for his speed and footwork, Gibuma has the ability to pop up anywhere – seemingly always attracted to the ball – and once he’s in the clear, there’s no looking back.
He’s finished at or near the top of the tryscoring leaderboard for the past three seasons.
Zack Sosiak (Southern Suburbs) - 45 votes
A noted tryscorer with speed to burn, Sosiak has cemented his place on one of Southern Suburbs’ flanks in 2022.
He is a good finisher, with pace and some fairly fancy footwork which makes him a threat never to be underestimated.
Presley Lowe (Southern Suburbs) - 0 votes
Lowe joined Southern Suburbs from the Gold Coast and has made an immediate impact, becoming the first man picked at centre.
He is strong on both sides of the ball, has a great ability to break tackles, and has superb game awareness which only helps his new club in their march to the top.
Maselusi Uelese (Tully Tigers) - 0 votes
A new member of the Tigers roster, Uelese has showcased his speed and finishing ability in the opening rounds of the season.
Uelese has the right combination of speed, footwork and knowing how to use his size to be a problem for any rival.
Phil Nona (Tully Tigers) - 0 votes
One of the longest serving Tigers currently on the roster, Nona has been there for the good and bad times.
His size in recent years led to him becoming a permanent fixture in the centres, but a leaner and fitter Nona has been used more at five eighth and fullback in 2022.
Sam Bann Jr (Yarrabah) - 1 vote
The veteran played a key role in the Seahawks’ premiership victory in 2021.
Bann can play anywhere, equally adept at stepping up in the halves as he is slotting into centre or on the wing.
He made his biggest impact at fullback, as he got his hands on the football more frequently with his ability to roam.
Steven Stafford (Moranbah) - 3 votes
The premiership winning centre is a quality finisher, but it is the extra work that makes Stafford so highly rated.
Solidly built with good defence, handy acceleration and tackle busting running, Stafford is seen as a premier centre in the CDRL and recently spent an off-season with the Northern Pride.
GOLD COAST
Tyler Han (Runaway Bay Seagulls) - 3 votes
Fleet footed and incredibly dynamic, Tyler Han’s shift to fullback this season has made an immediate impression.
While the former Tweed Seagull has typically played in the halves, Runaway Bay moved him into the number one jumper this year to maximise his running game.
His form earned him a Queensland Cup debut for the Papua New Guinea Hunters, during which he scored a try.
Terry Wapi (Runaway Bay Seagulls) - 2 votes
A skilful outside man equipped with a brilliant ability to finish a try, Terry Wapi will have his eyes on higher honours at the back end of 2022.
The Papua New Guinea Kumuls winger will no doubt be pushing for a spot in the World Cup squad, and with coaches and selectors of the Hunters being based nearby he may only be a few strong performances away from cementing his place.
Kyle Williams (Mudgeeraba Redbacks) - 4 votes
In and among a team largely consisting of young guns on the rise, Kyle Williams’ composure at fullback has been a key cog in the Redbacks success.
While he missed the Chairman’s Challenge carnival with the Gold Coast Vikings for family reasons, his communication at the back for Mudgeeraba has enabled his side to register shock wins over competition heavyweights such as Southport.
He has quickly become the leader needed to have the Redbacks on course for a surprise premiership tilt.
Te Rangiatea McDonald (Mudgeeraba Redbacks) - 0 votes
Big, strong and as fast as they come. Te Rangiatea McDonald has been a mainstay on the Redbacks flank, frequently beginning his team’s sets from his own try line.
He has proven to be an extremely difficult man to tackle, with his coach lauding his ability to break tackles with every run he makes, while his work ethic to constantly take hit up after hit up has been inspiring for his teammates.
Kurtis Rowe (Burleigh Bears) - 2 votes
He may have lost his place in the Queensland Cup side, but Burleigh custodian Kurtis Rowe still has plenty of quality football left in him.
The former Wests Tigers, and the Burleigh Bears all time leading QCup try scorer, was unseated of his number one jumper on the eve of the season.
However since then he has refused to kick stones and has been one of the leading players in the Bears undefeated start to the Gold Coast season.
Backed with exceptional game awareness and an sensational ability to finish a try, Rowe has proven he has far more to offer the game.
Allan Lockwood (Burleigh Bears) - 1 vote
A one – time international representative for Lebanon, Allan Lockwood has set about returning himself to rugby league’s biggest stage on the back of several strong performances.
The Bears centre made his Queensland Cup debut last year, and his tough carries and powerful fend has made him one of Burleigh’s go-to men once again in 2022.
John Folau (Southport Tigers) - 0 votes
His NRL days may be behind him at this point, but John Folau has shown in 2022 he still has plenty of ability in him.
The brother of former Queensland superstar Israel Folau has floated between the centres and wing in Southport’s star-studded line up, charging over the top of his opposite number frequently with a damaging fend to boot.
The eight-time Parramatta Eel’s strength often brings Gold Coast crowds to their feet, as he cements himself as one of the competition’s most daunting defensive assignments.
Michael Oldfield (Southport Tigers) - 0 votes
Since arriving on the Gold Coast, Michael Oldfield has proven himself to be a vital Mr Fix It for the Tigers.
The 31-year-old typified the term ‘journeyman’ throughout his first-grade career, playing 102 top level games for seven different clubs.
In 2022 for Southport he has played at fullback, wing and in the centres, making an impact each time he has pulled on the yellow and black jumper.
Liam Joseph (Helensvale Hornets) - 1 vote
A hard, tough ball runner with a knack for scoring, Liam Joseph has done everything in his power to lift the Helensvale Hornets.
For a club in only its second season the going was always going to be tough against well established outfits, but Joseph has played a huge part in guiding the emerging outside backs at the club.
His hat-trick just last weekend against a high flying Mudgeeraba side, even in a losing cause, speaks to the effort he puts in week after week.
Sosefo Nasio (Helensvale Hornets) - 0 votes
He has been missing in action for a couple of weeks, but make no mistake Sosefo Nasio has arrived at the Hornets with plenty to offer.
After several years out of the game following his stint in the Norths Devils system, Nasio was draw to Helensvale by new recruit and NRL premiership winner Sam Tagataese, with the pair playing touch football together in Brisbane.
From just three appearances for the year, Nasio has proven he has not missed a bit, with his double in his side’s first year of the year particularly memorable. Also equipped with a brilliant vertical leap that makes him a typical aerial threat.
Josh Walker (Currumbin Eagles) - 1 vote
A fleet footed custodian with amazing speed off the mark, Eagles gun Josh Walker has made an impression on coach Matt Geyer.
It is not only his speed that has made Walker a threat, with his ability to combine that with agility and strength making him an extremely difficult young man to stop.
Jake Berkers (Currumbin Eagles) - 1 vote
Jake Berkers has taken some time to hit top flight after some time away from the game.
Now, however, the versatile outside back has become a “very smart centre” according to Geyer, and a man who always seems to be where he needs to be in any given situation on or off the ball.
Berkers relishes the hard work needed to be done by the modern centre and can score as good as anybody in the competition.
Zac Beecher (Tugun Seahawks) - 2 votes
His move to fullback has been brief, but already Zac Beecher is proving he belongs in the number one jumper.
The Tugun ace has been learning under the guidance of former Melbourne Storm custodian Paul Sheedy, and his rapid development earnt him selection in the Gold Coast Vikings representative squad.
Young, determined and willing to take the tough carries, Beecher has proven himself to be a vital x-factor in the Seahawks line up.
Samiu Latu (Tugun Seahawks) - 2 votes
Once upon a time Samiu Latu was lining up on the wing for Tonga.
While he may not have the same zest in his step as back then, the Seahawks flyer is still hands down one of the most challenging men to tackle on the Gold Coast. The 33-year-old has shown already this year it will take more than one or two rivals to take him down, running over the top of his opponents to score with ease. You simply have to feel sorry for anyone who is tasked with marking him on the other side.
Anthony Setu (Ormeau Shearers) - 1 vote
In a side that tends to rely on its strength through the middle to score, the forward pack needs their outside backs to stand tall and make the tough carries. Enter Anthony Setu. Setu has been a mainstay on the wing for the Shearers since before they withdrew from the 2021 competition, courtesy of his strength coming out of his own end.
Dylan Pelo (Ormeau Shearers) - 0 votes
Dylan Pelo’s hard line running and strong defence makes him a valuable inclusion at either centre or in the back row, having filled both positions for the Shearers this year.
Pelo has been one of Ormeau coach Stuart Wilkins’ leaders in a club only just returning to the top Gold Coast competition.
Never one to back down from a challenge, he has been tireless in his efforts to bring the Shearers to the forefront of the region’s rugby league landscape against more established and fancied rivals.
IPSWICH
Albert Tua (Ipswich Brothers) - 0 votes
A young gun centre who recently scored all four tries in a match for the Hounds. He is a real gold nugget who is looking to break into the Ipswich Jets system. Tua possesses a strong carry, good fend and speed.
Ricco Falaniko (Ipswich Brothers) - 0 votes
A powerhouse winger who carries the ball strongly, his fast and loves scoring tries.
MACKAY
Jayden O’Shannessy (Sarina) - 1 vote
A Sarina junior who has come along in leaps and bounds as a first grade player, mainly from fullback. He is now versatile enough to play nearly wherever the coach wants him in the backline. O’Shannessy speed and strength will be vital in the Crocs overcoming a string of early season losses in their title defence this year.
Sepo Tuitotoya (Sarina) - 0 votes
A new recruit which fell in the lap of the Crocs in the pre-season, Tuitotoya has been outstanding for the Crocs early. He takes the tough carries on the wing and at times works as an extra member of the forward pack. He has two tries from his first three games as a Croc.
Jayden Batchelor (Brothers) - 2 votes
Batchelor is a dominant defender with a powerful running game with experience playing for the North Queensland Marlins and in the Queensland Cup for the Mackay Cutters. He has continued to develop since first debuting with the Brothers A-Grade side as an 18 year old, to now being one of their most important players.
Matt Skaife (Brothers) - 4 votes
The Brothers Mackay captain is viewed by many as the best at his position in Mackay Rugby League. As safe as they come under a high ball and elusive in broken play, Skaife will be instrumental in his side’s push for finals in season 2022.
Jake Thornton (Wests Tigers) - 1 vote
Thornton’s energy for the Tigers from fullback and commitment to playing his role for the team, has him in as high regard internally as they come. Renowned for popping up to deliver when his team needs him most, Thornton has been a major factor in his team’s early season success.
Zack Walker (Wests Tigers) - 0 votes
Walker’s power in the centres at the Tigers, can prove to be a handful for opposition defenders. With his signature fend off, he is able to create easy labour for his wingers.
ROCKHAMPTON/GLADSTONE
Jace O’Neill (Yeppoon) - 4 votes
Strong, fast and skilful, O’Neill plays similar to Melbourne Storm’s Justin Olam with bone-rattling tackles and explosive runs. He is someone his teammates love to play with; everything he does is to benefit the team. His ability to find the line is second to none, and his teammates often look to him to create something out of nothing.
Liam Quinn (Yeppoon) - 3 votes
A dynamic outside back who mostly plays on the wing, Quinn can do it all – score tries, set up tries and kick goals. He has many positive attributes, among them his Scott Minto-like goose step and his blistering speed.
Lesley Brown (Emu Park) - 3 votes
Big and mobile with an incredible skill set, Brown is the captain of the Emu Park Emus. Boasting a wealth of experience, he leads from the front with his on-field actions and his work ethic is second to none.
Charles Shepherd (Emu Park) - 0 votes
A former New South Wales schoolboys representative, this young gun is now part of the CQ Capras system. He is a star on the rise with incredible potential. Strong and athletic, he is a real student of the game and gives 100 per cent every time he takes the field.
Justin Asse (Norths Chargers) - 19 votes
One of the form outside backs in the Rockhampton A-grade competition over the last few years who continues to perform at a high level. Asse has played a lot of representative football and is still involved with the CQ Capras. An experienced player with an amazing work ethic who is also a great communicator.
Tyreese Johnson (Norths Chargers) - 3 votes
This talented 19-year-old burst on to the A-grade scene in 2022, scoring five tries on debut. He has an incredible skill set which allows him to play fullback, centre or winger, though he has predominantly played centre for Norths this season. Johnson has been a regular in Rockhampton representative teams as he worked through the ranks. He is an exciting prospect with plenty of potential.
Jamie Simpson (Fitzroy/Gracemere) - 2 votes
A former NRL star, Simpson’s big-game experience and leadership qualities are a boon for the Sharks. The now 35-year-old played 37 games for the South Sydney Rabbitohs in the late 2000s and it’s clear that he has not lost the talent and game sense that took him to the top. He is a cool head under pressure and has a calming influence on his teammates.
Cyron Tull (Fitzroy/Gracemere) - 4 votes
This youngster brings the X-factor to the Sharks’ line-up, doing some freakish things with the ball in hand or off the boot. He is the complete package and is not afraid to back himself when he sees an opportunity. After four rounds, he is the second-highest points scorer in the Rockhampton Rugby League competition.
Marley Wosomo (Brothers Rockhampton) - 3 votes
This teenage pocket rocket is setting the Rockhampton A-grade competition alight this season. Super fast and elusive, if he’s in the clear he’s very hard to run down. He looks after his side of the field well, defending strongly and organising his edge.
Memphis Waerea (Brothers Rockhampton) - 16 votes
This young gun, who has played at both wing and centre in the opening rounds, is making a big impression in his first year in A-grade. He is outstanding in both attack and defence. When he attacks the ball he goes hard and in defence he doesn’t take a backward step.
Jackson McEwan (Brothers Gladstone) - 0 votes
The Brothers Gladstone skipper is solid in every facet of the game. He has the ability to beat an opponent one-on-one or to make a try-saving tackle or to conjure up something special when his team needs it. He brings straight structure to the team. He is highly respected by his teammates and his leadership brings out the best in the players around him.
Deklin Huth (Brothers Gladstone) - 6 votes
A great communicator at the back, Huth chimes into the backline with plenty of speed and skill. His on-field enthusiasm is infectious and he reads the game incredibly well. Solid in defence and dynamic in attack, he has impressive ball skills and is a great decision-maker.
Jackson Hoyland (Gladstone Valleys) - 0 votes
A standout in the number one jersey, Hoyland’s versatility allows him to fill any position in the Valleys’ backline. At just 19, he has the full arsenal of skills. He is an outstanding communicator, has blistering speed, impressive ball skills and a great footy brain. Definitely one to watch in the Rockhampton Rugby League competition.
Algon Congoo (Gladstone Valleys) - 0 votes
An experienced campaigner, Congoo is a vital cog in the Valleys’ line-up. He is deceptively strong and has plenty of speed, which allows him to beat opposing players on the inside or the outside. He possesses great leadership qualities and has a thorough knowledge of the game which he willingly shares with the team’s young charges.
Lochlan James (Tannum Seagulls) - 3 votes
Impresses each and every game for Tannum’s A-grade side with his understanding and ability to read a game and take opportunities when he sees them.
His inclusion in the Gladstone A-grade representative team for the past two seasons is testament to his skill and dedication.
He is maturing as a player and is proving an inspiration for the younger players within the club.
Kyle Link (Tannum Seagulls) - 0 votes
Well respected by his peers, Link gives 100 per cent every time he sets foot on the field, be it at training or in a game.
He was a member of the Gladstone representative team this year and was voted one of the three best.
His game has gone to another level this year and he continues to improve every week.
SUNSHINE COAST
George Fisher (Gympie) - 2 votes
Former junior Sunshine Coast Falcons star George Fisher commands all eyes on him when he has the ball from his ability to take on multiple defenders.
The agile and fast footed fullback can create and finish off chances when it matters.
Dylan Carolan (Caloundra) - 7 votes
A new addition to the Sharks this season, Carolan has made his presence quickly felt around the league with his overall skill around the footy.
His quick, strong and skilful nature with the ball in hand helps him draw comparisons to Broncos star Kotoni Staggs.
Carolan is one of the Sunshine Coast’s top 50 sporting stars to watch.
Rohan Messer (Maroochydore) - 0 votes
A damaging centre with a point to prove every time he runs the ball, Messer generally leaves his opposition in two minds with his ability to assist or finish off opportunities. His athletic ability is some of the best in the competition on the outside edge with the craft of making ‘something out of nothing’.
Dakota Tolhurst (Kawana) - 41 votes
An explosive centre that demands plenty of respect and caution when he has the ball in hand.
Tolhurst holds a duffel bag full of skills and attributes for his team and holds his own off the ball just as well.
Alex Copelin (Noosa) - 0 votes
Copelin is an added bonus to the already extremely powerful Noosa backline with the ability to cover a range of positions.
His rugby league IQ is of a high standard and it’s evident through his performances week in week out.
His efforts in attack and defence is why he’s regarded as one of the competition’s best and his go-forward mentality ensures he very rarely takes a backwards step.
Copelin was among the best performers at the recent 47th Battalion Carnival.
TOOWOOMBA
Daniel Jennings (Brothers) - 4 votes
A sizeable centre that is quick on his feet and agile.
Made the move to Brothers and has been solid to start the season.
His best form has him among the top strike weapons.
Albert Dynevor (Brothers) - 0 votes
A schoolboy star in rugby union, the Downlands College student lines up with Brothers this year.
Shown his natural skills in a few games and will be one of the improving stars of the TRL this in 2022.
Alexander Dunemann (Dalby) - 0 votes
Returns to the TRL full time at the back and has helped Dalby to a strong start.
Brings experience from the Mustangs to the side with a good running game and can kick goals as well.
Steve Franciscus (Dalby) - 7 votes
One of the veterans of the league, but is still producing the goods on the field. So experienced out in the centres and has one of the best football brains in the league. Solid in attack and defence.
Tyson White (Gatton) - 2 votes
One of the most exciting outside backs in the TRL, White is lightning quick and can create something out of nothing from just about anywhere on the field. Already notched five tries this year.
Luke Self (Gatton) - 0 votes
Has made a good impression since moving to Gatton last season. A very talented fullback that is forming a good partnership with his halves. Has a classy touch when he gets his hands on the ball.
Chris Woodbridge (Goondiwindi) - 13 votes
Has the potential to be in the conversation as one of the league’s best backs in the near future. Lightning quick with a great ability to read the play and take full advantage of what’s in front of him.
Malcolm McGrady (Goondiwindi) - 0 votes
One of the most famous surnames in Goondiwindi, Malcolm was a key part of the Boars winning the 2021 TRL title. Everything you want in a centre, plus a very handy goalkicker.
Jarrod Lee (Highfields) - 1 vote
The Highfields captain/coach was chosen in the 47th Battalion merit side. A terrific leader at the back that knows the right time to chime in to a play.
Josh Keoller (Highfields) - 0 votes
Continues to step his game up to new heights each year. Can play in the back row but is at his most explosive in the centres.
Kalemb Hart (Newtown) - 1 vote
The Newtown co-captain has alternated between the centres and back row in 2022. Gives the Lions some size out wide and can bust the line open with his strong carries.
Coen Hopkins (Newtown) - 1 vote
Came through the Valleys system and finds himself on the wing at Newtown. An evasive player when given some room to move and offers speed and agility out on the flank.
Leevai Sutton (Oakey) - 0 vote
Came to the Toowoomba comp midway through last year, and has quickly solidified himself as one of the league’s best wingers. A strong runner of the ball and hard to bring to ground.
Sam Cocker (Oakey) - 0 vote
One of Oakey’s biggest signings of the off-season, and it’s not hard to see why. A dynamic centre who can break the line at will.
Luke Hill (Pittsworth) - 1 vote
An attacking threat for the Danes, Hill has a good ability close to the line to finish off tries and doesn’t let a chance go begging.
In good form in 2022.
Oliver Moy (Pittsworth) - 0 votes
Came through the Mustangs system and has been given the task of fullback in A-grade football.
Holding his own to start the year and has plenty of speed to burn.
One to watch.
Brandon Trost (Southern Suburbs) - 0 votes
Taking the reins as the Souths custodian and has been a consistent performer all season. Safe at the back and has a turn of foot when given space.
Wade Austin (Southern Suburbs) - 6 votes
Another that was a Mustangs regular, Austin lines up in the centres for Souths. A solid all-round player that has found his home out wide, giving the Tigers a class touch.
Dwayne Duncan (Valleys) - 1 vote
A strike weapon that adds so much to the Valleys side. An imposing figure with his size, and backs it up with some extraordinary power both with the ball and in defence.
Brock Diment (Valleys) - 4 votes
Has played just about everywhere in the backline over the last 12 months, but is right at home at the back or in the centres. A good defender and has a real game sense about him.
Mitch Watson (Warwick) - 9 votes
A big, strong centre that can fill in at fullback when required, Watson has cemented his place as a regular in representative sides. Can turn nothing into something.
He produced one of the top 25 moments of the 2021 season.
Morgan Byrne (Warwick) - 2 votes
Taking big strides this season so far for the Cowboys. Has all the hallmarks of being a quality centre in this competition and has shown plenty of ability.
Austin Jennings (Wattles) - 5 votes
Made the move to Wattles this year and has been simply unstoppable with nine tries from four games. The centre is one of the most exciting and progressive young talents in the competition.
Jackson Green (Wattles) - 0 votes
A prior winner of the TRL’s player of the year award, Green is dynamic in the fullback spot and a deadly attacking threat.
TOWNSVILLE
Michael Carroll (Norths) - 8 votes
Carroll, a Townsville boy plays for Norths and has come through the Blackhawks allocation and offers a lot of experience.
Known as the Ferrari during his time in the Hostplus Cup.
Jerome Clark (Norths) - 0 votes
Clark is new to Norths and has background experience from clubs in Brisbane. Both players from Norths present a positive mindset to the team and share their experiences when they are discussing attacking and defensive scenarios with the other lads.
Kayleb Vosseler (Western Lions) - 0 votes
After debuting for A grade in 2018 as an 18 year old he has been a shining light for Western Lions having been recognised in the Townsville Foley Shield side for the last 2 years.
AJ Willis (Western Lions) - 2 votes
Willis is new to Western Lions this year but has been playing footy for Brothers the past couple of years. He has all the speed and strength in the world and has been showing that in the past few games for Western, which gained him selection in the Foley Shield side too.
Riley Horan (Burdekin) - 4 votes
Horan is a great defender for the Burdekin Roosters who runs through good lines and is getting better every game. He is described as a tough competitor.
Declan Dowson (Burdekin) - 4 votes
Dawson is known as “The magic man“ for the Roosters can pull something from nothing. He is still a young man very humble but has the potential to go along way.
Dowson is listed among Townsville’s rising stars in rugby league.
John Cullen (Brothers) - 5 votes
The Brothers centre is considered by some of the finest outside back in North Queensland not to be playing in the Hostplus Cup. Cullen is waiting in the wings at the Blackhawks for his shot at unleashing his package of power and speed that make him Townsville Rugby League’s answer to Kotoni Staggs.
Carlin Anderson (Brothers) - 6 votes
The former Broncos and Cowboys fullback was once considered one of Queensland’s most exciting NRL prospects. A series of injuries derailed his professional career but Anderson has found a new home in the centres for Townsville Brothers while flying in and flying out of a job in mining. When healthy, few players can match his talent.
Jesse Pomare-Anderson (Centrals) - 3 votes
Quick and confident with his carries. Not the biggest guy on the football field but has handled himself physically in the centres for Townsville’s Centrals Tigers, with elusiveness his primary weapon in attack.
Jordan Ah-One-Remfrey (Centrals) - 1 vote
The other half of Centrals’ Thunder and Lightning centre combination with Jesse Pomare-Anderson. Ah-One-Remfrey brings the power in that equation, packaged into an intimidating frame. Reminiscent of Roosters star Daniel Tupou in size and style.
Antonio Iafano (Herbert River) - 1 vote
Big and tall, Iafano acts as an extra backrower when charging out of the Herbert River end. There are few frills but Iafano has earned the respect of his teammates for his competitive spirit and must-win attitude. His powerful fend is similar to Greg Inglis at his best.
Dylan Gaggiano (Herbert River) - 1 vote
Gaggiano was one of the first names picked in Townsville’s Foley Shield representative side years ago but has been on the comeback trail from a devastating ACL injury two years ago. Short and stocky, Gaggiano boasts strong footwork as he approaches peak form again for Herbert River.
Harry McQueen (Charters Towers) - 2 vote
Charters Towers’ hard-tackling centre recently celebrated his 21st birthday and has improved out of sight with each year of experience he accrues. McQueen excels when leading the defensive line, with an aggressive tackling style that could easily see him shuffle inside to the backrow when needed.
Blake Heitmann (Charters Towers) - 5 votes
The reigning Townsville Rugby League U19s back of the year reminds of Titans fullback Jayden Campbell: both are short and wiry but possess undeniable X-factor. Quick, good ball skills, instinctive and humble as well. Heitmann has a bright future at Charters Towers.
Both polls end at midnight on May 31.
Originally published as FULL RESULTS: Southern Suburbs’ Sosiak named best outside back
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