Andrew Johns/Laurie Daley Cup: Full season preview of every club ahead of 2025 season
The Andrew Johns and Laurie Daley Cup comps are the premier regional pathway for young rugby league talent. We preview all teams across the two divisions ahead of the 2025 season.
Sport
Don't miss out on the headlines from Sport. Followed categories will be added to My News.
The Andrew Johns and Laurie Daley Cup comps are the premier regional pathways for young male talent looking to break through at the next level.
With 10 teams spanning the majority of the state, the competition is set to showcase hidden gems of the rugby league landscape.
In the lead-up to round one on February 8, we progressively preview all teams ahead of the new season.
ANDREW JOHNS CUP
CENTRAL COAST ROOSTERS
Captain: Manni Campbell
Coach: Ryan Southam
Last season: Premiers (6-1-0)
Why they will be competitive: One of the heavyweights of junior rep footy in recent years, the Central Coast Roosters will remarkably be going for a hat-trick of title in the Andrew Johns Cup competition.
“The Roosters have been up here a while now and they’ve invested in it heavily,” said pathways co-ordinator Steve Deakin. “Everything we do comes from the top. So all our skills, drills, principles are coming from the top and we’re just hammering them in.”
And while the crop of 2025 might not have as many of the up-and-coming superstars of previous seasons, Deakin is confident the side will be highly competitive once again.
“Although we don’t have as many explosive players as we did last year, we have some players that are developing nicely,” he said.
“We’ve got a good team that are bonding well and the coaches are doing a good job. We’ll be there or thereabouts.”
Key fixtures: Knights (Away – Round 5). In what has become a regular fixture over the years, the Roosters take on local rivals Newcastle in the final round of the regular season in what is often a showcase of two top-of-the-table teams.
Players to watch: Leading the line in the current group is the versatile Samuel Michie, who is a hard-running football who can play in the halves, back-row and at lock.
In terms of creativity, young half Tukia Fotu-Moala will be looking to impress after coming back from an injury while NSW Indigenous representative Allan Lardner is an explosive centre tipped for big things.
Elsewhere, no-nonsense prop forward Joey Thorne has been setting the standards for the pack all pre-season and looms as a key enforcer.
“He’s an aggressive tackler, he can hit and he makes his presence felt. He’s very mobile for a middle,” said Deakin.
Squad: Aidan Harrison, Alex Taylor, Allan Lardner, Austen Flakus, Billy McDonald, Chayse Dobson, Cooper Rubagotti, Cooper Smith, George Kaifa, Harry Calkin, Huge L’estrange, Jake Kirkwood, James Hagistefanis, Joey Thorne, Kaiyan Sinclair, Khidyn Tutaki, Manni Campbell, Matt Norman, Nate Ross, Rayne Fale, Romeo Altavilla, Samuel Michie, Sandon Stuart, Semi Wara, Tukia Fotu-Moala, Will Gencur, Will Hamilton, Zac Barton
ILLAWARRA SOUTH COAST DRAGONS
Captain: Darcy Farquhar
Coach: Nathaniel Morrison
Last season: 4th in Southern Conference (1-3)
Why they will be competitive: While all squads in the Andrew Johns Cup are full of talented young players capable of winning games of football, Dragons coach Nathaniel Morrison said his group has something that group has.
“One big thing that’s going for this current crop is that they’re trying as hard as they can,” he said. “They get into training, they take it really seriously, they bust their guts, don’t cut corners, which is a credit to them,” he added.
“You can’t coach attitude, you can’t coach effort.”
And while half a dozen of the best under-16s from the Illawarra region have been pushed up to the Harold Matthews (under-17) squad, Morrison said that has given opportunities to other emerging players from the area to make their mark.
“This group just has that ‘next man up’ mentality. If one player’s gone, who’s gonna take his spot? They all compete for it.”
Key fixtures: Western Rams (Home – Round 1). As the first year in the junior reps, the Dragons will be raring to go for round one against Western at Ron Costello Oval in Shellharbour.
“We haven’t talked about who we played last year. We just want these guys to take it in their stride because it’s all new for them,” said Morrison.
Players to watch: With a well-balanced squad across the board, the Dragons are spoiled for choice when it comes to players willing to stand up for their team.
“We could probably have five captains for this side. We have leaders, we have talkers, we’ve got players who others look up to for direction,” said Morrison.
Among those leaders, one player that has stood out over the pre-season has been Darcy Farquhar. An incredibly versatile player who can remarkably line up anywhere from fullback to lock, he looms as a key man for the South Coast side.
“He’s just a footballer through and through. He’s passionate, he’s fit, he competes on every single thing,” said Morrison. “His best position is probably lock but he plays fullback, in the halves and centres just as well.”
Squad: Abdel Sultan, Blair Churchill, Brodee Green, Cale Parr, Charlie Lips, Charlie McKelvey, Cooepr Edwards, Darcy Attwell, Darcy Farquhar, Dejay Schutz, Denan Barter, Fletcher Couchman, Hami Miller, Harry Carr, Hayden French, Hunter Berghuis, Hunter Jago, Israel Smith, Jack Foley, Jeremy Packer, Kruz Efaraimo, Kyden Leadbitter, Kylen Cordina, Kyrone Crockett-Thomas, Mohammad Chaaban, Naite Gibbs, Pania Mahe, Preston Cowan, Preston Ruiz, Preston Sager, Rocky Hingle, Rylan Coelho, Sam Suffy, Tyler Lewis
MACARTHUR WESTS TIGERS
Captain: Connor Potts
Coach: Adam Whitelaw
Last season: Grand finalists (4-1)
Why they will be competitive: For head coach Adam Whitelaw, he said the collective buy-in of the group is one of the main reasons they will be in good stead come the end of the regular season.
“I was involved with the program last year and this pre-season has been a tough one,” he said.
“The boys have stood up and brought into what we’re all trying to achieve. We have the philosophy that if one hurts, we all hurt. The camaraderie has been good.
“We hope they all develop. We have a very talented group of young men and we think the sky is the limit for them.
“They compete on everything. Everything they do at training, all the little battles and the mental battles in the pre-season, they’ve answered every single one of those challenges.
“We have a wide talent pool. All the sides in the age group (at a local level) have been neck and neck all year.
“There’s good competitions for spots and depth in numerous positions. It’s been a hard selection process to get the squad down from 52 to 28.”
Key fixture: Riverina (Home – Round 1). With three games on the road it’s crucial that the Tigers make a statement when at home, starting with the always competitive Riverina Bulls in the season opener.
Players to watch: Ashton Dewanto is an East Campbelltown junior who has really pushed himself throughout the pre-season to put him in the frame for the starting hooker role. Sonny Mills is a back-rower who started out in the Harold Matthews program and has taken the side to another level since coming back due to his professionalism and work ethic.
Squad: Thomas Allen, Cooper Bangs, Nick Breski, Cooper Butler, Dvondre Dean-Va’alepu, Ashton Dewanto, Tyreze Esara Alo, Sam Francis, Ryder Goff, Terowie Golding-Lyons, Llandon Granger, Fauna Hall, Christopher Katu Feaunati, Nathaniel Leal, Jeremiah Leota-Brown, Brayden McInnes, Zephaniah McLean Lemalu, Sonny Mills, Christian Muagututia, Etuate Neiufi, Sebastian Pei, Connor Potts, Joshua Ratu, Isaiah Saleh, Ioane Sasulu, Issac Searle, Brodie Tooala, Cohen Warren-Marsden, Noah Vaotangi
MONARO COLTS
Captain: Max Lundy
Coach: Jack Bramley
Last season: 3rd in Southern Pool (2-3)
Why they will be competitive: While Covid might seem like a distant memory to many, some coaches involved in junior sport have highlighted the ongoing effect it has had on promising young players after competitions were cancelled in 2020 and 2021.
Monaro coach Jack Bramley said that while the rep teams of recent years seem to have been somewhat hindered by the disruptions, this current group shows no signs of those shortcomings.
“People might not see the damage that Covid did to local junior football,” he said. “The two or three teams before this missed a lot of football in that prime age of 12/13/14, whereas these guys have had a bit more coaching.
“A lot of teams in the past few years have relied on natural talent and the ability to pick things up quickly whereas this year we’ve got a good variety of natural talent as well as some kids who are happy to learn at training.
“We’ve got some size, we’ve got some speed, we’ve got some skill so hopefully we can put it all together on the park.”
He added: “It’s a very well-rounded team this year. It’s good to see the depth that we’ve got from one through to the 26.”
Key fixtures: Northern Rivers Titans (Away – Round 1). As their first year in the junior rep system, the Colts will be bursting at the seams for the round one clash with the Northern Rivers Titans. On top of being the season opener, the game in Murwillumbah will also be an exciting opportunity for the team to experience away-game football.
Players to watch: With a string of Monaro players having represented the ACT under-15 Schoolboys team last year, there is plenty of exciting talent in the squad. Perhaps no more so than in the halves, where halfback Drew Kemp and five-eighth Jack Ryan have been impressive over the course of the pre-season.
Elsewhere, Goulburn backrower/lock Marlowe Young has really caught the eye with his attitude and footy IQ.
“He’s just shown pure leadership the whole way through,” said Bramley.
“His football brain is untapped at the moment and that’s one of the hardest things to find. You can have natural talent, you can have speed, you can have strength, but if you don’t have the hardware between the ears it’s a bit of a flaw and Marlowe’s got that hardware. He’s been very impressive.”
Squad: Kayden Adams, Declan Adams, Noah Adams, Matthew Atkinson, Lachlan Brown, Gabriel Chauvin, Dustin Cluss, Tom Connolly, Jack Edwards, Drew Kemp, Karney Kelly, Cooper Leslie, Max Lundy, Drew Marshall, Joshua McKenzie, Geoffrey Olivetti, Tama Robin, Kristan Robertson, Jack Ryan, Charlie Sasse, Nate Stokes, Joshua Svager, Ezra Taiatini, Brayden Worth, Marlowe Young
NEWCASTLE MAITLAND REGION KINGHTS
Captain: Morgan Carter
Coach: Josh Corby
Last season: 1st in Northern Pool, eliminated in semi-final (4-1-1)
Why they will be competitive: One of the traditional powerhouses in the regional junior reps, the Knights will look to continue their strong record in the under-16s this season.
And while it is the first age group of NSWRL junior rep footy, the Newcastle squad features a string players who have impressed at schoolboy championships and other forms of representative football, which should hold the side in good stead.
Key fixtures: North Coast Bulldogs (Home – Round 1). In what is their debut in the red and blue, the Knights have the opportunity to kick off their junior rep careers at home when the side takes on the North Coast Bulldogs at Kurri Kurri in the season opener.
Players to watch: Fresh from starring for the NSW under-16 Koori side on their tour of New Zealand last month, Morgan Carter is a player with plenty of promise in the centres for the Knights. He will be joined by Kooris teammate Darryn Vaggs in the squad, along with cross-code prospect Chayce Afa, who in addition to lining up on the wing for the Knights has also spent some time in the NSW Waratahs academy.
Halfback Charlie Burey will be tasked with guiding the team around the park after an impressive campaign for the NSW Catholic Schools’ side in last year’s under-15 national schools championships, while there is also some second-generation talent in the squad, with Ryder Tupou, the son of former Origin and Kangaroos backrower Anthony, named at fullback.
Squad: Ryder Tupou, Will Hoffman, Tyler Donaldson, Morgan Carter, Chayce Afa, Ty Ennis, Charlie Burey, Max Tutt, Chase Firman, Makinah Kupenga, Koby Harvey, Darryn Vaggs, Mason Bartlett, Isaac Watson, Ngaru Thomas, Jake Dalby, Xavier Valipalu, Craig Ekert
NORTH COAST BULLDOGS
Captain: TBC
Coach: Geoff Batten
Last season: 4th in Northern Pool (1-4)
Why they will be competitive: After both Johns and Daley Cup sides finished fourth out of five teams in last year’s Northern Pool, the Bulldogs have tweaked their approach for 2025 by placing a greater focus on fitness and foundational skills.
“We’ve tried to teach them a lot in a short time,” said coach Geoff Batten. “Usually by this point they’ve absorbed everything you’ve put into them and we get to start to mould a bit of a squad. They’re reacting pretty well.”
Indeed, in addition to the training, Batten said the nature of the squad and the competition for starting spots will put the team in good stead ahead of round one.
“I just think we’ve got a bit more balance,” he said. “Last year we had some size that we hadn’t had for a while but I think that blinded us a little bit. We had some flair but we lost that early (through injuries).
“But this year I think we’re just a lot more consistent across the squad. There are a lot of like for likes and that brings a lot of competition into the squad to try and get those spots for round one. I think we just look more balanced across the entire squad.”
Key fixture: Northern Tigers (Away – Round 4). With both zones falling under the Canterbury Bulldogs’ pathway system, there is more than just bragging rights on offer when these two teams face off, with the young guns fighting it out for attention as scouts from Belmore cast their eyes over the regional rep competition.
Players to watch: One to impress so far in the pre-season is Port Macquarie back-rower Cooper Bannon. A powerful runner and solid defender, Bannon was selected in the NSWCCC side last year and looms as a key player for the Bulldogs.
Elsewhere, Wauchope’s Noah Langdon has shown not only his ability at fullback but also fantastic leadership skills in the group, while Sawtell half/five-eighth Javier House looms as a key playmaker for the side.
“He’s looked comfortable at that next level with training and what we’ve learned – he’s taken all of that on,” said Batten.
Squad: Aiden Lockwood, Aiden Hardy, Angus Bowen, Axl Pope, Bailey Pickvance, Chayse French, Connor Laverty, Cooper Bannon, Deion Cafe, Jairah Sheppard, Javier House, Kai Sjoberg, Kaleb Zamore, Koby Bedwell, Levi Newton, Logan Clarke, Malakye Clark, Mason White, Mitchell Hornick, Noah Langdon, Rafferty Gordon, Rhys Carrington, Rily Schafer, Xavier Fittock
NORTHERN RIVERS TITANS
Captain: TBA
Coach: Nic Forrester
Last season: 3rd in Northern Pool (2-3)
Why they will be competitive: With a broad catchment that features some of the state’s most productive rugby league heartlands, the Titans have the pick of plenty of talented teenagers for the Johns Cup campaign, with the 2025 squad shaping as a strong group.
“I think we’ve got lots of depth in the squad this year. There are lots of talented players in this age group, even compared to other years,” said coach Nic Forrester.
In particular, the team has a lot of depth in playmaking areas, which the coach hopes will translate into some free-flowing footy and plenty of points.
“A strength that we’re noticing in this group is in the halves and outside backs, whereas last year’s group was a bit more forward orientated,” he said.
“Hopefully our forwards can do the job and lay the platform, then our backs can score some points. We’ve got depth in the halves and one of the things for the coaching staff is how to best fit our ball players and creative players into the team.”
Key fixture: Monaro (Home – Round 1). In what is the first year of rep footy, the team can’t wait to get stuck into the season, with a round one clash with Monaro at Murwillumbah the perfect place to kick things off.
Players to watch: While Forrester was cautious not to mention any specific names, he said that whoever lines up in the key playmaking positions will likely have a big say in how the team goes this season.
“There’s a core group of spine players who, if we can get them in their right positions and playing as a team, I’m excited about,” he said. “I’m happy with how our one, six, seven and nine are looking and how we can fit five or six boys into those positions.”
Squad: Cai Garret, Charlie Wood, Clark Armstrong, Cooper Fallon, Cruz Sewell, Dallas Russell, Darcy Porch, Eden Humphreys, Ewan Murgha, Flynn Hanlon, Hayden Charman, Jaylon Russell, Jesse Cooper, Jett Prichard, Julean Woods, Kai Blanton, Lex Izzard, Malakai King, Manoa Scott, Max Palmer, Nixon O’Connor, Parker Kemister, Riley Puntigam
NORTHERN TIGERS
Captain: Sam Oliver
Coach: Cody Tickle
Last season: 5th in Northern Pool (0-5)
Why they will be competitive: After a difficult season in 2024, the new crop of Tigers have shown plenty of indications that this year will be a better one for the Greater Northern region.
“They’ve been going really well. They’ve definitely improved the baseline basic skills, which has been really good,” said coach Cody Tickle. “I’d say we’ve got a pretty good base.”
And while the squad’s fundamental skills have been an improvement on some teams of previous years, Tickle said that his young chargers have another attribute that he expects will hold them in good stead for the campaign.
“We’ve talked a lot about priding ourselves on effort. I wouldn’t say you get too many superstars at this level, but we’ve got plenty of talent and are going to be a team that prides ourselves on effort.
“We want to give ourselves an opportunity to be competitive at the back end of games and win matches.”
Key fixtures: North Coast Bulldogs (Home – Round 4). In what is the first year of junior rep footy for the under-16s group, the Tigers will no doubt be looking to impress against the North Coast Bulldogs in round four, given that both zones fall under Canterbury’s development pathway system.
Players to watch: With the squad still going through its pre-season, Tickle was reluctant to single out any particular players, but noted that some talented young guns were likely to stand out once the competition got going.
“They are just a hardworking group who have been ripping in for each other. I think they’ll sort themselves out once the comp starts,” he said.
Squad: Kobhan Nean, Sebastian Stafa, Dustin Hiscock, Cohen Matthews, Kobe Walden, Henry Gilbert, Sam Oliver, Bailey Davidson, Eamon Gleeson, Brodie Belcher, Theodore Ballard, Harlen Thomas, Preston Latham, Tremayne Millgate, Mayde Frey, Braith Nairne, Edward Haire, Cooper O’Neill
RIVERINA BULLS
Captain: Kobe Gustowski
Coach: Jordan Burley
Last season: 5th in Southern Pool (1-4)
Why they will be competitive: After a couple of difficult years for Riverina teams, there is plenty of reason for optimism that this crop of young Bulls can seriously improve on results.
“This year’s squad is very deep in talent,” said coach Jordan Burley, who has selected a 32-player roster that he will carry through the whole tournament.
“We’re pretty well rounded. They fight hard. We won’t be the biggest side but from the trials so far we’ve seen that they’ll fight for every inch and don’t really give much away.
“I think we’ve got points in us when we’ve got the footy but I think it’s our fight and grittiness in defence that’ll hold us in good stead come the season,” he added.
And while there is plenty of talent on show, Burley said that broader changes to training and attitude have been big factors in the turnaround.
“We started nice and early this year and we’ve increased our training load heavily, which I think has already led to some success, both on and off the field. It was something we identified last year that we needed to get better at: just repetition at training and getting those kms in the legs,” he said.
“I think we’ve been blessed with a really good group, but I think we’ve also implemented a culture change around the place and that’s working really well at the moment. It’s a really positive place to be around.”
Key fixture: Macarthur Wests Tigers (Away – Round 1). After such a positive pre-season, the Bulls are bursting at the seams to rip into the new season, with no better way to start than a road trip to take on perennial heavyweights Macarthur.
Players to watch: In a strong all-round squad, centre Logan Foster has been among the standouts in the pre-season.
“He’s a really strong ballrunner and just a competitor. Whether it’s at training or in games, he rips right in,” said Burley.
Elsewhere, five-eighth Kobe Gustowski looms as a real spark with the ball in hand. “He’s quick and dangerous and has a lot of speed to burn,” said Burley.
He is likely to play in the halves alongside young gun Zayd Williams, who has been training with Canberra’s Harold Matts side.
“He’s a very smart halfback with some really strong footy IQ about him and he controls the game well.”
Squad: Jayden Steele, Callum Killeen, Kaden Dowling, Hamish Inglis, Jesse Thorpe, Elijah Gannon, Nate Bruest, Josh Haisell, Alex Levett, Nick Bailey, Archie Webb, Jake Bower, Nate De Paoli, Harry Coddington, Ted Smith, Matari Johnson, Jones Russell, Connor Pendergast, Lewis Shae, Jimmy Smith, Seth May, Hobie Baker, Kobe Gustowski, Maison Mogliotti, Jordy Howell, Logan Foster, Zayd Williams, Deegan Lesniak Lachie Walsh, Nick McMurray
WESTERN RAMS
Captain: Thomas Maas
Coach: Tony Woolnough
Last season: 1st in Southern Pool, eliminated week one of the finals (4-2)
Why they will be competitive: While last year’s Western team took the competition by storm with some scintillating free-flowing footy, the young Rams of 2025 have an element of steel that the coach thinks should hold them in good stead.
“This year there are a lot of guys who are willing to work for each other,” said coach Tony Woolnough.
“It’s definitely a tough, grinding team. There’s still some X-factor here though and they’re capable of playing the same kind of football (as last year).”
Home to key rugby league nurseries like Dubbo, Bathurst and Orange, Western has plenty of talent to choose from, and the side is expected to be competitive once again this season.
Key fixtures: Central Coast Roosters (Home – Round 2). As the first year in the junior rep system, the team will be looking forward to playing in front of its home fans, with the round two clash against the Roosters in Lithgow also giving the side the opportunity to take on a perennial heavyweight side in the junior reps set-up.
Players to watch: With plenty of talent across the board to choose from, Woolnough said his biggest challenge will be fitting all the players into a matchday squad.
“They’ve all got their strengths,” he said. “Hopefully I can sort a few positions out, get the jigsaw puzzle together and get them on the paddock.”
The team has however been bolstered by the addition of talented spine player Sam Hill, who has joined the squad after spending much of the pre-season with Penrith’s Harold Matthews Cup side.
Squad: Archie Aird, Archie Black, Archie Kleinschafer, Bailey Coxsedge, Ben Wilner, Billie Caton, Brody Heffer, Charlie McKid, Cooper Bright, Cooper Byrnes, Eamon Miskell, Harry Williams, Harvey Press, Jack Kent, Jackeel Jones, Jayden Smith, Leon Mokoraka, Maddox Barton, Nate Martin, Nate Vincent, Riley Carter, Sam Hill, Thomas Maas, Will O’Connor, Zac Leydecker, Zayde Burns
LAURIE DALEY CUP
CENTRAL COAST ROOSTERS
Captain: TBC
Coach: Damian Hargreaves
Last season: 2nd in Northern Pool, eliminated semi-finals (4-1-1)
Why they will be competitive: With some of the brightest under-18s on the Central Coast either signing on for the Roosters’ SG Ball Cup squad or being poached by rival clubs, 2025 will provide an opportunity for some of the region’s unsung heroes to take their opportunity to shine at rep level.
“We’ve got a lot of new faces, and some of those are boys who were on the fringe last year and are looking to step up,” said pathways co-ordinator Steve Deakin.
And while on paper the Roosters might not have the star-studded line-ups of previous seasons, the success and culture of the Central Coast junior rep sides means that the Chooks will once again compete with the very best from the bush.
“I feel we’ve got a great DNA on the Coast,” said Deakin. “We’re a working class area. Although we’re seen as the city slickers in the country comps, we can roll our sleeves up with the best of them.”
Key fixtures: Northern Tigers (Away – Round 1). It will be a blockbuster start to the season as the Tigers and Roosters open their campaigns with a huge clash in Tamworth. They were the best two teams in the Northern Pool last year, with the sides playing out a stunning 26-all draw in what was one of the games of the season in 2024.
Players to watch: The skipper of the 2023 Andrew Johns Cup-winning side, lock Riley Ilham will return to rep footy action this year after suffering a serious injury that hampered much of 2024. A tough but skilful player, Ilham will look to set the example for his side both on and off the field.
Elsewhere, young half/hooker Brok Elliott looms as another key player for the Roosters. The brother of NSW under-19 Origin representative Jake, who is one the verge of an NRL debut in 2025, Brok has impressed in the pre-season after spending time training with the Roosters’ SG Ball squad.
“That young man could be anything he wants,” said Deakin. “I think this is his year to put a stamp on a team.”
Squad: Blade Marquart, Blake Field, Bodie Jeffreys, Brodie Mangan, Brok Elliot, Caleb Peterson, Charlie Baldwin, Cooper Hall, Covelle Jurd, Jacob Flaherty, Jaxson Watene, Jye Hilder, Kaidyn Peckham, Kaleb Burke, Keenan Tufi, Koby Jones, Kian O’Riordan, Kye Nowlan, Lachlan Gatt, Lincolhn Turnbull, Max Taylor, Riley Ilham, Ryan Tukupua, Samuel Flakus, Samuel Logan, Tali Kolofale, Tayte Bayley, Zac Stokes
ILLAWARRA SOUTH COAST DRAGONS
Captain: Archie Wheeler
Coach: Adam Sargent-Wilson
Last season: 4th in Southern Pool (1-3)
Why they will be competitive: According to coach Adam Sargent-Wilson, the clue as to why the Dragons will be competitive can be found in the word itself, with the coach expecting his side to compete on everything throughout the season.
“I’ve just asked them to be competitive with everything and they are just that,” he said. “They’re a team that won’t give too much away in defence. They work hard for each other and we’re trying to instil that good work ethic and idea of not letting your teammates down – and I think they’ve adapted to that well.”
As a result, the Dragons will be looking to master the fundamentals by winning the middle and building off good field position.
“Without underselling our players, there are some good attacking weapons there, but I think it if you get your defence right the easier it is for your attack to come off the back of it,” said Sargent-Wilson.
“They’ve bought into what we’re about and what we’re trying to achieve and I definitely think they’ll be a team that’s competitive and who won’t want to let each other down.”
Key fixtures: Western Rams (Home – Round 1). With the team excited to get stuck into the season, the Dragons are looking no further than a round one clash at home against the Rams.
Players to watch: The team has the luck of having twins Lexin O’Dea and Rhys O’Dea in the side, with the halfback/second-rower combination also set to play on the same edge, meaning that they’ll be able to take their years of backyard footy out on the rep arena.
“They’re great communicators, they’re positive, they’re people who want to play alongside,” said Sargent-Wilson.
“I reckon it’s a bit of a thrill to be able to play with your brother anyway, and to be able to play on that same side and have that sixth sense is pretty handy.”
Elsewhere, Jacob Birta will bring plenty of energy and workrate into the middle.
“He’s one of those really mobile, fit forwards who can play long minutes. He’s real powerful but doesn’t carry any extra weight. He’s not your traditional front-rower type,” said the coach.
Meanwhile outside back Archie Wheeler is also primed for a big year after impressing during the pre-season.
“Fitness, leadership-wise and on-field performances have been very, very strong so we’re expecting really strong season in the outside backs,” said Sargent-Wilson.
Squad: Aidan Turner, Archie Wheeler, Bayden Reh, Caden Hooper, Chayce Brown, Cruz King, Cruz Pimanovs, Dylan Hardy, Flynn O’Mara, Jack Koster, Jack Rogers, Jacob Birta, Jai Butler, Jake Bill, Jake Cunningham, Jayden Smith, Jed Smith, Jonah Falevai, Joseph Bailey, Josh Mitchell, Joshua Barton, Khye Forrester, Koby Windshuttle, Kye Lynch, Lexin O’Dea, Mattaahu Chase, Max van Loo, Noah Hinkley, Noah Skippen, Noah Watson, Rhydar Terry, Rhys Beddall, Rhys O’Dea, Riley Peters, Rivah Jago, Samuel Ribiero, Sonny Jamieson, Taniela Tongotongo, Thomas Cronin, Tullee Gardiner, Tyler Dolenc, Tyler Quinn, Wylan Hall, Xavier Taufa
MACARTHUR WESTS TIGERS
Captain: Brooklyn Milford
Coach: Brody Dooner
Last season: Semi Finalists (4-1)
Why they will be competitive: Mentor Brody Dooner has been impressed with the way his squad has been able to handle the rigours of the early training sessions through to where they’re at now.
He said there is a group of fighters who will put themselves right in contention if they can continue to stick together.
“We have a good group of boys in the mix and they’re always putting their best foot forward,” he said.
“The effort areas are something we build on at the Tigers and this whole group of boys are competitors.
“A lot of them want to play NRL and get into these squads. My main job is to develop them. Winning the comp would be great as a bonus, and we have the cattle to do it.
“There’s some real potential here and we want to see them stick around and see where each of them end up next year.
“They’re all local juniors who have played with and against each other. The way they work together is what made training better. They work for each other on and off the field.”
Key fixture: Monaro (Away – Round 2). The Colts handed them their only defeat of the regular season last year and what better way to make a statement than knocking off the defending premiers on their home turf.
Players to watch: Riley Ingersole has grown immensely since his U18s season with East Campbelltown as a year-young halfback. His maturity and willingness to ask for where he can improve has impressed officials. Jake Jones from Camden is someone who has worked super hard. He’ll do whatever job is asked of him and is the voice you can hear from a mile away.
Squad: James Bengura, Riley Bentham, Teancum Epati, Riley Edmunds, Anapapa Faapoi, Solonon-Joseph Falefata, Thomas Galvin, Peter French, Mase Hillcoat, Riley Ingersole, William Jenkins, Jake Jones, Ryan Mackander, Brooklyn Milford, Aaron Paea, Hunter Redman, Henare Reti, Aiden Richards, Richard Roache, Tyler Schuberg, Tomasui Tavui, Forgiveness Tila, Patrick Toomalatai, Leviticus Tovia, Tyler Volcov
MONARO COLTS
Captain: TBA
Coach: Brendan Bradley
Last season: Champions (6-1)
Why they will be competitive: While Monaro took out the Laurie Daley Cup last year, it will be a completely different-looking Colts side in 2025, with no players backing up from 2024’s triumph.
And although the team might not have some of the big-name players that have come through the ranks in previous years, coach Brendan Bradley is nevertheless confident his chargers will be competitive and keep the Colts’ strong recent record alive in the competition.
“It’s a pretty good group, we’ve got some size about us. I think we’ll be right,” he said.
“We try and set the standards high every year, especially after being successful the last two years, winning one (grand final) and losing one. Being there or thereabouts is definitely something I emphasise to the group from day one and there’s no reason why we can’t continue to do it.”
Motivation is another factor driving the squad, which hasn’t had the same level of success as other age groups coming through the junior rep system.
“I think the camaraderie of the group and the willingness of them will be a positive. They’ve really bought into what it’s about it,” said Bradley.
“They haven’t had much success as a group coming through. In the 16s they probably missed the boat and the boys who were involved in Harold Matts (with Canberra) weren’t so competitive, so there’s got to be a bit of fire there to excel now that they’re getting a bit older.”
Key fixtures: Riverina (Home – Round 4). While all games are important in a short, five-round season, the Colts always look forward to the southern NSW derby with Riverina, given that both zones fall within the Canberra Raiders’ development system.
Squad: Benjamin Baker, Jayden Barratt, Joseph Brierley, Byron Cahill, Troy Codey, Angus Durbidge, Russel Emelio, Judah-Fai Filiga, Samuel Green, Thomas Handsaker, Ryan Johnston, Ben Kami, Patrick Koen, Jack Leighton, Jaylan May, Jack Milne, Thomas Moss, Trent Nagel, Kruger Roache, Harry Sawyer, Calum Smith, Blake Slater, Zildjian Prince, Malachi Tomlinson, Levi Woods, Dempsey Woolf
NEWCASTLE-MAITLAND REGION KNIGHTS
Captain: Lachlan Hails
Coach: Lachlan Edwards
Last season: 5th in Northern Pool (1-4)
Why they will be competitive: After a bitterly disappointing 2024 campaign in the Laurie Daley Cup, the Knights will be looking for a big improvement this season.
With a mix of those who have been involved in the system before and some fresh faces, Newcastle will look to address the defensive frailties that plagued the squad last year and climb up the ladder.
In particular, much of the team’s spine played Harold Matthews Cup football last year, which should give the side some experience and quality with the ball in hand.
Key fixtures: Central Coast Roosters (Home – Round 5). While traditionally the little brothers, the Roosters have arguably had the upper hand in recent years with some excellent performances in the junior reps. In what could be a crucial final-round clash to decide to semi-finals spots, the Knights will be desperate to get one over their rivals.
Players to watch: With the spine expected to be a strength for the side, five-eighth/fullback Kyran Blair looms as a key player for the Knights. A talented runner and ballplayer, he has the ability to break open opposition defences. His connection with halves partner Lachie Hails will be important for the side, as both played Harold Matts together last year, while out wide, outside back Fletcher Sommerville will add some flair to the backline.
Squad: Archie McWilliam, Talen Balcombe, Ronan Hill, Fletcher Sommerville, Nate Simpson, Kyran Blair, Lachie Hales, Jace Cox, Lochlan Clenton, Beau Hill, Bailey Haggerty, Tom Brands, Austyn Ah Toon-Hotene, Tyce Hall, Liam Richards, Jett Chock, Charlie Barnes, Nate Wilson
NORTH COAST BULLDOGS
Captain: TBA
Coach: Peter Wood
Last season: 4th in Northern Pool (1-4)
Why they will be competitive: Some underwhelming results in previous years has prompted the Bulldogs to alter their approach in 2025, with a more sharpened focus on game fundamentals expected to result in improved performances.
“We’ve really focused on the one per centers, the things that have led to errors and cost us in games, and we’ve really upped the ante with fitness and strength,” said coach Peter Wood. “We’ll wait and see how that pans out.”
In particular, the coaching staff have kept a close eye on attitude and the willingness of their young guns to keep on pushing when the going gets tough.
“You look at their attitudes towards training and towards the hard work,” said Wood. “How many of them grit their teeth, bite down on their mouthguard and have a crack? That’s what the pre-season that we’ve just gone through is about.”
Key fixtures: Northern Tigers (Away – Round 4) and Central Coast Roosters (Away – Round 3). While the round four Bulldogs development derby with the Northern Tigers is always one that is pencilled into the calendar early on, the team will be looking forward to testing itself against one of the junior rep heavyweights in the Central Coast Roosters.
“There’s a bit of a rivalry with the Central Coast as well,” said Wood. “I always feel there’s a little bit more on the line when we play against the Roosters. In the last few years each time we’ve played them it’s only been a matter of two or four points.”
Players to watch: The Bulldogs will have one of the most talented halves pairings in the competition in the form of Rielly Laverty and Toby Batten.
Long identified as gun juniors, the pair enjoyed breakout seasons playing A-grade football for Macksville and Nambucca respectively in the Group 2 competition in 2024, and have since been called down to Belmore to take part in Canterbury’s summer training squads.
“They’ve got some eyes on them and are making themselves very well known. It’s a pleasure to work with those kids. They’re not just talented footballers, they’re good human beings,” said Wood.
“It’s their attitude, it’s their application to training. They’ll do extras, they’ll go down to the park by themselves to practice their kicking for hours. When they do it on the football field everyone goes, ‘Oh wow, they’re pretty talented.’ But they put in the work.”
Elsewhere, another player looking to take his game to the next level is tough-as-nails middle forward Gus Single. A good ball-carrier and excellent defender, Single played the entire Group 2 season in first grade for Macksville and will look to set the platform for his halves.
Squad: Aidan Langham, Alfie Walsh, Antwone Quinlin-Randall, Brennan Cuffe, Cale Ogilvy, Cooper Lorger, Cooper Armfield-Stevens, Gus Single, Jesse Stevens, Jett Hanson, Karl Turner, Koby Toomey, Laine Paulson, Logan Bes, Rave Brazier, Rielly Laverty, Sam Schilt, Sam Eggins, Tashiem Abbott, Tim Broderick, Toby Batten, Tyler Abbott, Tynan Forsyth, Wes Le Rougetel, Zayne Shutes
NORTHERN RIVERS TITANS
Captain: Jimmy McCombie
Coach: Arwin Marcus
Last season: 3rd in Northern Pool (2-3)
Why they will be competitive: As a club that has tasted success in the regional representative space before, the Titans are very happy with the group of players they’ve put together for 2025.
“To be honest, I think this is one of the best squads we’ve had for a long time,” said coach Arwin Marcus.
“Across the board there’s a lot of talent. We’re lucky too because there’s probably about nine or 10 guys who’ve been in the program for the past two or three years. I think we’ve picked the right squad for the campaign this year.”
He added: “We’ve got a bit of size this year and we’ve got some really good outside backs. A lot of them played in that (NRRRL under-18) Byron Bay premiership team last year, so they’ve already got those combinations together. Now it’s just about putting the pieces together.”
Key fixtures: Monaro (Home – Round 1). “The best thing about this playing group is that they look forward to every challenge. Our talk and focus is already on round one against Monaro Colts,” said Marcus. “That’s at home at Murwillumbah as well, so they get to showcase their skills in front of friends and families.”
Players to watch: Leading the side as captain will be talented halfback Jimmy McCombie, who performed well as a bottom-age player last year and will be looking to take his game to another level in 2025.
“He’s just a great leader, not just on the field but off it as well. He’s just one of those guys that everyone gets around, chats to and has a bit of a laugh with,” said Marcus.
He’ll be joined by Byron Bay teammate and centre Elliott Farrell, who had a taste of senior A-grade football for the Red Devils in 2024.
“He’s a competitor. He’s been part of the program for three years, so we’ll be looking to guys like him to lead us out on the paddock,” said Marcus.
Elsewhere, Tweed Coast Raiders young gun Kwinn Wolf looms as key player in the forwards, while bottom-age players Jett Flatley and Aiden Gersh are very exciting prospects in the pack.
Squad: Aiden Gersh, Ashley Watts, Beau Shearer, Billy Mulheran, Cohen Bateman, Cruz Dangerfield, Elijah Galloway, Elliott Farrell, Jakequan Roberts-Welsh, Jesse Whittick, Jett Flatley, Jimmy McCombie, Kai Saric, Kyron Nipperess, Luke Barnett, Lynton Close, Malachy Laarhoven, Maxwell Wood, Noah Vakararawa, Thomas Welman, Tye Hogan-Collins, Wil Sheridan, Zane Farrell
NORTHERN TIGERS
Co-captains: Dustin Wyrzykowski and Jayden Seckold
Coach: Mick Reynolds
Last season: 1st in Northern Pool, defeated in grand final (5-2)
Why they will be competitive: While last year’s Northern side took the competition by storm with an excellent brand of football that saw it narrowly go down in the grand final, the focus has been on building connections in the new-look Tigers team for 2025.
“It might take a little bit of time to gel, but I think we’ll go ok,” said coach Mick Reynolds. “We’ve kept three of the forwards from last year and one of the centres. We’re pretty new in the backline and we’ve lost both of our halves from last year, so it’ll just be about finding ways to gel and mix in with the others.”
And while some of the trial game performances have been a bit of a wake-up call, the coach is expecting a significant improvement come round one.
“We’ve definitely got some talent there but it’s just a matter of whether we can gel together – and I’m confident we can,” said Reynolds.
“We definitely punch above our weight. In the last four years the 18s have made the final a couple of times, so these boys have got a bit of a tradition to uphold as well.”
Key fixtures: North Coast Bulldogs (Home – Round 4). Although clashes with the Knights are seen as great tests, especially for the Hunter Valley-based players, the recent incorporation of the Greater Northern and North Coast regions into Canterbury’s development pathway has helped cultivate a healthy rivalry with the Bulldogs in recent years.
“We have a bit of a trophy with the North Coast,” said Reynolds. “We won it last year so I’ve got no doubt North Coast will want to take it off us. And a lot of the boys know each other through school sides and stuff like that, so there’s always a bit of rivalry there.”
Players to watch: Having starred last year as an impact hooker off the bench, Scone’s Jayden Seckold will be seen as a key leader of the side this season. In fact, he’s been made co-captain alongside excellent Tamworth second-rower Dustin Wyrzykowski, who’ll be a key figure in the pack.
“He’s just gotten better and better,” said Reynolds. “We’ve made him and Jayden co-captains because they lead by example at training and the other boys look up to them.”
Elsewhere, front-rower Nate Rothall, who played last year as bottom-age player, will look to take his game to the next level, as will his Singleton teammate, centre Jake Botfield.
“He’s really improved too. He had a good season in Group 21 so hopefully he can carry that into this level of footy,” said Reynolds.
The aforementioned quartet played in last year’s successful Laurie Daley Cup side and have been tasked with setting the example in 2025.
“They’ve got a taste of what it was like last year and need to lead the standards at training and on game day as well.”
Squad: Leif Dietrich, Luke Lowick, Ryan Schafer, Jake Botfield, Luke Jeffrey, Vashtan Gallen, Hayden Davidson, Nate Rothall, Jayden Seckold, Zachary Milsom, Jayden Brumby, Dustin Wyrzykowski, Lachlan Hawkins, Tommy Ryan, Toby Jamieson, Harrison Foot, Casey Milton, Eden Hampstead, Hamish Adamthwaite
RIVERINA BULLS
Captain: Jack Harris
Coach: Mark Yates
Last season: 5th in Southern Pool (0-5)
Why they will be competitive: After a string of difficult years in both the Johns and Daley Cup competitions, the Bulls have placed a premium on attitude and commitment in what has been an overhaul of its season preparation for 2025.
“We’ve done a big turnaround,” said coach Mark Yates. ”We wanted to get a bunch of kids that will play for each other, really work together, not give up and play until the end.
“We wanted them to be united, committed and play with some toughness. Those are the three values we instilled in them at the start of the pre-season: commitment, unity and toughness,” he added.
“I’m really excited about this year. This year I’ve seen a massive transformation in what we’ve achieved and what we’re trying to achieve.”
On the back of some strong trial game performances against Monaro and the Melbourne Storm, the team has shown that one key area of improvement will be its defence.
“I really wanted to pinpoint defence,” said Yates. “Every game we had 40 points scored against us last year, and that’s not going to happen this year.
“I just changed the whole routine of the defensive pattern. It’s been more physical, there’s been a lot of contact early on in the year. So instead of going straight into a game and thinking, ‘Oh, that hurts,’ the boys should be ready for that contact.”
Key fixtures: Macarthur Wests Tigers (Away – Round 1). After a positive summer full of intense training, the team is looking forward to testing itself against one of the big guns of the competition in round one.
“It’s been a long pre-season and I’m eager to see what the boys can do and show off what they’ve been working on,” said Yates.
Players to watch: Epitomising the Bulls’ reinforced values is talented edge back-rower Jack Walsh.
“He’s just an out-and-out footballer,” said Yates. “He’s a true leader on and off the field. He runs a good line, he tackles, never misses anything.”
In the halves, halfback Diezel Watson looms as a general of the side with the ability to attack the line and manage the game where needed.
“He’s an incredible talent,” said Yates. “He’s got a great awareness of the game and understands what needs to be done on the field. His development from November 2 to now and has been very impressive.”
The team will also be bolstered by some talented bottom-age players. Chief among them is rampaging forward Vula Wate, who famously showed plenty of toe to score a stunning length-of-the-field try in the Andrew Johns Cup last season.
Another will be centre/winger Isaiah Pulleine, who has continued his development nicely after a strong campaign in the Johns Cup in 2024.
“He’s a powerful runner with really good leg drive,” said Yates. “And he’s just got a natural ability to score tries.”
Squad: AJ Chilby, Bohdi Brady, Cayden Hillier, Clyde Kerr, Cody Plum, Kayne Crowe, Dyon Hutchison, Eric Tui, Isaiah Pulleine, Jace Lucas, Cade Anderson, Jack Walsh, Jordan Ercegovic, Nate Broekman, Nicholas Canellis, Nicholas Cooper, Preston Scultz, Joey Charles, Vula Wate, Jack Harris, Diezel Watson, Frederick Tietie, Tom Dowse, Luka Hiego
WESTERN RAMS
Captain: Jayden Innes
Coach: Shane Rodney
Last season: 3rd in Southern Pool (2-3)
Why they will be competitive: With a mix of players who’ve been in the Rams’ system for a few years, others who have gained Harold Matthews Cup experience at NRL clubs and some of the best bottom-age players in the region, coach Shane Rodney is confident with the talent at his disposal this season.
“There’s definitely some real talented kids and I’d like to think we’re going to have a real tradesmanlike team this year,” he said. “There are a lot of guys competing for spots, we haven’t finalised our squad yet but there are plenty putting their hands up.”
With a focus on keeping things tight in the middle and playing some tough footy, the team has set the goal of being there or thereabouts at the business end of the campaign.
“For us, it’s about getting better as a group each week and we want to try and play some semi-final football,” said Rodney. “In the under-18s we haven’t done that for the last two seasons so that’s the challenge for us.”
Key fixtures: Dragons (Away – Round 1). With a mentality of taking things one week at a time, the Rams are fired up and ready to go for round one of them competition, where they will head south to Shellharbour to take on the Illawarra South Coast Dragons.
Players to watch: One of those coming back to the fold after previously representing the Rams in the Andrew Johns Cup is talented half Jayden Innes. After spending a season with Wests in the Harold Matthews competition, he has taken his game to another level and will be looked upon and an on-field leader for the side.
Elsewhere, Mudgee centre Jack Colley has impressed the coaching staff with his attitude and performances over the course of the pre-season, while heading up the list of exciting bottom-age players is Country under-16 representative Logan Coombes.
“You can put him anywhere,” said Rodney. “He could play nine, six, back-row, fullback, centre – he just loves to play rugby league and I think he’s going to have a good season.”
Squad: Aaron Hall, Billy Hing, Brayden McGarry, Brandon Dos Santos Hall, Chayse King, Darby Haycock, Dominic Jarrett, Harry Staines, Hayden Buesnel, Jonah Moss , Jayden Innes, Jace Baker, Jack Colley, Kai Barclay, Ethan Madden, Logan Coombes, Logan Constable, Nate Green, Nate Kennedy, Nathaniel Robinson, Noah Sutcliffe, Ryan George, Ryan Maher, Tristan Keed-Culverson, Tyreese Colliss, Zac Shannon, Zane Saunders
MORE JUNIOR REPS 2025 COVERAGE
SQUADS
Andrew Johns, Laurie Daley Cup
CLUB PREVIEWS
More Coverage
Originally published as Andrew Johns/Laurie Daley Cup: Full season preview of every club ahead of 2025 season
Join the conversation
Aussie city wins out as NFL confirms move
The NFL’s move in to Melbourne raised questions about an AFL clash at the MCG but all fears have been allayed for what looms as special event.
Read more
BBL bolter confirmed for Test debut as spinner axed
Cooper Connolly will make his Test debut today, marking a rapid rise to a baggy green after only playing four first-class matches for Western Australia. FOLLOW DAY 1 LIVE
Read more
A-League great calls time on pro career
One of the A-League’s finest goalkeepers has called time on his impressive professional career.
Read more
Regional talents: 60 players to watch in Johns/Daley Cup
Regional pride is on show as the best emerging talents look to make their mark in the Johns and Daley Cup competitions. We look at 60 young guns ready to shine this season.
Read more
Cup bombshell as payout goes missing
The fairtyale 2024 Melbourne Cup winner is headed to the courts with the trainers lodging legal action over prize money that went up in smoke.
Read more
Concussions, crashes! Risky business in chase for 100km/h in SailGP Sydney
There were crashes, concussions and carnage at the last event but Aussie SailGP skipper Tom Slingsby is tipping a wild speed chase and an old rivalry reigniting on his home waters this weekend.
Read more