Rising stars: Toowoomba Junior Rugby League’s best U11 to U17 players named

RISING STARS: From U11 rookies to U17 speedsters meet the 195 players lighting it up in Toowoomba Junior Rugby League this season. Find out who cracked the list from your club here.

Dalby’s Nevaeh Horswood against Valleys during a Walker Weekend Challenge match at John McDonald Sports Complex. Picture: Kevin Farmer

The Darling Downs and South West Queensland regions have long been considered as the beating heart of Queensland Rugby League.

Some the game’s greatest ever players including the likes of Arthur Beetson, Duncan Thompson, Darren Lockyer and Shane Webcke are just a few of the ‘names’ who first learned the game in the region.

A quick glance at the Toowoomba Junior Rugby League competition also shows the future of the game is in safe hands with plenty of young stars already making their mark.

This season The Chronicle has been shining the spotlight on our young stars from under-11s right through to U17s.

Check out some of the players who made the cut below.

For the full list of every player we’ve highlighted this season click on the interactive tiles to discover our U11 to U17 player lists.

Hamish Plath has been lighting up the field playing in the Pittsworth Danes under-11 backline.

Under-11

Hamish Plath (Pittsworth Danes): Hamish is a versatile player who can line up anywhere in the backline but loves working in the halves or at centre.

An exciting player who always produces whenever he gets his hands on the ball.

Isaac Luker (Highfields Eagles): A rugby union convert with explosive speed and the ability to change direction late on his runs.

Isaac has the physicality to play anywhere but he does his best work in the centres and backrow.

His defence out wide is a huge asset.

James Jenkins (Valleys Roosters): The gun halfback is a game changer with exceptional vision, leadership, passing accuracy, kicking skills and strategic decision making on the field. James’ ability to control the game and create scoring opportunities for himself and his teammates is invaluable.

Gatton Hawks Braxton Allen is a committed defender and quality ball runner.

Under-12

Corben Moodie (Newtown Lions): A multi-talented sports star who leads from the front with his knowledge and experience both on and off the field.

A strong running back rower, who possesses a lethal offload and a deadly boot.

Has nothing but Newtown blood in his veins who lives and breathes his beloved Bluebags.

Fletcher Gilbert (Souths Tigers): Fletcher is starting to use his big frame to his advantage.

He is solid in defence and is taking the tough carries forward.

A great ball playing forward who has the hands of a half and is picking his time to pass better every game.

Braxton Allen (Gatton Hawks): ‘Mr Consistent’ turns up every week and gives 110 per cent. Braxton is an excellent defender and superb ball runner with great top speed, footwork and balance.

Mia Johnson has been a key player for Dalby Devils this season. Picture: Kevin Farmer

Under-13

Mia Johnson (Dalby Diehards): New to rugby league Mia was hesitant to accept the fullback role but she has taken to it like a duck to water.

A natural athlete she has filled in on the wing and at second row and gives so much to the team.

Tarliah Murdoch (Newtown Lions): She might be one of the smallest on the field but that doesn’t stop her from getting in and making the big hits.

Her confidence is growing each week.

Jesse Moore (Souths Tigers): A non-stop second rower that every team needs.

He always makes his tackles and is difficult to stop when he has the ball.

Continues to improve with every game.

Under-14

Hamish Tomlinson (Souths Tigers): Tomlinson is an underrated gun who is often overlooked but integral to the team’s success and brings dynamism to the field.

His ability to seamlessly transition between defence and attack underscores his versatility.

Tomlinson’s work ethic is evident in his tireless defensive efforts and his readiness to seize scoring opportunities when they arise.

Lane Madden (Valleys Roosters): A brilliant half with a super attacking game.

Lane is always dangerous with a A-grade passing ability and a strong kicking game.

Myles Stratton (Brothers): New to the game but always gives 100 per cent and is quickly picking up the skills.

Myles is a great defensive centre and provides plenty of encouragement to his teammates.

Travis Collins fires off a pass during a match for Dalby Devils.

Under-15

Travis Collins (Dalby Devils): Travis is a crafty hooker and picks his moments well to get points on the board. He’s great at keeping the attack organised on both sides of the field.

With quick hands and a calm head, Travis gets the one percenters right to ensure his team gets on the front foot.

Matilda Dallinger (Highfields): Matilda is the ultimate team player and although she doesn’t like the spotlight, she does all the little things in a game which make the rest of the team look good.

She hits the ball up twice in every set of six and is the girl who tops the tackle count every week.

Matilda is a great team player and a superb role model.

Peppa-Jean Collins (Oakey Bears): Another rugby league rookie, Collins has picked up the game fast on the wing.

She keeps the edges closed and makes quick runs when the chances come her way.

Valleys Roosters Jackson Winnett tries to break free of a tackle.

Under-16

Jackson Winnett (Valleys Roosters): A dynamic fullback renowned for his exceptional fitness, speed, and creativity on the field.

His agility and quick reflexes enable him to evade defenders and create scoring opportunities.

Winnett’s vision and innovative play making skills make him a pivotal figure in attack.

His consistent performance and versatility ensure he is always a threat to the opposition.

Laythan Potter (Gatton Hawks): The young second rower plays with passion and pride.

His love for the club shines through every game and his representative experience is a big plus for the team.

Shae Cameron (Souths Tigers): The team’s most improved player this season is an aggressive defender who runs the ball hard.

Aaliyah Murray makes a pass for the Dalby Devils.

Under-17

Aaliyah Murray (Dalby Devils): One of the leaders in the Devils squad, Aaliyah Murray brings Clydesdales rep experience and is an elite halfback.

This year’s Dalby side is one of the more inexperienced line-ups in the competition but Murray’s leadership has helped the team gel strongly.

William Hanlon (Pittsworth Danes): Plays big minutes for a middle forward and is able to bend any line with his hard running and drive opposition back with his defence.

Shows no fear, is fast for a big man and his improving cover defence has been a great addition to his game.

Bridie Sabburg (Gatton Hawks): Bridie is an incredibly dedicated player that leads through her workload and one per cent efforts.

She runs with no fear in the middle and always gives her all. Her constant hard work behind the scenes has allowed her to continually develop as a player.

Is there a player you think should feature on our list? Email your nominations to [e-mail] and [e-mail]