Juniors - Pathways General Discussion

Just went through the summer squads against our 2024 squad lists.

I must say we've done a great job of retaining a lot of our key talent minus some of those higher profile juniors who have their path blocked that we already know about.

These are the notable players from this year we are moving on or don't appear in these squads ...

Zak Clarke (to Penrith)
Maddax Fui (to Souths)
Navren Willett (to Manly)
Onitoni Large (to Manly)
Alex Isdale (to Sharks)
Lucas Rossi
Marc Tannous (not in list on website but was in BT SG Ball list posted on Instagram so ???)

As others have mentioned I think Haemasi Makasini is huge for us, not only for him personally but he's a pied piper type amongst his peers who others will follow!

Now I look forward to seeing who else makes the NSW Cup squad particularly if Bailey Hodges, Cayne Nicholas & Herman Tofaeono do (as there has been no official notification on their plans).
 
Just went through the summer squads against our 2024 squad lists.

I must say we've done a great job of retaining a lot of our key talent minus some of those higher profile juniors who have their path blocked that we already know about.

These are the notable players from this year we are moving on or don't appear in these squads ...

Zak Clarke (to Penrith)
Maddax Fui (to Souths)
Navren Willett (to Manly)
Onitoni Large (to Manly)
Alex Isdale (to Sharks)
Lucas Rossi
Marc Tannous (not in list on website but was in BT SG Ball list posted on Instagram so ???)

As others have mentioned I think Haemasi Makasini is huge for us, not only for him personally but he's a pied piper type amongst his peers who others will follow!

Now I look forward to seeing who else makes the NSW Cup squad particularly if Bailey Hodges, Cayne Nicholas & Herman Tofaeono do (as there has been no official notification on their plans).
Lucas Rossi looked pretty decent, not a good one to lose.
 
Base on summer squads this is an early look at what our Flegg side could look.

1 Cameron Kanaan
2 Max Taotua
3 Haemsai Makasini
4 Will Craig (no confirmation he's departing yet)
5 Tino Tavana
6 Jared Haywood
7 Max Liles
13 Tom Fisher
12 Archie Duncombe
11 Mitchell Taotua
10 Jekope Sovau
9 Heith Pritchard
8 Junior Taungatua

Possibly early on we may see the likes of Solomone Saukuru & Lachlan Broederlow in Flegg before moving up.

Others in the mix through the season will be Logan Brookes (gun 18yo fullback from NQ), Pheonix Godinet, Kohan Lewis, Christian Taupau-Moors, Xavier Tauaifaiga, Ali Karnib, Levi Conti, Jon Ibrahim, Will Malloy, Callum McMenemy, Archie Riley, Peter Taai & Nehemia Wuatai-Davis.

Also worth noting that Latu & Sam Fainu, Galvin, TDS, Sukkar, Kit & Luke Laulilii, Faagutu, Feledy, Miller & Mason are all eligible for Flegg next season too.
 
Base on summer squads this is an early look at what our Flegg side could look.

1 Cameron Kanaan
2 Max Taotua
3 Haemsai Makasini
4 Will Craig (no confirmation he's departing yet)
5 Tino Tavana
6 Jared Haywood
7 Max Liles
13 Tom Fisher
12 Archie Duncombe
11 Mitchell Taotua
10 Jekope Sovau
9 Heith Pritchard
8 Junior Taungatua

Possibly early on we may see the likes of Solomone Saukuru & Lachlan Broederlow in Flegg before moving up.

Others in the mix through the season will be Logan Brookes (gun 18yo fullback from NQ), Pheonix Godinet, Kohan Lewis, Christian Taupau-Moors, Xavier Tauaifaiga, Ali Karnib, Levi Conti, Jon Ibrahim, Will Malloy, Callum McMenemy, Archie Riley, Peter Taai & Nehemia Wuatai-Davis.

Also worth noting that Latu & Sam Fainu, Galvin, TDS, Sukkar, Kit & Luke Laulilii, Faagutu, Feledy, Miller & Mason are all eligible for Flegg next season too.
Apart from a couple of standouts, that team looks very weak.
But as you have pointed out, we do have a very good crop of Flegg age eligible players who already are or will be playing in our open aged grades.
 
Apart from a couple of standouts, that team looks very weak.
But as you have pointed out, we do have a very good crop of Flegg age eligible players who already are or will be playing in our open aged grades.
Plenty of under agers (19/20yos, even 18yos) in that team but those ones are quality.

As with most comps, if we can maintain continuity with our spine & our experienced 21yos have a good season (Fisher, Liles, Tavana, Taungatua, Ibrahim, Conti), we could press for finals.
 
Base on summer squads this is an early look at what our Flegg side could look.

1 Cameron Kanaan
2 Max Taotua
3 Haemsai Makasini
4 Will Craig (no confirmation he's departing yet)
5 Tino Tavana
6 Jared Haywood
7 Max Liles
13 Tom Fisher
12 Archie Duncombe
11 Mitchell Taotua
10 Jekope Sovau
9 Heith Pritchard
8 Junior Taungatua

Possibly early on we may see the likes of Solomone Saukuru & Lachlan Broederlow in Flegg before moving up.

Others in the mix through the season will be Logan Brookes (gun 18yo fullback from NQ), Pheonix Godinet, Kohan Lewis, Christian Taupau-Moors, Xavier Tauaifaiga, Ali Karnib, Levi Conti, Jon Ibrahim, Will Malloy, Callum McMenemy, Archie Riley, Peter Taai & Nehemia Wuatai-Davis.

Also worth noting that Latu & Sam Fainu, Galvin, TDS, Sukkar, Kit & Luke Laulilii, Faagutu, Feledy, Miller & Mason are all eligible for Flegg next season too.
Liles was impressive in a short space of time last season. If he can strengthen his combinations, it should hold the team in good stead.

I think middles will be an area we might struggle in with Aho, Herman and Noah Johannssen all looking like they are past the age bracket now. I hope Noah has been retained. He looked a big bopper with potential when I saw him play live. Also hoping that Fa'agutu doesn't see much Flegg and is in KOE Cup for majority of the year.
 

PNG playing Aus Schooboys right now, Aus down 10-6 . Geez this Australian Schoolboy team is poorly coached, pretty sure the AUS coach is a Holy Cross coach as well.

Haywood hasn't done much.
 
PSM Owner and Agent Chris Orr is thrilled to announce that young upcoming wrecking ball Isaiah Fretton has signed a 2 year deal this week with the Manly Sea Eagles. The journey begins now and PSM is excited to be a part of it.

Congratulations Izzy.

Player is photographed in a Wests Tigers (Balmain) jersey.
SGball?
 
PSM Owner and Agent Chris Orr is thrilled to announce that young upcoming wrecking ball Isaiah Fretton has signed a 2 year deal this week with the Manly Sea Eagles. The journey begins now and PSM is excited to be a part of it.

Congratulations Izzy.

Player is photographed in a Wests Tigers (Balmain) jersey.
SGball?
Magpies Harold Matts
 

Harold Matts and SG Ball: 20 Wests Magpies squad players to watch in 2025​

After missing the finals in SG Ball and coming close to nailing the Harold Matts title, the Wests Magpies had a mixed year in junior reps. Here’s 20 squad members to watch in 2025.
Jason HoskenJason Hosken
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Ashton Large is preparing to return for another season of junior reps with the Wests Magpies. Picture: Warren Gannon Photography

Ashton Large is preparing to return for another season of junior reps with the Wests Magpies. Picture: Warren Gannon Photography

It was a season of mixed fortunes for Wests in the NSW junior reps this year. In a major surprise, the under-19s failed to qualify for the SG Ball Cup finals, while the U17s made it all the way to the Harold Matthews Cup decider.
With the summer squads already named for 2025, we profile a selection of up-and-comers who could run hot next year.

HAROLD MATTHEWS​

KEYNAN PES
He’s not the biggest No.9 going around, but this Oaks Tigers junior is eager to show his credentials in junior reps.

Captained The Oaks to last season’s U16s silver title and scored two tries in the grand final.

ISZAK ISDALE
A nippy fullback, Iszak is quick off the mark just like his Cronulla Sharks bound older brother, Alex.
An East Campbelltown junior, the livewire No.1 is expected to keep the Magpies selectors on their toes.

BROCK ACHURCH
Having suited up for Macarthur Wests Tigers in the U16s Andrew Johns Cup, Brock remains on track to transition to Harold Matts in 2025.
A clever playmaker and dummy-half, the East Campbelltown product is a noted try scorer with vision and an even temperament.
Brock Achurch in action for Macarthur Wests Tigers in the Andrew Johns Cup. Picture: Warren Gannon Photography

Brock Achurch in action for Macarthur Wests Tigers in the Andrew Johns Cup. Picture: Warren Gannon Photography

ASHTON LARGE
Just like his in demand brother Onitoni, Ashton Large is rising through the ranks juggling pathways league and U16s rugby union with the NSW Waratahs.
An elusive hooker, the in-demand Scots College teenager is set for another season of Harold Matts after playing in last season’s grand final loss to the Warriors.

KINGSTON FINAU
A five-eighth sensation who represented NSW CHS at this year’s U15s carnival, Kingston is definitely one to keep an eye on.
Elite at his craft, the No.6 has starred for the Narellan Jets on the local scene and is sure to turn heads in junior reps.

AIDEN GRIMA
He might be a teenager, but this Camden Rams front-rower already operates on old school values.
Loyal to his club side since U6s, he’s popular among teammates and knows how to inspire with spirited performances.

RUBEN TOGA
Another in the squad selected from the premiership winning Camden U16s side, Ruben is a switched on forward known for his wholehearted efforts.
Comfortable upfront or in the back-row, he is well placed to build on his stints in the Andrew Johns Cup.
Ruben Toga prepares to pass for the Camden Rams. Supplied: Camden Rams

Ruben Toga prepares to pass for the Camden Rams. Supplied: Camden Rams

LUKE SEVERIN
A strong defender, Luke doubles as a major attacking threat in the No.1 jumper.
One of three in the squad from The Oaks Tigers, he’s known for his strike power on the edges and uncanny ability to create chances through centrefield.

JORDAN TRUCKLE
An East Campbelltown centre who refuses to take a backwards step, Jordan is all heart when it comes to helping his mates over the line.
Aggressive with ball in hand, he crossed for a double in last season’s local U16s grand final.

JHEVON LELE
Jhevon showed he’s up for the challenge of junior reps last season. After starting out in the Andrew Johns Cup, the committed five-eighth was rewarded with a spot in the Magpies’ Harold Matts side.
With a try in last season’s grand final at CommBank Stadium, the No.6 returns eager to take the next step.
JhevonLele played for Macarthur Wests Tigers in last season’s Andrew Johns Cup. Picture: Warren Gannon Photography

Jhevon Lele played for Macarthur Wests Tigers in last season’s Andrew Johns Cup. Picture: Warren Gannon Photography

SG BALL​


SONNY EDWARDS-MOEKE
The speedy back returns for another season of SG Ball where he is tipped to rise to another level. Comfortable in the halves and with enough pace to hold down the No.1 jersey, Sonny’s utility value is a key attribute.
One of several pathways players to taste first grade in the local Macarthur competition, Sonny was a key member in Oakdale’s finals charge.
SonnyEdwards-Moeke stepped up to first grade for Oakdale last season in the Macarthur comp. Picture Warren Gannon Photography

Sonny Edwards-Moeke stepped up to first grade for Oakdale last season in the Macarthur comp. Picture Warren Gannon Photography

RILEY OITMANN
An absolute flyer down back, Riley is in the mix to cement his spot at fullback or on the wing. No stranger to the junior reps, the Camden speedster is an excellent finisher and continues to work on his passing game.

KOHAN LEWIS
A familiar face in the pathways, Kohan’s thirst for work continues to impress. A reliable middle forward, he has already adapted to the senior ranks with The Oaks and won a starting spot in this year’s Macarthur RL grand final.
He’s one of eight players short-listed for the Wests Tigers U21s Jersey Flegg squad.
KohanLewis gets a pass away for The Oaks in last September’s Macarthur first grade grand final. Picture Warren Gannon Photography

Kohan Lewis gets a pass away for The Oaks in last September’s Macarthur first grade grand final. Picture Warren Gannon Photography

BROOKLYN MILFORD
One of several in the squad from the East Campbelltown Eagles, Brooklyn is a budding No.9 with Harold Matts experience.
Knows how to control the ruck and pick apart the opposition, and backs it up with a relentless presence in defence.
BrooklynMilford played in the U18s grand final for East Campbelltown in 2024. Picture Warren Gannon Photography

Brooklyn Milford played in the U18s grand final for East Campbelltown in 2024. Picture Warren Gannon Photography

ARCHIE DUNCOMBE
When it comes to shooting stars, this rising backrower fits the bill.
Last season Archie made the most of his chance in the Laurie Daley Cup (U18s) before stepping up to finish the season with several stints in Jersey Flegg. All going well, he’ll be too good to waste in SG Ball next year.

KIMBALL LIUFAU
Strong as an ox, this hard running prop loves punching holes in the line and is one that not many enjoy lining up against.
A former Australian Schoolboys rugby union rep, Kimball has been in the pathways for several seasons.

DylanSmith scores for the Camden Rams in the U18s gold grand final in 2024. Picture Warren Gannon Photography

Dylan Smith scores for the Camden Rams in the U18s gold grand final in 2024. Picture Warren Gannon Photography

DYLAN SMITH
One to keep an eye on when the final squad is announced, Dylan is a livewire No.9 who captained Camden to last season’s U18s title.
Knows when to jump out of dummy-half, and doesn’t mind crossing the stripe.

PHOENIX GODINET
A schoolboy powerhouse, Phoenix is a damaging edge backrower the Tigers are desperate to keep long term.
Crossed the stripe in last season’s Harold Matts grand final, and could well jump a grade next season and bed down a full-time spot in Jersey Flegg.
Wests Tigers rising star Phoenix Godinet. Picture by Max Mason-Hubers

Wests Tigers rising star Phoenix Godinet. Picture by Max Mason-Hubers

BYRON LAUPEPA
Another backrower capable of opening up the back field, Byron was a key member of the Blacktown Patrician Brothers side that won this year’s Peter Mulholland Cup.
Brings plenty of junior reps experience, and with a bright future ahead he’ll be desperate to enhance his credentials.

DENZEL SCHAAFHAUSEN-MINO
A pivotal piece in the Magpies pack, Denzel is a former winner of the club’s best forward award in Harold Matts.
With a season of SG Ball already under his belt, the rising middle could well take his game to another level.
 
A few ex WT pathways players on other clubs T&T lists published in the DT today:

https://www.dailytelegraph.com.au/s...n/news-story/bbfb4c73eefffbc5afa262e18f9c37df

Most we know about.

Navren Willett & Onitoni Large (Manly), Maddax Fui (Souths) and also Mikey Nassar (Roosters) & Ben Stevanovic (Dolphins).

Interesting that Marc Tannous is listed as a T&T for us but no listing for Vaka Aho & Kobie Wilson although they were previously announced by the club as securing their future with us (maybe they are just Magpies NSW Cup deals).
 
A few ex WT pathways players on other clubs T&T lists published in the DT today:

https://www.dailytelegraph.com.au/s...n/news-story/bbfb4c73eefffbc5afa262e18f9c37df

Most we know about.

Navren Willett & Onitoni Large (Manly), Maddax Fui (Souths) and also Mikey Nassar (Roosters) & Ben Stevanovic (Dolphins).

Interesting that Marc Tannous is listed as a T&T for us but no listing for Vaka Aho & Kobie Wilson although they were previously announced by the club as securing their future with us (maybe they are just Magpies NSW Cup deals).
Any word on Bailey Hodges or Cayne Nicholas ?
 

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