The next generation of Sunshine Coast’s rising rugby union stars who could enter the Super Rugby or Super W with a bang have been identified from Noosa to Caboolture.
From Gympie to Caboolture, players are ready to put their best foot forward against Australia’s best young talents as they hope to continue their on-field success.
Sunshine Coast Rugby Union Manager Mike Aronsten said there had been growth in the region’s junior rugby union competitions every year for the past four years.
“That growth is across all competitions from under-6s to under-17s which we call our junior colts,” he said.
Sunshine Coast Rugby Union President Mike Aronsten. Picture: Patrick Woods.
Aronsten said he believed the growth had come from the good relationships that the SCRU share with each club and the competition’s proactive response to the Covid-19 lockdowns.
“We still managed to play most of the rugby we would’ve played which I think has encouraged a really positive attitude from our clubs,” he said.
Aronsten said he was proud of the efforts and achievements that these junior Sunshine Coast rugby union players had achieved.
“It’s exciting and it’s very rewarding,” he said.
“Particularly for the coaches and managers who put so much time into training these kids and developing their rugby.
“The Sunshine Coast Stingrays is a part of the pathway for junior rugby players in Queensland from our region and I think it’s a tribute to the people that volunteer that we have had so many players selected.”
The Daily caught up with each junior star to find out how they were feeling, why they love the sport and their future aims.
The list is in no particular order and each player identified has been selected in a state level representative team.
All players/parents were contacted before the time of publishing.
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Under 13s
Sasha Bourne
Age: 13
Club and School: Maroochydore Swans, Immanuel Lutheran College
Position: Fly-half
Sunshine Coast junior rugby union star Sasha Bourne.
How proud are you following your selection?
“This is my first year playing rugby union so I am very proud to have made it into the representative team.”
What do you enjoy most about rugby union?
“It is very fun playing with friends and I love the contact.”
Where do you hope to be in the next three to five years?
“Improving my skills working my way up the ladder to play for Queensland Reds and then Australia.”
Elliot Wood
Age: 12
Club and school: University Sunshine Coast, Matthew Flinders Anglican College
Position: Prop and Flanker
Sunshine Coast junior rugby union star Elliot Wood.
How proud are you following your selection?
“Extremely proud, I have been playing rugby for five years and I never thought I would be representing South Queensland,” he said.
“I am very excited to be given this opportunity.”
What do you like the most about rugby?
“I love the fact that you make so many friends both on and off the field.
“Everyone is supportive and encouraging, there is a lot to learn, you actually have to think in union as it really is a tactical, thinking game.”
Where do you hope to be in the next three to five years?
“I hope to be representing my school in the 1st XV, continue to play and improve and be selected in the Queensland and Sunshine Coast representative teams.”
Wyatt Lindsay
Age: 13
Club and School: Maroochydore Swans, Nambour Christian College
Position: Prop
Sunshine Coast junior rugby union star Wyatt Lindsay.
How proud are you following your selection?
“On a scale of one to 10 I would say a nine out of 10.”
What do you enjoy most about rugby union?
“A lot of things, team camaraderie, the contact, I just enjoy the game as a whole.”
Where do you hope to be in the next three to five years?
“In the Queensland Reds development team.”
Harrison Doyle
Club and School: Sunshine Coast Grammar
Position: Second row
Sunshine Coast junior rugby union star Harrison Doyle.
How proud are you following your selection?
“I’m pretty proud of myself and I’m excited to represent Queensland Country.”
What do you enjoy most about rugby union?
“I just enjoy the sport in general and I love it all around.”
Where do you hope to be in the next three to five years?
“In a few years time I’d hope to be representing Queensland and also continuing to play at Grammar.”
Ishaka Morgan
Age: 13
Club and School: Noosa Dolphins, Sunshine Beach State High School
Position: Halfback
Sunshine Coast junior rugby union star Ishaka Morgan
How proud are you following your selection?
“I’m very proud,” he said.
“I am happy to be selected into a team with so many good players.”
What do you enjoy most about rugby union?
“I enjoy the contact and the ability to have controlled aggression,” he said.
“Being able to do a pass that sets up a try is a good feeling.”
Where do you hope to be in the next three to five years?
“I’m hoping to still be playing and enjoying rugby.
“Hoping that I can get better each year and still be in the representative teams.”
Anything you’d like to add?
“I am thankful for the coaches that I have had, they are always encouraging and helping me be a better player.”
Tonkla Phumtabtim
Age: 13
Club and School: Noosa Dolphins, Good Shepherd Lutheran College
Position: Number Eight
Sunshine Coast junior rugby union star Tonkla Phumtabtim.
How proud are you following your selection?
“Quite proud after two years of bad knee injuries.”
What do you enjoy most about rugby union?
“Big defensive plays and scoring tries.”
Where do you hope to be in the next three to five years?
“In the emerging Queensland Reds teams.”
Anything you’d like to add?
“I really loved playing for the Stingrays and can’t wait for the challenge of the Queensland country championships.”
Mitchel Van Dyke
Club and School: Sunshine Coast Brothers, Pacific Lutheran College
Position: Centre/Fullback
Sunshine Coast junior rugby union star Mitchel Van Dyke.
How proud are you following your selection?
“I’m happy and excited that all my training and hard work has paid off.”
What do you enjoy most about rugby union?
“Teamwork and playing with my friends.”
Where do you hope to be in the next three to five years?
“In the Reds development team.”
Zac Zeremes
Age: 13
Club and School: Nambour Toads, St John’s College
Position: Fullback
Sunshine Coast junior rugby union star Zac Zeremes.
How proud are you following your selection?
“I am very proud, it will be a great experience and I am looking forward to playing with not only my Sunshine Coast mates but also some of the boys I know from Gold Coast and Darling Downs too.”
What do you enjoy most about rugby union?
“I like running with the ball and trying to set up tries for my teammates.
“I’ve always been involved with rugby and I like the teamwork side of the game and just having fun with the boys on the field.”
Where do you hope to be in the next three to five years?
“I hope I will be playing in multiple representative sides and trying to work towards playing in the big league when I am older.”
Lachlan Byrne
Club and school: Brothers Sunshine Coast, Siena Catholic College
Position: Inside Centre/Flyhalf
Sunshine Coast junior rugby union star Lachlan Byrne.
How proud are you following your selection?
“I’m very excited.”
What do you enjoy most about rugby union?
“Playing with my mates and putting my body on the line for others.”
Where do you hope to be in the next three to five years?
“Playing as much rugby as I can and I hope to make the Queensland Country team.”
Samson Leggo
Age: 13
Club and School: Nambour Toads, St John’s College
Position: Flanker
How proud are you following your selection?
“Making South Queensland was a big achievement for me as I have been playing football for almost four years,” he said.
“Last year my club team were the season premiers and making the SQ team is a great opportunity to play footy at a higher level and meet other strong players in rugby.”
What do you enjoy most about rugby union?
“What I love the most about rugby is the competition and being able to work as a team to get a result while having fun with your mates on and off the field.”
Where do you hope to be in the next three to five years?
“Continuing at union and getting the best results I can with my skill.
“I hope to make a Queensland or even Australian team.”
Anything you’d like to add?
“I’m thankful to be in this position and would like to thank all my coaches and my parents for getting me to every game and supporting me in my goals.”
Other players selected: Jack Tambling (University)
Under 14s
Rory Ramsden
Age: 14
Club and School: Noosa Dolphins, Sunshine Beach State High
Position: Fly-half/Scrum-half
Sunshine Coast junior rugby union star Rory Ramsden. Picture: Adrian Bell Photography.
How proud are you following your selection?
“After missing out last year I was pretty determined and worked hard this year so I’m stoked to be selected.”
What do you enjoy most about rugby union?
“I like the physicality, the game strategy and the mates you make along the way.”
Where do you hope to be in the next three to five years?
“Hopefully still playing good rugby.”
Jairus Patelesio
Age: 13
Club and School: Brothers Rugby Club, Pacific Lutheran College
Position: Prop
Sunshine Coast junior rugby union star Jairus Patelesio.
How proud are you following your selection?
“I am heaps proud because it was a goal I set myself before the 2023 season.”
What do you enjoy most about Rugby Union?
“Big hits, scrums and lineouts and also the experience of playing with different teams, levels and coaches.”
Where do you hope to be in the next three to five years?
“In three years I hope to be attending the top rugby school in Australia and playing representative rugby.
“In five years I hope to be playing for the Queensland Reds or in the Reds Development Squad.”
Anything you’d like to add?
“I know everyone has worked hard to get to where they are and a big thankyou to all our families for their love and support as well.”
Nate Kerin-Bird
Age: 13
Club and School: Sunshine Coast Grammar School
Position: Lock
Sunshine Coast rugby union talent Nate Kerin Bird.
How proud are you following your selection?
“I’m proud that I made the team, it’s great for my rugby.”
What do you enjoy most about Rugby Union?
“Good sportsmanship between the players, I have good relationships and know the players on my team and the opposition.
“It’s also just good fun and great to play.”
Where do you hope to be in the next three to five years?
“I hope to make the Reds academy and make the bigger teams to improve my skills. Learn my position a bit more.”
Anything you’d like to add?
“I’m glad I’ve got great coaches that improve my skills everyday and for the people that support me in my rugby.”
Moses Faleafa
Age: 14
Club and School: University Barbarians, Suncoast Christian College
Position: Number Eight and Tight Head Prop
Sunshine Coast junior rugby union star Moses Faleafa.
How proud are you following your selection?
“I am very humbled to be selected to learn from the best players and coaches in my age-group in Southern Queensland.”
What do you enjoy most about rugby union?
“Team-work, learning from others, and making lifelong friendships.”
Where do you hope to be in the next three to five years?
“To be the best version of myself, and be a professional rugby player.”
Anything you’d like to add?
“I’m very grateful to my Barbarians coaches and my Suncoast Christian College principal and staff for their coaching.
“They’ve taught me to grow, to be productive and effective as an individual and a team member.
“As well as God’s hands and feet on the rugby field and off it.”
Taryk Fitzgibbon
Age: 13
Club and School: Maroochydore Swans, St John’s College
Position: Number Eight/Second Row
Sunshine Coast junior rugby union star Taryk Fitzgibbon.
How proud are you following your selection?
“I’m very proud to make the team and equally as proud for my teammates.”
What do you enjoy most about rugby union?
“I love the competition, developing my skills in the rucks and lineouts and I love running it straight.
“Being a part of the team, no matter if we win the game or not, it’s my mates that make it fun at the end of the day.”
Where do you hope to be in the next three to five years?
“I want to make the Queensland Country side this year, join the Queensland Reds squad next year and play with the Australian Schoolboys squad.
“I’m hoping to be in the under-19s junior Wallabies squad playing with mates and representing Australia.”
Anything you’d like to add?
“I want to acknowledge my mum for the hard work she puts in to support me to follow my dream and all my mates who cheer me on and encourage me.”
Other players selected: Xavier Hill (University)
Under 14 Girls
Asha Holmstrom
Age: 13
Club and School: Brothers Rugby Union, Siena Catholic College
Sunshine Coast junior rugby union star Asha Holmstrom.
How proud are you following your selection?
“After being selected for the Stingrays team to play at the South Queensland Championships, it became a goal of mine to make the South Queensland Team.
“I am really proud to have achieved my goal, I am excited to meet my new teammates and share the rep experience with them.”
What do you enjoy most about rugby union?
“I love playing rugby for many reasons, but in particular, I love the opportunities to keep improving my game, the friendships I make, the coaches I get to work with and the fun of setting goals and working hard to achieve them.
“I love to train and I love to play.”
Where do you hope to be in the next three to five years?
“My short term goal is to keep learning, working hard and seeking opportunities to better my skills.
“I want to go as far as rugby is willing to take me and I am prepared to work hard to get to where I want to be.”
Caitlyn Osborne
Age: 13
Club and School: Maroochydore Swans, Mountain Creek State High School
Sunshine Coast junior rugby union star Caitlyn Osborne.
How proud are you following your selection?
“Extremely proud of myself because I have the opportunity to be part of the team.”
What do you enjoy most about rugby union?
“I enjoy rugby union because I like the team environment, I like making new friends while gaining more skill and techniques.”
Where do you hope to be in the next three to five years?
“My four-year goal is to graduate high school with a good GPA to gain a position in university while continuing to enjoy playing rugby.”
Jahnessa Talataina
Age: 13
Club and School: Maroochydore Rugby Union, Mountain Creek State High School
Position: Second Row
Sunshine Coast junior rugby union star Jahnessa Talataina.
How proud are you following your selection?
“I feel really proud to be getting a step further in my rugby.
“I feel like all the time and effort I’ve put into my footy over the years is paying off.”
What do you enjoy most about rugby union?
“I enjoy rugby as it helps me clear my mind and it keeps me happy.
“I enjoy the team environment and have made some great friendships through rugby.”
Where do you hope to be in the next three to five years?
“My next goal will be to make a state team and then my long-term goal is to represent my country or play in a professional team in union or league.”
Makenna Thompson
Age: 13
Club and School: Sunshine Coast Brothers, Matthew Flinders Anglican College
Position: Flanker
Sunshine Coast junior rugby union stars Makenna and Nate Thompson.
How proud are you following your selection?
“Extremely, I really didn’t expect it but I’m so grateful for the opportunity.”
What do you enjoy most about rugby union?
“Tackling, growing up with an older brother, I love playing hard.”
Where do you hope to be in the next three to five years?
“I don’t really know, I’m only new to union.
“I’ve grown up watching friends and family play and am just happy to be out there.”
Anything you’d like to add?
“I’m so happy playing with old friends and making new ones.
“Also I wouldn’t have made it without my Brothers coach, Kelly.”
Lucy Ryan
Age: 13
Club and School: Maroochydore Swans, Siena Catholic College
Position: Tight Head Prop
Sunshine Coast junior rugby union star Lucy Ryan.
How proud are you following your selection?
“I am extremely happy for my teammates and myself who worked really hard for this.
What do you enjoy most about rugby union?
“Working together as a strong team and the camaraderie that comes with a team that has each others back.”
Where do you hope to be in the next three to five years?
“Solving crimes while still enjoying rugby and playing at a competitive level.”
Anything more you’d like to add?
“It’s a great opportunity especially for women’s rugby, showing all girls out there we can do whatever we set our minds to.”
Sofie Myhr-Robertson
Age: 14 years old
Club and School: USC Barbarians Rugby Union, Chancellor State College
Position: Flanker, Flyhalf
Sunshine Coast junior rugby union star Sofie Myhr-Robertson.
How proud are you following your selection?
“I am proud of myself for being selected, because I’ve put in so much hard work and training so many days a week.
“I’ve played rugby for many years and I’m happy about the opportunities I am getting.”
What do you enjoy most about rugby union?
“What I love most about playing rugby union is playing as a team with my friends and being able to make so many new friends from rugby opportunities.
“I love that rugby is such an active game and I’m never bored.
“I love every part of the game, running, tackling, passing the ball, everything.”
Where do you hope to be in the next three to five years?
“I’m not really sure but I definitely will still be playing rugby.
“I’m hoping I’ll be representing a national or even a state team and will keep pushing myself to achieve that and get there.”
Zaice McLachlan
Age: 14
Club and School: USC Barbarians, Matthew Flinders Anglican College
Position: Fly-half/Inside or Outside Centre
Sunshine Coast junior rugby union star Zaice McLachlan.
How proud are you following your selection?
“Extremely proud, I did not expect to be selected into the South Queensland Team as this is my first year playing rugby.
“Seeing my name in the team announcement made me feel so proud of myself and my teammates.
“I was so excited I couldn’t sleep that night and my selection into the South Queensland team has been the highlight of 2023 for me.”
What do you enjoy most about rugby union?
“I love absolutely everything, I love the strategy of the game which I am still learning, I love being able to make space and make breaks and score tries.
“I usually play Rugby Sevens which I really enjoy, and I am new to 15-a-side so I didn’t think I would enjoy it as much as sevens but I love it just as much now.
“I really enjoy playing with my teammates and having a good time on the field with them.”
Where do you hope to be in the next three to five years?
“To be selected in the Queensland team for Rugby Sevens or 15s, and if I work hard enough maybe reach national level, that would be a dream come true to wear the green and gold.
“My other passion is netball which I currently play at representative level and my goal is to be selected in the schoolgirls Queensland Netball Team.”
Other players selected: Sailor Bowker (Grammar)
Under 16s
Max McKerrow
Age: 16
Club and School: Good Shepherd Lutheran College, Noosa Dolphins
Position: Halfback
Sunshine Coast junior rugby union talents Patrick Edwards (left) and Max McKerrow (right).
How proud are you following your selection?
“Feel very honoured to be selected along with some great players and mates and really looking forward to playing soon.”
What do you enjoy most about rugby union?
“Playing with mates and meeting new people.”
Where do you hope to be in the next three to five years?
“Hopefully still playing footy with friends and meeting new people while playing in different places around the world.”
Patrick Edwards
Age: 16
Club and School: Maroochydore Swans, St John’s College Nambour
Position: Flanker
Sunshine Coast junior rugby union talent Patrick Edwards.
How proud are you following your selection?
“Very proud of my selection, it was a great feeling when I found out.”
What do you enjoy most about rugby union?
“Playing with my mates.”
Where do you hope to be in the next three to five years?
“I see myself still enjoying and playing rugby.”
Izaac Grime
Age: 16
Club and School: Caloundra Rugby Union Club, Caloundra State High School
Position: Loose forward
Sunshine Coast junior rugby union talent Izaac Grime.
How proud are you following your selection?
“I’m proud that my hard work is paying off.”
What do you enjoy most about rugby union?
“I like playing with mates and being part of a team.”
Where do you hope to be in the next three to five years?
“Playing good rugby to the best of my ability and continuing to improve.”
Anything you’d like to add?
“Rugby is all about making friends and having a go.”
Nate Thompson
Age: 15
Club and School: Maroochydore Swans, Siena Catholic College
Position: Fullback
Sunshine Coast junior rugby union talent Nate Thompson.
How proud are you following your selection?
“Very, I’m excited to play at the comp.”
What do you enjoy most about rugby union?
“Running around with my mates.”
Where do you hope to be in the next three to five years?
“Seeing how far I can go in rugby.”
Sebastian Goulton
Age: 16
Club: Brothers Rugby Club
Position: Front row prop
Sunshine Coast junior rugby union talent Sebastian Goulton.
How proud are you following your selection?
“I am so incredibly proud of myself, I honestly didn’t think I was going to make the team, but I am so stoked.”
What do you enjoy most about rugby union?
“I absolutely love rugby union, I feel like I’m in a different mindset.
“I prefer to play than watch that’s for sure.”
Where do you hope to be in the next three to five years?
“In the next three to five years I would like to be a well-known rugby player on television.
“Throughout this year getting selected has been my biggest highlight.
“So many people look down on me, but I have learnt to overcome it through my actions and hard training.
“Rugby union has improved my confidence in myself and I will continue to grow and learn new skills.”
Bailey Turpin
Age: 15
Club and School: Maroochydore Swans, Mountain Creek State High School
Position: Second row lock
Sunshine Coast junior rugby union talent Bailey Turpin.
How proud are you following your selection?
“I am extremely proud of myself for making the selection and so proud of my Maroochydore Swans teammates.
“I have been aiming for this for the last three years.
“I have always trialled but never quite made the cut so I’ve been working on my fitness and rugby skills and the work has paid off this year.”
What do you enjoy most about rugby union?
“I enjoy being part of a team and having fun with my mates.
“I have played rugby union since under-6s and it is a big part of my life.
“Playing rugby has helped me develop confidence in other areas of my life and gives me extra friends outside of school.”
Where do you hope to be in the next three to five years?
“The dream would be to play for Queensland Reds and the ultimate aim would be to run out for the Wallabies.”
Max Furniss
Age: 16
Club and School: Maroochydore Swans, Siena Catholic College
Position: Inside centre, Outside centre
Sunshine Coast junior rugby union talent Max Furniss.
How proud are you following your selection?
“I’m very proud of my selection and won’t take this opportunity for granted.”
What do you enjoy most about rugby union?
“I enjoy rugby as it’s a team sport, if one person succeeds, everyone succeeds.
“I love the contest as I’m a highly competitive player and I love the contact.”
Where do you hope to be in the next three to five years?
“I hope to be playing rugby at the highest level I can make.”
Other players selected: Zayne Hudson (Caloundra)
Under 16 Girls
Isabella Krog
Age: 15
Club and School: Sunshine Coast Grammar Girls, Sunshine Coast Grammar School
Position: Hooker and Lock
Sunshine Coast junior rugby union talent Isabella Krog. Picture: Adrian Bell photography.
How proud are you following your selection?
“Given the remarkable pool of talented players in SEQ, I am very proud of my selection.”
What do you enjoy most about rugby union?
“I thoroughly enjoy the camaraderie within the team, as well as the physical and mental challenges of the game.”
Where do you hope to be in the next three to five years?
“I hope to be studying sports physiotherapy and representing the Wallaroos on an international level.”
Anything more you’d like to add?
“I am grateful for this opportunity and would like to thank my coaches, teammates, club and parents for all of the support and encouragement.”
Ava Wilson
Age: 15
Club and School: Sunshine Coast Grammar Girls, Sunshine Coast Grammar School
Position: Lock
Sunshine Coast junior rugby union talent Ava Wilson.
How proud are you following your selection?
“Being re-selected for the South East Queensland team this year makes me very happy, as it was one of my goals for the season.”
What do you enjoy most about rugby union?
“The thing I like most about rugby is how everything goes away when you’re on the field.
“You don’t think about your piles of homework, your worries or anything else when you’re playing, and you can meet new people because you share a passion for rugby.”
Where do you hope to be in the next three to five years?
“In the next three to five years I hope to be travelling the world, playing rugby and getting ready for the 2032 Olympics.
Anything you’d like to add?
“My playing has significantly improved after receiving one of the first rugby scholarships for females to Grammar this year thanks to the academy’s incredible facilities and additional training sessions.
“From staff members to the High Performance Program with incredible nutritional workshops and more, Grammar has provided excellent assistance.
“Every girl who wants to play sports will hopefully have the help they need from their family, friends, and school and something I’m quite proud of is that I was also the first female captain of an all boys team for the under-13s at Maroochydore Swans and we won the grand final that year.”
Laura-May McGovern
Age: 15
Club and School: Nambour Toads, Siena Catholic College
Position: Half back/Fly half
Sunshine Coast junior rugby union talent Laura-May McGovern.
How proud are you following your selection?
“To be selected in the South Queensland team is an amazing achievement, one I am very proud of.
“I love playing country rugby and all the treasurable memories I gain from the experience.
“To be able to play good rugby alongside some of the best players from around South Queensland and creating friendships with these players is very special.
“I had the opportunity to play in this Queensland Country Championship last year and enjoyed everything about it, I can’t wait to do it all again.”
What do you enjoy most about rugby union?
“Rugby union has been a major part of my life, growing up around this sport has granted me with amazing experiences, memories, and friendships that I am forever grateful for.
“I enjoy all aspects of playing rugby, running onto the field if it’s for a representative team or club, the passion for each game and just being able to play footy is the best.”
Where do you hope to be in the next three to five years?
“My hopes for the coming years is to continue building and improving my rugby, to keep playing rep footy and embrace those opportunities when they present themselves, but most of all enjoying all of it while doing so.”
Mackenzie Sharpe
Age: 15
Club and School: Nambour Toads, Mountain Creek State High School
Position: Fullback
Sunshine Coast junior rugby union talent Mackenzie Sharpe. Picture: Adrian Bell photography.
How proud are you following your selection?
“I’m so proud and honoured to be part of such an amazing team.”
What do you enjoy most about rugby union?
“I love being part of a team, celebrating the highs and learning from the lows together.
“I love the energy of the game, both on and off the field.”
Where do you hope to be in the next three to five years?
“Still playing rugby, and finding opportunities through different pathways.”
Anything you’d like to add?
“It’s great how women’s rugby is growing, giving me more and more opportunities to play the game I love.”
Luca Lamplough
Age: 14
Club and School: Brothers Rugby Union Club, Kawana Waters State College
Position: Outside centre
Sunshine Coast junior rugby union talent Luca Lamplough. Picture: Adrian Bell Photography
How proud are you following your selection?
“I am incredibly proud to represent South Queensland in this year’s championship as I am not only representing South Queensland but I am representing the Sunshine Coast and my rugby club which is an honour to me.”
What do you enjoy most about rugby union?
“I enjoy the contact and structure in rugby union and how girls my age and women these days can play a male dominant sport.”
Where do you hope to be in the next three to five years?
“In three to five years time I hope to keep excelling in rugby union and Rugby Sevens and to be playing for my country.”
Sarena Manssen
Age: 14
Position: Prop
Club and School: Gympie Hammers, James Nash State High School
Sunshine Coast junior rugby union talent Sarena Manssen. Picture: Adrian Bell Photography
How proud are you following your selection?
“I love rugby, so to be given an opportunity to play the game is a privilege.
“I truly do take such pride in gaining selection especially with the amazing talent we have here on the Sunshine Coast.”
What do you enjoy most about rugby union?
“When I first started playing I was the only girl on the team and the competition at large so to see so many great athletic, skilled girls emerging is super exciting.
“Union offers me a space that never gets boring, it always delivers an action-packed adventure every time I step out onto the field.
“I get to challenge myself to do my job well and most of the time I just can’t get the smile of my face as I enter my playground.”
Where do you hope to be in the next three to five years?
“Where I see myself in three to five years is everywhere I can be.
“I have told my family I’m going to be a Wallaroo, I’m going to travel the world, meet as many incredible coaches, mentors and players in this amazing game and just keep playing.
“I’m so excited at where the opportunities could lead later in life, but for now I just love showing up and doing what I love.
Ella Luton
Age: 16
Club and School: Nambour Toads, St John’s College
Position: Wing
Sunshine Coast junior rugby union talent Ella Luton.
How proud are you following your selection?
“I am very proud of myself and how hard I have been working to achieve the goals that I am striving to reach.”
What do you enjoy most about rugby union?
“For me, rugby is a great way to meet new people and build friendships with lots of lifelong memories.”
Where do you hope to be in the next three to five years?
“I hope to keep making representative teams and hopefully my dedication and effort will allow me to go further into the next steps of representative rugby.”
Madi Collins
Age: 16
Club and School: Nambour Toads and Siena Catholic College
Position: Inside Centre
Sunshine Coast junior rugby union talent Madi Collins.
How proud are you following your selection?
“I am proud to make the South Queensland under-16 team and I am looking forward to playing with the girls.”
What do you enjoy most about rugby union?
“A highlight of playing rugby is meeting new people.
“I love being part of a team, training and working together.”
Where do you hope to be in the next three to five years?
“In three to five years I hope I’m still playing rugby at a representative level, making memories on and off the field.”
Shelbie Beardmore
Age: 14
Club and School: Maroochydore Swans, St Teresa’s Catholic College
Position: Flanker
Sunshine Coast junior rugby union talent Shelbie Beardmore.
How proud are you following your selection?
“Extremely proud, I have worked really hard on and off the field to achieve my goals, which has resulted in my recent selections.”
What do you enjoy most about rugby union?
“I love the challenges of the game and the culture between players on and off the field.”
Where do you hope to be in the next three to five years?
“My goal is to continue working hard on and off the field so that I can compete at the highest level.
“My ultimate goal is to be in the Wallaroos.”
Under 17-18s Schoolgirls
Emmisyn Wynyard
Age: 17
School: Redcliffe State High School.
Sunshine Coast rugby union talent Emmisyn Wynyard.
How proud are you following your selection?
“I am very proud of this achievement.
“I was very stoked to hear my name get called out in the squad and later on getting the confirmation email.
“I am very keen to play some good rugby.”
What do you enjoy most about rugby union?
“This is a very new game to me but I love some good defence.
“I also do enjoy getting to play alongside an amazing group of girls and have a great time on the field.”
Where do you hope to be in the next three to five years?
“In the next three to five years I hope to be continuing to learn the game, get better and see improvement in my game.
“I’m hoping to start playing at a high level, start playing the game much more and one day hopefully get to play at the international level.”
Anything you’d like to add?
“I haven’t been playing for very long at all but if you give the game a go it is so rewarding and enjoyable.
“You get to meet new people and learn some great skills and play an amazing game.”
Other players selected: Kianna Maclean
Under 17-18s Schoolboys
Joshua Barlow
Age: 18
Club and School: Sunshine Coast Grammar
Position: Hooker
Sunshine Coast rugby union talent Joshua Barlow.
How proud are you following your selection?
“Extremely proud because I had to overcome serious injury and setbacks in under-16s but I kept working and improving to achieve two years in the Queensland Schoolboys under-18 team.
“Very proud to have captained the Sunshine Coast Regional team for the past two years, with a win in 2022 and fourth place in 2023.
“It’s certainly great to see the recognition of the talent we have on the Sunshine Coast.”
What do you enjoy most about rugby union?
“Consistent, small improvement that people are capable of can ensure great long term outcomes.
“I really enjoy the time with teammates and celebrating the victories and achievements.”
Where do you hope to be in the next three to five years?
“Next three years I am focused on selection for the Queensland Reds senior Academy, playing for the Junior Wallabies and debuting in the Super Rugby.”
Anything you’d like to add?
“I’m very grateful for the opportunity to represent Queensland Schoolboys again in 2023, this is my final year of school and pushing for a great result at the National Championships.
“A huge thanks to Sunshine Coast Grammar Rugby for the training and development they have provided me during my schooling years.”
Finn Lawson
Age: 17
Club and School: No union club at present (Sunshine Coast Falcons/Kawana Rugby League Club), Mountain Creek State High School
Position: Winger/Fullback
Sunshine Coast’s Finn Lawson in action. Picture: Evan Morgan
How proud are you following your selection?
“It’s awesome, following on from the experiences I had playing rugby union last year with the Schoolboys Queensland and Australian teams, it is amazing to be given another opportunity to play rugby union at a high level and I am excited to see what opportunities may come from this experience.”
What do you enjoy most about rugby union?
“The people and the experience I am gaining playing the sport.
“It is very different to rugby league, which is more natural for me, so I am enjoying learning how to play effectively in my positions in union so that I can be an asset to my team on the field.”
Where do you hope to be in the next three to five years?
“My ultimate goal is to be playing rugby union or league at the next level.
“At this point I feel fortunate that there are still options in both codes, I guess we will see how the rest of this year pans out as to what direction my future takes.”
Lawson also attended the State Titles for Rugby League in Townsville before heading straight to the State Titles for Rugby Union at the Gold Coast two days later.
After playing 10 matches in nine days, Lawson was awarded the Sunshine Coast rugby union players’ player award voted on by his teammates.
Blake Miller
Age: 17
Club and School: Sunshine Coast Grammar School
Blake Miller in action for South East Queensland. Picture: Queensland Rugby Union.
How proud are you following your selection?
“Very grateful to be in the team, it’s been a long season and this achievement is a great way to top it off.”
What do you enjoy most about rugby union?
“Just getting around the boys and playing good footy.
“There’s never a dull moment on the field with the boys and it’s something I’ll always cherish and always look forward to.”
Where do you hope to be in the next three to five years?
“In the next three to five years I hope to still be playing rugby.
“Whether that’s club rugby or getting close to the professional stage.”
Anything you’d like to add?
“Just want to thank the Grammar coaching staff, Hosea, Nigel, Eugene, Troy and Tim for everything they have done throughout the year and the Schoolboy coaches for the great carnival and giving me the opportunity.
“A big thanks to everyone.”
Kye Porter
Age: 17
Club and School: Noosa Dolphins, St Andrew’s Anglican College
Position: Fly-half
Sunshine Coast rugby union talent Kye Porter.
How proud are you following your selection?
“I made it a goal after last year’s championship to push for selection so I was pretty stoked on actually making it.”
What do you enjoy most about rugby union?
“Getting to play with mates.”
Where do you hope to be in the next three to five years?
“Hopefully playing a high standard of rugby in Brisbane.”
Saxon Thompson
Age: 16
Club and School: Noosa Dolphins, Good Shepherd Lutheran College
Position: Second Row/Number Eight
Sunshine Coast schoolboy rugby union teammates Kye Porter and Saxon Thompson. Picture: Facebook
How proud are you following your selection?
“Extremely proud, I’ve worked really hard over the last 18 months to get to where I am today.”
What do you enjoy most about rugby union?
“The friendships I’ve made and the people I’ve met from all walks of life.”
Where do you hope to be in the next three to five years?
“In the next three to five years I don’t hope to be, I know I’ll be playing for the Reds.
“It’s been a huge driving force for me so to be a Queensland Red will be a dream come true.
“Then I will be playing for the Wallabies.”
Anything you’d like to add?
“Nothing comes easy.
“If you want something bad enough you have to make a commitment to go and get it and I’ve been given the opportunity to do something I absolutely love.”
Other players selected: Luke Aiken and Sam Human.
Colts (Under 19s)
Sabyr Kime
Age: 19
Club: Noosa Dolphins
Position: Second Row
Sunshine Coast rugby union talent Sabyr Kime.
How proud are you following your selection?
“Absolutely stoked and I can’t wait to head up to Rockhampton with the South Queensland team.”
What do you enjoy most about rugby Union?
“Playing footy with mates.”
Where do you hope to be in the next three to five years?
“Hopefully still playing some club footy.”
Oliver Cassells
Age: 18
Club: Maroochydore Rugby Club
Position: Flanker
Sunshine Coast rugby union talent Oliver Cassells.
How proud are you following your selection?
“Very proud to be chosen for the South Queensland team.”
What do you enjoy most about rugby union?
“I enjoy playing with the boys.”
Where do you hope to be in the next three to five years?
“Finished my apprenticeship.”
Lochie Stewart
Age: 19
Club: Maroochydore Swans
Position: Halfback/Flyhalf
Sunshine Coast rugby union talent Lochie Stewart.
How proud are you following your selection?
“I am extremely proud, to be given the opportunity to play quality rugby and to be seen as an individual and teammate who is capable of playing at a higher level is extremely humbling and exciting.”
What do you enjoy most about rugby union?
“The camaraderie.
“Getting to play and train with some of your closest mates week in week out is easily the best part, especially when you’re getting results from the effort you see each other put in.”
Where do you hope to be in the next three to five years?
“I’m not sure to be honest, you’d like to say getting a crack at the Reds or playing overseas but I’m honestly not sure.
“As long as I’m still playing.”
Joseph Glassock
Age: 18
Club and School: Noosa Dolphins, St Teresa’s Catholic College
Position: Hooker
Sunshine Coast rugby union talent Joseph Glassock.
How proud are you following your selection?
“I’m extremely proud and honoured to have made it this far, it has always been a goal of mine to take my rugby to the next level and with the help of some amazing coaches such as Jourdan Linthorne and Digger Munro, I have been able to do so.
“It also goes without saying that to have the opportunity to play at this next level has made my Dad and my family proud.”
What do you enjoy most about rugby union?
“I love the general lifestyle behind rugby union, it’s something you wont get anywhere else.
“The fact that you’re able to hit someone as hard as you can between two blows of a whistle and be good mates after is what it’s all about.”
Where do you hope to be in the next three to five years?
“Personally I would love to be involved in rugby until the day I die but in the next three to five years I’ll most likely be based out of Brisbane and playing rugby in the big smoke alongside my older brother Archie for the mighty GPS.”
Marcus Higgs
Age: 19
Club: Noosa Dolphins
Position: Outside centre
Sunshine Coast rugby union talent Marcus Higgs.
How proud are you following your selection?
“Excited and Looking forward to representing south Queensland in a new competition for me.”
What do you enjoy most about rugby union?
“Playing good rugby with your mates and the social side to the game off the field.”
Where do you hope to be in the next three to five years?
“To push on and play as high level rugby as I can.”
Other players selected: Jacob Prlja (Caboolture)