After unexpected weather events postponement the initial fixture, the NSW U18 Waratahs are gearing up for a huge day of interstate rugby. This will be the first fixture in the 2025 two-match series against the QLD Reds which carries high stakes and a rich tradition—one the young squad is eager to continue. With a record of 3 undefeated years against the Reds for the U18’s team, every player understands that they’re not just playing for the game; they’re playing to uphold a winning streak.
The atmosphere among the team is electric as the team prepares for an early Saturday departure heading up to Queensland. Beyond the physical challenge on the field, there’s a true pride in representing the state with a storied history. The squad’s captain and half back, Angus Grover shared his thoughts during a recent interview, underscoring the significance of the rivalry.
“We have a long history of beating the Reds, and we’re determined to keep that streak alive.”
“I was part of the squad last year when we won both games, and that success drives us to do even better this time.”
“The consistency of our U18’s side over the last few years really motivates me and the team.”
Grover spoke on the team really making the most of the unfortunate week delay saying,
“All the boys were gearing up ready to play however the extra week of training worked out great for us. We were able to have a scrimmage against the Easts Colts team and really work on the detail of some of our set plays.”
“The extra week allowed our bonding to excel, we all come from different schools and walks of life and it’s been great to be training together.”
The young team will have a big day of travel on Saturday however it doesn’t faze Grover, “Knowing that we’re heading up there not only excites us but also fuels our determination to train harder and play smarter.”
Head Coach Mick Snowden offered further insight into the team’s preparation and mindset ahead of the big day. Speaking of the progress and squad’s development, he noted, “The boys got together in January and have been training almost nonstop since then. They’ve really gelled as a unit, and it shows in how they play.”
“There’s always a bit of excitement around getting on a plane then team bus, playing the game, and flying back on the same day. But we’ve stressed to them that, at the end of the day, the field dimensions don’t change and neither does the intensity.”
“We’re fortunate to have players with experience at higher levels. When things get hectic, the leaders—like our halves who won in in the Australia U18’s Vs New Zealand match last year—step up and steer the team. That’s exactly what we expect to see.”
As Saturday draws near, the combined perspectives of the captain and coach underscore a team that is eager and ready to fight. The teams carefully honed skills, strategic planning, excitement will all converge as they face the most anticipated interstate clashes.
All eyes will be on Ballymore this Saturday as the Waratahs step onto the field in an effort to get the first advantage of the series.
The NSW Waratahs U18s play the Queensland Reds U18s at Ballymore Stadium in Brisbane on Sunday at 1.15pm (AEDT).
The game will be streamed live on rugby.com.au and the Rugby Xplorer App.
- Hayden Lavercombe
- Oliver Smith
- Isaiah Sheck
- Ed Kasprowicz
- Ed Baxter
- TJ Talaileva
- Jarvis Orr
- Justice Taumoepeau
- Angus Grover
- Jonty Fowler
- Brock Prideaux
- Matthew Gough
- Jarryd King
- Tom Dunn
- Max Palmasani Reserves
- Hasani Bloomfield
- Keegan Daly
- Tyson Burden
- Noah Rylands
- Tahj Smith
- Flynn Farrell
- Harrison Dene
- Ben Sawyer
- Dylan Simmons
