The newly formed Waratahs U15’s are having an intensive week of training, bonding and development as they look to continue the assertive start across the 2024 Waratahs Academy teams.
After the U15s/14s Next Gen Cup hosted by the Waratahs at Camden Rugby Club in mid-September, selectors carefully assembled a team to represent the NSW Waratahs U15 in the upcoming two-game series against the Queensland Reds.
Teammates met for the first time with only a week to develop their skills, leadership and bond before their first match this Sunday.
Head coach John Carters emphasised the importance of team bonding, saying,
"With such a short preparation, it's been great to see the boys come together so well, getting along with each other, and most importantly, really focusing on their footy."
"Bringing in 30 players, including 4 who are just 14 years old, comes with challenges in a short timeframe, but the boys have absorbed the information extremely well and are applying it on the field."
"It's a great opportunity for them to experience what it's like, not just on the field, but also in the meeting rooms — talking things through, reviewing videos, and taking ownership of their own development."
"They’ve responded really well to the questions posed by the coaching team too."
"We've given the players numerous scenarios to help them grow as athletes. They’ve formed groups within the team to work through these challenges, and from this, we can see who the natural leaders are."
The intensity of this training period is not lost on the head coach, "It’s also about how they’ve been preparing themselves. With intense training and time on the field, their nutrition and sleep are crucial for giving them the best chance to not only be ready for Sunday but also to understand what a high-performance training environment demands."
As the team prepares for their first game, players are embracing the high-performance environment and the challenges ahead. Two key members of the team, flyhalf Finn Hannon and tighthead prop Ben Baretto, shared their thoughts on the week of training and the upcoming fixture.
“It feels amazing being treated like a high-level athlete and come together with players from across the state to test out the facilities here,” said Ben, reflecting on the unique experience of training in a professional environment.
Ben is also excited about the upcoming trip to Queensland, adding, “I'm looking forward to travel up to Queensland with the team and face new competition together.”
For Finn, the chance to work with elite coaches and teammates has elevated his preparation. “The coaching is really good, lots of complex drills, where we can improve our own skills faster when surrounded by high-level players,” he said, praising the quality of the training sessions.
Looking ahead to the big day on Sunday, Finn is eager for the full experience of playing interstate. “It’s going to be a huge day, flying up first thing, playing, and flying back. Should be lots of fun and to experience it with all the boys,” he said, highlighting the excitement of traveling and competing as a unit.
Round 1: NSW Waratahs U15 Vs Queensland Reds U15
Sunday October 6 at Ballymore Stadium.
Kick off at 2:00pm AEDT.
The match will be broadcast live and ad-free on Rugby Xplorer and Rugby.com.au.
1 Billy Miller
2 Archie Hill
3 Will Gleeson
4 Will Gencur
5 Marlee Thomas
6 Jayden Richards
7 Cooper Williams
8 Jharall Sione
9 Izak Holmes
10 Wilson Ruthven (c)
11 Izaac Street
12 Charlie Xureb
13 Eduardo Garcia
14 Asher Chapman
15 Finn Hannon
16 Talmage Lemusu
17 Asera Peniata
18 Ben Baretto
19 Oscar Forsey
20 Tom Symons
21 Levi Ellis
22 Payton Tarau
23 Tom Longland
