The NSW Waratahs have named their U16’s team to face the Melbourne Rebels in Round 1 of the Super Rugby U16’s tournament to be held this Sunday at 11:35am AEST at Leichhardt Oval.
This weekend the NSW Waratahs U16’s gear up for a crucial opening match looking to set a strong statement on their opponents with a powerful start to the competition. Following an extensive preseason of training at the Daceyville training facility, the side is excited to begin their tournament and put into practice their developed skills and teamwork leading into their first fixture.
On Tuesday afternoon, Harry Whitaker was announced to captain the team for their first game of the season. At only 15 years old, Harry attends Newington College and plays for Randwick Rugby Club. He spoke of the team’s build-up of players and eagerness to start the competition.
“A whole bunch of us knew each other from playing on different teams and versing each other at different levels.”
The team is a promising group, where many of them previously showed their potential in the 2022 U15’s Next Gen Cup, where they outperformed as an U14 side. Despite being younger than their competitors, the team went onto win the competition. Although there have been some changes to the squad since then, most of the players have spent significant time on the field together and will aim to carry their momentum into the Super Rugby Men’s U16 tournament this weekend.
For many of the U16’s team training in the Daceyville is completely different to the training facilities and attention they are accustomed to. Harry spoke of this positive change and how it has a direct effect on individual and team performance:
“This professional training environment provides us with a fantastic experience. The coaches and support staff are a step up from the level we are used to and it has been really helpful for me and my development and obviously the amazing facilities and gym.”
With the tournament kicking off in only a matter of days, Harry spoke of the importance of preparation and starting strong.
“It’s first round so we are really looking to set the tone for the whole tournament. The under sixteens have won the tournament for the last two years so we will be looking to make it three years in a row.”
“On attack we are looking to get clarity and really hold shape with our defence. We know what we need to do.”
“From the kick off we want to set the tone; defence and attack we want to be really clear with what we do. Loud communications so everyone knows what they are doing and how to do it.”
“We need go hard for the full seventy.”
With the home-ground advantage at the iconic Leichhardt Oval and a positive atmosphere surrounding the team, this match is shaping up to be a must-watch event.
“In my limited experience I haven’t played at many stadiums and it’s a pretty well-known ground full of history so it’s very cool that us U16’s gets to play there and learn at that facility.”
Super Rugby Men’s U16 – Round 1: NSW Waratahs Vs Melbourne Rebels
Sunday Sep 29 at Leichardt Oval.
Kick off at 11:35am AEST.
The match will be broadcast live and ad-free and Stan Sport.
Nicholas Kotarac
Roman Leilua
Amanaki Tangi
Charlie Grant
Gary Roberts
Aston Weir
Henri Dempsey
Isaac Perkins
Harry Whitaker ©
Saxon Gaw
Samuela Sorovi
Ofa Latu
Ashton Large
Creighton Meafou
Jack Kalms
Oliver Smith
Elijah-Blair Maile
Hasani Bloomfield
Josh Arundel
Samuel Polley
Flynn Farrell
Keone Anitelea-Tsioussis
Darcy Feltham
