Jordan Friend

Huge congratulations to Bishop Neal on his selection in the Under 19s squad.

Bishop’s rugby league journey began with playing his ever game of footy for before playing for a few SE QLD clubs.

A move to Christchurch for family reasons saw him complete his schooling at playing both codes, whist playing local league for the .

Since first meeting Bishop as a 14-year-old, Queensland Under 19s selection has been one of his goals. It’s great to see that dream become a reality.

From what I understand, Bishop also becomes the first player from the system to be selected in an Under 19s Origin squad.

Another Rangatahi tournament done and dusted.

Without doubt, alongside the PYC, it’s one of my favourite tournaments on the calendar. It was great to see a number of scouts and recruitment managers attend for the first time.

Only had two players in attendance this year, but both had strong tournaments. Focus on “quality over quantity”, quality relationships & players.

Congratulations to .campbell and the Sports U15s, who claimed a highly competitive U15 title, with ZP earning selection in the Tournament Team. plus unofficial trainer of the tournament the “air-bending” ... IYKYK.

Congratulations to and the 17s, who took out theie grade. Rilee capped off a strong tournament by earning Tournament Team honours and being named U17 MVP.

Congratulations to representative Sione Manu, who has linked with the through to the end of the 2028 season.

The tackle-breaking machine was in outstanding form throughout the SJ Cup campaign and has carried that momentum into a strong season with Māngere East.

Sione becomes the latest in a growing list of De La Salle products progressing into the Warriors system and other NRL pathways.

The next chapter of the journey begins, with plenty of hard work still ahead.

rl26

Congratulations to Bensen Manu, who has extended his stay with the through until the end of the 2027 season.

The powerful forward made a strong impact early this year, helping co-captain to a Cyril Connell Cup premiership.

What’s stood out most has been Bensen’s resilience and work ethic after overcoming a season-ending injury last year — attacking his rehab ahead of schedule and earning the privilege of captaining an incredibly talented Wynnum side.

“Setbacks are temporary, growth is permanent.”

Congratulations to who has committed to the through until the end of the 2027 season.

The towering forward has been a consistent force throughout age-group footy, representing , Samoa and with pride and distinction.

Currently recovering from offseason surgery, Jayvion is tracking well ahead of a big Harold Matthews Cup preseason.

In a special moment, both sides of his whānau were present to support Jayvion as he officially committed to the club.

Congratulations to Charleston Te Rore was named SG Ball Player of the Year for 2026.

A huge honour in just a talented roster that went all the way, winning the SG ball competition.

The forward was a consistent force as a year young player and will now step up in the coming weeks to the senior grades.

The youngster making the permanent move to Sydney after graduating from Nga Tapuawae late last year.

Congratulations to on making his NRL debut last night — fittingly against his junior club, the .

He was originally in line to debut the week prior against Manly before unforeseen injuries, but got his opportunity in Newcastle, lining up against many former teammates and close mates.

A special matchup alongside longtime teammate .leiataua — from their days in the spine at Papatoetoe Panthers, through the Warriors Academy, and later at King’s First XV.

Francis progressed through the Panthers system after school before earning his shot in Newcastle — a hugely talented player with plenty more to come at the top level.

Quick last minute trip to Sydney. ✈️

Squeezed in 7 partial games of footy, couple of debuts, nearly debuts, few hui , lebanese feeds & whanau workout.

QLD (& Vic) soon. 🤝

Congratulations to .leka on making his debut for the Harold Matthews squad after being rewarded for some strong performances at SJ Cup level. 👏

The Sacred Heart junior, who plays both rugby codes, will also be pushing towards a First XV debut this year after a strong Under 15A season in 2025.

Last season he also got his league fix with New Lynn Stags and Fiji NZ, where he was dominant.

As a year-young player in the junior representative system, the key focus is gaining experience — understanding the level of training, physicality, and developing professional standards.

That experience will be important as he prepares to come back even stronger next season.

Looking forward to seeing Taua apply himself in the 1st XV environment before returning to the Warriors pathway alongside a number of players from the wider squad.

TeamWass & lining up with Elijah (SVM) for a preseason photo.

Another special image from preseason; 3 Auckland talents who journey has taken them across the ditch.

3 youngsters I had the opportunity to see come through the grades at both school & club from Under 14s.

AJ & Francis both getting the opportunity to head to Vegas this week and knocking on the door.


southerncross