LeagueNews.co | Robbie Hamilton
The New South Wales Under 19 teams are set to compete against Queensland, aiming to maintain their success from last year's matches.
The Westpac NSW Under 19s Women's squad features seven returning players from last year's dominant 46-4 victory over Queensland at Leichhardt Oval: Ryvrr-Lee Alo, Indie Bostock, Evah McEwen, Evie McGrath, Maria Paseka, Kasey Reh, and Bronte Wilson.
The junior Blues men's team includes five players from last year's team, which edged out Queensland 14-10: Connor Votano, Hayden Buchanan, Mitchell Woods, Jacob Halangahu, and Cody Hopwood, with Zane Harrison serving as the 18th player for 2024.
Among the standout players, Evah McEwen has made a significant mark since her debut NRLW season with the Knights.
She played for Fetu Samoa in the Pacific Championships, contributing to their two victories that secured qualification for the next Rugby League World Cup.
Earlier this year, she debuted in the winning Indigenous All Stars team, adding to her accolades.
Cody Hopwood also gained recognition during the Junior Reps presentation night, winning the Andrew Johns Medal for Player of the Year and the Players' Player trophy for his performances in SG Ball.
The West Maitland Wallaroos junior has been making strides in 2025 with increased play in the club's NSW Cup side.
Notably, he has already represented Australia at the schoolboys level last year and returns as one of five veterans in the NSW Under 19 Men's team for this year.