LeagueNews.co | Cooper McEnroe
Canberra Raiders have seen significant development in young talent since Ricky Stuart became head coach in 2014. The team has been successful in nurturing promising players, evident in recent seasons with athletes like Ethan Strange, Manaia Waitere, Jed Stuart, Owen Pattie, Jordan Martin, and Noah Martin earning first-grade experience.
As these players vie for consistent spots in the lineup, others, like Jake Clydsdale and Myles Martin, are waiting for their chances to debut. Meanwhile, a new generation of prospects is emerging from the club's pathway programs, demonstrating their skills in lower-grade competitions.
One notable player is front-rower Jesse Milin, who began his journey with the Raiders in 2023. Milin has advanced through the club's junior representative levels and recently completed a standout season, scoring eight tries during this year's SG Ball Cup.
Milin cites Panthers' Moses Leota as a major influence in his rugby league career. A dedicated Raiders supporter, he reflected on the impact his family has had on his journey in the sport. "I used to play three sports - basketball, union and league - but I had to stop and went all-in on rugby league," he shared.