Jordan Friend

Congratulations to tobycrosby_athlete , who has signed with Warrington Wolves until the end of the 2028 season. 🐺

The Greytown product began his footy journey in the rugby union system at St Pat’s Silverstream before progressing through the Wellington Rugby Academy.

From an Under-21 open trial, Toby has continued to work his way up, spending time with two leading NRL clubs including helping the Warriors win the NSW Cup Premiership and National Championship last season.

An English-eligible prop, Toby grew up aspiring to play professional footy in the UK, so the opportunity to join a great club like Warrington is an exciting next step in his career.

Just as exciting is the opportunity to continue his development under Coach Sam Burgess — one of the best middle forwards of the NRL era.

Congratulations to Francis Junior Manuleleua on re-signing with the Newcastle Knights until the end of the 2028 season.

I’ve been fortunate to know Francis since he was 14 years old, when he played up a grade for the Papatoetoe Panthers.

Despite being one of New Zealand’s most talented young prospects, the journey hasn’t always been easy. It’s been great to see his hard work, resilience, and dedication rewarded with this new deal.

The best is still to come. Francis is only scratching the surface of his potential, and I’m excited to see him continue to develop and make his mark in the NRL over the coming years.

FYA: Fueling Youth Athletes Zoom

Tune in tonight to hear from The•Team Athletes Leka tavalu & Jacob Laban

They’ll be going live to answer your questions and aiming to share with youth what it takes to reach the NRL, breaking down;

Training & mindset
Nutrition & recovery strategies
Their journey to the top level

🗓 Tonight | 6:30 PM – 7:30 PM NZST
📍 Online Live Q&A (Zoom)

Clink link here to join up:

https://www.crowdcast.io/c/8g8gv9cusnpk

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.