Opportunity Arises Today for Club’s Emerging Young Talent
The One New Zealand Warriors are set to showcase their emerging talent in the first Preseason Challenge against Manly Warringah. This match at McLean Park in Napier is a key opportunity for the club’s future stars to step into the spotlight. Several first-grade veterans will participate, but the focus will be on the next generation of players.
Key Emerging Talents
This time last year, players like Sam Healey, Tanner Stowers-Smith, and Eddie Ieremia-Toeava were making their first appearances. Healey debuted in round nine, Stowers-Smith in round eleven, and Ieremia-Toeava made his entry in round twenty-two of the 2025 season. Throughout their first year, Healey played seven matches, Stowers-Smith featured in thirteen, and Ieremia-Toeava in five.
Pathways Success Stories
Healey progressed through the Cronulla Sutherland pathways before joining the Warriors. Stowers-Smith and Ieremia-Toeava are among several players demonstrating the effectiveness of the Warriors’ developmental system. Alongside these three, players like Ali Leiataua, Demitric Vaimauga, and Leka Halasima are also emerging as strong prospects for the club.
Potential Future Stars
Among those to watch in the upcoming match is Luke Hanson, who will don the #6 jersey. Coming from Penrith’s development system, he has made significant strides with 37 reserve grade appearances over the last two seasons.
- Motu Pasikala, a promising talent, will replace Roger Tuivasa-Sheck on the wing.
- Kayliss Fatialofa, an exciting second-rower, is on the bench after a standout 2025 season.
- Makaia Tafua (hooker) and Rodney Tuipulotu-Vea (prop) also represent local talent.
- Caelys Putoko, a Cook Islands international, and Sio Kali will contribute as outside backs.
New Signings and Key Players
Harry Inch, a notable 19-year-old talent from Nelson College, has signed with the Warriors amid high expectations. Halfback Jack Thompson joins from Newcastle after making an impact in the Harold Matthews Cup finals last year.
Winger Daeon Amituanai has returned after previously playing for the Panthers and has scored 36 tries in 58 NSW Cup games.
More on the Bench
The bench will also include promising juniors from the 2025 Jersey Flegg Cup:
- Paea Sikuvea – 16 appearances
- Brandon Norris – 15 tries and 32 goals in 17 games
- Harry Tauafiafi – seven tries in 15 games
- Jaydee Auloa – six tries in 13 games
As the One New Zealand Warriors embark on this Preseason Challenge, attention will be on how these emerging talents adapt to the competitive landscape of the NRL. The club aims to highlight its robust pathways system and nurture the next wave of rugby league stars.
