By Adam Sheldon

With seven rounds played in Queensland’s Hospital Cup, Rugby News is highlighting 10 young talents who have impressed for their clubs in 2025 so far. 

Vice Latu – Brothers

Latu is still technically a colt, but has been getting game time for Brothers. The big number six has been impressive for Ben McCormack’s team. The outstanding ball-carrier is a hard-hitter and a bright young talent.  

Lucas Oxley – Souths 

Loosehead prop Oxley, 19, came over from Yorkshire England for a gap year, and after starting in Souths’ second grade, he quickly progressed to first grade where he appears to have locked down a position. 

Kaleb Ngamanu – Bond

Ngamanu, who plays at centre, is finding his feet in union after two years in league. He is a game-changing player with a real x-factor in attack. 

Ollie Harvey – Brothers 

The 22-year-old played for Brothers’ second grade side last season, playing the odd Hospital Cup game as a backrower. This year he’s transitioned to the wing, which has been the catalyst for a breakout season. Harvey makes plenty of line breaks and tackle breaks, and has been one of Brothers’ standout players in 2025. 

Ryan Heaton – Norths

Still colts eligible, Heaton, who plays at 12, has been impressing with strong carries and a relentless commitment to defence in the Norths midfield. If his form continues, a Reds call up is not far off. 

Finn Mackay – Souths 

Mackay plays at 10 for Souths colts, but has impressed for Souths first grade at 15. He has a strong kicking game and is a director on the field. His complete game means the club believe he has a massive future. 

Nick Bloomfield – Easts 

The 21-year-old Bloomfield has been impressing for Simon Craig’s Easts team, at prop. Bloomfield, who has already been selected for the Australian U20’s side, is a player to watch.

Dom Thygesen – Wests

Thygesen (6) is another player who has already represented Australia in the U20’s. He’s been solid for Wests this season. A work horse who looks to be a pivotal player already at Wests. 

Ethan McFarland – UQ

McFarland (13) has been a part of the Hospital Cup set up at UQ for a few years, but has gone to another level this season.

Jamie Mullan – Norths

Irish winger Mullan arrived from New Zealand as a walk-in during preseason and was just looking for a run. According to Norths officials, Mullan trained hard and showed excellent skills in training. Despite missing trials, he’s worked his way into Dan Ritchie’s side and has been one of the starting wingers ever since. A consistent performer and one of the stories of the season.

Honourable mentions: Gus Godwin (Easts), Flynn McDermott (UQ), Rocco Gollings (Bond), Charlie Brosnan (Brothers)