The 2026 Shute Shield Colts (U20s) competition kicks off next weekend and ahead of the opening matches, Rugby News caught up with all 12 first colts coaches to learn more about their preparations for the season ahead. 

Next up, Norths, West Harbour and Sydney Uni

Northern Suburbs with Hugh Sinclair: 

2025: 11th

2026 Squad: 

“We’ve got a few returning players from last season but have also recruited some really good young kids,” Sinclair said.

“In our third trial, we had around 12 first-year Colts, so there’s plenty of learning to be done with this group.”

What style of rugby will you look to play? 

“We’ll be looking to play in line with the Norths DNA from the past decade — moving the ball with quick ruck speed,” he said.

“That’s proven to work for the grade program, so we’ll look to keep things aligned.”

Player(s) to watch: 

“Brody Folkes is one to watch,” Hugh said.

“He’s a Norths junior, played Australian Under 18s last season and has been training with the Australian Sevens.”

Who is the team to beat?

“It’s my first year coaching colts, so I’m not too sure and don’t really care,” he said.

“We’ve played Warringah and Easts in our first two trials and they’ll be up there somewhere.”

West Harbour with Steve Shapland:

2025: 9th

2026 Squad: 

“We’re a bit of a mix across the board,” Shapland said.

“Last year we were a particularly young group, so we’ve deliberately brought in some older players to complement those returning and add consistency to our preparation and performances. 

“We’re also continuing to build depth through targeted recruitment, which should pay dividends this year.”

What style of rugby will you look to play?

“We want to stay true to West Harbour’s DNA,” the coach said.

“We’ve got some strong, dynamic ball carriers in the forward pack and hope to be slippery out wide. That identity has been part of the club for a long time and influences both how we play and the type of players we bring in.”

Player(s) to watch: 

“There are a number of players to like,” he said.

“Sevu Satala is a dynamic winger who was our top try-scorer last year and is currently with Fiji Under 20s, although we may not see much of him.

“Our captain Blake Gill is another — he represented NSW Juniors as an Under 18 and leads by example, doing the hard work while still being dangerous with ball in hand.

“Sonny Raravula is also one to watch, a recent convert to hooker who brings mobility and aggression after previously playing in the loose forwards and midfield.”

Who is the team to beat? 

“The same group of six clubs have been in finals over the last couple of years, so it’s hard to look past them,” he said.

“If you were picking, you’d say Easts, Randwick or Sydney Uni given where the top under 20s talent is. But plenty of clubs, including us, are looking to challenge that and upset the establishment.”

Sydney Uni with Kodie Hawkins:

2025: 3rd 

2026 Squad: 

“Around 60 to 70 per cent of the squad is returning this year, which gives us a really strong foundation,” Hawkins said.

“We’ve also brought in players from Riverview, Joeys, Shore and Kings, along with a couple of boys from Melbourne who’ve been a great addition.”

What style of rugby will you look to play?

“We want to stay true to the Uni DNA,” he said.

“That means being strong at set piece, working extremely hard and consistently nailing the effort areas, while also playing with tempo and putting pressure on teams through our speed and intent.”

Player(s) to watch: 

“Dan Osborne is one to keep an eye on,” Hawkins said.

“He’s a tighthead prop who can also play hooker, had a big off-season and has a great skillset. He’s already part of our leadership group and we’re excited to see what he can produce.”

Who is the team to beat? 

“Randwick is the obvious benchmark,” he said.

“They’ve got a clear identity and back their style, especially in big games. Easts, Gordon and Warringah will also be strong contenders.”