READ MORE: Irae Simone says the hard work is only just beginning Waratahs recruit Irae Simone was a standout for Northern Suburbs this year and the 21-year old was rewarded with the Shute Shield player of the year award and the 2016 premiership. Just days after helping Norths break their 41-year premiership drought, Simone signed a deal with the Waratahs and the scary thing is, the former South Sydney Rabbitoh is still adjusting to the 15-man game. Simone continued his good form in the NRC and helped the Sydney Rays earn their first finals berth. With a full pre-season under his belt, Simone will be a fairly exciting prospect next year.