Norths head into the 2026 Hospital Cup season believing they are not far away from turning competitive performances into finals football.

The club finished eighth in 2025 but remained in the hunt for the top four until the second-last round of what coach Dan Ritchie described as one of the tightest competitions in decades.

While the missed finals opportunity still lingers, Ritchie said the lessons from last season – both on and off the field – have helped strengthen the club as it looks to take the next step.

Overview with Dan Ritchie:

“2025 was a season we look back on with genuine pride, but also one where we know we left something on the table,” Ritchie said.

“On the field there were moments that reminded everyone what this group is capable of: free-flowing attack, defensive resolve in tight finishes and a belief that grew week-by-week.

“To still be in contention for the top four heading into the second-to-last round of the closest, most competitive and wettest competition in nearly 30 seasons speaks to the character and growth within this squad.

“But we’re not satisfied. That missed opportunity to make the four is motivation we’re carrying into 2026.

“Off the field, this group navigated some genuinely significant challenges behind the scenes that I’m proud of how we managed.

“Without going into detail, there were circumstances that tested the culture and unity of the club at its core and the way the players, coaches and staff held together says everything about who we are.

“The club has come out the other side in a considerably stronger position, both structurally and culturally, and that foundation matters enormously as we build toward where we want to go.

“The lessons from 2025 are clear: the talent and belief are there. The next step is converting competitive seasons into finals football and making sure everything surrounding the group is pulling in the same direction.

“The appointment of Phil Mooney as our Director of Rugby is a landmark one for the club. Phil’s experience, knowledge and professionalism are unmatched, and the entire club is benefiting from his leadership.

“The squad has worked really hard over preseason and with a number of new faces the focus has been on connecting the group and building a shared understanding of our game model.

“We’ve tried to simplify things to enable the exciting, attacking rugby that has become the Norths way, while placing greater emphasis on our defence.”

2025: 8th (5 wins, 11 losses)

Ins: Alex Watkins (Wests), Charlie Cooke (Wests), Ben Mooney (Wests), Archie Smith (Wests), Lachlan Mee (Easts), Charlie Flinders (Easts), Jordan Penquitt (rugby league), Jamie Melvin (New Zealand), Robbie McFarlane (New Zealand), Viliami Li (Scone), Tafa Tafa (New Zealand)

Outs: Harry Goggin (Toyota Verblitz, Japan), Maika Tuitubou (Fiji Drua), Moses Armstrong-Ravula (Fiji Drua), Chris Minimbi (SAS Nort, France), Callum Reidy (Glasgow Warriors Academy)

What style of footy will we see from Norths this year?

“We’re not naive about what the modern game demands, but we’ll leave the box kick and wait for mistakes to others,” Ritchie said.

“We want to play rugby people want to watch: fast, physical, skill-first and built around letting good players be good players.

“There are plenty of sides in this competition who’ll make it ugly if they can. We’d rather make it uncomfortable for all the right reasons.

“A strong set piece and smart tactical kicking are the foundation that gives us the platform to play that way. Get those things right and the rest opens up.”

Player(s) to watch:

“Ryan Heaton captained the Reds U19 side last year on the back of a terrific year of first grade,” Norths’ head coach said.

“He showed the difference between playing colts and first grade in a representative team and I feel he’s ready to take the next step.

“Alex Watkins has also joined us this year and has been very impressive with his training ethic and preseason form.”

Which two teams will play in this year’s grand final?

“Bond were impressive at the back of last season so no doubt they’ll be up there again,” Ritchie said.

“However, I’d still love to see a northside derby in the grand final: Norths v Brothers.”