By Adam Sheldon

One of the best parts of the Hospital Cup each season is watching the next wave of young players step up into first grade – sometimes straight out of school or colts – and make an immediate impact.

In 2025, that list is stacked with talent. This is our list of the best players in the competition, born from 2004 onwards. 

10.) Mitch Moss – UQ No.11

Deceptively strong and elusive in open space, Moss has the pace, balance and game sense to change a match in a moment. With a sharp left boot and excellent vision, he’s earned comparisons to a young Joe Roff.

9.) Harry Bell – Bond No.1

Straight out of colts, Bell has been quietly making a name for himself in the competition. Full of energy and always committed, he brings edge and enthusiasm to the Bond pack every time he plays. He’s one to watch in the coming seasons.

8) Sam Hanna – Souths No.5

A towering and mobile forward, Hanna has just returned to Souths’ first grade squad after suffering an MCL injury midway through last season. This is his first year out of colts, but he played virtually all of 2024 in the Magpies’ top team. Now a key figure in their engine room, there are high hopes for the big man, who can cover lock as well as six.

7) Avery Thomson – GPS No.5

A Reds wider squad member, Thomson is a quality lineout technician with growing influence around the park. Coaches have praised his physical progression and consistent presence in the GPS engine room.

6) Rocco Gollings – Bond No.14

Gollings plays with infectious energy and isn’t afraid to take the game on. He’s dynamic in the outside backs and leads through his work rate. Bond coaches love the way he competes — whether off the bench or starting — and he’s the type of player teammates rally around.

5) Charlie Brosnan – Brothers No.4

A no-nonsense second rower with serious work rate, Brosnan – who is part of the Reds Academy squad – has been one of Brothers’ most reliable forwards when he plays. 

4) Nick Bloomfield – Easts No.3

A mobile, hard-working tighthead prop with serious scrummaging ability, Bloomfield – who has already played for Australia in the U20s – has stood out for Easts in one of the toughest positions on the field. A crucial member of Simon Craig’s ladder-leading outfit.

3) Finn Mackay – Souths No.15

Still just 17, Mackay has started a series of games this season for Souths at fullback. Club officials speak glowingly about the young gun, who they believe has all the attributes to become a professional. Mackay is full of quality, but also a ridiculously hard worker – a rare and exciting mix that coaches dream about.

2) Vice Latu – Brothers No.6

Big, powerful and never far from the action, Latu has brought serious punch to the Brothers pack. His strong ball-carrying and fearless contact work have made him one of the comp’s most physical young forwards. He’s aggressive, tough, and has become a real tone-setter for the Brethren. Still technically a colt, somehow. 

1) James Martens – GPS No.9

A current pick for Australia in the U20s and a standout performer in recent games for the side, Martens is composed beyond his years. He’s physical, sharp and has an outstanding rugby IQ. He’s already being talked about as a future Wallaby – and watching him play, it’s easy to see why.