After spending most of 2024 playing against and dominating forwards two age groups above him, Justice Taumoepeau will captain the NSW U16s this Sunday against Queensland.

The Joeys' backrower was one of the most dominant forwards in the GPS U18s competition this season but said he won’t change his approach this weekend when he drops back to play against other kids his own age.

“I try not to change my mentality or the way I play regardless of who I’m playing for or who I’m playing against,” Taumoepeau told Rugby News.

“I just try to play rugby, like I’ve done all my life, stick to the basics and put my best foot forward.

“I was lucky enough to play in this tournament last year so it helps knowing what to expect.

“There’s a lot of talent across all the sides, right across the country, but we’re lucky to have a pretty good group here in New South Wales and I’m excited to play with them again.”