Despite a disappointing 2024 season where the Rebels finished 11th, Southern Districts fullback Issac Kneepkens seems confident his side can push up the ladder this year. 

Former Wallaby Scott Fava has taken the reigns at Forshaw over summer and Kneepkens said his side are a long way ahead of where they were at this time last season. 

“You obviously judge every season on results and although we didn’t get the results we wanted last year, there were a lot of positive off the field that showed the club was rebuilding,” Kneepkens told Rugby News. 

“I think that’s gone to a new level again over summer. 

“There are a lot of new faces at training and there are a lot of guys pushing for spots in first grade. That depth and competition is something we’ve probably lacked in recent years. 

“The coaches have forced a bit of a shift in our training habits as well. Almost everyone is turning up to training half an hour, 45 minutes early to go over shape or to work on certain skills. 

“We’d always done a bit of skill work before training, but it was always as individuals. This year, everyone seems to have bought in and wants to change things at the club for the better.”

25-year old Kneepkens has been a bright star for the Rebels in recent seasons and spent the summer training with the Western Force. 

He was chased heavily by clubs around Sydney when a full time contract in Perth fell through, but chose to stay at the Rebels in 2025.

“I definitely considered going elsewhere but I really love the club and the people around the place both on and off the field. It’s become a second home for me and I want to be a part of the team that turns things around and brings success to Southern Districts. 

“It just didn’t feel right leaving the club in the spot it’s in to join a team that’s more established and further up the ladder.”

Kneepkens said he gained plenty from his time with the Force, which included a three-match tour of South Africa and said he’s eager to get another crack at professional rugby as quickly as possible. 

“It was a great experience and I learnt a lot. The biggest learnings weren’t really on the field but it’s the amount of work that needs to go in off the field to boost your rugby IQ and compete at that next level. 

“It was great to get a taste and I feel like I’m not too far away. Hopefully if we can have a really strong season at Souths this year then another opportunity might pop up at the backend of the year.”

Southern Districts host reigning premiers Easts in the opening round of the 2025 season, then face Eastwood, Manly and Hunter in the following weeks.