Sport
25 September, 2026
Best junior Leps in spotlight
A SEA of green filled Brothers Leagues Club when about 270 players, parents, coaches and supporters came together for the Innisfail Junior Leprechauns’ end of season celebration, a vibrant new initiative recognising the achievements of the club’s competitive age groups throughout the 2026 season.
With 282 registered players across age groups from under-six to under- 17, the club enjoyed one of its strongest seasons yet, proudly unveiling new jerseys and club merchandise.
President Scott Hayward opened the evening and guided the crowd through a night of recognition, laughter and heartfelt moments.
Special guest Jackson Nicolau, former Leps junior and NRL player, shared stories from his journey through junior football to the elite level, inspiring players and families alike.
The presentation honoured standout performers across all competitive grades, as well as those who represented at higher levels during the season.
For the under-17s, the night carried extra meaning as several players marked the end of their junior careers and prepared to step into the senior ranks.
The under-17 boys reached the preliminary final against Kangaroos, as well as the under-13 girls who went up against Southern Suburbs.
A highlight of the evening was the acknowledgement of Tallis Barba, Jayden Lacaze, Ashton Stepanoff, Shelby Harrison and Julian Santarossa, each celebrating an incredible 10 years of proudly wearing the Leps logo.
Hayward congratulated all players, coaches and families for their commitment throughout the year and thanked sponsors and supporters for their ongoing contribution to junior rugby league.
“The presentation night was a fantastic event and a wonderful way to bring everyone together to celebrate the achievements of our players and the strength of our club,” he said.
“We’re proud of every junior who pulled on the green this season.”
Award winners
Under-13 boys – Best forward: Hunter Arnott. Best back: Rick Stephenson. Coaches’ award: Rudy Strickland. Most improved: Eamon Wade. Player of the year: Mason Ramsay.
Under-14 boys – Best forward: Aidan English. Best back: Kyuss Barba. Coaches’ award: Cooper Van Peype. Most improved: Tavul Carriage. Player of the ear: Kyuss Barba.
Under-15 boys – Best forward: Riley Duffy. Best back: Tommee McCarroll. Coaches’ award: Jake Stephenson. Most improved: Will Russell. Player of the year: Riley Duffy.
Under-15 girls – Best forward: Deborah Ungil. Best back: Jazlyn Tomarra. Coaches’ award: Kaida Growcott. Most improved: Sienna Barba. Player of the year: Rani Norkett.
Under-17 boys – Best forward: Logan Howard. Best back: Zaeden Kitching Ely. Coaches’ award: Julian Santarossa. Most improved: Bodhi Spry. Player of the year: Logan Howard.
Under-17 girls – Best forward: Dylan Barba. Best back: Lillee Barba. Coaches’ award: Laura Mooka. Most improved: Rebi Strickland. Player of the year: Sarina Tatipata.
Representative players – Phylicia Tutavake, Vivienne Uugil, Jazlyn Tomarra, Lillee Barba, Dylan Barba, Kyuss Barba, Kohbi Kitching Ely, Zaeden Kitching Ely, Jayden Lacaze, Ashton Stepanoff.