Clutha
Coaches: Marty Hurring and Simon Grant.
Last year: Champions.
Players to watch: Dallas Kupa-Pickering, Junior Samuelu, Max Pennell, Josh Turnbull.
Overview: As Clutha marks its 150th jubilee, the team faces both the challenges and excitement that come with such a milestone. With a seasoned premier squad and a strong pool of B team players, Clutha appears poised for a dominant season. Anything short of lifting the title would be unexpected.
Predicted finish: Champions.
Clutha Valley
Coach: Jason Gilder.
Last year: Eighth.
Players to watch: Damian Wilson, Dean Sinnamon, Thomas Johnson, Lachie Moore.
Overview: Clutha Valley has strengthened its lineup with a dedicated recruitment effort over the summer. The return of experienced players like Lachie Moore and Thomas Johnson adds depth to the backline, while Dean Sinnamon’s addition brings grit to the pack. If they remain injury-free, they could be one of the few teams to challenge Clutha.
Predicted finish: Finalists.
West Taieri
Coach: Blake Prince.
Last year: Beaten finalists.
Players to watch: Conor Lawson, Ratu Karamaena, Conner Jenkins, Luke Moeke.
Overview: Despite losing key players from recent seasons, West Taieri has effectively filled the gaps. The promotion of young talent from their colts team, combined with their proximity to Dunedin, positions them well to aim for success. Avoiding injuries will be crucial for their championship aspirations.
Predicted finish: Semifinalists.
Crescent
Coach: Jamahl Little.
Last year: Beaten semifinalists.
Players to watch: Andy Carruthers, Ethan Edwards, Ryan Gwynn, Mananui Keane.
Overview: Crescent has experienced significant losses in their backline, with key players departing over the summer. Despite also losing some size in their forward pack, the team retains enough leadership to compete for a finals spot, contingent on strong performances from younger players.
Predicted finish: Bottom five.
Lawrence
Coaches: Ben Martin, Logan Bain, and Sam Smith.
Last year: Sixth.
Players to watch: Morgan Jones, Sam Wyber, Ollie Kenny, Caleb Kitto.
Overview: Lawrence has leveraged its connections with Dunedin club rugby to bolster its squad. The team has gained mobility and talent in the forward pack with the addition of Morgan Jones and the return of Ollie Kenny to lead an exciting backline. Converting close losses from last year into wins could place them in the semifinal mix.
Predicted finish: Bottom five.
Toko
Coaches: Josh Harrex and Dylan Bungard.
Last year: Beaten semifinalists.
Players to watch: Brodie Ferguson, Keegan Ferguson, Arnold Dinh, Jared Hayes.
Overview: After the excitement of last year’s jubilee season, Toko is ready to focus on the task ahead. The Axemen showed promise last season but fell short against Clutha. With new young players adding energy, they aim to replicate the excitement and success of the previous year.
Predicted finish: Bottom five.
Heriot
Coaches: Clayton Peters and Mark McKenzie.
Last year: Seventh.
Players to watch: Tyson Adams, Lewis Gravatt, James Matheson, Ethan Jane.
Overview: Heriot ended last season with disappointment after defaulting a semifinal. However, they have reinforced their squad with recruits from the West Otago U18 side. A solid preseason suggests they could contend for a semifinal spot if they maintain their form.
Predicted finish: Semifinalists.
Owaka
Coaches: Cameron Burgess and Jeremy Gray.
Last year: Fifth.
Players to watch: Josh Huddleston, Donald Esera, Daniel Miller, Chris Preddy.
Overview: Despite initial concerns, Owaka has assembled a competitive team, though depth remains a challenge. As two-time Balclutha Motors Trophy winners, they aim to secure a third consecutive win, hoping for increased player commitment as the season progresses.
Predicted finish: Bottom five.
Clinton
Coaches: Ken Campbell and Ricky Peina.
Last year: DNP.
Players to watch: Jimmy Sinclair, Nic Anderson, Brayden Campbell, Morgan Greer.
Overview: Returning to the Southern Region competition for their 140th jubilee, Clinton is rebuilding after a year off. With a youthful squad, this season is a learning opportunity. If they can build team cohesion, they may achieve a few wins.
Predicted finish: Bottom five.
