2023 DoorDash National Youth Championships Players to Watch: 18's Boys Division

For over 30 years, the Doordash National Youth Championships (NYC) has provided a stage for young touch footballers to announce themselves to the world. With the NYC kicking off next Wednesday, let’s check out some key players to watch this tournament!

Flynn Madders (Queensland Secondary Schools Touch)

Fresh off stand-out performances for the Australian 18's Mixed side, Flynn will ride a wave of momentum heading into the NYC. A significant influence on his side’s success at this year’s Asia Pacific Youth Touch Cup (APYTC), the young Queenslander is always a handful for defenders on their line. With a mix of footwork, awareness or swift dives over the line, Flynn will keep the opposition on their toes. Watch out for his short ball!

Jackson Streader (Brisbane Cobras)

A key member of the 16's Boys Brisbane Cobras side from last year’s agonising Grand Final defeat, Jackson will be looking to go one step further this year as part of the 18's team. An exciting and dynamic winger, Jackson has showcased his outstanding finishing ability with 19 tries at the 2022 NYC. The opposition will need to keep an eye on him close to the line, as he’ll turn every half-chance into an attacking opportunity!

Taimana Elers (New South Wales Combined High Schools)

Taimana is another rising star coming off the back of representative experience with Australia and looking to make his mark on the national stage. Whether he’s driving up the field or throwing some dummy half pearlers, the young middle will be a key figure in his NSWCHS side who are seeking their first 18's Boys title since 2019. The Indigenous All Stars representative will look to dictate his team’s attack with his quick reactions and instincts to turn half-chances into points.

Lennix Teika (South Queensland Sharks)

After an impressive showing in the 16s division last year, expect Lennix to take his game to the next level in the Sharks’ 18's Boys side this year! The Gold Coast representative has used his sharp footwork to cross the line in 2022 as he led his team to the Semi Finals in a strong campaign. His clear desire and dedication to improve makes the young link popular amongst his peers, as he’s used the last 12 months to become a more rounded player by continually developing his game. 

Tommy Green (Central Queensland Bulls)

The energetic Queenslander will be looking to improve on last year’s Semi Final effort with the Bulls as he returns to the NYC stage in 2023. Already proven to be quite the handful on attack, Tommy’s speed and agility will be difficult to match! With a shrewd step and quick feet, look for Tommy to come up with big plays in the middle of the park.

The 2023 DoorDash National Youth Championships taps of Wednesday September 27th. Be sure to follow all the action live on Kayo Sports (Australia) and Sky Sport Next (New Zealand and all other territories).