DoorDash National Youth Championships Players to Watch: 18s Boys

With some of Touch Football’s best players having their breakthrough moment at the DoorDash National Youth Championships over the years – nothing is expected to change this year in an 18s Boys division rich with talent. Here are just a few names to keep an eye on this tournament.   

Javon Andrews – QRSS 

Speed, agility, and power – Javon Andrews is nearly unstoppable once he hits full stride. Returning to the Queensland Representative School Sport (QRSS) lineup in Coffs Harbour, he scored seven tries in 2023, as his side were crowned national champions. When he's not dominating on the Touch Footy field, the Queenslander plays as a five-eighth in Rugby League and has been selected for this year’s Emerging Under 18s squad for the state. 

With the ability to change the course of a game from a single moment of brilliance, the Brisbane Metro representative boasts one of the strongest long balls in the division. His exceptional playmaking skills and deadly footwork make him unpredictable when in top form. Playing with immense confidence, Javon is sure to deliver magical moments when needed, displaying the kind of eyes-up footy that will make him one of the most exciting players to watch in this tournament. 

Tylan Berryman – NSWCIS

Following an outstanding campaign with the NSWCCC side in 2023, Tylan Berryman is set to represent NSW Combined Independent Schools (NSWCIS) in Coffs Harbour this year, aiming to surpass his second-place finish on the Sunshine Coast. The Australian Boys 18s representative continues to elevate his game with each tournament, showcasing magnificent footwork, exceptional speed, and a powerful long ball. Tylan’s attacking prowess and versatility stem from his extensive experience not only in Touch Football, but Rugby Union, Rugby Sevens, and Rugby League as well. 

In July, Tylan was a standout performer for the Cook Islands Men’s Open World Cup team, as the Pacific nation narrowly missed out on a Bronze Medal, losing their third-place playoff match to Lebanon. Scoring fifteen tries, the Northern Beaches representative captivated crowds in Nottingham, earning recognition as one of the division’s standout players. With quick hands, elusive footwork, and abundant confidence, Tylan is guaranteed to be a handful for opposing defenders throughout this tournament. 

Cameron Cloey – NSWCCC

Cameron Cloey heads to Coffs Harbour this year as one of the top wingers in the division, with his try-scoring highlights now equally matched by his defensive reliability. Renowned for his exceptional positioning and high Touch Football IQ, the Australian Boys 18s representative has become a nightmare matchup for any winger facing him. On the other end of the field, he's one of the best finishers in his age group, admired for his quick reflexes and acrobatic dives. Give him even the slightest chance, and he'll likely convert.  

With eighteen tries already to his name, a strong showing from the Penrith Touch representative could see him join the ranks of NSW Combined Catholic College’s (NSWCCC) top try-scorers in the NYC, alongside names like Matt Dufty, Emma Tonegato, and Sam Brisby. A relentless worker across the pitch, Cameron is expected to play a crucial role in the NSW side’s 2024 campaign as they aim to improve on their runner-up finish in 2023. 

Bailey Deakin – South West Queensland Swans 

Agile and swift with ball in hand, Bailey Deakin possesses some of the best footwork in the 18s Boys division this year. A naturally gifted talent, the Toowoomba native’s speed and agility have made him one of the top prospects in his age group. Whether he's beating his defender one-on-one or breaking through from dummy half, the Australian Boys 18s representative is a formidable force on attack. Heading into the NYC this year in excellent form, Bailey was recently honoured with the prestigious Scott Notley Award for his outstanding contributions over the years in Queensland Junior State Cup.  

What truly sets the Queenslander apart from his peers is his big-game presence, consistently rising to the occasion. In 2023, he was a game-changer in the Asia Pacific Youth Touch Cup, scoring a hat-trick against New Zealand in the final. The last time he represented the South West Queensland Swans at the NYC, he earned Player of the Final honours, leading his side to a comeback victory over the Brisbane Cobras in the 16s Boys division. With a lethal step and the clutch gene, expect Bailey to have a big impact come the latter stages of this tournament.  

Blake Wardrobe – NSWCHS 

A highly skilled playmaker with plenty of tricks up his sleeve, Blake Wardrobe is set to don the sky-blue jersey of NSW Combined High Schools (NSWCHS) for the second consecutive year. Despite having an injury hampered 2023 campaign, the Taren Point representative was a clear standout performer for his side, earning MVP honours for his team.  

Calm and composed with ball in hand, Blake has the talent and foresight to produce moments of magic from out of nowhere. Able to make something out of nothing, the Emerging Blues member is as effective a passer as he is a ball runner. Once he finds open space it’s over for defenders – keep an eye out for his short ball game too. Whether he’s firing through a gap himself or putting it on a silver platter for his teammates, expect Blake Wardrobe to be heavily involved in the NSWCHS attack this tournament. 

The DoorDash National Youth Championships tap off Wednesday, September 25 at Coffs Harbour. Watch the action live and free on Kayo Sports in Australia, on Sky Sport in New Zealand, and Sky Sport Next in other global territories.