Brought back in 2022, The Championships Men’s 20s division is one of the most anticipated competitions contested each year. With highlights galore and plenty of top talent on display, the games in this division are set to deliver once again. From international stars to explosive talents of the future, here are just five players to keep an eye on this week in Coffs Harbour.
John Paul Catalano – Sydney Mets
One of the top stars in the division, John Paul Catalano led the way for the Sydney Mets in 2024, as his young side were crowned national champions in the division. Earning redemption from their shortcomings in 2023, the Emerging Blues representative scored 13 tries in an impressive campaign. With lightning footwork and swift diving technique, the link is an absolute handful for even the strongest of defenders. He continued this form heading into July when he represented Lebanon at the Touch World Cup. Scoring 16 tries over the week, the Western Suburbs representative was significantly influential towards earning his nation their first ever Bronze Medal in the Men’s Open. One of the most exciting prospects emerging from his generation, expect John Paul Catalano to once again provide highlights and moments of excitement on the field.
Zac Griggs – Brisbane Cobras
Last year at the DoorDash National Youth Championships, Zac Griggs announced himself to the Touch Football world as a star on the rise. With highlights aplenty, the young Queenslander’s silky footwork, bursts of pace, and acrobatic finishing amazed the crowds of Coffs Harbour and fans watching from home. Scoring an impressive 15 tries, the BMTA Mustang had a campaign to remember, and was a clear standout for the Queensland Representative School Sport side which reached the final in difficult conditions. Not just an elite finisher, he is also a strong ball carrier up the field and is one of the hardest working players in any team he represents. In 2025, he returns to the Brisbane Cobras for the first time since 2023, when they were knocked out in the Quarter Finals. In those two years, the young Queenslander’s Touch Footy game has gone up several levels. With plenty of tricks up his sleeve, expect Zac Griggs to produce a few more epic highlights this tournament.
Jacob Pugh – North Queensland Cyclones
Brothers Touch Football Townsville representative Jacob Pugh is back for the Cyclones this March and is sure to once again produce moments of magic. Following brief stints with the Sunshine Coast Pineapples and Townsville Saints, the exciting prospect is set to represent the Cyclones for the first time ever at The Championships. Sharp footwork, the young Queenslander is fast on his feet and is poised to keep opposing defenders uncertain about his next move. The North Queensland native's blistering speed sets him apart from many of his peers. Once he hits full flight you can shut the gates. A growing Touch Football resume, look to the young Queenslander to be a source of inspiration on attack for the Cyclones, and a crucial figure should this side have a deep run in this tournament.
Alex Mcilwraith – Sydney Scorpions
One of the top wingers emerging from his age group, Alex is an elite Touch player on the rise. In 2024, the Hills Hornets representative earned best and fairest for the Sydney Scorpions as well as players player honours. Should the region have a deeper run in the tournament this year, Alex’s impact on both ends of the field will be crucial. An elite finisher, the skilful wingers’ positioning, reactions and speed make him one of the top attackers in the division. In the middle of the park, the NSW Combined Catholic Colleges representative can be relied upon to make big metres, helping his team dominate the midfield, and take control of the contest. On defence, he never gives up, evident by his double efforts and last second dives. A prolific try scorer with a team first mentality, it’s clear why Alex has already earned plenty of plaudits amongst Sydney Scorpions circles.
Logan Toohey – Southern Rebels
Back to represent the Southern Rebels, Logan Toohey is an explosive talent who could be exciting Touch Football crowds for a long time. The Taren Point representative will be one of the key playmakers of this side, looking to improve on their Quarter Finals finish in 2024. His eyes up footy style is at times impossible to stop, with his swift footwork often leaving the opposition clueless to his next move. Possessing a high Touch Footy IQ, the Emerging Blues representative knows how to find his teammates in open space, with the electrifying link possessing one of the best cut-out balls in the division. Whether he’s crossing the line himself or putting it on a platter for his teammates, look to Logan Toohey to be heavily involved in the Rebels’ attack this week.
The Championships tap off Thursday March 6th in Coffs Harbour. The Championships are available to watch live and free on Kayo Sports in Australia, on Sky Sport in New Zealand and Sky Sports Next in all other global territories.
