In 2025, the Men’s Open final will once again conclude proceedings at The Championships. Home to some of the event’s greatest ever moments, viral clips, and exciting contests, this year promises to be no different. From seasoned veterans chasing another title to international stars of the game, here are five players to watch in the Men’s Open this year.
Jake Notley – SWQ Swans
Whether he’s beating his man one-on-one, or putting his teammate through a gap, Jake Notley has the knack for creating something out of nothing. Quick on his feet, the Queenslander plays a classic eyes up style of footy which can be almost impossible to predict. The Toowoomba representative helped bring home a Gold Medal last year at the Touch World Cup in England, scoring twelve tries along the way. Continuing to establish himself as one of the sport’s most exciting stars, the elusive link is just as reliable on the defensive line as he is on attack. His high Touch Footy IQ has allowed him to capitalise on opportunities at both ends of the field, contributing to his success at every level of the sport. With incredible wits for the game and blistering speed, expect another strong campaign on the national stage from Jake Notley.
Harry Griffin – Central Queensland Bulls
Now a regular in the Athelite Australian Emus Men’s Open team, Harry Griffin has firmly established himself as one of the top players in modern Touch Football. The Queenslander’s game awareness is exceptional, with his elite positioning and decision-making setting him apart from many of his peers. The Rockhampton representative’s sharp footwork and outstanding playmaking skills allow him to dominate games from the middle of the park. His recent performances in Christchurch clearly demonstrated this, as he repeatedly wrestled back control of the game from the Kiwis. Whether delivering a precise short ball near the line or sliding over himself, Harry is nearly impossible to contain at his best, posing a constant threat with the ball. Once again teaming up with the likes of Damon Moore, Jayden Benbow, and Bailey Assay, Harry Griffin is expected to play a key role in the Central Queensland Bulls’ pursuit of national glory.
Drumayne Dayberg-Muir – South Queensland Sharks
What more can be said about the Touch Football Australia Hall of Famer that hasn't already been said? A true legend of the sport, Drummy reached 150 tries at The Championships last year in Coffs, with each try coming at Opens level. Whether it's a quick dive to the line or beating his defender one on one with explosive footwork, the Queenslander remains one of the most difficult players to stop on the field. Known for his incredible agility, the Gold Coast representative’s wealth of big-game experience will once again have a significant impact on the team. Expect his combinations with the likes of Dylan Hennessey, Pete Norman, and Corey Russell to again shine through. One of the best players of his or any era, Drummy is sure to deliver more magical moments in Coffs Harbour.
Luke Osborne – Sydney Mets
Perhaps known best for his somersaults, there’s so much more to Luke Osborne’s game than incredible acrobatics. Evident by his clips over the years, the NSW representative is an incredible runner of the ball, whether he’s driving up the field, or running into open space from dummy half. In addition to being a powerful ball carrier with remarkable athleticism, the Parramatta representative possesses a fantastic long pass, often delivering impeccable balls to his wingers. Luke comes into Coffs with plenty of momentum, having earned Coach’s Award honours at the recent Open Trans-Tasman series, where he played a key role in guiding his Mixed Open side to a come-from-behind series victory over New Zealand. Following a short stint in Sydney Scorpions colours, Luke is back representing the Sydney Mets, where he last appeared for them in 2022. If you find this man in open space in Coffs Harbour, get ready to see more highlights.
Chris Lennon – Hunter Western Hornets
Following a standout 2024 season, Chris Lennon has continued to elevate his game in 2025. After claiming the prestigious 2023/24 Dylan Hennessey Medal as the NSW Touch Association Male Player of the Year, Chris kicked off the new year in style, making his debut for the Australian Men’s Open team during April’s successful Trans-Tasman Series in Christchurch. Known for his explosive speed, slick footwork, and for having one of the finest left-to-right passes in the game, the Central Coast representative is quickly becoming one of the sport’s brightest stars. While his attacking skills often steal the headlines, his defensive efforts have been just as impressive. In Christchurch, his tenacity was on full display, capped off by a game-changing diving touch in Game Two. Chris’s recent performances in the green and gold have underlined his ability to thrive on the biggest stage, consistently rising to the occasion when it matters most. With another year of Touch Football experience under his belt, expect Chris Lennon to be a key figure for the Hornets in their bid to go back-to-back in the Men’s Open division.
The Championships tap off Friday May 30th 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.
