Winning formulas seemingly don’t exist – except, that is, if you’re the Southern Lions’ Under 16s squad. 2024 saw the side seal their fourth Grand Final victory in a row, a feat most teams wouldn’t even dream of.
But for this side, it isn’t just the achievements of the players that’s celebrated, but the consistency and communication of the coaches, as well.
“Having a solid sound Coaching group that have stayed with the team has helped to drive the players to achieve this amazing achievement,” Southern Lions’ Junior Vice President, Sandra Beams said.
"The players are a very talented bunch with a core group that have been there for the 4 years. They have a special bond on and off the field and that shows on game day - the trust they have in each other, as well as the determination to keep pushing until the final whistle."
There are a number of key factors contributing to the continued success of the side, the team's coaches, Tim Bryce, Clive Serukai, Steve Scoon, and manager Nina Bryce, shared. Having strong coaching and leadership has helped to develop the players’ technical skills, in addition to their mental resilience and strategic understanding of the game.
"Join that with a strong Team culture that is based on trust, communication and mutual respect and you have a winning combination,” they said.
The players from the U16 Grand Final winning team are some of the best in the state. Eight of the side are part of RugbyWA’s Emerging Players Program, and one member being selected for the Australian U16s squad in 2024. A team with no shortage of talent, the coaching staff credit the club environment for supporting players to succeed.
“The coaches and the club create an environment where these young men are well-prepared, mentally and physically helping them to succeed. This is done by offering them structured training, fostering team unity, providing essential resources, and maintaining strong communication. This ensures the team remain focused, motivated and contributes to their continued success.
“The U16s have raw talent, strong team dynamics, great mental resilience and an unwavering commitment to the game and training. The combination of individual growth, collective spirit and strong leadership, backed by a supportive club environment creates a team that stands out and helps them to achieve remarkable success year after year.”
Beams, however, shares that the individual talents of the players are because of the work they put into their teammates.
“With this team it comes down to structure, tough love and great communication between everyone involved. It is made very clear that you are only as good as the person next to you on the field and you are not able to score without the work of your teammates.”
But for the young guns making up the Premiership winning side, four Grand Final wins in a row is only just the beginning.
Throughout the seasons, their coaches have seen their growth and development, with their improved skills, mental toughness, leadership and love of the game not only making them better athletes, but stronger individuals, too
“The transformation from raw potential to refined, mature rugby players are what truly sets them apart,” they said.
As for their future, their coaches are hoping to see them continue to become better rugby players, bringing a competitive edge to continue to perform at a high level. In addition to refining their skills and mastering new techniques, they also hope to see more players stepping up as leaders in the community.
“It would be great to see more players step into the leadership roles both on and off the field. This includes giving younger players the opportunity to step up.”
Stepping up into the Under 18’s in 2025, the players are set for a new competition, with their newly minted club President’s Service Award winning coaches by their side.
“As Club President, I was delighted to be able to give the coaching team some well-deserved recognition, and award them the President's Service Award,” Club President, Ronan O'Shea said.
“The hard work and many hours of dedication that this takes simply can’t be measured, and watching people like Nina, Tim, Clive and Steve doing what they love, year in & year out, is quite simply inspiring.
“When it came to our 2024 Club Awards, it was clear to me that the coaching team deserved huge praise and thanks for their hard work over the last 6 years. The team has not missed a Grand Final in the 6 years they have been able to qualify!”
As for the young players, the competition ahead will be a test of their skills and talent, but they have the whole club behind them, cheering them on.
“I am confident that they will accept the challenge and be just as competitive as they are every year,” Beams said. “It will be exciting to continue to watch them develop and grow.”
“Southern Lions, your coaches, family and friends are all right behind you as you reach for the stars,” O’Shea commented. “We all are looking forward to seeing what you can do in 2025.”
And for the possibility of returning for a 2025 Grand Final victory?
“The ultimate goal would be to see the team reach another Grand Final,” their coaches said, “...but our main focus will be to continue to coach these amazing and talented group of young men to be better players and individuals on and off the field.”
Southern Lions’ Under 18’s squad, and all junior competition, will return to the field in April 2025.
