The NSW U16 Waratahs will aim to maintain their unbeaten record this Sunday as they face the Western Force. The confident side is focused on the challenge and ready to take on the away fixture.
Currently sitting comfortably at the top of the ladder with 15 points and a remarkable for and against points difference of 414, the Waratahs are well ahead of the second-placed Reds, who have 47 points. Their impressive performance reflects the team’s cohesion, execution, and exceptional coaching and behind-the-scenes work ethic.
The Waratahs are coming off a dominant 87-7 victory over the ACT Brumbies and are eager to carry that momentum into their clash with the Force.
Seven players from that match were named in Rugby Australia’s Round 4 Team of the Week, highlighting the depth of talent and standout performances within the squad.
However, the team has suffered some unfortunate setbacks heading into Round 5 with Josh Arundel out for the season after sustaining a stress fracture in his back ahead of Round 4.
Adding to the team's injury toll, loosehead prop Lawson Armstrong tore his ACL, and second-rower Hamish Bull suffered a concussion, both of which have ruled them out for the rest of the season.
Henri Dempsey, the Waratahs’ open-side flanker, spoke about the team’s mindset heading into this crucial match. Reflecting on their progress, he emphasised the importance of staying grounded,
“Over the course of our tournament, we’ve had some strong games, but we really need to keep ourselves cool, calm, and collected. We need to believe in our process and what we want to build going into the grand final.”
Dempsey also highlighted the significance of their shared values and teamwork. “We need to stick to our values that we have developed week by week to ensure we grow as a team not just as individual players,” he explained.
The flanker added that remaining undefeated is a major motivator for the squad, “Being undefeated would mean a huge amount to the team. Rugby is a team effort, and for us to win 4 out of 4 games would go a long way in giving us confidence going into the grand final.”
He further stressed the importance of communication and consistency in their performance.
“The key for us to maintain and to progress each week is to stay true to ourselves and communicate constantly,”
Dempsey said, attributing the team's success to their attention to detail. “What has really helped us throughout the tournament is focusing on the little details and maintaining focus week to week.”
Dempsey also praised the team's unity, noting the strong culture they’ve developed. “Over the last month since we’ve come together as a team, we’ve really built a strong culture.
The coaches have done a great job in building camaraderie through games, challenges, and positive energy.”
Looking ahead to the away game, Dempsey acknowledged the excitement and challenge of travelling. “We are all excited to travel across the country and travel as a team. It’s new for us, so we have to make sure we prepare well and execute,” he said.
The Tahs will travel together to Western Australia this week, staying overnight on Saturday before their match on Sunday. The trip presents an important opportunity for the squad to prepare thoroughly and strengthen their team bond ahead of the game.
Super Rugby Men’s U16 – Round 5: NSW Waratahs Vs Western Force.
Sunday, October 27 at Revo Fitness Stadium, WA.
Kick-off at 12:05 pm AEDT.
The match will be broadcast live and ad-free on Stan Sport.
- Tyson Burden
- Oliver Smith
- Amanaki Tangi
- Hamish Bull
- Tahj Smith
- Samuel Polley
- Henri Dempsey
- Selesitino Mainakavika
- Flynn Farrell (c)
- Talen Risati
- Darcy Feltham
- Ofa Latu
- Ashton Larve
- Jarryd King
- Jack Kalms
- Anakin Richardson
- Hasani Bloomfield
- Nicholas Kotarac
- Gary Roberts
- Charlie Grant
- Jeremy Rath
- Keone Anitelea-Tsioussis
- Creighton Meafou
