“The 2025 Fortescue Academy Squad has been unveiled, showcasing a robust lineup of local talent and promising players from the east and abroad. This 29-player group is set for an exciting year with more playing opportunities on the horizon. The team will be guided by former All Blacks forward Jeremy Force and ex-Force half-back Jono Lance.
Academy general manager Damian Steele expressed his excitement about the squad’s composition, highlighting that over half of the players are Western Australians. This reflects the strength of the local talent pool and the effectiveness of RugbyWA’s development programs. Steele noted, “”With 15 locals in the squad, it underscores the talent in Perth and the success of our talent identification and development processes over recent years.””
The Academy’s success is evident, with players like Marley Pearce and Ronan Leahy making their Super Rugby debuts in the past two seasons. Leahy, along with Mitch Watts and Doug Philipson, has progressed to the 2025 Super Rugby squad. Steele emphasized the clear pathway within the Force setup, noting the strong collaboration with head coach Simon Cron and his team. “”Our focus is on nurturing homegrown talent to become professional Force players,”” Steele said.
The Academy’s reputation is growing, attracting top junior talent like Wallace Charlie, a standout in the Australia Under-18’s Sevens. Steele mentioned, “”Emerging players such as Boston Fakafanua, Henry James, and Finn Prass have joined us, having played age-group rugby for the Waratahs and Reds.””
This year’s new recruits include Berakah Tuifaasisina, Nate Gallagher, and Wallace Charlie, who recently excelled at the World Youth 7s, earning MVP honors. Steele added, “”It’s encouraging to see the interest and commitment from such high-caliber players.””
2025 Fortescue Academy Squad: Albert Alcock, Jasper Asi, Ollie Barrett, Riley Brewis, Billy Browne (Wests Scarborough), Wallace Charlie, Boston Fakafanua, Nate Gallagher, Harry Goggin, Kauri Grace (Wests Scarborough), Luke Holt-Brown (Perth Bayswater), Henry James, Justin Landman (Associates), Ollie McGinnity, Ryan McGloin (Joondalup Brothers), Brodie Mainwaring (Wanneroo), Luke Megson (Associates), Peni Naqau (Southern Lions), Oakley Pearce (Joondalup Brothers), Finn Prass, Dane Sawers (Kalamunda), Max Sawers (Kalamunda), HD Stemmet, Manaia TeTana (Wanneroo), Tiam Toufan (UWA), Berakah Tuifaasisina, Tamarangi Tunui (Wanneroo), Rhymen Tusi, Zane Wesley (Wanneroo).”
Read more: https://westernforce.rugby/news/2025-force-fortescue-academy-squad-named-202524
