A little earlier than last year, however, there seems to be plenty of interest in our squad, both in signing and retention, So, this is where we currently stand for 2025:
Signed: (20)
Hunt, Lawrie, Allan, Tuipulotu, F. Molo, Sele, Liddle, Flannagan, Pasifiki-Tonga, Leilua, M. Molo, Ravalawa, Suli, Faitala-Mariner, R. Couchman, Finau, T. Couchman, Fifita, Egan, Stewart.
Options for 2025: (3)
Russell (MO), Brown (CO), Bird (MO)
Unsigned: (10)
Tuitavake, Murdoch-Masila, DeBelin, Sua, Marschke, Mat Feagai, Max Feagai, Tamale, Eisenhuth, Sloan
By Position:
Halves: (2) - Hunt, Flannagan (unsigned 0)
Props/Locks: (8) - Lawrie, F. Molo, Sele, Pasifiki-Tonga, M. Molo, T. Couchman, Fifita, Stewart (unsigned: (3) - Tuitavake, Murdoch-Masila, Debelin)
Edge Forwards: (4) - Leilua, Faitala-Mariner, R. Couchman, Egan (MO: (1) - Russell, unsigned: (2) - Sua, Eisenhuth)
Centres: (1) - Suli (MO: (1) -Bird, unsigned: (2) - Max Feagai, Tamale)
Hookers: (1) - Liddle (unsigned 0)
Wing: (4) - Tuipolotu, Ravalawa, Finau, Allan (unsigned 0)
Fullback: (0) - (unsigned: (2) - Mat Feagai, Sloan)
Utility: (0) - (unsigned (2) - Brown, Marschke)
I think it's too early to include the DS players, as that will change with performances in the lower grades and reflect on who we want to keep etc.
So, from what I can see is that we desperately need:
1: At least 1 specialist half.
2: At least 1 specialist hooker.
3: We are really exposed at fullback (0 signed) and #14 (0 signed), however, I do expect at least 2 of the names mentioned for that position will be re-signed.
4: At least 2 more centres. Tamale can fill 1, if he has the desire to remain with us. Of course there's Bird, and that's a reason why he'll probably get another contract.
5: At least another winger. Again, Tamale can fill that role, but again does he stay with us. There are some very good juniors that could be promoted to the top 30. Many of whom have been mentioned on many threads already. Yes, we were looking at Turuva, but that was a choice of experience over rookie IMO. Missing out on him may be a blessing in disguise.
6: At least 1 experienced, "down and dirty" prop. We are short in experience, and we have "short-statured" props on our books.
7: I think we are ok with edge forwards, and I expect to re-sign Sua (long term) and Eisenhuth (short term).
8: I think we will re-sign both Brown and Marschke as utilities.
So, in conclusion, I think we need to be looking at 3 - 6 new signings for '25.
Excuse if I have missed someone, or "arsed-up' any positions.