Southern Districts Colts Gear Up for a Strong 2025 Season
The Southern Districts Colts have wrapped up their pre-Christmas training block in preparation for the 2025 season, continuing the impressive progress of the Colts program over the past three years. With strong attendance and many new faces, the stage is set for another exciting year.
Jake Holman has done an exceptional job planning and implementing a well-structured program that combines gym sessions, on-field skill development, rugby IQ, and even a few beach sessions to keep players engaged and motivated. Holman, supported by Brackin Henry, Jordan McGregor, and Justin Barretta, and under the leadership of Colts S&C trainer Angela Mataio has focused on honing the skills required to compete at the Colts level.
The forward pack has also benefited immensely from weekly sessions with Scott Fava and Jay Treggoning, focusing on scrum and forward unit training alongside the senior playing group. This experience has significantly advanced the forwards' development and integration within the broader club structure.
As the Christmas break arrives, the emphasis shifts to self-discipline, with players encouraged to maintain their hard-earned fitness through weight training and field sessions. Modern rugby demands players to compete with power and pace, and maintaining fitness is non-negotiable.
The club’s investment in sports science over recent years is also paying dividends. Tools like GPS monitors, collaboration with the University of Wollongong’s sports science department, and the Team Builder app ensure that players’ progress is closely tracked and optimised.
The coaching structure for 2025 is shaping up to be the strongest yet. Jake Holman, Brackin Henry, Jordan McGregor, and Don Picken will lead the 1st Colts, with sessions integrating 2nd and 3rd Colts to build cohesion. Justin Barratta and Simon Bennett will take charge of the 2nd Colts after a successful stint with the 3rd Colts last season, while Ian Spedding and Nathan Shayler will oversee the crucial development of the 3rd Colts squad.
Training resumes on Wednesday, January 15th, 6:00pm, with preparations intensifying for trial matches starting in March. The coaches are meticulously planning this next block to ensure teams are primed for success.
Any player interested in being a part of Colts 2025 all you need to do is come along to a training session, bring your boots and a give your best attitude and you will fit in well.
There’s nothing like a day of Colts rugby at Forshaw, with three games, hot food, cold drinks, and free entry.
We wish everyone a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year—see you in 2025!
Keith Holmes
