The 2026 Australian Schoolboys and Schoolgirls rugby league teams have been announced, showcasing the nation's brightest young talent. This year's selections highlight the depth of talent in New South Wales, Queensland, and Victoria, with a focus on developing future stars of the sport.
The Schoolboys team is a powerhouse, with four players from Hunter Sports High School and Patrician Brothers' College, along with contributions from Westfields Sports High School and All Saints College. The Parramatta Eels have a strong presence, with five players making the cut, including the electric fullback Liam Martin, who is contracted until 2028. The team also features Cornelius Pupualii, a Dragons' pathways player, and Liam Challenor, a De La Salle junior who earned the Australian Schoolboys Player of the Tournament award.
Charlie Xuereb, a dual-code prospect, stands out in the 13 jersey, having played a significant role in Patrician Brothers' success and showcasing his talent in both rugby league and rugby union. The team will be led by Adam Sargent-Wilson and David Ackers, with the aim of preparing for the annual trip to face the Papua New Guinea Junior Kumuls in October.
The Schoolgirls squad is equally impressive, with strong representation from New South Wales and Queensland powerhouse programs. Westfields Sports High School and Marsden State High School each contribute two players, while Hallam Secondary College and Mount Ridley P-12 College also field multiple selections. Lilianah Lewis, a halfback, stands out for her performance in the Under 19s State of Origin game, scoring the game-winning try and earning the Player of the Match medal. She is part of the Gold Coast Titans' pathways and will join their NRLW top 24 squad.
Dawn Tui, a dummy-half player, is another standout, having been selected for the City Under 17s Girls side and part of the Tigers' pathways. The team will be led by Elle Moss and Rebecca Smyth, with the goal of preparing for the annual Prime Minister's XIII event against Papua New Guinea's Junior Orchids.
The selections showcase the talent pipeline in Australian rugby league, with a mix of established pathways and emerging stars. The teams will play a crucial role in developing the sport's future, providing a platform for young players to showcase their skills and potentially launch professional careers.
