Tom Howard is relishing the idea of a firm role at fullback for the Queensland Reds Under-19s when they launch at Ballymore Stadium on Sunday afternoon.
The 1pm match against the champion ACT Brumbies teens is a tasty opener in the Super Rugby U19s before the Reds and Brumbies go at in Super Rugby AUS from 3pm.
Reds Under-19s coach Cian O’Connor today unveiled his team which includes a number of players with first grade experience in the StoreLocal Hospital Cup.
Howard, 19, has been switched between wing and fullback in recent seasons for the Australia Under-18s, University of Queensland and under-age Reds teams.
A preference is clear for the son of former Wallaby Pat Howard.
“I’m over the moon. Fullback is where I play my best rugby,” Howard said.
“Counter-attacking is probably my biggest strength. From fullback, you get to see the picture in front of you whether it’s for using your skills to kick the ball or spot a lazy defender or to set up a teammate.
“You get your hands on the ball more at fullback.
“Playing Premier Grade this year has been a big step up in physicality and it has taught me to go into contact with lower body height because you can’t be unprepared.
“The Brumbies have won this competition for the past two years so we know they’ll be organised and a big challenge.
“Having an U19s competition will give us a taste of what the standard is across the country. We’re all looking forward to it.”
The side will be skippered by centre Ryan Heaton, who was a top performer in first grade for Norths this season.
Halfback James Prole and flyhalf Charlie Bird will be key playmakers for the side.
Up front, lock Avery Thomson is now a senior figure after his top grade season for GPS.
Hooker Harry Solofa is an explosive ball-carrier and excellent on the ball.
Flanker Ezalle Matautia is a Far North Queensland product. His excellent season for the premiership-winning Wests Colts side has been recognised.
The Brumbies will field some familiar faces including Brisbane State High product Eli Langi, 2024 Nudgee College premiership-winner Jacob Johnson, Thomson's 2024 GPS clubmate Ewald Kruger and former University of Queensland flyhalf Chace Oates.
Ballymore Stadium
1pm, Sunday
Live on Stan Sport and Rugby.com.au YouTube
Queensland Reds U19s
1 Jacob Job - Wests
2 Harry Solofa - Wests
3 Preston O'Brien - Souths
4 Kenny Harris - Bond University
5 Avery Thomson - GPS
6 Ezalle Matautia - Wests
7 Joe Stoddart - Easts
8 Angus Kelly - University of Queensland
9 James Prole - GPS
10 Charlie Bird - Wests
11 Ilan Cloete - Easts
12 Josh Takai - Brothers
13 Ryan Heaton (c) - Norths
14 Kiyan Gunewardene - Sunnybank
15 Tom Howard - University of Queensland
Reserves
16 Will Pamenter - Wests
17 Lucas Oxley - Souths
25 Salesi Kali - Wests
19 Will Pascoe - Wests
20 Keanu Rasch - Bond University
22 Stanley Keats - Wests
22 Netani Lesimaikimatuku - Sunnybank
23 Jackson Hill - Brothers
24 Oli Aleman - Norths
Queensland Reds: 2025 U19s fixtures:
Sunday, September 14: Reds vs ACT Brumbies, Ballymore Stadium, 1pm
Sunday, September 21: Reds vs NSW Waratahs, Dangar Park, Narrabri, 1pm (Santos Festival of Rugby)
Sunday, September 28: Reds vs Western Force, Palmyra Rugby Club, Perth, 12:30pm
