MOREE Boars’ under-18s squad is on-song to improve on their Group 4 rugby league debut season last year, with players still signing up as the season launch draws closer.

But a few more players are needed, says coach Brent McDonald, who also plays for the Moree Boars’ first-grade premiership-winning team.

“This is only our under-18s’ second year in Group 4, and hopefully we’ll do better than last year – and hopefully we’ll get a few more numbers,” McDonald said.

“At the moment, we’re still getting players, and we’re hoping we’ll have a full team as we get closer to the start of the season.”

The team’s 2025 season was a time of adjustment, as they adapted to a competition comprised of established teams with runs on the board.

“Last year was more about finding our feet, and we’re looking forward to this year’s season with that under our belt,” McDonald said.

“Hopefully, we can get a side set and sorted before the season starts, and we’re not playing catch-up.

“We’ll get a team together and take it one game at a time,” he said.

McDonald juggles his time training and playing with Moree Boars first-grade and coaching the under-18s team.

(from left) Chas Noble, coach Brent McDonald, Boston Sweeny and Jacob Young at training this week. The under-18s Moree Boars are now calling on players for the 2026 Group 4 rugby league season.

His 2025 playing season was underscored when named Group 4 captain for the Northern Region Tri-Series rugby league competition between Groups 4, 19, and 21 held at Tamworth’s Scully Park in July.

“I’ll be having other training sessions with the boys on days away from regular training, to get a bit more time with them,” McDonald said.

“We’ll start that this week and get together to work on a few combinations and drills.

“I really haven’t had enough time yet to work with the boys, and we’ll add that extra session in during the week.”

McDonald encourages young players keen on rugby league to call down to Boughton Oval during Monday or Thursday training sessions or message the club at Moree Boars Facebook PAGE.

Training across all grades starts around 6pm.

“Players need to be aged 16 to 18 – there’s a cut-off once a player turns 19,” McDonald said.

McDonald’s first-grade career with Moree Boars has been exceptional, and he’s looking forward to chasing a third Group 4 premiership this season.

“The Boars have done incredibly well the last two seasons, and there’s a good vibe around the club at the moment, that’s for sure,” he said.