Laying the foundations
It has been an incredibly productive pre-season across all the teams at the Bond University Rugby Club with the energy and commitment from the players and staff reaching a new level.
The Club Day was a highlight providing a brilliant opportunity to connect, set the tone for the year, and strengthen the bonds across our programs.
Another huge positive has been working with Dirk Gardner on developing our Unbreakable Bond culture framework. Dirk’s work has helped align everyone in the club around a clear purpose and set of values, reinforcing what it means to be part of Bond Rugby—on and off the field. The buy-in has been outstanding, and we’re already seeing the benefits in how the teams are working together.
The men’s squads also enjoyed a successful tour to Coffs Harbour for trials against the Hunter Wildfires. It was the perfect opportunity to test themselves under pressure, and the experience brought the squads even closer together.
Meanwhile, our Women’s team competed in the Australian Club Championship game against Sydney University, where they retained the Sukkar Cup. It was an exceptional performance and a proud moment for everyone involved in Bond Rugby.
With the foundations laid, Head of Rugby Grant Anderson takes a look at the season ahead and explains why there is a strong feeling of confidence across the club.
The goal
“Our focus this year is clear and ambitious: we want to get every Bond Rugby team into finals contention. We’re setting high standards across the board and aiming to be the most competitive and connected club in the competition.
“A big part of that is continuing to create genuine pathways for our players. Whether it’s Colts stepping up to senior rugby, women progressing into representative honours, or athletes in our Wheelchair Rugby program pushing for national selection, we’re committed to developing our people and opening doors for them to succeed both on and off the field.
“For our U18 team, there’s also the challenge of defending their U18 Lightning Series title. That’s a group full of potential, and they’re working hard to go back-to-back this season.
“Beyond performance, our goal is becoming an even more inclusive and supportive club environment. We’ve worked hard in the pre-season, especially through our Unbreakable Bond culture, to make sure every team backs each other. Whether you’re in Wheelchair Rugby, Colts, U18s, Women’s or Men’s programs, this is one club, and we’re all in it together. That connection will be our strength this year.”
The competition
Anderson expects the level across the competitions to go up another notch in 2025. With clubs investing more into their programs, he believes the gap is definitely closing with teams fitter, better prepared, and more competitive than ever.
“One exciting change is the introduction of the StoreLocal Challenge Cup in the Women’s competition. It’s a fantastic new initiative designed to create more meaningful playing opportunities for women’s teams, bringing sub-district clubs and Premier Women’s teams together in a competitive and high-quality format.
“In Colts and the U18s, we’re seeing more depth across the competition and stronger programs emerging, which makes for an exciting and unpredictable season ahead.
“And in Wheelchair Rugby, the growth of the sport has been incredible, with more teams, more athletes, and a rise in the overall quality of play.
“It’s shaping up to be one of the most competitive seasons yet, and we’re looking forward to the challenge.”
Ones to watch
Men’s team
- Deon Evan-Ao Leifi – a powerful addition from the Hunter Wildfires, bringing skill and physicality.
- Hamish Roberts – last season’s leading point scorer is looking sharp and confident.
- Kaleb Ngamanu – an attacking threat with real X-factor.
- Harry Bell and Harrison Usher – the two young front rowers, both Bond students, have had outstanding pre-seasons.
- Justin Bernstein – a club stalwart set to play his 200th game for Bond this season.
Colts and U18s
- Callum Simpson – John Eales Rugby Excellence Scholarship recipient is a leader on and off the field.
- Charlie McCauley, Sam Howarth and Jackson Jury – standouts with strong pre-seasons.
- Tremayne Patelesio – his potential has ben recognised with his selection in the Reds U18 squad.
- Lochie Smith, Clay Hindmarsh, Jake Leck and Blaize Moana – dominant up front.
Women’s team
- Eva Doblo – a rising star with huge potential.
- Zoe Hanna and Jemma Bemrose – experienced leaders with Super Rugby experience will set the standard.
Wheelchair Rugby
Lillian Pucha – John Eales Rugby Excellence Scholar, pushing for Olympic selection.
Liliana Prucha
The biggest challenge
“Our biggest challenge is maintaining consistency and performance across all our teams while continuing to build a strong, inclusive club culture that connects Senior Men, Women, Colts, U18, and Wheelchair Rugby. We’re focused on creating one Bond Rugby identity—sharing knowledge, supporting each other, and celebrating everyone’s success. Communication, leadership, and alignment of our values will be key to overcoming this challenge.”
The focus
In providing the focus for the season, Anderson reflected on a conversation with Wallaby legend John Eales at the recent season launch and the unveiling of Phoenix Rising.
The two-time Rugby World Cup winner believes that for teams to be truly successful, they need trust.
“I had the privilege of speaking with John and our conversation really stuck with me.
“Players need to have trust in themselves, in their teammates, and in the coaches and management. Staff need to trust each other, empower people, and create an environment where everyone feels valued and included.
“These principles should be at the core of who we are as a club. If we can get that right, if we build that trust and live those values, then the results will take care of themselves, not just this season but long into the future.
“We have the opportunity to be the club everyone wants to be. A club known not just for success on the field, but for the strength of its community and culture.”
The final word
To our supporters: “We want you to feel an overwhelming sense of attachment and pride in Bond University Rugby. We want this to be a club where you bring your families, where you feel connected, and where you know you are part of something special. A place that lives and breathes the Unbreakable Bond.”
To our teams: “Stay true to our values, trust yourselves, and trust each other. The work has been done, now it’s time to enjoy it and play for the jersey, the club, and each other.”
And to our opponents: “We are ready to roll in 2025 and we are hunting for you.”
It’s going to be a massive season—#UnbreakableBond.