Queensland rugby league Archives

Redcliffe Dolphins Feature Strongly in Queensland Under 18 Emerging Squad

Five Redcliffe Dolphins players have been selected in Queensland Rugby League’s under 18 Boys Emerging Origin Camp, highlighting the club’s role in developing future talent.

Redcliffe Representation in Emerging Camp

Queensland Rugby League assembled 30 young players for the annual under 18 Boys Emerging Origin Camp on 11 August 2025. The program is designed to prepare promising athletes for progression to Queensland Under 19s, Hostplus Cup, and higher representative honours.

Redcliffe Dolphins are strongly represented, with Noah Fien, Elijah McKay, Nixon Pasese, Brian Pouniu, and Cody Starr among those chosen. Their selection reflects the depth of talent produced by the club’s junior pathways.

Mentorship and Player Development

The camp combines on-field skill development with off-field education. Former State of Origin players Darius Boyd and David Stagg, along with Keegan Hipgrave, guided sessions focusing on resilience, professionalism, and leadership in a professional rugby league environment.

Participants receive structured feedback from Queensland Rugby League’s pathways team, ensuring individual development plans are aligned with future opportunities in the sport.

Redcliffe Dolphins’ Longstanding Role

Founded on 27 February 1947, the Redcliffe Dolphins achieved full district club status in 1959 and entered the Brisbane First Grade competition in 1960.

Premiership history differs across sources. The club’s official record lists premiership wins in 1965, 1994, and 1996, while other published accounts note only two titles in 1965 and 1994.

Similarly, reports of Queensland Cup success vary. Some sources state the Dolphins have appeared in 12 grand finals, while the club’s own account records seven appearances. Despite these differences, the Dolphins remain one of the most successful sides in the state competition.

Queensland Rugby League — *Photo Credit: Redcliffe Dolphins/Facebook*

Development Pathway to the NRL

The Dolphins organisation also holds a National Rugby League licence, with a professional team competing separately in the NRL since 2023. The semi-professional Redcliffe Dolphins continue to compete in the Hostplus Cup and Brisbane Rugby League, sustaining their role as a critical development base for future Queensland and Australian representatives.

Looking Ahead

The inclusion of five Redcliffe players in the 2025 Emerging Origin squad reinforces the club’s reputation for fostering junior talent. With strong representation in the camp, the Dolphins’ development system continues to provide a pathway from community football to the state’s elite rugby league ranks.

Published 16-Aug-2025

Redcliffe Dolphins’ Olomalii and Paitai Shine in Queensland Rep Squads

Photo Credit: Queensland School Sport 10-18yrs Rugby League/Facebook

Redcliffe Dolphins’ Raewyn Olomalii and Deleni Paitai have been selected in Queensland’s Under 18 Emerging Squad after strong seasons in junior competitions.

Putting In The Hard Work

Raewyn Olomalii has earned a reputation for her consistency and determination on the field. As a dummy half, she leads from the centre of the action with sharp passing and solid defence. Those close to her say she’s known for putting her head down and working until the final whistle.

*Photo Credit: Marsden State High School/Facebook*

Olomalii helped guide Australia to a 14–4 win over Papua New Guinea during their October tour with steady decision-making and strong defence. She also contributed to Queensland’s national schoolgirls title and has been a regular in the Dolphins’ program. Coaches view her as a smart, reliable leader who performs without needing attention.

A Powerful Presence Out Wide

Deleni Paitai plays in the centres and is known for her physical style and aggressive ball running. In the early rounds of the 2024 Mal Meninga Cup, she caught attention with a two-try performance and a string of tackle busts, showing defenders just how hard she is to stop.

*Photo Credit: Wise Up Rugby League/Instagram*

Paitai’s strength, footwork and awareness have made her a standout performer for Redcliffe. Her selection in the Emerging Squad confirms her rise through the ranks. Coaches describe her as hardworking, focused and consistently reliable on the field.

Eyes On The future

The Under 18 Emerging Girls’ Squad is a stepping stone in the QRL’s player development system, helping young talent transition into higher-level footy. Players take part in high-performance training camps led by experienced coaches and gain exposure to the structures of elite rugby league.

Olomalii and Paitai are part of a two-day Emerging Squad camp at North Lakes from 24 to 25 May. Their selection highlights growing opportunities for girls in rugby league and the role clubs like Redcliffe play in that development. As pathways expand, players like them are helping shape the future of the women’s game.

Community Pride

The success of Redcliffe Dolphins juniors in state and national teams speaks to the wider community behind them. From grassroots volunteers to school mentors and club coaches, there’s a shared belief in giving young players the tools to succeed.

Seeing local names like Olomalii and Paitai achieve on bigger stages brings pride to the Dolphins community and gives younger players someone to look up to. Their achievements show what’s possible when talent is backed by effort, support and opportunity.

Published 20-May-2025