The NSW Touch Association is thrilled to announce the coaching appointments in the ‘power’ divisions for the highly anticipated 2025 State of Origin Touch Football series, where New South Wales will go head-to-head with Queensland in a battle for supremacy on the touch football field.
After an extensive and rigorous selection process, the NSW Touch Association is proud to introduce the coaching staff who will lead our state’s elite touch football athletes in the upcoming State of Origin series:
MEN’S OPEN
Head Coach- Karley Banks
Assistant Coaches- Scott Buckley and Nick Good.
WOMEN’S OPEN
Head Coach- Peter Forrester
Assistant Coach- Matthew Scranage
MIXED OPEN
Head Coach- Jason Martin
Assistant Coach- Cameron Maxwell
MEN’S 20s
Head Coach- David Stone
Assistant Coaches- Paul Farah and John Dalton
WOMEN’S 20s
Head Coach- Tearoha Paki
Assistant Coaches- Joel Begnell and Melissa Mitchell
NB. Further appointments are to be made in both the Women’s Open and Mixed Open.
The NSWTA High Performance Coaches Panel reviewed all the applicants and determined that those the Panel recommended are all experienced and dedicated individuals who bring a wealth of knowledge and expertise to our state teams, ensuring that our players will be well-prepared to take on Queensland in what promises to be an exciting and fiercely contested series.
Coaching Director, Tony Trad, a veteran in the world of touch football, believes the Panels appointments all have impressive coaching records and an unparalleled understanding of the game. As Chair of the High-Performance Unit, he is confident that all are committed to fostering a culture of excellence and teamwork within the NSW State of Origin team. Trad said, “We are honoured have this talented group of coaches take charge of our teams as we strive to continue to hold the State of Origin title for New South Wales. Our coaching staff is eager to work with our athletes and help them reach their full potential on the field.”
General Manager, Dean Russell noted that “the group brings diverse coaching backgrounds, tactical acumen, and a passion for player development to the State of Origin program.” He felt that their collective experience will be instrumental in fine-tuning the skills and strategies necessary to outperform our Queensland rivals.
The coaches who were unsuccessful will be considered for senior coaching positions when we seek EOI for those roles.
The 2025 State of Origin series is set to be a showcase of the incredible talent and dedication of the New South Wales touch football community. We invite all of our touch football community to rally behind our teams as they prepare to face Queensland in what promises to be an unforgettable competition.
