Last year: Champion.
Players to watch: Liam Turnbull, Damian Wilson, Jonny Sargent, Sean Aitken-Boyle.
The oil: Two-time Southern Region champion Clutha Valley has the target on its back. Valley has lost a bunch of players and has only named a squad of 22 players for the season, but has had strong pre-season outings and managed to avoid injuries. Strong players return to the side, and there is talent in the ranks, but with so many losses and such lean depth, even making the finals could be tough.
Predicted finish: Sixth.
Clutha
Last year: Second.
Players to watch: Max Pennell, Kerrod Baldwin, Sylvester Reeves, Penetekoso Tevaga.
The oil: Clutha was back to its best last season before coming undone in the final. The Steamers have recruited well, but also lost key men at halfback and first five. The pack will feature a strong tight five and dynamic loosies. Clutha has a capable squad but is lacking depth in key positions.
Predicted finish: Third.
Crescent
Last year: Third.
Players to watch: Kace Shaw, Joshua Cook, Harley McHardy, Clayton Cochrane.
The oil: Crescent has kept the majority of its squad from previous seasons, though injured first five Chase Owen is a major loss. There is talent coming through the ranks, but Crescent’s backline may not have the same flair and direction. The forward pack will be up to the task again and has been strengthened by loosie Kace Shaw. The Coal Miners should be competitive.
Predicted finish: Fifth.
Toko
Last year: Fourth.
Players to watch: Kieran O’Sullivan, Josh Beer-Williams, Jacky Scott, Jared Hayes.
The oil: Toko was a surprise package in 2022 with a new coaching setup and players who took their game to a new level. The club has added Ethan Harrex and Tim Smaill to a stacked forward pack, while Jacky Scott and Dylan Mathieson return to bolster the backline. Toko has strength, depth and ability. Could be the team to watch.
Predicted finish: Champion.
West Taieri
Last year: Fifth.
Players to watch: Callum Smeaton, Steve Green, Ethan Hippolite, Will Scorgie.
The oil: The Pigs are coming off their worst finish since joining the competition, but it was a rebuilding season, and they have welcomed back some key players. Steve Green, Will Scorgie and Jackson Reid are key additions. They have enough depth and quality to push for a final spot.
Predicted finish: Second.
Heriot
Last year: Sixth.
Players to watch: Dylan Mackenzie, Tyson Adams, Cam Morris, Clayton Buchanan.
The oil: Heriot was unlucky not to make the top four last season and was leading by plenty in the bottom four final against West Taieri before being run over in the second half. Topp Cup coach Shaun Macaskill takes over the reins and has added some exciting talent to the roster. There is finally some size in the backline, which may be the catalyst for a good season.
Predicted finish: Fourth.
Lawrence
Last year: Seventh.
Players to watch: Sam Wyber, Jake Lyders, Dion Muir, Oscar Goodlet.
The oil: Lawrence has added some exciting backs but also lost some experience in vital positions. The forwards were combative and dominant in patches last season but could not put it together for sustained amounts of time. They might struggle to mount much of a title challenge.
Predicted finish: Ninth.
Owaka
Last year: Eighth.
Players to watch: Tom Fraser, Josh Huddleston, Ieru Leteu, Asu Mati Nei.
The oil: Plenty of fresh faces at training, and there is a definite Pacific Island flavour to the Swamp Hens squad this season. The pack is light on front-rowers but will be mobile. Owaka’s backs will be dangerous on the front foot and will be able to hold their own on defence.
Predicted finish: Seventh.
Clinton
Last year: Ninth.
Players to watch: Mike Luxmoore, Josh Hurring, Nick Anderson, Jerome Waller.
The oil: Clinton has again added several newcomers to the roster, including recent South Otago High School players. There is still plenty of experience, especially in the forward pack with hooker Russell Moloney and loose forward Mike Luxmoore. The backs are fresh and exciting, and will look to first five Nick Anderson for leadership. Clinton has the biggest squad on paper this season and will more than likely need every player if it is to avoid another wooden spoon.
Predicted finish: Eighth.
