Rugby Victoria is proud to announce the return of the Victorian Men’s and Women’s State Teams in 2025 — reaffirming our commitment to elite player development and strengthening the state’s high-performance pathway.
These programs will provide Victoria’s top rugby talent with the opportunity to compete at a national level while progressing under experienced coaching and support staff.
The 2025 campaigns will be led by Eric Tom (Men’s Head Coach) and Silei Etuale (Women’s Head Coach), both bringing extensive experience and a passion for nurturing Victorian athletes.
“This is a fantastic opportunity for Victorian players to test themselves against strong opposition” said Tom in reference to the program being back in action. “We want to create an environment where athletes can thrive, showcase their skills, and ultimately push on with their careers.”
Etuale highlighted the growth of the women’s game and the importance of the program: “Women’s rugby in Victoria is still growing, and with it comes exciting opportunities. This program provides a platform our players truly deserve. With the calibre of coaches within our team, we are committed to creating an environment that empowers our players to grow, thrive, and be competitive.”
The selection process for both teams has already begun, with top players from club competitions being invited to wider squad trainings ahead of key interstate fixtures. These include showcase matches against ACT and a Brumbies Development team.
Braydon Peterson, Rugby Victoria Academy Manager, reinforced the significance of the program: “These teams are a vital part of our player pathway. They give our most talented athletes the chance to perform on a national stage and prove that you can grow and succeed right here in Victoria.”
