The Illawarra Steelers are embracing a fresh outlook ahead of the 2026 season, unveiling six new team captains this week. Among the appointments are brothers Noah and Sonny Jamieson, who will captain the Andrew Johns Cup and the Laurie Daley Cup, respectively.
The appointment of the Berry Magpies juniors marked a proud moment not only for their local club but also for their families, one that has followed their journey from junior footy to leadership roles within the Steelers system.
“For both of us to be captains at the same time is pretty special,” Sonny Jamieson said.
“Mum, Dad, and all our family are really proud of us.”
Turning Point
For Sonny, in his second season in the Laurie Daley U18’s side, the captaincy represents how far he’s come since first walking into Steelers training two years ago.
“When I first came in, I was a younger boy,” he said. “Now I’ve got heaps more confidence, especially being captain.”
A member of last year’s premiership-winning squad, Sonny earned his spot at the club last season through a trial, a moment that proved to be a turning point in his development.
“I trialled and played pretty good, so I made it,” he said.
Since then, training alongside the Dragons pathway players has played a key role in shaping his game.
“Training with the Dragons is really good,” Sonny said.
“It’s a good experience for all of us. I’ve learned heaps from the other players and my game’s built well because of that.”
Stepping into the captain’s role, Sonny is focused on sharing what he’s learned with his new teammates.
“I want to teach them all the experiences we’ve been taught and pass it around so everyone can take key things from it,” he said.
Green Shoots Sprouting
Younger brother Noah, 16, who plays halfback, has been playing rugby league with his junior club since under-8s. For him, the captaincy reflects years of steady growth.
“I’ve improved a lot since under-8s,” Noah said.
“I’ve grown, the coaches have helped me along the way, and my teammates have helped too.”
Like his brother, Noah values the influence of those around him, particularly the coaching staff and his teammates, as he’s progressed through the ranks to under-16s.
“It’s an accomplishment, for sure,” Noah said.
The opportunity to play under the same club banner has made their leadership roles even more meaningful.
“It’s pretty cool,” Noah said with a laugh.
“My parents are really proud; they won’t stop talking about it at home.”
Family Connection
Off the field, the siblings continue to push each other to improve, often training together and sharing feedback after games.
“We go to the gym together and talk about how our games went,” Noah said.
“We help each other out.”
As leaders, both brothers are united in their goals for the season: to set standards, lift those around them, and push their teams towards success.
“Hopefully we can win the comp,” Noah said.
Sonny echoed that ambition.
“Our goal is to go to the top and finish strong,” he said.
“The coaches tell us to go as hard as you can and don’t back down.”
For the Jamieson brothers, captaincy isn’t just about the (c) next to their names; it’s about growth, responsibility, and representing the Steelers with pride. And in 2026, they’ll do it together.
Words: Angelina Raula
Main Picture (left to right): Noah and Sonny Jamieson