Toads bow out but mark golden era of premiership glory

Pic: Rachel Wright Images.

Nambour Toads Rugby Union have wrapped up their 2025 season after both the men’s and women’s sides fell just short in last weekend’s preliminary finals.

While the defeats brought a tough end to the campaign, club president Greg Wright said every player could hold their head high. “It wasn’t the fairy-tale finish we all hoped for, but every player pulled on the jersey with pride and left nothing in the tank,” he said.

The results capped a remarkable run of success for the Toads. Since 2021, the women’s side has claimed three consecutive premierships and reached finals every year, while the men’s side lifted back-to-back premierships in 2022 and 2023 before finishing runners-up in 2024.

“This has been an incredible time in Toads history,” Mr Wright said. “Three premierships for our women, two for our men, plus multiple finals campaigns — it shows the quality of rugby in Nambour and the spirit of this club.”

This season also marked the end of an era, with the departure of women’s coach Luke Zeremes, who has been widely credited with transforming the women’s game at both club and regional level.

“Luke’s vision has extended far beyond Nambour — his influence has shaped Sunshine Coast rugby as a whole,” the club posted. “The countless young women who now walk through this world with strength and confidence do so because of his belief in them.”

Mr Wright said the club owed a debt of gratitude to its supporters. “A massive thank you to our players, coaches, committee, volunteers, sponsors and the loyal red and black family on the sidelines every single week. You make this club what it is.”

The Toads now turn their focus to the 2026 season, determined to build on their achievements. “We’ll take a breath, recharge, and come back hungrier,” Mr Wright said. “Once a Toad, always a Toad.”