Rising Stars to Watch: Australia’s Most Promising Young Athletes in 2025

1. Harley Reid (AFL – West Coast Eagles)

Few prospects have generated as much buzz as Harley Reid. Drafted No. 1 overall in 2023, Reid’s performances have already turned heads in the AFL community. A dynamic midfielder with explosive pace and elite decision-making, he’s been likened to Dustin Martin in terms of impact potential. At just 19, Reid is the cornerstone of West Coast’s rebuild and a symbol of hope for the club’s future.

2. Alyssa Humphries (Cricket – WBBL/Under-19s)

Alyssa Humphries is quickly becoming a standout in women’s cricket. The pace bowler made waves in the Under-19 Women’s T20 World Cup and has since caught the attention of WBBL franchises. Her ability to swing the ball early and deliver under pressure marks her as a future leader in Australia’s bowling attack. Expect her to break into the national setup in the next two years if her trajectory continues.

3. Max Jorgensen (Rugby Union – NSW Waratahs)

At only 20, Max Jorgensen is being touted as the next big thing in Australian rugby. The fullback has shown maturity beyond his years, with clean handling, quick footwork, and fearless counterattacks. His performances in Super Rugby have already impressed Wallabies selectors. If Australia is to revive its international rugby presence, Jorgensen will likely be a key figure in that resurgence.

4. Arisa Trew (Skateboarding – Olympic Hopeful)

Hailing from Queensland, 14-year-old Arisa Trew became the first female skateboarder to land a 720 in competition. With skateboarding gaining traction in the Olympics, Trew represents a new wave of Australian action-sport athletes who combine style with next-level technical skills. All eyes will be on her heading into the 2028 Games.

5. Tom Weaver (Rugby League – Gold Coast Titans)

A crafty halfback with exceptional game management, Tom Weaver is slowly earning his stripes in the NRL. He’s been praised for his vision, kicking game, and leadership qualities. As the Titans develop their young core, Weaver is expected to take on a more central role in guiding the team into the future.

6. Mary Fowler (Soccer – Matildas/Manchester City)

While already somewhat of a known name after her breakout in the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup, Mary Fowler is still just 21. Her ability to control the midfield and create attacking opportunities makes her one of the most complete young footballers in the world. With her club career flourishing at Manchester City, 2025 could be the year she cements her place as a global superstar.

7. Ryley Towill (Swimming – Junior Dolphins)

The Australian swim team always has talent in the pipeline, and Ryley Towill is one to watch. The teenager excels in the backstroke and individual medley events and has recently set age-group records. With Paris 2024 now in the rearview mirror, Ryley has set his sights on the 2028 Games, aiming to follow in the footsteps of legends like Ian Thorpe and Kyle Chalmers.

8. Cooper Johnston (Motorsport – Formula 4)

At just 16, Cooper Johnston is making waves in the Formula 4 scene. The young driver from Melbourne has shown elite reflexes and race IQ, taking podiums across the local circuit. With continued support and development, Johnston could become Australia’s next big motorsport export—possibly joining the ranks of Daniel Ricciardo and Oscar Piastri in F1 within the next decade.

9. Sienna Harnett (Athletics – 800m/1500m)

Middle-distance running in Australia is undergoing a quiet revolution, and Sienna Harnett is at the forefront. At only 17, she has dominated at the national youth level and is now training with elite senior programs. Her tactical awareness in races and natural endurance suggest she could be a serious Olympic contender by 2028.

10. Koby Myers (Basketball – NBL Next Stars Program)

Basketball in Australia continues to benefit from the NBL’s Next Stars program, and Koby Myers is one of the brightest products. Standing 6’7” with a strong handle and excellent perimeter shooting, he’s already drawing comparisons to Josh Giddey. Scouts from the NBA are keeping a close eye, and with a strong 2025 NBL season, Myers could be the next Aussie headed to the draft.

Youth Development and the Australian Sports Ecosystem

What makes these athletes stand out isn’t just their individual performances but also the systems that support them. Programs such as the AIS (Australian Institute of Sport), state academies, and pro-club development pathways are producing better-rounded athletes—technically, mentally, and physically.

Technology is also playing a role. From wearable performance trackers to recovery science and AI-driven analytics, these tools allow rising stars to optimize training and reduce injury risk. And in some cases, platforms like GameZone are even being used in team environments to enhance cognitive reaction time and strategic thinking—highlighting how even non-physical tools are finding relevance in high-performance setups.

The Pressure and the Promise

Being a rising star also comes with pressure. Early hype can become a burden, and the transition to senior levels often reveals who truly has the resilience to thrive. But if these athletes continue on their current paths—supported by coaches, mentors, and fans—they are likely to become not just performers, but leaders of their respective sports.

Whether it’s the roar of the MCG, the energy of Rod Laver Arena, or the bright lights of an Olympic stage, these names are likely to echo in Australia’s sports headlines for years to come.