What’s happening?
The Mackay Cutters have announced a series of exciting signings ahead of the 2025 Hostplus Cup season.
Sheldon Diaz, Jimmy Ngutlik, Bray Guyan, and Elie El-Zakhem are among the new recruits joining the squad.
Each player brings unique experience and energy to the team, reinforcing the Cutters’ ambition to excel under the leadership of Head Coach Adam Cuthbertson.
Why it matters?
These signings demonstrate the Mackay Cutters’ commitment to building a competitive squad for 2025.
With new talent on board, the team aims to strengthen its performance and secure a strong presence in the Hostplus Cup.
The addition of experienced and promising players aligns with the club’s values of fostering a positive and inclusive team culture.
Local Impact
The Mackay Cutters’ investment in fresh talent not only energises the team but also invigorates the local community, offering fans a sense of pride and excitement for the upcoming season.
The players’ enthusiasm for joining highlights Mackay’s appeal as a welcoming and professional rugby hub.
By the Numbers:
– Sheldon Diaz: At just 21 years old, the New Zealand-born front-rower brings experience from the Melbourne Storm Academy (2023) and the NSWRL Jersey Flegg Squad (2024).
– Jimmy Ngutlik: A 24-year-old winger, Ngutlik joins after competing in the Knock-on Effect Jersey Flegg Cup for Western Suburbs Magpies (2022-2024) and representing Papua New Guinea in the 2022 Rugby League World Cup.
– Bray Guyan: The former Betfred Super League player has relocated to Mackay, where he looks forward to enhancing his skills under the guidance of Adam Cuthbertson.
– Elie El-Zakhem: The 26-year-old forward brings international expertise after a season with the Castleford Tigers in the Betfred Super League.
Zoom In
Sheldon Diaz expressed his enthusiasm for joining the Cutters, stating, “I had a conversation with him (Adam Cuthbertson), the way he holds himself and the way he explained how the club is and their culture, I thought I’d love to come here… It reminds me of Melbourne… Now I’m signed, and it’s such a blessing to me.”
Bray Guyan shared similar sentiments about his move to Mackay: “The way he (Adam Cuthbertson) coaches and the systems he’s put in place this year. I just want to learn under him, he’s going to help my game. Mackay is a beautiful place, and my partner and I are loving it so far.”
Zoom Out
This wave of signings is part of a broader strategy by the Mackay Cutters to elevate their standing in the Hostplus Cup.
The inclusion of international talent and experienced players reflects the team’s long-term goals of success and development in Australian rugby league.
What To Look For Next?
With the pre-season set to begin soon, fans can look forward to watching how the new signings gel with the existing squad.
Keep an eye on updates from the Mackay Cutters as they finalise their preparations for a thrilling 2025 Hostplus Cup season.
