ROOKIE Nelson Bay fullback Liam Pietrasek is the name on everyone’s lips on the Hunter Suburban Rugby scene.
The 18-year-old local junior has captured the imagination of seasoned pundits with dynamic displays for the resurgent Gropers in the Presidents Cup Mens first grade competition.
After a brief stint earlier this year with Sydney club West Harbour Pirates in the NSWRU Shute Shield Colts, the goal kicking custodian has returned to Port Stephens with a vengeance – spearheading Nelson Bay’s charge towards the minor premiership with his classy attacking skills and trusty boot.
Young gun Pietrasek has relished his opportunities in the number 15 jumper as he continues to make every post a winner in his first full season in the top grade.
Not bad for the Tomaree High School graduate who quit rugby league 12 months ago to play with his close mates at Nelson Bay Junior Rugby Club.
It has been a rapid rise for the teenage prospect who experienced a breakout season in the Hunter Junior Rugby series last year with the Nelson Bay Under 18s.
Liam proved a sensation at fullback for the Junior Gropers during a 10-match stint and was rewarded with a call-up to the men’s first grade squad.
Since establishing himself as a top grade regular this season, the boom back has struck up a formidable combination with sharp centre and former Under 18s team mate Harry Andersen.
The pair have lifted the second-placed Gropers into title contention with their attacking skills and were best on ground in Nelson Bay’s crucial 24-22 victory over previously undefeated competition leaders Singleton Red Bulls.
Pietrasek showed loads of potential as a hooker/half back in the Hunter Junior League with the Nelson Bay Marlins and Raymond Terrace Roosters throughout the past decade before joining the Northern Hawks Under 18s squad at the beginning of last season.
But a mid-season switch to rugby proved a turning point for the talented youngster who was identified as a player with “immeasurable talent” by Sydney talent scouts.
Liam began the 2025 season with the Hawks Under 18s in the Newcastle Rugby League competition but by the halfway mark was missing his mates.
Nelson Bay Gropers stalwart Ray Milton, a former West Harbour player, recommended young Liam to his former club.
A homesick Pietrasek returned to Salamander Bay during the pre-season trials and continues to thrive under the coaching of Michael Squires.
By Chris KARAS
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