In a bold move aimed at revitalizing the South Sydney Rabbitohs, Wayne Bennett, who will return for a second stint as head coach in 2025, has confirmed a significant shake-up of the club’s roster. Bennett, known for his strategic approach and no-nonsense management, is already making changes to address the team’s underperformance in recent seasons.
The Rabbitohs have officially announced the departure of six players, adding to the previously confirmed exits of club stalwarts Damien Cook, who will join St. George Illawarra Dragons, and Thomas Burgess, who is set to head to the English Super League. This follows a disappointing 2024 campaign, during which South Sydney failed to meet expectations despite their talented squad.
The six new departures include utility Michael Chee-Kam, halves Dean Hawkins and Dion Teaupa, and outside backs Richie Kennar, Izaac Thompson, and Leon Te Hau. While Chee-Kam and Hawkins have been linked with other NRL clubs, the futures of Teaupa, Kennar, Thompson, and Te Hau remain uncertain, with no clear indication of where they might land next.
Mark Ellison, the club’s head of football, issued a statement recognizing the contributions of the departing players. “As a Club we would like to thank Michael, Richie, Dean, Dion, Izaac, and Leon for their service to South Sydney. Some of these players will have opportunities at other NRL clubs, and we wish them and their families the very best of luck in the future. They will always be regarded as proud Rabbitohs,” Ellison said.
Among the departing players, Michael Chee-Kam is the most experienced, having played 132 NRL games, including 38 appearances for South Sydney since joining the club in 2022. His versatility and work ethic have made him a valuable asset, though his departure reflects the club’s intention to refresh the roster with younger talent.
Richie Kennar, a veteran of 50 NRL games, including 27 in two stints with the Rabbitohs, also exits. Kennar has been a reliable presence on the wing, though injuries have hampered his consistency. Dean Hawkins, a backup half, leaves with 14 NRL appearances, while Izaac Thompson, who debuted in 2022, departs after 13 games for the club. Dion Teaupa, who made his NRL debut this season with four appearances, is considered the most surprising exit, given his potential. Leon Te Hau, a promising youngster yet to make his NRL debut, rounds out the list.
As the club moves forward, the futures of Ben Lovett, Taane Milne, Shaquai Mitchell, and Isaiah Tass remain unclear, with all four still off-contract heading into the 2025 season.
In preparation for 2025, the Rabbitohs have already started to reshape their squad. New signings include Euan Aitken, Lewis Dodd, and Josh Schuster, all of whom are expected to make an impact and bring fresh energy to the team. Bennett’s return to the Rabbitohs promises to be an exciting new chapter for the club, as the veteran coach seeks to restore the Rabbitohs to their former glory and return them to title contention.
The sweeping changes reflect the club’s commitment to success, with Bennett’s leadership expected to bring discipline, strategic vision, and a renewed sense of purpose to the team. Rabbitohs fans will undoubtedly be eager to see how the team evolves under Bennett’s guidance in 2025.
