Danny a friend of country footy
DANNY Frawley has always been an advocate for the country footballer, especially those from Geelong.
The former St Kilda champion followed a well-beaten path on his journey to the top, hailing from and playing his footy for Bungaree.
It’s why he was so passionate about promoting some of the exciting talent that has come through his Vic Country squad over the years.
Since taking over as coach in 2017, Frawley wasn’t afraid to spruik the potential of a number of Geelong-based players in his squad.
And when someone with the stature in the game as Frawley spoke, people listened.
Take, for example, Newtown & Chilwell gun Alex Cincotta.
The electric Eagles playmaker impressed Frawley so much this year he highlighted him as having the ability to play at AFL level.
Last month AFL clubs’ interest in Cincotta was confirmed when he was invited to the Victorian AFL Draft Combine.
Frawley certainly was ahead of the game in identifying Cincotta.
“I really like Cincotta. S---, he can play,” Frawley said earlier this year.
“He’s powerful, explosive … he’s got a lot of upside.
“I’m keen to play younger guys. Isaac Smith, Tom Stewart and Rowan Marshall have all come through the Vic Country team.
“I’m not saying that’s the reason why they got drafted, but it’s a good stepping stone for them.
“It was pretty good for a young Frawley, Greg Williams and Gary Ablett back in 1983, also. Tommy Alvin and Peter Dean also played Vic Country, so we got five out of that team.”