Teenagers make academy squad
Seven under-16 Wimmera footballers have made a 2017 Western Bulldogs Next Generation Academy V-line Cup squad.
Ethan Councillor from Kaniva-leeor United, Lachlan Stewart, Warrack Eagles, Harold Pritchard, Nhill, Matthew and Luke Spalding, Ararat, Sam Chatfield, Stawell Swifts and Gage Wright, Horsham Saints, are in the squad of 50.
A final team of players representing Wimmera Mallee, Goldfields and Western District AFL regions will play in the weeklong championships in Gippsland starting on September 24.
Team manager Jason Muldoon said a thorough selection process brought players from a huge area together.
“Selectors have worked hard to ensure the most talented players have the best opportunity to display their skills,” he said.
Ballarat interleague coach Shaun O’loughlin and Victoria Country under-16 leader Ricky Andrews will coach the team.
“The coaching staff are very impressed with the standard of players coming through to the V-line Cup as a direct result of the structures and level of coaching the players are receiving at their local clubs,” Mr Muldoon said. He said squad members would transition to a Greater Western Victoria Rebels program after the championships.
“Players can expect to play against some of the best juniors in country Victoria in Gippsland. For the first time, they will have the privilege of wearing the Western Bulldogs jumper,” he said.