Bombers let talent fly Rise and rise of juniors bodes well for Gold Coast football
GOLD Coast’s rising Australian rules ranks is showing no signs of slowing down, with one of the city’s most prolific junior clubs continuing to see an influx of players.
The Burleigh Bombers juniors are on track to exceed 500 juniors following last year’s efforts of about 480.
“Before the year started we thought we would get about 500 and we still feel that way,” Bombers junior president Steve Ince said.
“We have a couple of hundred already and once we have everyone officially signed up, we will be on track for that bigger figure.”
Burleigh have always had a strong junior presence, with teams ranging from Auskick to under-16 boys and 17 girls.
Ince said he wasn’t sure what was behind their historically strong junior numbers but suggested the club’s location and culture played key roles.
“We have always been healthy in that regard with our juniors,” Ince said.
“There are a few good schools around, the culture has been good and Burleigh Waters itself is predominantly the main ground in the area. There is quite a bit catchment area of kids here.
“It’s something we are very proud of at the club. We are a community club representing the people here and that’s something we try and instil in the kids.
“It’s not just about yourself, it’s about the team, the culture and hopefully they can come out the other side good people. It’s more than just footy.”
Gold Coast Suns players Brayden Crossley and Jacob Dawson are among the Bombers products to reach the AFL in recent years while Charlotte Hammans was recently named one of the first three players signed for the Suns AFLW team.
“The female side of things has been growing quickly and the standard and mindset has been improving too,” Ince said.
“It’s about trying to instil Australian rules into their mindset and DNA.
“We have better coaches coming on all the time for the women’s teams and Greg Walker is one we have on board this year.
“He is from Cairns and has been involved in development for the AFL. He has put his hand up to coach our under-15 side.”
Gold Coast juniors who register before March 29 go in the draw to win one of eight prize packs valued at $200.