AFL looks West for talents
Australian Football League (AFL) will have their Under-15 boys and girls trials at the Airports Fiji Limited ground in Namaka, Nadi today. Speaking to SUNsports on Thursday, AFL Fijian men’s coach Simon Highfield said he wants to select the best players for the Oceania Cup which is from December 4-8 where he’s focused on expanding the sport in the country.
“AFL Fiji will be running trials in Nadi this Saturday for the under-15 boys and girls to join the national squads,” Highfield said. “This is where we will be continuing to spread the sport and this begins in the West. We’re looking to make the sport national, so we’re inviting all those interested to come down for the trial on Saturday morning at 10am.
“Essentially, we’re now looking at all under-15 boys and girls to come and join the family and represent Fiji with pride in December.”
Highfield said they conducted their Suva trials two weeks ago and have selected 30 boys to be part of the men’s team.
“So, what we’re looking for is first and foremost their basic skills especially their kicking, tackling ability along with their running capacity.
“There will be five international countries competing in the Oceania Cup. AFL Fiji is heading towards some busy times, with the remainder of the year focussing a lot on grass roots and junior development.
“Along with our ever present school and community Bulakick programmes, in collaboration with the Fiji National Sports Commission, we also have some heavy preparation ahead of the Oceania Cup in December.
“We are also inviting all female under-15 to come and join the boys and form the first ever Junior Vonu.
“The female academy will stay together and compete at the Oceania Cup, with the main aim to form development pathways for the girls to eventually represent Fiji at the World Cup in 2020.”
Highfield said they are postive of receiving good response from the West.
He has invited children in Nadi, Lautoka, Ba and Sigatoka to attend today’s trial if they want to try out the sport.