Swifts under 17 footballer Sam Chatfield is among seven Wimmera and Grampians region junior footballers selected in the Western Bulldogs Next Generation Academy V/Line Cup squad.
The players can expect to play against some of the best junior players in country Victoria.
- Jason Muldoon
Chatfield will be joined by Ararat Rats brothers Luke and Matthew Spalding in the team that will play in a series of games at Gippsland from Monday, September 24.
Team manager Jason Muldoon said the best players from the region have been selected.
“The selection process was very thorough, we are bringing together players from across the WB NGA zones, which is a huge area,” he said.
“The selectors have worked hard to ensure the most talented players have the best opportunity to display their skills.”
The WB NGA V/Line Cup team will be coached by current Ballarat FL interleague coach Shaun O’Loughlin and current Victoria country under 16 assistant coach and GWV Rebels assistant coach Ricky Andrews.
“The coaching staff are very impressed with the standard of players that are coming through to the V/Line Cup,” Muldoon said.
“This is a direct result of the structures and level of coaching the players are receiving at their local clubs.”
Muldoon said it was the final step for the players before they transition into the Greater Western Victoria Rebels program later this year.
“We expect to see gradual development amongst the group over the V/Line Cup, and as they progress through to the GWV Rebels under-16 program,” he said.
“The players can expect to play against some of the best junior players in country Victoria.”
Muldoon said the players will wear special uniforms to feel a strong sense of pride in the team they are playing in.
“For the first time, the players will have the privilege of wearing the Western Bulldogs jumper,” he said.
“Being the reigning premiers, the players are respectful of the opportunity they have been given.”
