Festival of football kicks off next week

2011 AFL NSW/ACT Under-18 Joss State Zone Trials Draw

Coffs Harbour’s festival of football will kick off on Monday, January 17 when the state and territory’s best under-18 players come to town for the Joss State Zone Trials.

An all-star cast is expected to be in town next week with GWS Giants coach Kevin Sheedy looking on, 2005 Sydney Swans hero Nick Davis coaching the Sydney South team while RAMS head coach Nick Stevens will also be in attendance.

On top of this, the Sydney Swans and GWS Giants recruiters will be keeping a close eye on matches to help form their recently-established Academies in 2011.

The Joss State Zone Trials is the commencement of an AFL bonanza in Coffs Harbour with the Sydney Swans conducting their annual Telstra Community Camp in February followed by the first NAB Challenge match for the city since 2003, in March. 

AFL NSW/ACT State Talent Manager Darren Denneman said the Joss State Zone Trials presents a unique opportunity for both players and supporters.

“The fascinating component of the Joss State Zone Trials is that it isn’t just limited to players. The quality of football and the amount of talent on display truly presents an interesting spectacle the whole family can enjoy,” Denneman said.

“With matches commencing mid-afternoon and concluding at night, there is always a time for locals to come along and watch high-class football in their own backyard.

“These trials are set-up to best prepare players for life as an AFL professional and what better way to simulate a game-day experience than by packing out Coffs Harbour International Stadium for the week.

“Without the support of the communities in and around Coffs Harbour and NSW/ACT none of these players would have the opportunity to be part of the Talented Player Program (TPP).”

The Joss State Zone Trials provides players with a rare occasion to come together to compare and compete against other AFL aspirants from around NSW and the ACT.

With access to coaching staff, conditioning personnel and video review technology, these players will be given all of the resources available to give them the best opportunity to join an AFL club.

Newly appointed RAMS coach Nick Stevens, who played 231 games with Port Adelaide and Carlton, will use the trials to help formulate the NSW/ACT state squad for the upcoming NAB AFL Under-18 Championships.

The TPP continues to attract high-quality staff, coaches, volunteers and players and this is reflected with a record 18 TPP players joining AFL clubs in 2010.

With more time and resources invested in the program and players, it is hoped this number will rise in the coming years.

All of the latest news, scores and results from the Joss State Zone Trials can be found at www.aflnswact.com.au. The Joss State Zone Trials will be held from January 17 to 20 at Coffs Harbour International Stadium. 

Locals looking to play AFL in 2011 can do so by joining up at their local club. Visit www.playafl.com.au to find out more.