Joss State Zone Trials squads announced

Sydney North | Sydney South | Northern Coast | Western Sydney | ACT/South Coast | Riverina | Murray

NSW/ACT footballers will commence arguably the biggest phase of their young lives in January following the announcement of the Under-18 Joss State Zone Trials squads.

The Joss State Zone Trials is held annually and involves seven regional talent teams – Sydney North, Sydney South, Western Sydney, Northern Coast, ACT/South Coast, Murray and Riverina – from all corners of the state and territory.

For three days every team will play each other once while players will also undertake the necessary training, recovery and nutrition involved in playing AFL at the highest level.  

The time is now for players to impress with NSW/ACT RAMS selection up for grabs for those who standout during the event being held at BCU International Stadium from January 16 to 18.

The Joss State Zone Trials will form one component of the RAMS selection process with the Sydney Swans and GWS GIANTS Academy series to help decide the complete state squad. 

For players who are selected in the RAMS squad they’ll get the opportunity to play in the Under-18 NAB National Championships next year – the AFL recruitment ground for all 18 clubs.

The Joss Talent Program is currently coming off a highly successful year with 19 players either primary listed for the first time or rookie-listed. All players took part in the Joss State Zone Trials as juniors.

In the last five years 52 NSW/ACT players have been recruited by AFL clubs and State Talent and Coaching Manager Darren Denneman said he hopes the number will continue to grow in the future.

“We saw 19 NSW/ACT players listed by AFL Clubs this year and we truly believe there is the potential for more local players to make it in the AFL,” Denneman said.

“The Joss State Zone Trials presents itself as one opportunity for players to improve their games by taking full advantage of the resources available to them.

“For three days, players get access to coaches 24/7 so there are visual and verbal mechanisms available to them, as well as the recovery processes in place to ensure players play at their best each match.

“We aim to make the camp as though the players are part of an AFL club and hopefully they’ll come out of the carnival with a heightened level of enthusiasm to take their game to the next level.”

The Under-18 Joss State Zone Trial will be held at the Coffs Harbour BCU International Stadium from January 16 to 18. All draws and results can be found at www.aflnswact.com.au prior to the event.