Newtown teen makes the switch

Nettheim’s decision to change to Aussie Rules came while watching the Swans play at his friend’s house, finding himself interested in the skill set of the professional footballers.

The Newtown Swans teen does not regret making the change, especially after being for the QBE Sydney Swans Academy and a nationwide Multicultural Talent Camp headed by former Brisbane Lions star Chris Johnson.

“I thought I’d give it a go and I remember my dad asking me if I wanted to switch codes,” Nettheim said.

“I took a day to decide but then decided on AFL.”

At the age of 15 and standing at 170cm, the Newtown player is not the tallest player in the game, but has found a way to demonstrate true potential as a footballer.

“My height doesn’t really help marking so you have to think where the ball is going to go and you have to be there faster than the bigger guys,” he said.

“I guess I could say I’m a smart footballer and my kicking technique is probably a strength.”

The AFL’s Multicultural Camp was helpd last week in Melbourne.

20 players will be selected to play in the World Team to compete at the Under-16s National Championships in July.

Image from dailytelegraph.com.au