Talent unearthed in the Blue Mountains

St Columba’s High School hosted the event, with students from Blaxland High, Winmalee High, Springwood High, John Wycliffe Christian School and St Columba’s High School matching their athletic abilities to uncover the next superstar in the Mountains.

AFL NSW/ACT Talent Manager for Greater Western Sydney, Mick Clift said the trials were similar to those undertaken at the AFL Draft Combine, a precursor to selection as an elite sportsman in the national AFL Draft.

“These trials allow us to compare performances of local junior talent against the results from the best young men seeking selection into an AFL team at the national Draft,” he said.

Clift said the local players completed the combine with pleasing results, as well as uncovering some new talent in the region.

“There were a couple of boys here tonight that are already involved in the GWS Academy and their performances are pretty close to the mark.  I think there were one or two others who have never played AFL before that showed some real potential.”

The event was organised by St Columba’s teacher, Randall Noney, who said it was an opportunity for local players to have an elite football experience.

“It was a tremendous experience for all the boys to come along and meet some the GWS Giants players and learn about life as an AFL player,” Noney said.

“The Giants are very active and incredibly supportive of our junior talent in the Blue Mountains and we’re delighted to have them here at the school.  I was not surprised to see how well the boys did; we have some great young talent in our local schools.”

This season  junior AFL has moved to a Sunday competition in Greater Western Sydney, the highest growing region for AFL participation in the state.

“Your local Club, the Blue Mountains Kangaroos has the highest numbers of registered players of any Club in Greater Western Sydney.  This year competition will be on Sundays, so I’d encourage anybody that thought about getting involved to sign-up and have a go” said Clift.