U16 Joss State Zone Trials Record

Please click here to view the Joss State Zone Trials Record

The Under-16 Joss State Zone Trials, being held in Sydney from April 17 to 21, will provide players with a rare opportunity to learn from some of the biggest stars in the AFL.

Sydney Swans best and fairest winner Kieren Jack and GWS GIANTS’ Israel Folau will speak to the players about their experience at the top level.

Keeping a close eye on matches will be newly appointed Under-16 RAMS coach and former dual premiership winning captain of Geelong, Tom Harley.

Harley, and his selection panel, will choose the NSW/ACT RAMS squad to compete in the Under-16 NAB Nationals in July at the conclusion of the Zone Trials.

Harley said all players have an opportunity to improve their football following their selection to play in the Joss State Zone Trials. 

“There has never been a better time to be playing AFL in NSW and the ACT with the Sydney Swans and GWS GIANTS looking for players to be part of their Academies,” Harley said.

“On top of this, there is the chance to be selected in the NSW/ACT RAMS which will provide exposure to all 18 club recruiters and talent scouts at the NAB National Championships being held in Blacktown.

“For five-days at the Joss State Zone Trials, all players will get unlimited access to their coaches and we encourage them to seek feedback and to make the most of their time in Sydney.”

For the first time ever, the Joss State Zone Trials will feature Under-15 Sydney Swans and GWS GIANTS Academy teams.

 The Academies are designed to fast-track player development to give players every opportunity to be drafted by their respective club when they turn 18-years-old. 

This year, the Joss State Zone Trials will also include an Oceania team, comprised of players from Fiji, Tonga, New Zealand, Solomon Islands, Nauru and Vanuatu.

The AFL’s international expansion is going from strength to strength with a number of the Oceania’s talented athletes now getting an opportunity to showcase their talents as well. 

“The Joss State Zone Trials has traditionally been the event where players take the next step to improve their football,” Harley said.

“Last year, a record 18 NSW/ACT players were either primary or rookie listed by an AFL club, all of which came through the AFL NSW/ACT Talented Player Program.

“The Joss State Zone Trials is truly a fantastic opportunity for all players to learn, improve and to get an insight into what is required at the AFL level.

“These players also have the privilege of sharing stories with our Oceania neighbours which is something that will stay with these teenagers for the rest of their lives.

“I wish all players the best of luck and hope they enjoy the experience while in Sydney.”

The Joss State Zone Trials will be held at St Ignatius’ College, Riverview from April 17 to 21. The week involves a number of AFL matches as well as education sessions on health, nutrition and what is required to play AFL at the top level.

All of the news and results from the Joss State Zone Trials can be found at www.aflnswact.com.au.