UNDER-19 WRFL coach Matt Dean says he can’t wait to unleash the talent from the west on Saturday, as the league looks to win back-to-back WorkSafe Victoria Community Championship matches.
Last year, the WRFL’s Under-19 team took on Ballarat at Whitten Oval and scored an impressive 95-point win.
This year, Dean expects the level of competition to step up a notch, but says his side is ready to take on the NFL.
“Training has been really good. We started with a refined squad, so we have had 30 to 35 players on the track and they are all good quality players,” he said.
“Our ball movement has been really good. I’m pleased with how everything is going.”
Eleven players from last year’s team have been selected, including best on ground medallist from Deer Park, Mark Galea.
“Eleven of the boys from last year will play again this year, it means they have held their form and have grown as players,” Dean said.
“It is great to see them put their hands up for selection again.
“Thirteen or 14 of the boys are also playing Division 1 footy, so they are already playing at a high standard of footy.
“Those players understand what is expected and what is required to play at a high level so come game day they will be ready to go.
“The rest of the squad are bottom age players who have moved up from the Under-17 competition.
“We hope the guys who played last year can show these younger players the way.”
Dean said in the lead-up to the game, players would continue to train and play with their respective clubs, before coming together again in the days leading up to the match.
“Last year was a great result, but we have to focus on this game and we are expecting a strong opponent,” Dean said.
“They (NFL) are a strong league, so we are looking forward to the challenge.
“It is all about having a crack and playing your best because there isn’t a game the following week.
“The boys are excited.”
At Monday night's WRFL Jumper Presentation, Dean announced Mark Galea from Deer Park and Kevin Johnson from the Yarraville Seddon Eagles as co-captains.
Last Modified on 09/05/2017 13:59