The AFL NSW/ACT, together with the Swans Academy, have put an exciting new program together for 2014. Talented boys, from U/13-U/16, will be identified to take part in the Northern NSW AFL Development Program, where they will have direct links to the Swans Academy, and other Talented Player Program opportunities.
The program itself, will see 22 x U/13-14 boys, plus 22 x U/15-16 year old boys form squads, and represent the Hunter, Central Coast, Coffs Harbour and Port Macquarie. The squads of 22 will be made up of boys from the Swans Academy, and the Northern NSW AFL Development Program. AFL Development Program players will take part in Swans Academy training sessions, run locally on Monday evenings, and be put through their paces by Head Coaches, Courtney Knight (Hunter) and Chris Bishop (Central Coast). Expressions of Interest will also go out, for local coaches to join this program, and look after the squads during the Carnivals.
Following the annual Newcastle Vs Central Coast Challenge Cup fixtures, these squads will take part in a Carnival on the South Coast, as well as the Northern NSW Carnival, featuring all 4 Northern NSW regions. From here, a Northern NSW U/14 and U/16 team will be announced, with further opportunities for the U/13’s and U/14’s to represent the Northern Coast, in Albury’s Joss State Zone Trials. Furthermore, all AFL Development Program players have the opportunity to impress Swans Academy coaches and selectors.
AFL Manager – Hunter/Central Coast, Simon Smyth, is ecstatic to announce this program.
“This is what clubs, players and parents in our region have wanted for years. It’s an opportunity for the next wave of talented boys, to showcase the skills that we have in the Hunter/Central Coast, and be a part of this wonderful program. To tap into the existing Swans Academy infrastructure, whilst training locally, is a big advantage for families in our region. Importantly as well, it is an opportunity for some of our talented coaches to develop their knowledge of the game, and assist these young boys with their development.
The first intake of the AFL Development Program participants commence training on Monday, March 10. For more information on this program, please contact simon.smyth@aflnswact.com.au
Last Modified on 20/03/2014 20:39