Barrier Daily Truth

A Giant challenge

Wednesday, 1st February, 2012

CHALLENGE: Fifteen-year-old footballers Mitchell Henderson (South) and Cohen Smith (West) will be trying out for the Riverina combined team to compete in the GWS Giants zone series.

By Darrin Manuel

Talented Under 16 footballers can get a taste of life in an AFL team next month when the Giants Zone series of carnivals begin.

The series will see local players join footballers from across the Riverina zone for combined games held across the State.

Riverina will take on teams from ACT/South Coast, Greater Western Sydney (GWS), Albury and Murray areas. Three consecutive carnivals will be held in as many weeks, with games at Narrandera, Albury and Canberra.

Riverina Coach Dale Tonkin said the hectic travel schedule would give players an impression of what they can expect if they make it to AFL level.

“It will be a small introduction to what AFL teams do. They’re travelling all the time,” he said.

Training for selection in the Riverina team will be held at the Picton Oval today at 5pm, and is open to all top-age Under 16 players.

Mr Tonkin said a breakdown in communication meant players had not received invitations from clubs to take part in the training but that it was open to all players within the age group.

The squad will train for six weeks under Mr Tonkin and assistant Sean Power, with the best players making the cut for the first round of matches in Narrandera on March 3.

“We’ll be working on skill development, decision making, and transition of the ball from defence to attack.

“There’ll also be a high focus on strength, conditioning and fitness.”

Mr Tonkin said those skilled enough to win selection in the Riverina team would gain valuable experience, along with the chance to be chosen for a GWS Giants Academy live-in camp in Sydney at the end of March.

“Obviously it’s a great opportunity for the players to develop their game in ways that they may not normally be able to.

“They’ll be playing at a high level every weekend for three weekends. There’ll be a high level of pressure and intensity - it will be a good step on the path to an AFL career.

“They’ll also receive expert knowledge on other aspects of the game such as nutrition, fitness and recovery.” 

All sports inquiries and results can be directed to Darrin at the BDT by phoning 8087 2354 or via email to: dmanuel@bdtruth.com.au