DEPPRO WAFL State 16s Academy initial squad announced

The DEPPRO WAFL State 16s Academy initial squad has been announced following the conclusion of the WAFL 16s Carnival and WAFL 16s All Stars match.

Both events gave Academy coaches and selectors the opportunity to view the State’s best 16-year-old players in game situations and select the squad in preparation for the 2016 NAB AFL National 16s Championships in June and July this year.

Selectors will continue assessing talent that can be added to squad in the lead-up to the Championships.

The Academy program will include a 10-week training schedule, two camps, combine testing and four trial matches before the final team is selected to represent WA at the National 16s Championships.

State Talent Manager Adam Jones said the Academy had a strong commitment to developing individual players holistically, which included conducting skills, leadership, nutrition and education sessions to enhance the overall development of all players.

“This program is not only a great opportunity to develop talented players with the chance to represent our State, but help them grow and develop as leaders both on and off the field,” he said.

“We look forward to working with Western Australia’s most talented young players throughout the program and congratulate each of them on their selection.”

2016 State 16s Academy Squad

NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP FIXTURES

Saturday, June 25, 11.20am – WA v SA at AAMI Stadium

Monday, July 4, 3pm – WA v VIC Country at Metricon Stadium

Friday, July 8, 10am – WA v VIC M at Southport

STAFF & COACHES

Adam Jones – State Talent Manager

Clayton Anderson – Talent Programs Coordinator

Aaron Ballantyne – State Talent Officer

John Hancock – Head Coach

Ivan Barratt – Chairman of Selectors

Paul Prior – Selector

Trevor Schorer – Selector

Vince Del Prete – Team Manager

Kasey Green – Assistant Coach

Stephen Thomson – Assistant Coach

Neil Mildenhall – Assistant Coach

Adrian Bland – Runner/Development Coach

Rob Young – Ruck Coach

Simon Walsh – Strength & Conditioning Coach

Brett Buist – Physiotherapist

Emily Masters – Physiotherapist

Dr Lionel Lim – Doctor

Dr Tom Hill – Doctor

Photo: 2015 State 16s Academy playing against the South West team.