State 16s named for Nationals

Western Australia’s State 16s squads have been finalised for the 2013 NAB AFL National 16s Championships at Blacktown, NSW from July 6-13.

WA is aiming for back-to-back titles in Division 1 and 3 of the championships after claiming both in 2012 when the state was represented for the first time across two divisions.

The Division 1 side will be led by experienced development coach John Hancock, who was State 18s Assistant Coach last year and an Assistant Coach for the State 16s in 2010 and 2011.

WA’s Division 3 side has been formed out of the North West Academy, which includes players from the Kimberley, Pilbara, and Gascoyne regions. It will be led by head coach Phil Narkle.

The State Academy players have undertaken skills training, leadership, nutrition and education sessions to enhance their overall development in the lead up to the Championships. The final squads have been selected based on form, fitness and commitment to the program.

WAFC State Academy Manager Raff Guadagnino said he expected this year’s 16s to be on of WA’s strongest ever groups.

“The state selectors and I believe the WAFL development programs have taken player development to a new level, which has produce such promising talent.” Guadagnino said.

Of the Division Three players who represented WA last year, 60 per cent went on to play WAFL Colts football.

State 16s Squad list 2013

WA NW Squad list 2013

CHAMPIONSHIP FIXTURES

Blacktown International Sportspark

Division 1

WA v Victoria Country – Saturday 6 July 2.30pm

WA v SA – Tuesday 9 July 1.10pm

WA v Victoria Metro – Friday 12 July 10am

Division 3

WA North West v World XVIII – Sunday 7 July 11am

WA North West v Flying Boomerangs – Wednesday 10 July 2.20pm

WA North West v South Pacific – Saturday 13 July 11.30am