AFL Queensland regional manager Kieran Daley is optimistic the future is bright for the next generation of Far North talent, with three juniors selected in the initial Queensland State Academy under-16 representative squad.
The squad was selected following the under-16 state carnival at Burpengary recently, with Cairns’ Alex Davies, Jaceb Baldwin and Jack Willis all impressing.
The trio are now in a 36- player pool selected in the representative squad to compete at the under-16 national championships in New South Wales and Queensland from June 11 to July 14.
Daley said the trio all had promise ahead of the squad being finalised following the state academy camp on May 19-20 at Burleigh.
“Alex is a new-age midfielder, a super-clean and hardworking midfielder who was also selected in the under-18 state basketball side,” Daley said.
“Jaceb is a mobile, tough and athletically gifted midfielder, explosive from contest and strong hands on the lead — has also played a large number of senior football games with the Cairns Saints
“Jack has recently relocated from Victoria and is an extremely competitive, versatile key-position player.
“Jack attacks the football in the air and also has strong hands.”
AFL Academies manager, Mark Browning said he was pleased by the statewide representation in the squad.
“The selected squad highlights the high talent and depth of players at the youth level in Queensland,” Browning said.
UNDER 16 STATE SQUAD
Alex Davies (Manunda Hawks)
Jaceb Baldwin (Cairns Saints)
Jack Willis (Centrals Trinity Beach)
