By Nick Creely
The initial squads for the 2017 AFL Under 18 Women’s Championships have been released, with a whopping nine Dandenong Stingrays selected for Vic Country representation.
Headlining the act is inaugural TAC Cup Girls best-and-fairest winner Bridie Kennedy, who shone for the Rays this year in a brilliant individual season and is a chance to be named captain.
Scott Gowans will lead the Vic Country side for the second year running with a more experienced group than disappointed last year with eight AFL Academy players featuring in the squad.
Stingrays’ coach Dee Longwill provides an insight into each of the Stingrays selected in the squad:
Jordyn Allen, 16, 173cm:
“Experienced and very skilful around the backline but can play any position around the ground. She works hard to improve and is a role model to her peers.”
Ruby Clayton, 17, 162cm:
“A strong forward line player with a long kick and a fierce player who wants to improve.”
Georgia Gee, 17, 157cm:
“Her experience and knowledge of the game is amazing. Is footy smart, and her direction and positioning is outstanding.”
Courtney Jones, 16, 164cm:
“Natural talent, loves to kick a goal or two, works hard and always wants to improve and learn from her peers and role models.”
Bridie Kennedy, 17, 172cm:
“Played mainly in the ruck, but had chances as a ruck rover. Was up for the challenge as we didn’t have many talls. Is a fantastic leader and role model for all young talent coming through.”
Sophie Phillips, 17, 163cm:
“Strong tackler and hard at the ball and always encouraging her teammates.”
Samantha Ryan, 17, 170cm:
“Natural talent, strong overhead and a massive kick.”
Isabella Shannon, 15, 175cm:
“Young talented backline player but played in midfield last game of the season and kicked two goals. Her run and clearance in the backline was outstanding.”
Brooke Struylaart, 16, 164cm:
“Traditional forward line player who has the potential to play down back . Is a skilful player with a fantastic kicking style.”
The Stingrays, along with the Murray Bushrangers, featured the most representatives, in what is a major positive for the south-east area. Geelong Falcons and GWV Rebels each have five players in the squad, Gippsland Power has four and Bendigo Pioneers have three.
The first-round will be played at Simonds Stadium in Geelong on 17 June, and will then continue a month later on the Gold Coast from 10 July, with each team playing three matches.
2017 AFL UNDER 18 WOMEN’S FIXTURE VIC COUNTRY:
Saturday 17 June – vs Vic Metro Monday
10 July, 10:00am – vs Queensland Wednesday
12 July, 11:40am – vs NSW / ACT Friday
14 July, 11:40am – vs Western Australia
