The Redtails Under 18 Academy will play the Goldfields League Under 18 team from country Victoria in a two-game exhibition series in Alice Springs beginning this week.
After a successful visit in 2018 which included a cultural visit to the Ntaria primary school, the Goldfields team were excited to put plans into place to return.
The concept for the two regions to play each other was formed in late 2017 and was further developed by the Goldfields Regional Manager, Rod Ward in conjunction with AFLNT Central Australia Pathways Academy Coach, Andy Hood.
The Goldfields team is comprised of the four leagues around the Victorian districts of Bendigo and Ballarat and the Redtails Under 18 team has players from the CAFL and remote communities, including Amoonguna, Harts Range, Hermannsburg, Papunya and Santa Teresa.
The Goldfields were the winners of last year’s only game, defeating the Redtails Academy by 34 points in a fast-paced and entertaining game.
Hood believes the series will be another great development opportunity for the two teams.
“These opportunities are so valuable for our Under 18 players as it gives them not only an chance to test their ability against such a quality region, but it also gives us a look at players that can progress on to other talent programs.
“It’s great for the players to get involved and focus on football.
“Last year was a rewarding experience and we know there is a challenge ahead which we embrace for the development of our players,” Hood said.
The first game will be played at 4.15pm on Tuesday 9 April at Albrecht Oval followed by a second game on Thursday 11 April also at 4.15pm at Albrecht Oval.
