Queensland’s next generation of AFL hopefuls will be on show this weekend, in the first Brisbane Lions Academy vs Gold Coast SUNS Academy match.
The match, at Leyshon Park, Yeronga, will give the rising stars a chance to show what they’re made of and put forward their case for state U18 selection.
The Gold Coast SUNS Academy brings together some of the best North Queensland talent, selected from last weekend’s North Queensland v Central Queensland match, as well as those in its Gold Coast talent region.
The Brisbane Lions Academy encompasses the Brisbane Metro, Sunshine Coast, Darling Downs and Wide Bay regions.
Players have been through a summer of intense training, and many have been a part of the Academy program for a number of years, from Level 1 (U12 and 13) to the Level 3 (U18).
The Academy programs aim to help develop the state’s best talent, and give them a chance to train and play in an elite environment, giving them the best chance of progressing to the highest level.
Brisbane Lions Academy members, Jonathan Freeman graduated on to the Lions’ senior list this year, while Jordon Bourke is on the rookie list, with Gold Coast SUNS rookies, Andrew Boston and Jared Ellis, also making the transition into the AFL as Academy graduates.
A 25 player squad will be selected from the Academy match, to play in a Queensland U18 side against Morningside on March 8, before the second Academy match on March 15.
The Brisbane Lions Academy vs Gold Coast SUNS Academy match kicks off at 1:00pm at Leyshon Park, Yeronga.
