Representative footy to return to Tasmania
UTAS Stadium is set to host one of the highlights of the football calendar in 2019, with an under-25 Tasmania Devils representative team to host a visiting under-25 side representing Victorian metro leagues.
The match will be part of a huge triple-header on Sunday June 9 and will followthe round 10 NAB League clash between the Tasmania Devils and Murray Bushrangers and the NAB U18 National Championships clash between the Allies and Victoria Country.
The representative match will provide the state’s best players under 25 an opportunity to represent Tasmania and play against quality opposition in front of AFL recruiters.
This chance to play in front of AFL recruiters will be crucial for all players taking to the field as part of the triple-header.
AFL Tasmaniaregional talent managers Jamie Hayward and Darren Trevena will coach the Tassie side with TSL coaches set to also be engaged as assistants. Victoria Metro’s under-25 side will be coached by 199-game Footscray champion Brian Royal.
AFL Tasmania State Manager – Tasmanian State League Carl Saunder says the chance to play for the state is something players from the TSL and other community competitions will relish.
“This is a great opportunity for the state’s best young players to showcase their talent on a big stage,” Mr Saunder said.
“To be able to have the state’s best young talent potentially playing across three matches at a premier venue will undoubtedly be a highlight on our football calendar for season 2019.”
AFL Tasmania Football Manager Craig Notman insists this will be an important momentfor the Devils pathway.
“With an eye towards a VFL licence in 2021, this is a great chance for players to represent their state and impress in front of home fans and AFL recruiters, who will also be there to watch the NAB U18 National Championships and NAB League action.
“Footy fans will enjoy seeing Tasmania participating in representative footyand I know the players taking to the field will appreciate and understand the significance of the day,” Mr Notman said.
Head of AFL Victoria Rick Bell is thrilled to witness the talent that will be on show in Tasmania.
“The representative match is a great opportunity for our best Vic Metro community footballers to experience playing football in an elite environment in front of AFL recruiters.
“We are excited to see some of the best of two states come together in what will undoubtedly be a high quality encounter,” Mr Bell said.
Sunday June 9 – UTAS Stadium, Launceston
NAB League – Tasmania Devils v Murray Bushrangers
NAB U18 National Championships- Allies v Victoria Country
U25s Representative Match- Tasmania Devils v Victoria Metro
Times TBC
