THE COACH’S CORNER
With Steven Yianni Director Of Coaching
The YJFL trials have been in full swing, drawing young football talents from all corners of the Yarra League. Among the many participants, Daniel, Jude, and Billy from Doncaster Junior Football Club Under 14’s team made a significant impression, earning the honor to represent their club at these prestigious trials.
Jude expressed his gratitude and shared his experience:
“I am very grateful to have been nominated to take part in the YJFL interleague trials. Upon arrival, we were asked to register and take a profile picture holding our name on paper. We then proceeded to start our warmups as a cohort of about 50 participants in my time slot. We were then split into two groups and completed a 2km time trial, which was a very challenging exercise, especially considering it was a 35-degree day. We then had four different drills to complete, with four different YJFL coaches watching and noting our every move. I felt very comfortable taking part in the program trials; I was challenged.
I am very glad I kept up my training in the off-season. This definitely helped me continue my fitness and skills and enabled me to perform well at the trials. We will take part in a trial game in a few weeks and await the result of the YJFL team. If I make the team or not, I am very thankful to have taken part in this program and I thank DJFC and my coaches for allowing me this opportunity.”
From a coaching perspective it was great to see the amount of talent that was at the trials from many clubs in the Yarra League our boys certainly did not look out of place mixing it with the best in the competition. In 2024 these boys made a significant impact both at training & on game day that earned them their spots in this years trails. Its not going to be easy as there were 100 Under 14 boys trialing for 55 spots. At under 14’s things start to get a little bit serious for the boys, the hard work is just beginning. There are many pathways into the AFL its just the start of the process.
Please take note the pre season training will commence in a couple of weeks we will start to get communication out to all parents/ carers & families.
This year under 8 under 9 under 10 & under 11’s will train together on the same night. Under 12, under 13, under 14’s will train together on the same night.
Before season start i look forward to catching up with all parents, carers & families.
