The program has been inspired by the success experienced in the northern states with the likes of Sydney and Greater Western Sydney academies producing some of the countries best talent.

The difference between the academy program and current systems in the mould of the North Ballarat Rebels’ program is the age that players enter the system. 

The TAC Cup program has been hugely successful but this latest innovation by the AFL allows clubs to begin scouting and putting young players on its radar at 11 years of age as apposed to 14.

Next Generation Academy Coordinator David Newton said the long-term hope was to develop an academy with the same success as the ones developed in Sydney.

Western Bulldogs receiving western Victoria as its designated zone. With the program also venturing to Horsham, Warrnambool and Footscray.

The kids, ranging from ages 11 to 16, partake in an array of on and off field activities. Including educational sessions and skill work. 

16-year-old Victor Philip, who plays under-16’s for Redan, was one of a strong turn out to St Patrick’s College.

“I heard about how the AFL clubs were bringing out academies, I thought it’d be interesting,

“We’ve just been going into classes where they teach us about specific things.

“It’s really good.”

Another keen footballer to attend the clinic was 14-year-old Tyler Davis.

The dedicated Western Bulldogs fan was rapt to be a part of a developing academy with the side he supports.

Currently playing for North Ballarat at under-14 level, Davis said the program had not only offered the usual football training but also a leadership session, mental health discussion and a presentation from North Ballarat Rebels’ talent manager Phil Partington.