Rippon is the only Rooster in the VFL’s initial 40-strong representative training squad selected to prepare for a clash with the SANFL at Port Melbourne on May 31.

He will need to make the most of every opportunity to further impress VFL coach Damien Carroll and his selectors if he is to make the next cut.

Rippon is in his second year on North Ballarat’s senor list, having debuted at VFL senior level as a 23rd player while still with the North Ballarat Rebels under-18s in 2012.

He played 12 VFL matches last season and has lined up in all the Roosters’ five games this year.

North Ballarat has made two changes as its chases a second win after defeating Footscray by two points in its latest outing on May 4.

The Roosters have lost North Melbourne captain Andrew Swallow to the Kangaroos.

Swallow had two hit-outs with North Ballarat on his return from a ruptured Achilles tendon to help regain match fitness.

North Ballarat has also left out Chris Baxter, but has regain Brad McKenzie from North Melbourne and recalled the tall Lucas Cook, who has been named at full back.

This will be McKenzie’s first appearance with the Roosters this season, but has been a regular over the past two seasons.

While coach Gerard FitzGerald will be celebrating a VFA/VFL coaching record-breaking 314th game, his main focus will be ensuring the Roosters get toe victory they need against the winless Dolphins.

INJURY LIST: Oliver Tate (hamstring 1 week, Jacob Werts (wrist) 1 week, Mitch Rodd (Abductor) 2-3 weeks, Ash Simpson (ankle) indefinite, Damien Semmens (hand) indefinite, Matt Austin (shoulder) indefinite.

david.brehaut@fairfaxmedia.com.au