Two players will make their debuts for the Greater Western Victoria Rebels in a round four TAC Cup competition clash against Calder Cannons at home on Sunday.
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Josh Bibby, an under-17 player from the Warrack Eagles Football Club, comes into the side as the 23rd player bringing an ability to play both ends of the ground and a strong left-foot kick.
He is joined by Hamilton’s James Cleaver, who is a top age player and one of the most athletic on the Rebels’ list having displayed good speed and endurance.
Meanwhile, Elliot Lamb (North City) makes his return after breaking a finger late in the preseason, while Tom Clark (East Point) is also back from injury to play a pivotal role in the team.
The experienced Thomas Berry (Horsham Saints) played in the Vic Country trial last weekend after suffering a serious knock to the midriff in the Rebels’ first game. His return to the lineup will add some leadership.
The Rebels talent manager Phil Partington said the players were busy during the bye being involved in Vic Country and school matches.
“It has been a big couple of weeks emotionally for the boys as well with the passing of one of our staff members,” Partington said. “The boys were fresh on the track tonight (Thursday) and every game is a challenge at TAC Cup level so just hoping the boys have recovered and play with a bit of spirit.”
The Rebels’ 1.30pm fixture at Mars Stadium is part of a triple header involving the Rebels’ under-16 Girls Futures Squad and TAC Cup Girls also taking on the Calder Cannons.
The clash also marks the Rebels’ charity match with all proceeds raised going directly to sick children and their families at the Ronald McDonald House.
The Rebels raised more than $4000 last year and are hoping to beat this target.
“It’s a huge day for our program,” Partington said.
“We also have every year a young boy or girl come in and be a part of the program that have gone through some illness and hardship in their life and stayed at the Ronald McDonalds House.
“They come into the team meeting and get involved in the warm-ups and interchange areas. We call it the Rebels’ rookie for the day.
“It brings our boys a bit closer together and makes sure they understand how lucky they are to be fit and healthy.”
