The stars are firing in the Central Highlands Football League, however, it's the blooding of youngsters that has been a welcomed surprise to start the 2021 season.
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Multiple clubs have played double-digit debutantes through the first three rounds, a reflection of the quality of the juniors climbing the ranks in the region.
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Learmonth is one club leading the way in this category, naming 11 debutantes to start the year.
Lakies coach Nick Willox told The Courier it's exciting for the club to see junior kids make their debut in the senior ranks.
"It is a real positive for the team and club to have so many debut in one season," he said.
"Majority have come through the (under-18s) as mates and are creating a new culture of players.
"Plenty of energy with the youth and a good mix for our senior experienced players as they keep us younger and hungry.
"Each week they improve and that's all we ask."
Reigning grand finalists Hepburn had nine players with under 10 games experience and 14 under 50 games in its 89-point win over Waubra.
"To have such a strong win like that when you've got such a young list or inexperienced list, we were just hoping that excitement factor and enthusiasm would actually get us over the line," co-coach Jason Olver said.
"They were awesome, they really were."
Its opponents, reigning premiers Waubra, have found themselves in a similar situation.
Seven players have made their debuts for the Roos, including Lachy Rinaldi and Monty Judd who are holding down key position spots on the ground.
The undefeated Rokewood Corindhap have had 10 players debut, a good sign for the Hoppers as they sit comfortably at second on the ladder.
The side one spot below them, Buninyong, and top team Gordon, have debuted five have made their debut, four of those playing in each of the first three rounds for the Bombers.
Coach Shaun O'Loughlin said it's been a huge plus for his side to have a core group of young players.
"It has been fantastic for our club to have so many younger players making their way into senior footy," he said.
"It has also been pleasing to see them all taking on different roles each week and growing as senior footballers.
"(They) have added great excitement and enthusiam to our group. They are all growing in confidence and and enjoying the opportunity to play senior footy.
"Our more experienced players are also thriving on the energy that they bring and the opportunity to help guide them along the journey."
Bungaree, despite its 0-3 start to the year, can find confidence in the fact that five players under the age of 21 have played consistent senior footy this season.
Despite a more experienced list as a whole, Skipton have also continued to player some inexperienced players in the opening three rounds.
Ed Boyer has played two senior games at centre half back, while Cree Stranks, Bailey McKimmie and Jake Maddock all sit in the 19 to 20 age bracket with four to five senior nods under their belt.
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