The duo were among five Northern Heat players to make the squad in a diversified squad that will forge their case for selection in the Under 16 National Championships later in the year at the Gold Coast.
Gillingham and Taylor, along with Dylan Burkitt, who was injured during the State Trials, will go into camp at the Sydney Academy of Sport in Narrabeen this weekend as part of their preparations. A strong pre-season has aided these two dedicated footballers in gaining selection. They were given premium opportunity to impress in the midfield at the State Trials with both putting in strong performances.
It is the greatest North Coast representation in the State squad ever. Those who missed out this time as encouraged to perservere with opportunities present to represent at a state and national level right through to the Under 18s.
The following components were integral to making the final decisions regarding the State side:
Match performances at Riverview
Feedback from AFL Club Recruiting staff
Attendance and improvement in performance outcomes at regional training centres
Being able to play a specific role within a team structure
The ability to listen to and apply both individual and team feedback at zone level
The physical attributes and skills necessary to excel at the next level
The full side, coaching staff and further information can be found by accessing the AFL NSW/ACT website.
Note: We have some very astute followers of the game locally. In our recent poll, 45% of voters suggested 1-2 players would make the State side.
Last Modified on 29/04/2008 21:26