Blue Heelers rep program set to return in 2023
As more players flock to Junior footy within AFL North West, the opportunity to be part of the Blue Heelers representative program will be offered again in 2023.
The Blue Heelers program is supported by the QBE Sydney Swans Academy and is for club registered males and females born between 2006 and 2012. The program exists to further develop players’ skills, game sense, and footy IQ, and to take part in the Northern NSW representative carnival that will be held in Coffs Harbour from Saturday 8 to Monday 10 July.
Nominations are now open for coaches wishing to be involved in the North West Blue Heelers Junior representative program for 2023.
Blue Heelers coaches will have access to professional development opportunities, guidance, and technical advice from QBE Sydney Swans Academy personnel. This is a great opportunity for local coaches to build their knowledge and skill set for the benefit of all teams they coach.
Coaches wishing to nominate should complete the online form that can be found here. Nominations should be submitted by Friday 28 April.
The Blue Heelers program will be conducted across the following dates:
- Sunday 14 May in Inverell
- Sunday 28 May in Armidale
- Sunday 25 June in Tamworth
Nominations for players will open soon with advice to be provided through the League’s social media channels.
With former locals Alice Mitchell contracted to the Swans AFLW team and Jack Dadd being a train-on player with the Swans VFL side, plus current players Ruby Spark, Lauren Appleby, and Dusty Hagon all members of the Swans Academy, the region is gaining a reputation as a developer of AFL talent. The Blue Heelers program is the first step on this pathway and is a great chance for Junior players to take their game to the next level.
