HAWKESBURY Saints under 14s Daniel Spiteri and David Clinch could be lining up alongside Sydney Swans stars like Barry Hall, Brett Kirk and Adam Goodes in about three or four years.
The pair (pictured) have been selected in the 2005 Swans Academy, a new initiative of the AFL and the Sydney Swans aiming to further educate and inspire talented young players in the many elements associated with the game.
The boys, who play across the centreline for the Saints, are part of a 20-strong under 14 squad picked from all over NSW.
"They're the only two from the GWFA (Greater Western Football Association, which also includes clubs from Penrith, Blue Mountains, Emu Plains and St Clair) in the squad," Hawkesbury president Geanna Smith said.
"It shows that it doesn't matter who you play for, whether it's a big or a small club, if you try out for reps and you're good enough, you'll always be recognised."
The academy will involve two camps totalling 16 hours of intensive focus training and education led by key Swans players.
The single-day camps are proposed to be held on Saturday, December 10 and Saturday, February 4 in Sydney.
AFL NSW/ACT talent manager Darren Denneman said the squad was picked after the recent state under 14 carnival.
"Senior Swans players will be on hand at the camps and we'll try to advance their education in all things associated with playing at an elite level, like sports science and injury recovery," he said.
"It's an initiative we began this year. The selectors have identified the type of players who they think can be future AFL players.
"Hopefully one day these boys can play for the Swans."
In more good news for Hawkesbury Football Club, their senior team, Nor-West Jets, finished the season last weekend as undefeated minor premiers.
Hawkesbury's under 10s, 12s and 14s were also crowned minor premiers and go into this Saturday's semi-finals at Bensons Lane as good chances to advance to the grand final.
Last Modified on 01/08/2005 16:54
