Western Australia’s State 16s and 18s celebrated the conclusion of a successful NAB AFL National Championships campaign with an official function at Patersons Stadium on Monday, August 27.
The group of 72 elite youth footballers were joined by parents, AFL recruiters, West Australian Football Commission staff and WAFL staff to recognise some of the individual performances of the year and the overall success of the State Academy.
Some memorable moments from the Championships included the State 16’s National Championship win, the State 18’s convincing win over Vic Country, which was the first in three years, as well as a number of outstanding individual performances.
The high number of WA players selected for the AIS AFL academy for the second consecutive year was also acknowledged.
The night also saw the winners of the fairest and best announced for each of the squads and acted as a farewell for academy staff members Larry Cavallo, Mark Pashby and Ken Ferguson who have contributed outstanding service to the WA State Academy.
The State Academy Award winners were fortunate to receive signed jumpers and gift vouchers from the West Coast Eagles, Fremantle Football Club, the Sydney Swans and Hawthorn Football Club.
AWARD WINNERS
State 16’s
Fairest & Best - Shayne Hille (East Perth) - pictured left
Runner Up - Bradley Walsh (Peel Thunder)
3rd - Clem Smith (Perth)
Coaches award – Josh Deluca (Subiaco)
State 18’s
Fairest & Best - Marco Paparone (East Fremantle) - pictured top
Runner Up - Dayle Garlett (Swan Districts)
3rd - Nick Rodda (West Perth)
Coaches Award - Sean Lynch (South Fremantle)
MVP of the 18’s Championships - Jack Martin (Claremont)
