GIANTS Academy boys coach Tadhg Kennelly says he’s been rapt with the exposure and development of his squad this season, highlighting several young stars who have impressed in their bid to reach the next level.
“We’ve played six games in the Talent League, and it’s been an exciting two months of football,” Kennelly said.
“The group has improved each week and played an attractive brand of GIANTS football.
“A major highlight has been the exposure of our younger talent. We’ve played 22 players aged 17 over the six games, including 14 in our most recent match against the Stingrays. It’s unlikely many other academies have provided that level of opportunity.
“We’ve also introduced four 16-year-olds, who have all performed strongly at the level.”
Kennelly was quick to heap praise on several youngsters after brilliant campaigns to date for the Academy.
“Our top-end talent has been outstanding,” he said.
“Ethan Matthews has been in red-hot form through the midfield over the past month. He’s winning both inside and outside ball while hitting the scoreboard, averaging 35 disposals and three goals per game.
“Our 19-year-olds Jim Houston and Brody Kane have led by example. Houston has been exceptional in defence with his intercepting ability, acting as a wall behind the ball. While Kane has thrived as a pressure forward, creating turnovers in the front half and being rewarded with six goals over the past two games.
Kennelly also highlighted a pair of 17-year-olds.
“Cooper French has adapted quickly to the level. He’s a highly competitive midfielder who works extremely hard and consistently hits the scoreboard, averaging 27 disposals and a goal per game.
“Fellow 17-year-old Bryan Ryan has been a lively presence as a pressure forward. His tackling, evasiveness and high football IQ have made him a constant threat in the front half.”
Rounding out those to impress this season are a stingy defender and a young ruck with a familiar name.
“In defence, 18-year-old Western Sydney product Ryan Mardling has been one of our most reliable one-on-one defenders. He’s rarely beaten and he’s also added an attacking element to his game.
“Finally, 206cm ruckman Baden Smith (brother of recently drafted GIANTS ruck Logan Smith), has shown strong improvement over the past month. After a slowish start to the season, he has improved every week. His tap work and follow-up around the ground have developed significantly.”
Kennelly reiterated his satisfaction with the success of the Academy this season.
“Overall, it’s been extremely pleasing to see our young talent perform strongly while continuing to develop elite AFL standards, both individually and collectively.
“We also had 12 players representing NSW/ACT in the win over South Australia in the trial game last week which was great.
“The Allies squad will also be named shortly and we are hoping to get a few boys named in that, which should be exciting.”
