The first week of April saw the Under 14, NSWCCC AFL Trials take place at Maher Oval, bringing together talented boys and girls from across the state.
Students travelled from as far north as Banora Point on the Queensland border to Albury on the Victorian border, showcasing the depth and reach of AFL within the NSWCCC system.
Following four highly competitive matches in each division, a number of outstanding Sydney Catholic Schools students were selected in the NSWCCC State Team.
These athletes will now progress to the NSW All Schools AFL Trials, to be held in Albury from Monday 1 to Tuesday 2 June 2026, with a preparation camp scheduled for Saturday 30 to Sunday 31 May.
The SCS students who made the NSWCCC Boys Team selections include: Benjamin Orton (Year 8), Marist Catholic College, Penshurst, Henry Groocoe (Year 9), Marist Catholic College, North Sydney, Hugo Millington (Year 8), St Patrick’s College, Sutherland and Liam Higgins (Year 8), Marcellin College Randwick.
The SCS students who made the NSWCCC Girls Team selections include: Charlie Haley (Year 8), Brigidine College Randwick, Marnie Laurence (Year 8), St Clare’s College, Waverley, and Willow Sarkozy (Year 8), St Clare’s College, Waverley.
NSWCCC AFL Selector Declan Donohue praised the overall standard of the trials, noting how impressive the level of skill and competitiveness was across both competitions.
He highlighted in particular the girls’ cohort, who in 2026 are participating in the same pathway trial structure as the boys for the first time.
He also acknowledged “the clear impact of the Sydney Swans Academy in lifting the standard of play across the region, with many athletes demonstrating strong game awareness, skill execution, and confidence,” he said.
Congratulations to these students on their selection and achievement.
We wish them every success as they take the next step in their AFL journey, representing NSWCCC at the upcoming trials.
