It looks like another monster year for our junior footballers, with over 150 youngsters taking to the field for the 2024 season in eight different teams.
As has been the case in the past six or so years, the Bulldogs will be fielding two teams in the U10, U12 and U14 divisions.
For the first time in the club's history Phillip Island will field an U14 girls only team, as well as the Youth Girls team.
Junior President Luke Marshall is looking forward to a big year and is excited to see the girls' teams expanding.
"There's certainly been a lot of interest.
"We could definitely have also fielded an U12 team, but the league couldn't facilitate it," he said.
The U14 girls are being trained by Justin Tilley.
"Justin is very enthusiastic and focused on fitness and the team is attracting good numbers," Luke said.
"Last year we had a one-off game against Bass (girls only) for the 10-12 age group.
"Forty-five girls trained and played. That was when we realised there was a real call for girls-only teams.
"There were plenty of girls happy to play, but they didn't want to play mixed."
Any girls interested in joining are encouraged to come down to training or to contact the club.
Younger girls (U10 and U12) are playing in the mixed teams, where Luke said the focus is on developing each player.
"We have even game time for all the kids, whether they are first or last on the list.
"That way they can all improve together. No one gets better sitting on the bench."
2024 season
Last year, three of the junior teams made it through to the finals (U12 Red, U12 Blue and U14 Blues), with U12 Red runners up for the season.
With good numbers and a strong coaching team in place, Luke thinks the juniors will be just as competitive this year.
U10 coaches are Tarryn Allan and Steve Regnier.
"We have really good numbers at this level. The teams don't play for points; it's all about getting as many playing as we can," Luke said.
U12's will be coached by Mick Cleary and Bianca Helmuth-Pask, and Luke expects that once again, both teams will be very competitive.
U14 coaches are Mark Riky and Jon Parry.
"The U14 teams should have a good year, because of their determination and teamwork," Luke said, noting there was still room for a few more players if any were interested.
Alongside the coaching staff, Luke said the junior teams are supported by team managers working in the background.
"They organise the team kit and build a roster for the jobs that need doing. They do a mountain of work.
"The help from parents on game days is important. It's a case of the more the merrier helping out."
Junior football season kicks off on Sunday April 21, with Phillip Island Red verses Dalyston and Phillip Island Blue verses Wonthaggi.
Come down and support the future of Phillip Island football.
