The West Coast Eagles squad converged on UWA Sports Park yesterday to take a look at some stars of the future.
Senior Schools Country Week, which was inaugurated in 1983, was in full swing as students from regional WA took part in several sports, with the Eagles keeping a keen eye on the country regions’ football talent.
The week is available to all senior high schools as an annual event for country schools to participate in basketball, dance, boys and girls AFL, hockey, netball, soccer, speech and debating, touch and volleyball.
Gallery: What is Country Week all about?
Eagles skipper Shannon Hurn, who hails from country South Australia, says it’s great for kids from the country to show their talents.
“Being a country boy I always like coming to these events and showing a bit of support,” he said.
“When I was in primary school I played in a few ‘Country Weeks’ and they went into High School as well.
“Being here at the Eagles I’ve been to 10 of them now, so it’s great to come along and see the kids, they’ve come from all over the state.
“It’s great for everyone to come and spend some time together, play some games and enjoy each other’s company.”
West Australian Football Commission Schools Competitions Manager Clayton Anderson says it’s an opportunity which can turn into more than just a bit of fun for the participants.
“It is a breeding ground for the future stars of tomorrow,” he said.
“WAFL clubs and their talent departments are certainly down looking at these particular events and hoping to find their stars of tomorrow.”