Western Australia’s top Indigenous talent met at Mineral Resources Park on Friday June 25^th for the Flying Boomerangs trial match.

The 15 and 16 year olds battling it out under the light of a full moon, after a match-opening Welcome to Country by Noongar elder and inaugural West Coast Eagle, Phil ‘Magic’ Narkle.

Narkle, the WAFC Aboriginal and Inclusion Leader, then lead the selection committee alongside AFL Diversity Talent Manager Paul Vandenberg.

The committee selecting 14 players from the match to attend an AFL camp later in the season, which will culminate with a game against the World Team made up of 15-to-16 year old Multicultural participants.

In the trial match, Kieren Douglas led the charge for the West Coast outfit, who snared the first three majors in rapid succession.

From there, Fremantle fought back in a valiant effort which saw the back and forth affair continue late into the third term.

Neither side was able to break the game open until Lance Collard’s explosive midfield display in the fourth quarter, which led to him finishing the match with four goals.

Aaron Hubert’s effort must also be commended, with his pressure in the contest also a vital addition to the West Coast victory and six-goal haul in the final quarter.

Head coach Jacob Brennan was pleased with the resilience displayed by the young side, and those chosen to participate in the AFL camp.

“The boys showed fantastic spirit after being challenged often throughout the night," he said.

“To finish off so strongly in the last quarter was very pleasing and a real credit to the team.

“We are really proud of their efforts and all boys have made great claim for final selection in the Boomerangs.”

After the match, both sides banded together to celebrate their achievements.

Game Development Officer Chris Brown praising the sportsmanship on display from both teams.

“As always it was a great showing of comradery by all, and the was game played in fantastic spirits,” he said.

“All players working hard and showcasing the incredible skills and talent on display.

“The players who participated span across Western Australia and it was fantastic to see them partake in the program.

“Thanks to Wade Spilcker and the Fremantle NGA team for a cracking contest and in helping make the event possible.”

At the end of the night, in what was a difficult task for the selection committee, the following seven West Coast Players were chosen to participate in the Flying Boomerangs AFL camp to be held later in the year.

Aaron Hubert (East Perth), Anthony Hansen (South West), Cruz Woodley (Subiaco), Lance Collard (Subiaco), Kieren Douglas (Subiaco), Joseph Harp (Perth), Ali Al-Shuweli (Perth)

Emergencies: Caylon Seelander (Subiaco) & Tynan Gower (Perth)

Participation in the Naitanui Program is also free to all players due to the ongoing support of BHP, removing financial barriers for all.