The new North West Blue Heelers development program made an outstanding start at Sunday's first trial in Tamworth.
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![Marked: The Blue Heelers development program welcomed young players from around the North West region on Sunday. Photo: Supplied. Marked: The Blue Heelers development program welcomed young players from around the North West region on Sunday. Photo: Supplied.](/images/transform/v1/crop/frm/ijfQKXbsEKgSKGW5xB5NiF/de0b1e1f-ff8c-4d8d-a5fb-dbff4ed95e62.jpg/r0_0_875_513_w1200_h678_fmax.jpg)
Despite the wet conditions there was a strong turnout by players who showed great commitment and a willingness to learn, two of the key characteristics that the coaches are looking for. The group included players from Inverell, Armidale, Walcha, and Gunnedah.
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The Blue Heelers development program's objective is to help players maximise their potential, whether they're aiming to be the next AFL or AFLW recruit from the region, or just to prepare themselves for the AFL North West season ahead.
Community football manager, Paul Taylor, said a strong platform has been laid.
"We're excited by the response to date, both in terms of the numbers attending and the positive approach to developing as players," Taylor said.
"The Blue Heelers program is much more than just about talent identification, it's about giving players the opportunity to develop no matter their experience or ambition. We saw that yesterday with the group already developing both their individual skills and game sense.
"We have one further trial next Sunday in Armidale and I encourage all boys and girls aged 11 to 17 to nominate this week and come along."
The final selection trial will be held at Armidale Sportsground from 10am to noon on Sunday, April 3. The trial is open to players of both genders, current players and those intending to play this season, who are born between 2005 and 2011 (inclusive). Players wanting to attend the trial should nominate at this link as soon as possible.
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