2021 Queensland State U17 male squad announced

31 rising stars have been named in the Queensland State U17 squad to compete at the upcoming NAB AFL National U17 Championships.

The Championships will be held on the Gold Coast, from Monday 5^th – Friday 9^th July, 2021.

Queensland State Talent Manager, Mark Browning, said the squad was full of promising players.  

“This squad is a very exciting group of young men, with a lot of talent and it’s fantastic to have some North Queenslanders in the mix,” he said.

“The team has played two Academy Series games over the past week, with a win going each way to the Brisbane Lions and Gold Coast SUNS.

“It was a fantastic experience for both academies to play under lights at Metricon Stadium last night. It was a great opportunity for the players to step up and I’m excited to see what they’ll be able to produce come the national championships in July.”

The squad is led by former Brisbane Lions and Gold Coast SUNS AFLW player and captain, Sam Virgo.

Virgo announced her retirement from playing in the AFLW at the end of the 2021 season.

“Sam is the first female to coach an under 17 male state team in Australia, which is great for Queensland and great for the squad,” said Browning.

“She’s a terrific coach and is part of the AFL Female High Performance coaching group.”

A final team of 24 players will be announced on Wednesday June 23^rd, 2021.

“We congratulate the selected players and thank all other players who participated in the Academy Series for their efforts and wish them all the best for the season ahead,” said Browning.

STAFF