Boom Wodonga teenager Elijah Hollands says he’s modelled his game on his mercurial father.
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The 16-year-old faces the league’s ultimate baptism of fire on Saturday, tackling the unbeaten Albury in his senior debut.
Ben Hollands was one of most gifted players during his stints with North Albury and Wodonga, which included the 2004 premiership.
He also played eight games for Richmond in 1999 and was a star with West Adelaide in the SANFL.
“It’s a really big honour to me, growing up and watching dad play and coach,” the teenager said.
“I’ve always wanted to play with the club dad was at, it’s something I won’t take for granted.”
Hollands was recently selected in the All-Australian team for the second successive year after starring for Victoria Country at the national under 16 titles on the Gold Coast.
At 187cms, the Year 11 student is taller than his father, but retains the same uncanny goal sense.
“I’d like to think I play a similar role in the forward line,” he said.
“I definitely think I’ve got a bit of goalsneak nature.”
Hollands is one of two debutants against the Tigers, along with classy Murray Bushrangers’ under 18 forward Hudson Garoni.
The selection against the tough and talented Tigers’ outfit indicates the club’s belief in their ability to handle the physicality.
I play a similar role in the forward line. I definitely think I’ve got a bit of goalsneak nature.
- Elijah Hollands
“I’ve always wanted to play against grown men, it’s just a great challenge coming up against players who are fully matured,” he said.
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