After months of training, the Murray Bushrangers 2019 NAB League season kicks off this weekend.
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The Bushrangers under-18 squad have a round one date with Gippsland Power at RAMS Arena on Sunday, with new coach Mark Brown ready to see his side showcase their talents.
This season marks Brown's fifth year of involvement with the Bushrangers and his first at the helm of the under-18 squad.
"It's good to be in the driver's seat," Brown said.
"There's some promising talent out there so we're excited to see how they go.
"There is always a good turnover of players so it's a different side each year.
"We're definitely excited, it's been a long few months so it will be good to see the boys ply their trade.
"Our focus lies in giving the boys the best opportunity so it will be good to see how the boys equip themselves for the first round."
The region has yet again produced a strong crop of young talent, with plenty of locals named in the 52-player squad.
Among the inclusions is Albury's Ben Kelly and Wodonga Raider's Dylan Clarke, who will play this weekend.
"Ben is a good talent and fits into the key back role seamlessly, so we're looking forward to seeing how he goes this season," Brown said.
"Dylan from Wodonga has come back and is absolutely fearless going for the ball, so we'll see how he progresses.
"Cam Wilson is another good player from Rutherglen who puts good attack on the football.
"We also have Will Chandler from Corowa who is already receiving attention."
The Murray Bushrangers squad continues to be a breeding ground for AFL clubs, with six players picked up from the last squad.
The 2019 NAB League fixture will see the Murray Bushrangers take on the Bendigo Pioneers, Greater Western Victoria Rebels and Sydney Swans Academy in the opening five rounds of the season, with a bye scheduled for round four.
The Bushrangers lineup for round one of the season:
Backs: Ky Williamson (Wangaratta Rovers), Trent Mathes (Wangaratta Magpies), Josh O'Dwyer (Numurkah).
Half Backs: Lachlan Ash (Shepparton), Liam Fiore (Shepparton United), Harry Beasley (Cobram).
Midfield: Sam Durham (Seymour), Cameron Wild (Shepparton), Ben Ashley-Cooper (Finley).
Half forwards: Cam Wilson (Rutherglen), Eddie Keogh (North Albury), Jye Chalcraft (Shepparton United).
Forwards: Elijah Hollands (Wodonga Bulldogs), Will Christie (Wangaratta Rovers), Will Chandler (Corowa Rutherglen).
Rucks: Ben Kelly (Albury), Dylan Clarke (Wodonga Raiders), James Boyer (Congupna).
Interchange: Kade Chalcraft (Shepparton United), Kai Davies (Lavington), Charlie Byrne (Albury), Adam Martin (Albury), Will Quirk (Myrtleford), Jay Hillary (Albury).
Emergencies: Ethan Baxter (Shepparton), Patrick Parnell (Albury), Austin Shepherd (Albury).
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