Excitement builds for 2023 Torrens University SANFL U18s and U16s

By ZAC MILBANK

The 2023 Torrens University SANFL U18 and U16 seasons promise to be the most exciting yet.

Featuring father-son prospects and a host of talented players priming themselves for the 2023 AFL Draft, South Australia’s prestigious elite talent competitions will be the only SANFL matches in action during the AFL Gather Round from April 13 to 16.

SANFL Head of Talent Brenton Phillips said the spotlight would shine on the State’s best teenage talent in Round 4, with AFL Gather Round presenting an ideal opportunity to showcase the Torrens University SANFL U18s and U16s in front of all AFL clubs and talent scouts.

Phillips said maximising this unique and historic opportunity, having four of the eight U16 and U18 matches played in conjunction with AFL club visits at SANFL venues, was a high priority.

At Hisense Stadium, West Adelaide will host Central District in the Torrens University SANFL U18s and U16s ahead of Collingwood’s training session on the afternoon of Saturday April 15.

At Prospect Oval, North Adelaide will tackle Sturt in the Torrens University SANFL U18s and U16s following Richmond’s player appearance on the morning of Saturday April 15.

“We’re set for one of the most exciting seasons yet for the Torrens University SANFL U18s and U16s, with AFL Gather Round being a highlight,” Phillips said.

“The depth of talent across all eight SANFL Clubs is also testament to the experienced and passionate Centre of Excellence coaches and staff at clubs who help ensure our talent pathway is one of the best in Australia.’’

Phillips also acknowledged the ongoing support of naming rights partner Torrens University Australia which was enabling SANFL to expand its elite male competitions.

In 2022, SANFL extended its Torrens University SANFL U16s season to 18 rounds, providing talented male players from the age of 15 with the opportunity to train and play at their SANFL Club for the whole year.

Torrens University Australia Chief Commercial Officer Jerome Casteigt said Torrens University Australia was proud of the longstanding partnership with the SANFL.

“Just as we support the growth and success of our students, this partnership ensures continued growth and success of the SANFL elite male competitions and talent programs,” he said.

“We’re looking forward to seeing the talent of these up-and-coming players showcased throughout this year’s season.”

Saturday March 25
Central v Glenelg at X Convenience Oval – 12.15pm
West v Eagles at Hisense Stadium – 4.30pm

Sunday March 26
Sturt v North at Thebarton Oval – 11am
South v Norwood at Flinders University Stadium – 1.15pm

Saturday March 25
Central v Glenelg at X Convenience Oval – 10am
West v Eagles at Hisense Stadium – 2pm

Sunday March 26
South v Norwood at Flinders University Stadium – 11am
Sturt v North at Thebarton Oval – 1.30pm