Forming part of a 33-boy squad from across the Goulburn Murray, North East Border and Southern NSW regions, Murphy and Pambai were selected after strong performances at trials in Wangaratta two weeks ago.
Murray Bushrangers under-16 boys assistant coach Simon Grumley said he was excited about what the next two years hold for this crop of footballers.
“We know the importance of supporting talented young footballers at this stage of their development,” Grumley said.
“In two years from now some of these players will be weeks from joining an AFL club via the national draft in November 2024.
“Both Oliver Hollands (Wodonga) and Brayden George (Tatura/Wangaratta Rovers) were in this position at the start of 2020. A combination of hard work and dedication has placed them well for this year’s AFL draft.”
Murray Bushrangers talent lead Mick Wilson said he was pleased local junior talent pathways could resume usual programming this year following a disrupted past two seasons.
“It’s exciting to return to pre-COVID schedules within the AFL talent pathways,” Wilson said.
“Importantly, throughout COVID, local clubs provided outstanding support to players and people within their communities.
“We received more than 180 nominations for the under-16 boys squad which reflects the enthusiasm of coaches and volunteers to support their talented young footballers.”
The squad will begin pre-season training at Wangaratta on Sunday, November 20.
Locals selected in Murray Bushrangers’ under-16 boys pre-season squad
Hugh Murphy (Seymour)
Melvic Pambai (Seymour)
