Future AFL Stars to Shine in U18 National Team Clash

Footy fans in Melbourne will get a glimpse of the game’s next generation this weekend, as the 2025 Marsh AFL National Academy Boys squad takes the field as the Australia U18 team.

The U18s will face Richmond’s VFL side at RSEA Park on Sunday, April 13, in the first of two showcase matches in this year’s national program. They’ll return to action on Sunday, April 27, against Coburg at Mission Whitten Oval.

Featuring top-tier young talent from around the country, the Marsh AFL National Academy supports players during their draft year with elite football development and personal growth opportunities. The program focuses not just on footy skills, but also high-performance training, wellbeing, education, and team-building experiences to prepare players for life in the AFL system.

The squad arrives in Melbourne on Thursday for its second camp of the year, following an initial induction in December. Training sessions will be held at North Melbourne’s Arden Street Oval on Friday and Saturday before Sunday’s match.

Academy Manager Tarkyn Lockyer said representing Australia is a defining moment in the players’ journeys.

“Wearing the Australia jumper is a huge honour and always a highlight of the program. We’re excited to bring the group together this weekend and help them build on their skills both on and off the field.”

Match Details
🗓 Sunday, April 13, 2025
🕜 1:30pm AEST
📍 RSEA Park
🎟 Free entry
📺 Live stream: Watch free on the AFL website

The Australia U18 squad includes standout players from across every state league and academy. View the full team list below to see the names of tomorrow’s AFL stars.