By Nick Schombergk
Another Rebel is set to make his VFL debut for the North Ballarat Roosters this weekend.
Nuggetty midfielder/forward Matthew Johnston will pull on the boots as the Roosters’ 23rd player on Saturday, when they clash with Essendon at Windy Hill.
Johnston, a former North Ballarat junior footballer, has enjoyed an impressive season thus far as an over-age player for the Rebels.
Known for his fierce tackling and terrific goal-sense, Johnston has performed well at TAC Cup level and in a handful of games for Vic Country in the AFL Under-18 Championships this year.
AFL Victoria Talent Manager, Phil Partington said Johnston’s VFL debut will be yet another feather in his cap.
“Being a North Ballarat junior, ‘Johnno’ has grown up seeing the Roosters play and he’s really excited about the opportunity,” Partington said.
“He’s really stepped up (this year) and he deserves an opportunity in the VFL this week to show his talent.”
Johnston, who turns 19 in September, is the third Rebel this season to play for the Roosters, joining Josh Webster and Tom Templeton.
Partington said it reflected the strength of the North Ballarat program and its ability to fast-track the development of TAC Cup players.
“We’ve got a fantastic relationship with the Roosters and work closely with them,” he said.
“Over the next four weeks, you’ll see a lot more Rebels’ players in the VFL.”
Another Rebel is set to make his VFL debut for the North Ballarat Roosters this weekend.
Nuggetty midfielder/forward Matthew Johnston will pull on the boots as the Roosters’ 23rd player on Saturday, when they clash with Essendon at Windy Hill.
Johnston, a former North Ballarat junior footballer, has enjoyed an impressive season thus far as an over-age player for the Rebels.
Known for his fierce tackling and terrific goal-sense, Johnston has performed well at TAC Cup level and in a handful of games for Vic Country in the AFL Under-18 Championships this year.
AFL Victoria Talent Manager, Phil Partington said Johnston’s VFL debut will be yet another feather in his cap.
“Being a North Ballarat junior, ‘Johnno’ has grown up seeing the Roosters play and he’s really excited about the opportunity,” Partington said.
“He’s really stepped up (this year) and he deserves an opportunity in the VFL this week to show his talent.”
Johnston, who turns 19 in September, is the third Rebel this season to play for the Roosters, joining Josh Webster and Tom Templeton.
Partington said it reflected the strength of the North Ballarat program and its ability to fast-track the development of TAC Cup players.
“We’ve got a fantastic relationship with the Roosters and work closely with them,” he said.
“Over the next four weeks, you’ll see a lot more Rebels’ players in the VFL.”
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