Cody Walker is one of seven Echuca FNC representatives moving on to phase two of selection for the Pioneers under-18 squad. Photo: File.
The Bendigo Pioneers 2025 under-16 and under-18 lists are starting to take shape.
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Both girls’ sides released final squad lists on January 17, while the under-18 boys announced a larger pool of talent headed on to phase two.
There are plenty of local names one step closer to suiting up for the Pioneers this year.
Boasting one of the richest junior talent pools in the region of the last few years, it’s no surprise to see seven Murray Bombers among the 57 boys to progress to phase two of the under-18 boys selection.
Ned Ash-Townrow, Tom Evans, Liam Gronow, Darby Jones, Max McCarty, Cody Walker and Angus Watson are all still in contention for a Pios jersey this year.
Moama and Tongala have two representatives each on the list, Magpies Rhys Drennan and Thomas Naujok, and the Blues’ Jessie Johnstone and Hudson Kellett also on the list.
The under-18 girls’ list was finalised down to 38 names, eight locals among those selected.
Sage Dennis was named on the Pioneers’ under-16 and under-18 lists. Photo: EUFNC.
Undefeated in 2024, Echuca United’s girls’ side will be represented by Maisy Byrne, Shaleah Cooper and Sage Dennis.
Still under-16, Dennis was named in both sides, leaving the door open for her to play up a grade throughout the season.
Moama had five names on the list, Eliza and Stella Fraser, Grace McMillan, Beth Morris and Madeline Williams all selected.
Some 27 girls were named for the under-16 squad.
Along with Dennis, her Eagles teammate, reigning girls’ best-and-fairest and leading goal kicker Harper Delamare was also among the selections.
The Pioneers will lock in the final under-18s boys’ list in early March.
An announcement regarding the under-16 boys’ squad will also be made at that time.
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