Murray Bushrangers announce Coates Talent League pre-season squad

Players were selected from a meticulous trial process after being nominated by their home club.

“Our trial and testing sessions provided an opportunity for players that for some reason haven’t yet played representative, academy or V-Line Cup football,” Bushrangers coach Mark Brown said.

“Clubs were fantastic in nominating their talented players and some very good players have unfortunately missed selection.

“The process is very subjective, so there’s always an opportunity for players who miss selection to come back into our program if they play outstanding local footy.”

The hard yards begin next month for the squad of 66.

A rigorous five-week training block starts on November 19 and runs through to Christmas.

Players will then return in January to prepare for competition, with round one of the Talent League campaign slated for late March.

But many will miss the cut.

With 66 to be whittled down by more than half by the time the season rolls around, Brown touched on the story of Seymour’s Sam Durham for those who may have already missed out on selection or others cut before round one.

“Sam Durham (now at Essendon) was not picked for two consecutive Murray Bushrangers age groups,” he said.

“He just kept working hard, persevering and staying positive throughout. He’s now one of the first players selected for Essendon seniors.”