Shepparton footballers taking the leap into state leagues

The 18-year-old small forward had plenty on his plate in 2023, fronting up for 13 Coates Talent League games for Murray Bushrangers and producing six goals.

Beyond those commitments, he featured in nine Goulburn Valley League senior games with Shepparton Swans, nominated among the club’s best players on four occasions.

He also played through the club’s under-18 finals campaign once the Bushrangers and Swans seniors wrapped up their fixtures, including their grand final defeat to Echuca.

In a statement to the Redlegs’ club website, Norwood coach and former AFL Kangaroo Jade Rawlings highlighted the attributes that brought Cooper to the proud Adelaide club.

“We believe in his ability and character and think that he will fit into our program very quickly,” Rawlings said.

“He’s a small, skilful forward and (he’s) shown that across the last two seasons with the Murray Bushrangers and in the seniors at Shepparton.

“We see him as someone with a lot of potential ― he’s keen to be a part of our club and involved in something bigger than himself, which is impressive for us as well.”

Indeed, the initiative is already on display, with the youngster having relocated to the City of Churches well before pre-season commences for the Redlegs.

Another one-time GVL goal-kicker is heading north as Maroochydore confirms the signing of former Shepparton United and Altona spearhead Elliot Cavallaro.

Cavallaro dealt with grand final heartbreak much like Cooper in 2023, in this case at Congupna in Murray Football League, where his side fell to Mulwala.

However, Cavallaro’s overall performances shone through, leading The Road’s goal-kicking and finding the big sticks in all 20 games this season before opting to join the QAFL side.

Though Congupna locals will be left wondering what could have been with the prospect of a one-two forward combination between Cavallaro and the recently acquired Kyle Mueller, the move to a state league club is a big step up.