AFL Sydney and AFL Canberra are thrilled to announce the squads for the Under 22 Men’s and Women’s Representative Programs for the upcoming Summer Series.

Showcasing the next generation of local footy stars throughout the state and territory, the Under 22 Summer Series takes place across two weekends on Saturday 1 and Saturday 8 March and is touted to be a hotly contested competition.

Held over three locations – Patches Asphalt Park, Alan Ray Oval and Blacktown International Sports Park – the four teams will battle it out against the top end talent from the GIANTS and Swans Academies.

From the Belconnen Magpies and Queanbeyan Tigers in the ACT to the East Coast Eagles and the Manly Warringah Wolves, nearly twenty clubs have players who have been selected to play in the series.

Among these players are Thomas and Billy Longmire (UNSW-ES Bulldogs), sons of Sydney Swans Premiership coach John Longmire, and Jesse Dunstall (Ainslie Tricolours), nephew of AFL Hall of Fame legend Jason Dunstall.

The Head of AFL NSW/ACT, Andrew Varasdi, welcomed the announcement of the Under 22 squads, highlighting the importance of representative opportunities in developing homegrown talent.

‘’The AFL NSW/ACT Summer Series will showcase the next wave of talent within the state and territory and on behalf of the league I’d like to congratulate the players who have been selected,” Varasdi said.

“This series features the best talent from across AFL Sydney and AFL Canberra, with the chosen teams lining up against the top end GIANTS and Swans Academies.

“This is an incredible opportunity to see our competitions rising stars who are ready to make their mark at the highest level. We’re excited to watch these young men and women push the boundaries and demonstrate their skill, commitment, and passion for the game.’’

Players to watch:

AFL Sydney Male Under 22 Squad

The AFL Sydney Male Under 22 Squad for the 2025 Summer Series features a diverse and talented group of players from across the competition, with Sydney University (8 players) and North Shore (7 players) leading the charge in representation. A standout highlight for the squad is the return of several key players from 2024, including Ethan Grace (North Shore Bombers), Byron Laws (Manly Warringah Wolves), and Hugo Birks (UNSW-ES Bulldogs, formerly UTS AFC Bats), who all contributed to the AFL Sydney & Canberra representative team’s victory over Tasmania in Launceston last July.

The 2025 squad also introduces a host of fresh talent, with standout performers from last season such as Jaden Gilheany (Inner West Magpies, formerly Camden Cats), James Lugsdin (Manly Warringah Wolves), Kye Gibbs (South West Sydney Blues), and Oscar Bosnajakovic (Sydney University) joining the ranks. With experienced leadership from returning Head Coach Ben Roberts and Assistant Coach Kevin Dyson, the team is set to make a powerful impact in the upcoming series.

AFL Canberra Male Under 22 Squad

Keep an eye on the explosiveness off half-back, generated by the crafty users: Will Axelby, Jack Sanson, and Josh Porter. In the midfield, Zac Smith, Luca Drury, and Hamish Saunders are sure to make an impact and deliver quality ball to the talents of Jesse Dunstall, Blake Walker, and Joe Carroll. Following an outstanding 2024 Summer Series, Nick Kelly and Caden Spinks are expected to play significant roles in solidifying the spine of AFL Canberra’s U22 Men’s side.

AFL Sydney Female Under 22 Squad

The AFL Sydney Female Under 22 Squad is gearing up for an exciting and action-packed Summer Series, featuring a powerhouse lineup of talent from across the competition. Leading the charge is the highly decorated Mostyn Medallist, Hannah Woolfe, who will be joined by an impressive contingent of 10 teammates from the Manly Warringah Wolves. The Wolves are undoubtedly setting the bar, with 11 players from the club earning a spot in the squad.

The UTS AFC Bats have also made a strong showing with 6 players selected, highlighted by the leadership of Hannah Cerazo and the ever-reliable Gabriella Stanwix, both of whom bring immense skill and experience to the team. In addition to these key players, the squad is further strengthened by the inclusion of league superstars such as Saskia Johnson from Sydney University, known for her dynamic playmaking abilities, and Sophie Kavanagh of the North Shore Bombers, whose consistency and versatility make her a formidable force.

AFL Canberra Female Under 22 Squad

Young talents Charli Canavan, Anica Kraljevic, and Jorja Simpson are poised to dominate inside play and provide excellent delivery to Amy Frost and Maddie Bailey. Ryeli Fleming, Lucy McKelvie Hill, and Maddi Mclachlan, known for their height and versatility, will likely rotate through various positions to create key targets for the Women’s U22 side. Meanwhile, Grace Read and Maggie Robinson will provide crucial run and carry, essential for breaking down the academy’s defences.

Mathew Diglio, Community Football & Competition Manager for ACT, echoed Varasdi’s sentiments and said AFL Canberra is excited about showcasing the territory’s emerging talent.

"AFL Canberra is excited to be a part of the AFL NSW/ACT Summer Series once again in 2025,” he said.

“It's an incredible opportunity for our young players to showcase their talents and abilities against high-quality competition. This series not only highlights the depth of talent within our ranks but also provides invaluable experience that will aid each player’s development. We are confident that our teams will rise to the occasion and make AFL Canberra proud.”

Manager of Greater Sydney & Northern NSW AFL, Sam Zikman, expressed his enthusiasm for the Under 22 program’s role in fostering local talent and strengthening the pathways available for aspiring AFL players.

“AFL Sydney is thrilled to participate in the AFL NSW/ACT Summer Series and showcase the incredible talent across both our men’s and women’s competitions,” he said.

“This year’s series presents an exceptional opportunity for the players selected to shine on a larger stage, and as a league, we could not be prouder of their dedication and achievements. We look forward to the series and seeing what our teams can achieve.’’

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