The Australian Football League (AFL) has announced the results of the 2025 under-18 pre-season athletic testing, a showcase of emerging talent in Australian rules football. The announcement, made on March 26, 2025, reveals the results from testing conducted across various states and territories during February and March, aimed at preparing young athletes for the demands of the upcoming season.
This year's testing included a series of events designed to measure agility, endurance, and overall athleticism, with results highlighting standout performers. The assessments were composed of six distinct tests: standing vertical jump, running vertical jumps (both left and right hands), the 20-meter sprint, agility tests, and the yo-yo test, which measures aerobic capacity.
Leading the charge in the vertical jump category was GWV Rebels player Harley Hicks, achieving an impressive jump of 88 centimeters. His performance reflects his rigorous training and potential for higher levels of competition as he transitions to the next stage in his football career. As reported, "GWV Rebels ace Harley Hicks took out the vertical jump with a score of 88cm," indicating just how much these youngsters are pushing their limits.
In the running vertical jump test, Sam Allen from Oakleigh Chargers excelled with a remarkable score of 101 centimeters. Meanwhile, Jacob Eddington of East Perth and Logan McCabe, representing West Adelaide, both recorded scores of 95 centimeters in the right-hand running vertical jump test. This performance not only illustrates their explosive power but also their readiness to impress scouts and coaches alike.
The time trial events were equally competitive, with Leon Titmuss of the Sydney Swans Academy leading the 20-meter sprint clocking an exceptional time of 2.815 seconds. His speed sets a high benchmark for his peers and shows a deepening pool of talent in the under-18 development leagues. The agility test crowned Jack Marks of the Murray Bushrangers, who topped the event with a time of 7.65 seconds, highlighting his nimbleness and quick reflexes essential for a successful football career.
The performance in endurance testing was highlighted by Alexander Marshall from the GWS GIANTS Academy, who won the yo-yo test with a score of 22.5, 0.1 points higher than his nearest competitors Jack Dalton from Sandringham and Jeff Rozenbilds from Norwood, both scoring 22.4. This test has become a vital measurement of a player's condition and stamina, critical for performing at high levels throughout the match duration.
The top ten results from the pre-season tests showcase a promising future for Australian football, with a diverse range of talent emerging from all corners of the nation. This is especially significant as these players gear up for a competitive season where they will look to make their mark. For instance, in the boys' vertical jump results, names like Lucas Rust of North Adelaide (86 cm) and Luke Candy of Glenelg (82 cm) also featured prominently, indicating a broad field of competitors seeking recognition.
The girls' testing outcomes were equally impressive, although the performance metrics demonstrated the need for continuous development in women’s football. Morgan Stevens from GWS GIANTS Academy stood out with a vertical jump of 69 cm, highlighting her readiness for the competitive scenes ahead. Other talents in the girls’ category included Neva Bell from Brisbane Lions Academy, who jumped 66 cm, and Aysha Sanchez, also from GWS, with a jump of 65 cm. These results promise further growth and exciting development for women’s participation in the sport.
The under-18 pre-season testing sessions not only provide a stage for young athletes to showcase their skills but also serve as critical indicators for their future careers in Australian football. Clubs and coaches across the nation eagerly analyze these results as they work to scout and recruit the best upcoming talents.
As they prepare for the challenges of the upcoming season, the focus will now shift to how these young athletes will translate their impressive testing results into on-field performances. Each test result is more than just a number; it is a testament to their hard work, dedication, and potential for success.
In conclusion, the 2025 under-18 pre-season athletic testing has reinforced the depth of talent within Australian football, with players not only pushing their own limits but also setting the stage for an exciting season ahead. With significant performances across all testing categories, the future looks bright for these young athletes as they aim to leave their mark on the sport.
