The Victorian Football League (VFL) has officially announced the Smithy’s VFL State Team squad ahead of the highly anticipated clash with the SANFL’s West End State Team during the Gather Round. The 43-player squad was unveiled on March 27, 2025, in preparation for the 2025 AAMI State Game, which is set to take place at Tanunda Recreation Park in the picturesque Barossa Valley on Saturday, April 12, 2025.
This exciting matchup between the VFL and SANFL representative teams will follow the AFL game featuring North Melbourne against the Gold Coast Suns at nearby Barossa Park, promising a thrilling showcase of Australian rules football in the region.
The Smithy’s VFL State Team squad features players from 18 clubs across the 21-team competition, highlighting the depth of talent within the league. Notably, the Southport Sharks, who were grand finalists in 2024, lead the way with five players selected for the squad. Meanwhile, the Box Hill Hawks, Frankston, Port Melbourne, and Williamstown each have four players included in the lineup.
Among the 43 players named, eight are returning from last year’s clash with the SANFL, where the VFL team narrowly lost by 14 points. These returning players include Dom Brew, Brayden Crossley, Jacob Dawson, Kye Declase, Hugh Dixon, Tom Highmore, Callum Porter, and Boyd Woodcock. Their experience will be invaluable as the team seeks redemption in this year’s match.
Only VFL-listed players are eligible for selection in the Smithy’s VFL State Team, meaning that current AFL-listed players are ineligible. Injured players were not included in the initial squad, but the final team of 23 players will be announced in the week leading up to the match, allowing for potential additions from outside the initial squad.
The coaching panel for the Smithy’s VFL State Team was announced last month, with Box Hill Hawks coach Zane Littlejohn reappointed as head coach. He will be supported by a team of assistant coaches, including Jamie Cassidy-McNamara from Coburg, Stewart Edge from Footscray Bulldogs, Ben Hudson from Brisbane Lions, Jackson Kornberg from Frankston, and Taylor Whitford from Casey Demons.
Reflecting on the rivalry, the Smithy’s VFL State Team is eager to atone for last year’s defeat, which took place at Glenelg’s Stratarama Stadium. This rivalry between the VFL and SANFL has a rich history dating back to the late 1800s, and both teams are poised to deliver an electrifying performance.
Three players from last year’s VFL squad have since made their way onto AFL club lists, showcasing the talent that the VFL nurtures. Ned Long was selected by Collingwood with pick 19 in the 2024 AFL Mid-Season Draft, while Ben Jepson and Jack Henderson were picked up by the Gold Coast Suns and Melbourne respectively during the 2025 AFL Pre-Season Supplementary Selection Period.
The 2025 AAMI State Game promises to be a significant event for both leagues, and fans are encouraged to attend. The match will kick off at 2:45 PM local time (3:15 PM AEST) at Tanunda Recreation Park. Tickets are available for $15 for adults and $10 for concession holders, and can be purchased through the official channels.
Brisbane Lions VFL-listed players Tahj Abberley and Harry Arnold are among those named in the squad, and their inclusion has been met with enthusiasm from their club. VFL Coach Ben Hudson expressed his excitement, stating, “We are wrapped for both men to be selected to represent the Club in such a historic rivalry in our sport. It’s great to see both men rewarded for their consistent high-level performances at the level for an extended period of time.”
Abberley, who has been with the Lions VFL program since 2021, has played 68 games and is entering his fifth season with the team. He has shown versatility, often playing off half-back while also being capable of contributing in various roles on the field.
Arnold, on the other hand, joined the Lions during the off-season after spending the latter half of 2023 and all of 2024 on Sydney’s AFL list. After being drafted from Brisbane in the 2023 AFL mid-season draft, Arnold has proven to be a consistent performer at the VFL level. Despite facing injury challenges last season, his selection for the upcoming match against the SANFL is a testament to his hard work and determination.
As the anticipation builds for the 2025 AAMI State Game, fans can expect an exciting display of skill and passion from both teams. With a storied rivalry at stake and a chance for the VFL to claim victory, the stage is set for a memorable showdown in the Barossa Valley.
Mark your calendars for Saturday, April 12, 2025, as the Smithy’s VFL State Team takes on the SANFL’s West End State Team. The match promises to be a thrilling encounter, showcasing the best talent from both leagues and reigniting a historic rivalry that fans have come to cherish.
