Rising Stars in Western Australia’s Under-18s Squad
The spotlight has been on the younger siblings of some prominent AFL players, with several emerging talents making a strong impression in the Under-18s state trial games. Among them is Benji Van Rooyen, the younger brother of Melbourne forward Jacob Van Rooyen. His performance in the recent match was nothing short of remarkable, as he recorded 22 disposals, 21 hitouts, and four clearances.
Benji, standing at an impressive 203cm, has taken his ruck work to a new level. His ability to leap and run into contests has proven highly effective. “He’s quite a leaping ruck so that suits him to run and jump at the contest which works really well,” said Claremont Colts coach Mark Cossom.
A Growing Presence in the Ruck
Benji, who is 10cm taller than his older brother Jacob, has been a key player for the Black Swans as a bottom-ager. He is expected to continue carrying the ruck load this year. Additionally, he participated in two AFL Academy games in April, further showcasing his talent.
“Benji’s always been a mobile ruck around the ground but he’s put a lot of work in pre-season on his forward craft particularly his leading and overhead ability which has really come on,” Cossom added.
Emerging Midfielder Harper Banfield
Another standout in the Claremont squad is Harper Banfield, the younger brother of St Kilda’s Charlie Banfield. Although he was on the verge of an early-season debut before suffering a shoulder injury, Harper has made the midfield his own this year.
“Going into this year, he did a heap of work on his gut running. His repeat efforts are elite,” Cossom said. “His two kilometre times and his ability to get up and down the ground as a midfielder has been impressive.”
Harper’s natural talent in the midfield has shone through, with his competitive nature and vision for the game being standout qualities. “He loves the contest, he’s competitive and his vision to see the advantageous option is amazing,” Cossom noted.
A Strong Group of Talent
Claremont has nine players in Western Australia’s squad for the Under-18s National Championships, including AFL Academy member Heath Mellody, West Coast-tied Robby Farmer, and in-form pair George Gale and Elijah Dennis.
Mellody, who missed the first AFL Academy game due to injury, made a strong return in the second outing. His kicking ability has been a highlight, with his explosive pace and ability to break through congestion proving valuable. “He’s continued to work on that explosive pace to break through congestion and be able to use his weapons,” Cossom said.
Key Performers in the Squad
George Gale has attracted draft interest after a standout start to 2026. His running power has been a clear strength, making him a reliable winger for his side. “He’s always had a great tank and been able to really run hard but he’s put a lot of work over summer into his explosiveness and ability to get metres on his opponent early,” Cossom said.
Robby Farmer has become more of a presence up the field, with his forward flair being a key asset. “He’s improved his running capacity and tank. He’s dangerous inside 50 – when the ball hits the ground close to goal, he gets to work because he has the ability to lose his opponent,” Cossom added.
Elijah Dennis has contributed significantly to Claremont’s undefeated start to the season through four games. His aerial skills make him difficult to get past. “He’s the one I’ve seen the biggest improvement in over pre-season,” Cossom said. “He’s probably been our most consistent player: ultra reliable and strong overhead, especially when he gets that separation.”
Additional Talent in the Squad
Claremont also has competitive defender Tom Brown in the WA squad, who played an effective shutdown role on first round prospect Koby Lecras earlier in the season. Star bottom-aged defender Jacob Kee and agile half-back Elijah Williams round out the players in the squad. Their contributions have been vital in maintaining the team’s strong performance.
