AFTER extensive and competitive trial processes two up-and-coming football players from Mount Martha Primary School have gained the attention of AFL and AFLW football selectors. Harry Pearce will wear the big V as part of the SSV AFL under-12 boys football team competing in the national championships in Geelong from 4 to 11 August.
Pearce, who was selected from more than 900 boys across Victoria, is in his third season of football with Mount Martha Junior Football Club. Last year he finished second in the league’s best and fairest awards and second in the club’s best and fairest. The Carlton supporter’s preferred positions are mid-field and half back, and AFL players he looks up to are Sam Walsh and Nick Diacos. The sports all-rounder is also a keen runner, and competes in 100, 200, 400 metre races.
Another Mount Martha Primary School football enthusiast, Paige Holt, competed against 320 girls from across the state to be selected as emergency in the players’ team list to represent the state in the SSV AFL under-12 girls football team. She will also compete in the August national championships. Holt, who is in her third season of football with Mount Martha Junior Football Club, last year finished third in the league’s best and fairest and first in her club’s best and fairest. The midfielder is a dominant left footer and Western Bulldogs supporter who says she admires the way AFLW player Ellie Blackburn plays midfield and Cody Weightman for his marking.
Young player Harley Reid is another favourite due to his ability to keep opponents off and his “open run”, which is what Holt strives for in her games.
First published in the Mornington News – 2 July 2024
