mmg.com.au

With the new Murray Football Netball League season fast approaching, the Barooga under-17 side is finding it difficult to reach the numbers necessary to put a full team on the field.

With a number of top-age players venturing into the senior ranks, players leaving the club or no longing wishing to play and an overall shortage of this age group in the area, player numbers are being hard pressed to reach the minimum amount.

Andrew Leighton-Daly said the club valued its juniors and its junior development program.

‘‘Our club has been focused over the past few years on developing our juniors, but recently we have seen a decline in available players due to some either leaving the area for schooling or some have gained employment in other regions or towns,’’ he said.

‘‘The harsh reality is that we need numbers to fill a side.

‘‘We pride ourselves on nurturing our juniors so if there are eligible players looking to join us, you and your families would be welcomed to join us.

‘‘Junior sport is all about participation and development and we just need some help from players who may just need a change of location to continue that development.’’

The side is coached by Max Coburn and played in the finals last year.

If you are interested in playing for the club, head to training on Monday or Friday nights at Barooga Recreation Reserve at 5pm.