300 players from both the under-16s and under-18s were invited to a testing session ran by Rookie Me, an AFL affiliated company that specialises in physical testing. 

The youngsters were tested on their athletic capabilities similar to those tested at the AFL draft combine, including speed, endurance and vertical leap. 

The program allows prospects to see their results and compare themselves with other prospects and previously drafted AFL players.

One of the players hopeful of making this year’s Rebels squad is Horsham Saint Mitch Martin, who played with the Rebels under-18 team last season as a bottom-age player.

Martin said the testing provided valuable feedback to see where he needed to improve.

“Seeing what you have to work on more, so like your fitness or your speed – stuff that you can work on over the Christmas break and come back at the start of the year a little fitter, faster and ready for the season,” Martin told 9 News Western Victoria.

Martin said he had one key attribute to focus on to improve his game.

“One of my weaknesses is my speed, so I’ve been working pretty hard on that,” he said. 

“Hopefully I can keep a good fitness base and just keep improving every time I get fitter and faster.”  

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Although Martin performed well for the Rebels last season, Greater Western Victoria Rebels talent manager Phil Partington said there were no guaranteed places in the squad.

“No one is certain to make the squad even if they made it last year,” Partington said.

“There are lot of players hungry to make the team, it’s a very competitive program and I think it’s certainly going to be more competitive this year than other years.”

The Rebels will return to regular training in late January and have several practice matches in early February. The squad for the upcoming season will be finalised in March.

As well as the physical testing, players also underwent an education program.

“We also take the time to educate them on social issues such as drugs and alcohol, leadership, respect and responsibility and the use of social media,” Partington said.

“Every boy that comes in can walk away with something that’s more than the footy side of things. 

“It’s really important at that age that players are in a good position on and off the field.”