DEACON White continues to go from strength to strength in the sporting environment, selected as the only local in this year’s Greater Western Victoria (GWV) Rebels Under-19 squad.

The 16-year-old played in the Hamilton Kangaroos Under-16 team last year and took part in two recent trial games, which led to his selection in the final squad for the upcoming NAB League season.

The Monivae College student said he didn’t have too many expectations going into the process.

“My expectations were in the middle, I went into it thinking there were a few pretty big boys who were talented and I just gave it my best shot,” he said.

“I was a bit nervous, didn’t think I played my best footy in the first practice match then the second one I went in with a better attitude and felt I played better.

“In the practice matches I started in the back line in the first game, then I was thrown in the guts and played forward in the second game.”

White turns 17 next month and is one of the youngest players in the squad but was excited for the opportunity to be part of the AFL talent pathway program.

He has already got feedback from coaches on what he needs to work on following the trial games, as he searches for selection in the Rebels team early in the season.

“I have got some feedback on my skills and the positioning of where I need to be in the game,” he said.

“Just being aware of the key points where I need to be and making sure I am in the right spots at the right time.”

White was set to make his senior debut for the Kangaroos last year, but the season was cut short once again.

The 185cm player said he was happy to represent the region but would have liked to share the experience with others.

“I am very excited, there were a few blokes I felt a bit bad for who didn’t get selected,” he said.

“It would have been good to see a few more from Hamilton in the squad.

“It is weird, but it is a good weird.”

White said he believes he has some clear attributes which would help the team and is focusing on using them to his advantage as much as possible.

“I know my fitness is up to standard, going into the seniors is just a big step with the physicality and I need to be a bit more prepared for that,” he said.

“I like to have a large voice on the field, I think it helps me and when I am up and about, my game is a lot better.

“I am pretty good on both sides of my body, I use my left a fair bit even though I am right-handed, but I am a left footer.”

With good opportunities ahead of him, White just wants to enjoy the year and learn as much as he can.

“Definitely there are things I want to get out of it,” he said.

“To play the footy I want to play at a higher standard, but I am looking forward to it and I don’t think there is as much pressure as the older players at this stage.”