Catherine Ferraro
BROADFORD Bowling Club hosted young players and guests from the Central Explorers development squad recently.
In glorious conditions, the visiting junior players participated in practice runs and hosted a barbecue lunch to also honour visiting sponsors.
The Central Explorers are a junior development squad aiming to introduce the skill of the game to youngsters and provide junior players with an age-appropriate network of competition across the state.
Visiting Central Explorers - and all Kilmore Bowls Club members - Damien Coates, Andrew Johnson and Braden Johnson, could not speak highly enough of the concept.
“We have access to expert coaches who really help you improve your game,” Braden said, and all agreed that the opportunity to meet other juniors who play bowls is a real bonus and strong friendships continue to form.
The Central Explorers are only one of several youth teams in the network which competes in two tournaments a year, at Euroa and Daylesford.
Members of the Central Explorers come from as far as Nagambie and Mansfield, as well as Lancefield, Whittlesea, Wallan, Kilmore and Broadford.
These junior pathway programs have proven extremely successful with Central Explorer Ryan Davies chosen as part of the Victorian Under 18 Development Squad.
In addition, most younger Australian bowls participants at the present Commonwealth Games in Delhi, India, have undertaken these forms of programs, which have led to state and national representation.
Coaches John Toman and Trevor Young have been at the helm for three years and describe the experience as extremely satisfying as they watch the young talent improve and enjoy the game, with both acknowledging young players are a lifeline of support for bowls.
Sunday’s event also gave the squad the chance to pay thanks to sponsors, especially Colin Dyson, of Dyson’s Bus Services, a major supporter of the Euroa Trophy event, along with Ron Davis Carpets, Mallia Builders and Drakes Pride.
Damien, Andrew and Braden also expressed special thanks to local clubs like Broadford for their support and also the tireless efforts of Colin and Lesley Hodgson, who do all the work behind the scenes to ensure the boys have every opportunity to excel.
“We are really thankful for all they work they do and want them to know how much it is appreciated,” Braden said.
The group will next meet on Sunday, October 31, at Kilmore Bowls Club.
Youngsters between 10-18 years are encouraged to come along and learn more about the sport that at present has the fastest growing youth membership in the country.
Please do not hesitate to contact John Coates on 5782 2540 for any further information or to register your interest.
