A SURPRISE call-up to the NSW/ACT Under 17s AFL Futures team has seen Reeve Simmons feature in an almost unheard of win over Vic Country.

Simmons, who is one of Camden Haven High School’s (CHHS) star sporting products, joined players from the Sydney Swans Academy, GWS Giants and Murray Bushrangers who travelled to Melbourne for the 78-54 win.

“It was my first time representing NSW and it was amazing to get in the team,” he told News Of The Area.

Played at Avalon Airport Oval last weekend, the game was one of several serving as trials for the 2024 Marsh AFL Future Boys squad.

If Simmons makes that squad, it means he’ll play in the AFL Grand Final curtain-raiser at the MCG on 28 September.

The ruck reckons he “played alright”, but feedback on the day included that it was his strength at getting the ball out of the stoppages that created the momentum for NSW.

Simmons is now based on the Central Coast to be closer to training with the Swans Academy.

He also plays for his age-group and the seniors in the Central Coast and Hunter competitions.

He wasn’t expecting to make the state side after a rough start earlier in the season.

“I fractured my thumb, which took me out for a few weeks, and I was suspended for a heavy tackle.

“I thought it was over because of everything that held me back.”

Instead, it took just a game to impress The Rams selectors.

CHHS AFL coach Brent Wilkinson, remains one of his biggest supporters.

It was his email to the Sydney Swans Academy that set Simmons on his way.

“It has been unreal,” he said of his former charge’s selection despite this season’s setbacks.

“He was obviously on their radar early on.”

Isaac Luke is another from CHHS who was picked for the Swans development squad.

Both teens are credited with contributing to the success of the school’s AFL program.

“Early on we had success with Isaac and Reeve and since then it’s grown year on year.

“We now have our girls coming in off the back of that.”

They include Ruby Luke, Isaac’s sister, and Reeve’s twin sister, Scarlett.

The coaching team has also expanded to include teachers Tom Rogers and Briannan Rider, who plays with the Port Macquarie Magpies.

Next Tuesday sees the school’s Under 15 girls travelling to Sawtell for the regional finals.

“Our next push is to get some jerseys sorted for the girls,” Wilkinson said.

“We only have one set to share between the boys and the girls.”

Sounds like an opening for a local sponsor.

By Sue STEPHENSON