Rookies aplenty in for first game of season

HARD YAKKA: The Bendigo Pioneers on the run at their pre-season camp. Picture: JIM ALDERSEY

Steve Sharp adds new edge as Pioneers regional manager

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IT'S not just coach Brett Henderson who will make his TAC Cup debut for the Bendigo Pioneers in tomorrow's football clash with Murray Bushrangers at Benalla.

Bendigo's squad of 25 includes 10 who are yet to play in the AFL Victoria under-18s competition.

Henderson will chase premiership points as Pioneers coach for the first time. He was a development coach at Williamstown.

Pioneers in line to make their Cup debut are Joseph Atley, Braidon, Blake, Jayden Burke, Nick Cottrell, Xavia Elford, Jamarrah Firebrace, Lachlan Schultz, Mitchell Trait, Jayden White and Brayden Worsnop,

The pre-season included hit-outs against Calder, North Ballarat and Murray.

"There were a lot of impressive performances in those matches," Henderson said.

Castlemaine's Braidon Blake caught the coaches attention in switch from attack to defence.

"Braidon has played well in defence. He has great composure, is strong in one-on-one and works really hard.

"He will have a big role in this match and many more."

The Pioneers joint captains are Mildura's Sam Simmons and YCW's Liam Collins.

Maryborough's Bailey Edwards is vice-captain.

Deputy vice-captains are Joseph Atley from Rochester and Tommy Cole from Sandhurst.

Saturday's play against Murray kicks off with the under-16s at noon and will be followed by the under-18s clash from 2pm at Benalla Showgrounds.

Teams for Saturday's under-18s match:

Bendigo Pioneers:

B: Jayden Fox, Marty Hore, Matthew Chisari