Related: Friday Flashbacks

Two Rural Bank Bendigo Pioneers players will captain Victoria Country at the AFL Natiolan Under-18 and Under-16 Championships.

Golden Square midfielder Jye Caldwell has been elected co-captain of the Victoria Country under-18s for the titles, starting in Sydney on Saturday.

Sandhurst midfielder Sam Conforti will captain the Victoria Country under-16s.

“As a club we’re very excited for Jye and Sam,’’ Pioneers’ talent manager Steve Sharp said.

“It’s great to see their leadership qualities rewarded at that level.

“They’ve been leaders throughout their junior careers… they have terrific attitudes in the way they go about their footy.”

Caldwell, who is co-captain with Geelong Falcons’ Sam Walsh, will lead the side into battle against the Allies at Spotless Stadium at 10am on Saturday.

Tipped to be a top 20 selection at this year’s AFL National Draft, Caldwell will be watched closely by AFL scouts.

Vic Country under-18s then play South Australia in Adelaide on June 17, Vic Metro at the MCG on June 24 and Western Australia in Geelong on June 29.

Conforti and the Vic Country under-16s start their campaign against Vic Metro at IKON Park on June 23.

The carnival then heads to Queensland for rounds two and three against SA and WA on July 9 and July 13 respectively.