Fremantle’s Next Generation Academy Roger Hayden Squad will head to Optus Stadium this weekend ahead of the RAC Derby, to play in a curtain raiser against the West Coast Eagles Naitanui Academy.
 
The under 15’s academy focuses on the consolidation of basic skills and incorporating skill development in a contested environment.
 
The Squad will use the opportunity to further develop their skillset, but also have a chance to experience something that few young footballers get. 

Roger Hayden spoke about the importance of giving these young men such an opportunity.
 
“It's going to be a great opportunity to experience something that they're going to remember for the rest of their lives,” Hayden said.
 
“We've been really fortunate to have this go ahead and it's going to be something the group will look back on with fond memories.
 
“To embrace the opportunity to run out onto Optus before an RAC Derby is amazing, but to also continue to develop their own individual and team game on the big stage is really important too.”

Hayden also spoke about some of the key people that have been involved with the development of the Squad.
 
“It's been great to get Riley Colborne and Keanu Haddow back involved with the NGA program as Development Coaches,” Hayden said
 
“Both of them have been players in our program for the last 5 to 6 years and are now going really well at their respective WAFL clubs, so they’re people that the boys can really look up to.
 
“Another is Fremantle Club great Antoni Grover, who has been helping for the last couple of years, who brings a wealth of knowledge and guidance for our young Squads.”

Following Sunday, the Squad members will regroup with their respective community Clubs before getting back into training later in June with the Kickstart Program for Fremantle’s Indigenous 15’s & 16’s players.