David Zaharakis

Essendon (Best and Fairest, 2011)

"There seems to be a gap in the football education of kids until they reach TAC Cup level. Surely 10 to 14years of age is a crucial age in the development of both football and life skills. I am rapt V Squad is getting involved with AFL Victoria to fill this void and I look forward to being a presenter in their program."

Hamish Ogilvie

National Recruiting Manager, Adelaide Crows

I was very pleased with the quality of the program, and the talent of the players participating.

Having been a full time coach in the AFL Talent Pathway and for the last 7 years as an AFL Recruiting Manager I have absolutely no doubt that I watched many players in the V Squad with the talent and attributes to play AFL football.

I know our AFL club will have an operative attending this year's V Squad Program, and given the talent and the quality of the boys involved we are more than happy to give some time to assist and provide feedback to both the players and the staff involved.

Kim Stephens

Richmond Football Club Psychologist

"Worldwide research states that children aged 10 to 13 are at a critical stage in brain development. Behaviours, learning capacities, social skills, identity formation are all at their optimum. How a child uses their time is crucial to brain development.

The choices they make as children and teenagers will formulate life long patterns and, as parents, we must present them with the better options.

Under the ‘use it or lose it’ principle whatever a child/teen can do to develop mental skills, attitudes and capabilities at this important growth phase gives them a better chance to retain these skills in the long-term."