The Rebels have made a flying start to the TAC Cup season, winning four of their first five games despite a hectic travel schedule.

They play their first home game tomorrow against Northern Knights at Ballarat’s Eureka Stadium.

Templeton, 19 and in his third season at the club, said the Rebels had assembled a committed team laden with promise.

“There is something special about this group I think,” he said.

“We are a pretty close bunch and I am expecting big things but we have to keep our heads down. I think we have such an even spread of talent.

“We all want to play good footy and it really feels like a home club and the culture is really strong around the place.”

Templeton was invited back to the Rebels’ program as a 19-year-old-listed player this season.

The long-kicking midfielder has made the most of the representative lifeline, named in the club’s best in four of his five games.

He’s increased his output on the scoreboard too, slotting nine goals after booting 15 in 19 appearances in 2014.

“Being one of the older blokes it is natural you should set standards and try and be a leader,” Templeton said.

“I have been playing inside and outside midfield and resting forward and kicking a few goals which is good. Running goals from outside 50 is mainly where they’ve been coming from but any way I can try and snag one is helpful.

“Being one year older, I am a little more confident in my game and am utilising my strengths as much as possible.

“My pace I am using as much as I can and long kicking. I am trying to help (the team) with that.”

Templeton is eyeing a Vic Country berth at the upcoming AFL under 18 national championships.

He played in a trial match at Princes Park last month and is hopeful of attending a camp with a reduced squad next weekend.

Vic Country opens its account against Vic Metro at Kardinia Park on May 23.

“I am hoping to make that but I am not counting my chickens before they hatch,” Templeton said.

“If it happens, it happens. If not I will keep my head down and keep working hard.”

Templeton, living and working in Ballarat as a property development trainee, said the trial game was played in contrasting conditions — rain one minute, sunshine the next.

“There were tricky conditions but I thought I put in an all right performance in the end,” he said.

South Warrnambool’s Hugh McCluggage will make his TAC Cup debut tomorrow as the 23rd player. He is the third Rooster to represent the Rebels this season, following forward duo Shannon Beks and Charlie Lee.

justine.mc@fairfaxmedia.com.au