Ross’ troops will open interleague proceedings at Morwell’s Ronald Reserve today when they take on Mid Gippsland in a curtain-raiser to the senior clash.

“These opportunities don’t come around very often. When you get an opportunity to play for your league, it is an honour,” Ross said.

“I’ve instilled in the kids it’s only one game. It might not mean much to them, but they’ve got to look at it as a stepping stone and they’re representing the league.

“Hopefully they put their best foot forward and give a good show of themselves.”

Ross said Warrnambool and District had assembled a young side to take on Mid Gippsland. Most of the players are still eligible for under 17½s.

“We haven’t got much height but I think we’ll be a pretty quick side,” he said.

“If they’ve got a couple of big blokes in key positions, we’ll have to run and play to our strengths. It’s got to be clean possession, make sure we hit our targets and keep running all day.” 

He urged those with senior experience, including captain Justin Fedley and vice-captain Alex Pulling, to rise to the occasion.

“A fair few of the guys have played senior footy. With the sub rule (in the WDFNL), a lot have had a taste of it,” he said. 

“Justin Fedley is playing regularly in the Allansford senior side and Ben Rantall is in the Old Collegians senior side.

“Alex Pulling has had senior experience with Merrivale as well. I’ll be looking at those kids to lead the way.” 

Ross, who coaches under 17½s at Merrivale, said the introduction of the WDFNL sub rule meant the teens would be better prepared.

“The two years it’s been running, I’ve found it fantastic,” he said. 

“I had nine kids play seniors last year and I’m planning on putting another nine through this year.

“It gives us a good look at the kids. 

You get to see if they’re up to it or not at this stage, be able to critique them and give them some feedback.”