Vic Country captain Jay Rantall and his deputy Liam Herbert hope their experience of playing together since under-12 level will help them lead their state side to a medal at the Melbourne-based competition.

Fellow Seahawks Hayden Rhook and Dominic Occhipinti are also members of the 10-player Vic Country roster, which starts its campaign on Saturday after a 10-week training block in the lead up to the national carnival.

Shooting guard Rantall said he was excited to have a leadership role alongside point guard Herbert.

“He is a great leader, a great player and everyone looks up to him,” Rantall said.

“It is going to help knowing each other’s game plan and what we do well.”

Rantall is the only remaining member of the 2015 Vic Country team.

His Warrnambool teammates are preparing for their state side debuts.

The Warrnambool College student has high expectations, labelling the squad a medal contender.

“We are a really well organised team – I reckon we can go high and should play for a medal,” Rantall said.

“Our strength is definitely running the floor.

“We’re a quick and athletic team and I don’t think they’ll be able to keep up with our pace.

“Everyone is ready. We are all keen and our skill set is ready too.”

Vic Country coach Lucas Allen said the Warrnambool-based quartet would play key roles at the seven-day competition.

“Jay’s strength is his competitive drive, and with Liam it’s his ability to hit a slippery place and get on the ring at will,” he said.

“Dom is an energiser, he comes in a lights it up, and Hayden is the ultimate utility who can play three positions really well.

“He’s a player everyone loves to play with because he’s always willing to put his body on the line for the sake of the team.”