Ayoung local footballer has had an opportunity to shine on the big stage, representing South Australia in the U16 AFL National Development Championships.


West Gambier’s Harvey Croker represented the Croweaters in their three games in the recent championships.


The youngster is having a solid year, making his A Grade debut for West Gambier in May and also regularly playing in Adelaide for Glenelg in the 


U16 competition.


In the recent championships, Croker played his first game against Western Australia where SA picked up the win at Thebarton Oval by 10 points.


After the first game at home Croker and SA travelled to Queensland to face both Victorian teams.


Their first game was against Victoria Metro at People First Stadium where they picked up a 32 point victory.


Their final game was against Victoria Country at Fankhauser Reserve where they had a shot at claiming the national championship as they headed into the game undefeated.


Sadly they could not come away with the victory as they suffered a one point loss as scores were tied at the end of the fourth quarter with Vic Country scoring a golden point to seal the win.


Croker played on the wing for SA and averaged 18 disposals over the three games.


Croker said he was humbled to have the opportunity to represent South Australia.


“It is definitely a privilege to represent my state at the highest level and against the best competition, it was something special that I’ll never forget,” Croker said.


“It was a great experience and challenge to come up against the best players in the country and also to play alongside them and to be able to play footy at the highest level possible for my age.”


With still a lot to come in his footy career, Croker highlighted his footy goals for the future.


“My main goals are to keep improving and hopefully be lucky enough to get drafted to an AFL list in 2026 and to make the State U18 squad,” Croker said.