Gridiron: Perth Blitz trio picked in Australian under-19 World Championships squad

FRESH off their Westbowl success, three Perth Blitz junior players are gearing up for the World Championships this year.

Wide receivers Munyaradzi “Munya” Matema (17), Thomas Paskov (18) and defensive lineman Harrison Hobson (17) are in the under-19 Australian Outback Squad for the championships in Mexico during July.

Former Blitz player Ben Metcalfe is also in the squad after receiving a scholarship to play in the United States.

The three players travelled to the Sunshine Coast during the Australia Day weekend to try out for the side and were lucky enough to be chosen in the 45-person squad.

Paskov said the athletes took part in training drills and scrimmages during the trials.

“It was very hot and humid, there were a few people who had to sit out with heatstroke,” he said.

“They push you pretty hard but the coaches make you into a better player and it definitely helped when we came back to the Blitz.

“I’m excited to go over to Mexico, it’s going to be hot over there but a great experience.”

The nine WA players who were selected in the squad will train together once per week at James Miller Oval in preparation.

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