What's Happening?
Jed Burgess, a 16-year-old from Lindisfarne, has been selected to join Australia's under-18 gridiron team. Burgess will participate in a training camp in Sydney before traveling to Auckland for an international match against New Zealand. His selection
is a significant achievement, as he has only been playing organized gridiron for about two years. Burgess plays for the Hobart Knights in a senior men's league and has expressed a deep passion for American football. His involvement in the sport began through a schoolmate, and he has been an avid follower of the NFL since 2022. Burgess's selection was influenced by his performance highlights and recommendations from teammates who have previously been part of the national team.
Why It's Important?
Jed Burgess's selection to the Australian U18 gridiron team underscores the growing interest and participation in American football outside the United States. It highlights the opportunities available for young athletes in non-traditional sports and the potential for international competition. For Burgess, this represents a significant step towards his dream of playing in the NFL, potentially making him the first Tasmanian to achieve this feat. His journey also reflects the importance of grassroots development and local support in nurturing talent. The Hobart Knights' efforts to expand the sport locally could lead to increased participation and interest in gridiron, contributing to the sport's growth in Tasmania.
What's Next?
Jed Burgess will attend a five-day training camp in Sydney, where he will hone his skills and prepare for the international match against New Zealand. The game, scheduled for July 11, will be a critical opportunity for Burgess to showcase his abilities on an international stage. The Hobart Knights, his local team, are working to establish a new league in Hobart, which could provide more opportunities for local players to compete and develop their skills. This initiative may reduce the need for travel to other regions for matches, fostering a stronger local gridiron community.
