Sport
30 May, 2025
Rebels debut for Stephens
TALENTED Camperdown teenager Lenny Stephens made his debut for the Greater Western Victoria Rebels in the under 18 Coates Talent League on Sunday.
The Rebels led all day to defeat the Western Jets 14.13.97 to 10.6.66 at Ballarat's Mars Stadium.
“It was a really good win, we kicked away from them in both of the quarters that we had the wind,” Stephens said.
Playing at Ballarat’s AFL ground was an experience Stephens really enjoyed.
“It was so good to play there, the oval was great, the facilities were unbelievable and it was awesome to play in front of the stands.”
Stephens has played 10 senior games for Camperdown since making his debut in round 15 of 2024, and noted the difference between Hampden football and the state’s premier under 18 competition.
“It was much quicker, though the bodies are not as big as in the Hampden league,” he said.
Stephens played on the wing and was happy with how his fitness held up.
“I was rotating between the wing and the bench all day, constant quick rotations, it really helps you to run out quarters,” he said.
A typical week for Stephens sees Tuesday night training with Camperdown and Thursday nights in Ballarat with the Rebels.
“It was easy to fit into the team on Sunday as I’ve got to know everyone well through all the training sessions,” Stephens said.
Rebels coach David Loader was impressed with Stephens’ start at Coates Talent League level.
“Expectations are not high for anyone making their debut, but we were thrilled with how Lenny worked his way into the game, he showed us plenty of what he is capable of,” he said.
“He looks like a natural wingman, he has a lot of structural stuff to learn in that position but we like how keen he is to take everything on board.”
Loader emphasised that developing players properly was the main aim of football at the elite junior level.
“They’re all like-minded kids, the best of their age group striving to be the best they can be,” he said.
“Lenny has slotted into this environment beautifully.”
As a bottom ager, Loader said 2025 would be a year of development for Stephens.
“Next year is the crucial year for Lenny and players his age,” he said.
“This year is all about experience and building foundations for next year.”
Loader said Stephens would play again this week.
“We don’t bring anyone up for just one game,” he said
“He’ll get another chance, we know he’s going to be a very good player.”
The Rebels play Gippsland Power at Windy Hill in Essendon this Sunday.
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