Sport
5 December, 2025
Association names ‘Futures Squad’
THE Warrnambool Moyne & District Cricket Association (WMDCA) has this week announced the introduction of its first-ever ‘Futures Squad.’
This initiative is designed to identify, develop and support the region’s most promising young cricketers.
The Futures Squad will sit alongside the association’s existing representative program, offering a dedicated pathway for emerging talent to gain early exposure to higher-level training, coaching and match preparation.
Players named in the inaugural Futures Squad are:
Lachlan Rea and Charlie James (Allansford-Panmure), Daniel Fowler (North Warrnambool), Josh Campbell (Warrnambool), Brock Gannon (West Warrnambool), Harrison Barnes (Russells Creek), Ryan Mottram (Noorat Terang) and Charlie Mahncke (Mortlake).
The move represents a significant step forward in strengthening the WMDCA’s long-term player development strategy.
WMDCA general manager Nick Ansell said the Futures Squad formalises what many clubs and junior coaches have been fostering for years.
“This is about giving our most exciting young players the opportunity to experience the standards and expectations of senior representative cricket earlier,” Mr Ansell said.
“We want to ensure the next generation is ready to step into our senior program with confidence, experience and a strong understanding of what high-quality cricket looks like.”
Selected players will train alongside the senior development squad throughout the season, participating in skill development sessions, performance feedback, and mentorship opportunities led by experienced WMDCA coaches.
The structure is designed to “blood” up-and-coming players gradually, ensuring they can transition seamlessly into senior representative squads in the years ahead.
Head coach Jason Mungean said the Futures initiative reflects the depth of junior talent across the south-west. “We’re seeing outstanding ability coming through our underage programs,” Mr Mungean said.
“The Futures Squad allows us to prepare these players earlier, challenge them in the right ways, and build a core group who can push for senior selection in the near future.”
The 2024–25 Futures Squad includes representatives from multiple clubs across the region, highlighting broad support for the program’s introduction.
Training began at the Reid Oval nets last Wednesday night (December 3), with further sessions scheduled for January 14, January 28 and February 4.
“This is a long-term investment,” Mungean said.
“It will strengthen our representative sides, build stronger connections with clubs, and create a clear pathway from junior cricket to senior success.”
For more information about the Futures Squad or the WMDCA’s representative program contact: Jason Mungean on 0407 097 910 or Andrew Bridge 0408 739 130.
