16-year-old Oscar Gawith was far from just making up the numbers in Minyip-Murtoa's win over the Southern Mallee Giants during the Wimmera Football Netball League's round 12 clash.
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The young Burra made his senior debut for the club he's spent his whole life at and look an assured presence in defence as he played a big part in his side's 45-point win over the Giants.
In fact, he kicked a spectacular goal and was named his side's third-best player and as such received significant praise from his coach John Delahunty after the match, who said he "didn't put a foot wrong".
"It was a great experience playing seniors for the Burras," Gawith said of his debut.
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Gawith's season in the Wimmera Football Netball League under 17s competition has been strong, kicking 15 goals from eight games with three best-on-ground performances. Despite his form, Gawith said he was surprised by his senior selection.
"I was excited when I got the call. I didn't expect to get a call-up, we have such a strong talented side," he said.
Gawith admits he still has a lot to learn but was happy with the way he played.
No doubt a highlight for players and spectators at the game was seeing Gawith's long-range goal bounce through the sticks for a goal at a crucial moment for the Burras. The celebration that followed from teammates and player was everything that is good about football.
"It was an amazing feeling when they (teammates) all came up and congratulated me after it," Gawith said.
"It shows what a welcoming supportive club the Burras are."
In football, 16 is relatively young for a senior debut, however, Gawith said he wasn't very nervous in the lead-up to the game.
"I knew what I had to do," he said.
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"All the guys got around me. They said to treat it as a normal game."
"It was good to be playing with a lot of very talented and experienced players, they kept supporting me all day."
Gawith's impressive performance has no doubt given his coach a selection headache when it comes to picking future teams.
The reigning premiers sit first on the ladder with just one loss and an imposing 243 percentage and have squad depth which is reflective of all good sides.
Whether or not Gawith plays every week is unknown, but there is no doubt that Saturday won't be the last time we see him play at the senior level.
"I would like to continue to develop my skills and knowledge and work to keep my place in the side," Gawith said.
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