The trials will see the best players from seven regions around NSW participate in a three day carnival to compete for selection in the NSW/ACT Rams state team.

The Northern Heat Team which consists of talented players from the Mid and North Coast, Hunter, Central West, and Central Coast have been training hard across the region with practise sessions held in Newcastle, Wauchope and Sawtell.

Local players selected in the side include Sawtell team mates Jack Gillingham, Simon Taylor and Elliot Schmidt.

Nambucca Valley local Oscar Smith was also called up to the Northern Heat side for the upcoming trials after North Coffs midfielder Jack Campbell’s late withdrawal due to injury.

The youngster is not new to the representative scene having already played for the Northern Heat in the Under 15s age group.

Northern Heat Coach, Mark Heaney is confident Smith is ready to perform in front of a crowd that will feature numerous AFL scouts and state selectors.

“Oscar adds great enthusiasm, hardness and tenacity to the team,” he said.

“He attended a gruelling five-hour training session with the squad in Wauchope at the weekend and fitted in well.”

Heaney said that all sports enthusiasts should come out to support their local players, as the carnival will be the best quality AFL the Coffs Coast will see all year.

The Under 18 State Zone Trials will be held each afternoon from January 19-21 with free entry for all spectators.