Mitch Marsh Leads South Australia to U18 Championship Victory with Five Goals

In a commanding performance, Mitch Marsh propelled South Australia to victory in the 2025 Marsh AFL National Under-18 Boys Championships, leading the team with an impressive five-goal haul against Victoria Country. The match, held on June 29, 2025, at Marvel Stadium in Melbourne, concluded with a decisive score of 91 to 57, marking South Australia's first championship title since 2018.

Marsh's performance not only solidified his status as a top draft prospect but also showcased the skill and depth of the South Australian team, which completed the tournament with a perfect record of four victories. The young athlete's five goals brought his total to 12 for the carnival, demonstrating his exceptional ability in the forward line and his potential for a promising career in professional football.

Dyson Sharp, the captain of South Australia and a standout player throughout the championships, contributed significantly to the win with 21 disposals and a crucial goal. His leadership was instrumental as the team overcame a slow start, trailing by only six points at halftime before outscoring their opponents in the second half.

According to Sharp, “Our preparation and teamwork were key to our success. Everyone contributed, and Mitch was phenomenal up front.” Sharp was also recognized as the most valuable player for South Australia during the tournament, affirming his status as a notable prospect for future drafts.

Aidan Schubert also played a pivotal role, scoring two goals and amassing 19 disposals, while other notable contributions came from Jack Cook and ruckman Sam Ainsworth, each with 21 disposals. This balanced team effort was crucial in overcoming Victoria Country, who started strong but could not maintain their momentum as South Australia surged ahead in the latter stages of the match.

Victoria Country, while unable to clinch the title, showcased their talent with Jesse Mellor kicking three goals and Tairon Ah-Mu adding two. Their strong showing throughout the tournament, coupled with standout performances from players like Josh Lindsay and Willem Duursma, suggests a bright future for these young athletes.

As South Australia celebrates its championship victory, the focus now shifts to the upcoming AFL draft, where players like Marsh and Sharp are expected to be in high demand. The success of the Under-18 championships not only highlights the potential of these young athletes but also reflects the strength of South Australian football at the grassroots level.

In summary, Mitch Marsh’s five-goal performance was pivotal in leading South Australia to a resounding championship win, exemplifying both individual talent and team cohesion. With the AFL draft approaching, the spotlight will undoubtedly remain on these emerging stars as they transition to the professional arena.