Teen Errol Gulden already kicking goals for Swans Academy

Chifley resident Errol Gulden may be only 16 but he his already reaching the elite level of his chosen sport — AFL.

Errol Gulden, who plays for UNSW Eastern Suburbs Bulldogs and is a member of Sydney Swans Academy, is the Southern Courier’s latest nominee for the Local Sports Stars Awards. Picture: Monique Harmer

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Chifley resident Errol Gulden may be only 16 but he his already reaching the elite level of his chosen sport — AFL.

Errol, who plays for the UNSW Eastern Suburbs Bulldogs club, has been a member of the Sydney Swans Academy since he first trialled in under 11s and he has made it every year since.

UNSW Eastern Suburbs Bulldogs player Errol Gulden practises his skills at UNSW Village Green. Picture: Monique Harmer

“The coaching we get is the best you can get in NSW — the access to facilities and they have really good strength and conditioning programs,” Errol said.

“If you get through to the under-18s program, the Swans have priority over you in drafting.”

The Marcellin College student has been playing Aussie rules since the age of four.

His achievements so far are impressive — last year he made the NSW U16s team, and he was selected this year for the U17 All-Australian team to play New Zealand.

Errol Gulden, 16, will soon represent Australia in a match against New Zealand. Picture: Monique Harmer

The midfielder was also best on ground for the Bulldogs U19s in their grand final win in 2018.

“My biggest supporters are my mum and dad and brother Adam — they are my biggest influence,” he said.

Errol is our latest nominee for Junior Sports Individual for the Local Sports Stars Awards. The other categories are the Inspiration Award, Team of Excellence and Service to Sport.

Nominate now at localsportsstars.com.au/newslocal