AFL Capricornia reserve grade competition’s best players in 2023

From evergreen veterans to first-year rookies setting the region on fire, we reveal the hidden gems who stood out in a big season of AFL Capricornia reserve grade.

Top players from the AFL Capricornia's reserve grade competition.

From an aging veteran giving back to the game to a former track and field star setting the region on fire, the AFL Capricornia reserve grade competition had its fair share of star power this season.

The competition served up plenty of high-quality, hotly contested matches throughout the 2023 season.

Six teams took part and it was BITS Saints who ultimately reigned supreme, knocking off minor premiers Yeppoon in the grand final.

The playing ranks featured some experienced campaigners who were stepping back from A-grade or keen just to keep their hand in, as well as some up-and-coming juniors looking to impress and fresh new faces ready to make their mark.

After a massive season, the Rockhampton Morning Bulletin’s talent scouts have unearthed a list 10 of the best to pull the boots in this season.

BITS Saints

Jackson Cooper

A gifted ruck rover who uses his explosive speed to great effect. He has great attack on the ball and moves well. A vice-captain of BITS, he continues to develop with every game. Was BITS Best and Fairest this season and was fourth in the AFL Capricornia tally for the same award.

BITS Saints reserve grade player Jackson Cooper.

Josh Smith.

Josh Smith

Showed plenty of potential in his first season of Aussie rules. After swapping the athletics track for the football pitch, it’s unsurprising the BITS winger is fit as a fiddle. He is a genuine workhorse who runs all day and always gets to the next contest. One of BITS best this season, finishing runner-up in the team’s Best and Fairest. Definitely a player to watch.

Yeppoon Swans

AFL: Yeppoon's Eli Wells kicks

Eli Wells

Undoubtedly the competition’s most dominant ruckman, A weapon in both attack and defence, he is a strong player who can take a great mark. Has a real presence on the footy field. Took out Best and Fairest in the AFL Capricornia reserve grade comp, as well as for his club team.

Nathan Milburn

A force to be reckoned with in the forward pocket, he has speed, agility and a huge leap that allows for some spectacular marks. Has an uncanny ability to find the ball in the square and was the leading goal kicker for the Swans and the reserve grade competition overall.

Brothers Kangaroos

Zac Lynam.

Zac Lynam

A force in the middle of the ground, Lynam regularly wins the ball out of the centre. He is very disciplined in his defence and is highly regarded by his teammates and opponents. Was Brothers Best and Fairest for 2023.

Jacob Carroll (front).

Jacob Carroll

A dedicated player who boasts all the skills needed by a full forward. Mobile and smart, he can evade defenders and create space. Has a very reliable set shot on goal which resulted in him being the team’s leading goal kicker this season.

Rockhampton Panthers

Stephen Alley (right).

Stephen Alley

Experienced midfielder who was one of the Panthers best every time he took the field. Thrives on the challenge and has great attack on the football and a will to win every contest.

Luke Richmond.

Luke Richmond

A player with a never-say-die attitude who just loves the contest. Gives 100 per cent in every game and inspires his teammates with his drive and determination.

Glenmore Bulls

Liam Christie

A natural talent who had a great first year playing Aussie rules. A hard-running and attacking midfielder with great pressure. Was named Glenmore’s Best and Fairest for reserve grade.

Lachlan Mathers

A good running fullback with great attack on the football who is hard to beat in a one-on-one contest. His game is improving with every outing. Was named the team’s Most Consistent for the season.

Originally published as AFL Capricornia reserve grade competition’s best players in 2023