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GNFL 2024 season preview: 10 players to watch out for in the upcoming season

Peter Fiorenza and Fraser WilliamsGeraldton Guardian
Callum Marquis has grown as a footballer despite the pressure.
Camera IconCallum Marquis has grown as a footballer despite the pressure. Credit: Kelsey Reid/The West Australian

As the 2024 Great Northern Football League season kicks off, there are a few players who could control the league or change a club’s fate. Here is a list of names to keep your eye on this year, according to Radio MAMA football commentator Peter Fiorenza and Geraldton Guardian sports reporter Fraser Williams.

Northampton's Flynn Dillon.
Camera IconNorthampton's Flynn Dillon. Credit: Snapaction Photography

Flynn Dillon (Northampton)

PF: One of the very best in the competition, Dillon is set for a full season with the Rams. Arguably, the best ruckman in the league, I believe he will have a breakout season, despite winning the Clune Medal last season.

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Fletcher Klasztorny (Brigades)

PF: The celebrated basketballer is expected to make his debut for the Hawks this season. Although a talented player with the Geraldton Buccaneers, I believe his first love is football and he showed some exciting promise in his formative years.

Jayden Schofield kicked three to help the Hawks to victory
Camera IconJayden Schofield kicked three to help the Hawks to victory Credit: Snapaction/RegionalHUB

Jayden Schofield (Chapman Valley)

PF: Schofield has had a dip at both Railways and Brigades, but now takes on the tough role of making the Valley a competitive combination. The former Western Bulldog will certainly lead by example on the field.

Rovers' Tom Denton goes up for a mark as teammate Dwayne Nevill and Railways' Dillon Battistessa and Ben O’Brien look on.
Camera IconRovers' Tom Denton goes up for a mark as teammate Dwayne Nevill and Railways' Dillon Battistessa and Ben O’Brien look on. Credit: Arctic Moon Photography/Supplied

Tom Denton (Rovers)

PF: There was talk about Denton moving from the Demons this season, but if he remains, he will be very important to on field success. Rovers are possibly at the end of a successful era and will need to start a rebuild and Denton is vital in this space.

Callum Marquis (Towns)

PF: Due to a lack of mature players in recent years at the Bulldogs, Marquis has had to grow up quick. Having to take on more substantial roles in his team’s line up has resulted in a player who has a remarkable football IQ.

Towns Ashley Green-Headland and Matthew Kimberley from Railways battle for the ball at Recreation Ground. Picture: Natasha Gilmartin
Camera IconTowns Ashley Green-Headland and Matthew Kimberley from Railways battle for the ball at Recreation Ground. Natasha Gilmartin Credit: Supplied

Matthew Kimberley (Railways)

PF: Kimberley is always part of the action and has been for several years now. A great servant for the Blues, he is often overlooked when stars are mentioned. Despite this, Kimberley would have to be one of his team’s most consistent performers, competition-wise too.

Mullewa's Leon Galby punts the ball
Picture: Justine Rowe
Camera IconMullewa's Leon Galby punts the ball Justine Rowe Credit: Supplied/Supplied

Leon Galby (Mullewa)

PF: I know it’s a big call, but this fella has AFL potential. He can turn a game on its head. Galby has natural smarts and a tremendous burst of speed. He can also take a fair grab if the opportunity presents itself.

Lee Hutchins kciked two goals in his final game for the club
Camera IconLee Hutchins kciked two goals in his final game for the club Credit: Gemma O’Connor

Lee Hutchins (Chapman Valley)

FW: Hutchins proved to be one of the Valley’s best last season in the four games he appeared in before moving away. Now that he is back and joining a Royals side tipped to be much more competitive, he can be one of the league’s key players.

Mitchell Boyle (Railways)

FW: The consistent player had a standout game in Railways’ grand final loss, making a case for one of the best players on the ground. He could help turn the tide with a full season in the squad.

Railways' Mitchell Boyle has his eye on the ball, chased by Towns' Denzel Gould.
Camera IconRailways' Mitchell Boyle has his eye on the ball, chased by Towns' Denzel Gould. Credit: Barry Mitchell/Snapaction/RegionalHUB

Jerome Little (Mullewa)

FW: Coming off a standout season in the colts where he was one of the side’s best in their grand final win, Little can provide a big impact on a Mullewa side that is turning to their youth to step up.

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