By ZAC MILBANK
South Adelaide sensation Jason Horne-Francis has been selected as the Torrens University SA U19 captain for the 2021 AFL National Championships.
Set to be assisted by vice-captains Mani Liddy (Sturt) and Lewis Rayson (Glenelg), Horne-Francis is preparing to lead the Croweaters into battle against Western Australia in Perth on August 29.
Speaking on SANFL Radio, the 18-year-old is honoured to get the nod from his peers and coaching staff, led by Tony Bamford.
In a wide-ranging interview, the Panthers’ utility revealed he is feeling more comfortable at senior level this season, giving him the confidence to be able to step straight into AFL ranks in 2022.
Spending more time through the midfield under South coach Jarrad Wright, Horne-Francis produced his self-confessed best game at SANFL League level when he collected 22 disposals and booted three goals against Central in Round 16.
Currently working at the Fleurieu Milk Company stacking crates of milk, Horne-Francis said this is playing an important role in keeping his mind from the media hype surrounding his selection in this year’s AFL Draft.
He also tells of the significant supporting role his step-father, and former Port Adelaide midfielder, Fabian Francis has played in his development, detailing this motivated him to recently add Francis to his surname.
Sign up to see all the news from around the SANFL each week – directly in your inbox!