Young Crocs footy stars chase big league dreams down south

FUTURE OF FOOTY

Lisa Keller

Journalist

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Brae Agrums and Zayne Moore have made waves down South at the Gold Coast Suns Academy this year. Image: AFL Junior Crocs

The AFL season may be over, but for local footy star Brae Agrums, the journey is just beginning. The Port Douglas Junior Crocs ruckman is gearing up for a major move to the Gold Coast in November, where he’ll chase his dream of playing AFL professionally.

At just 16 years old, Agrums will join the Gold Coast Suns Academy in their Under 18s team in 2025 leaving behind his family, friends and way of life in order to pursue his dream.

After playing his first game of AFL at the age of five, it was clear that the young ruckman was destined for great things. His mother, Kate Agrums, reflected on her son’s journey saying it was never a question of what he wanted to do.

“He always wanted to play professionally, from the moment he picked up a footy,” she said. “It has always been his dream and he’s been so determined and motivated to make it come true.”

Founded in 2009, the Gold Coast Academy offers young, talented footballers the opportunity to harness their skills through first class coaching and facilities and guiding them through the stages towards a career in AFL. 

2024 marked three years in the Academy for Agrums which Ms Agrums said has helped him mature both on and off the field, ultimately leading to his selection in the Under 18s.

“There’s been a big change and development in his maturity and personality both on and off the field since the Academy,” she said.

“He’s got such strong drive and determination and he’s really made great use of the coaching programs and facilities in place [at the centre].”

But the 16-year-old hasn’t been alone in his journey with mate and fellow Junior Croc, Zayne Moore, by his side for the ride. Moore has also been a key recruit in the Gold Coast Academy’s Under 16s team this year and has also become a key player in the Crocs seniors side after making debut earlier in the year.

His fierce attacking style even had him noticed by none other than AFL legend, Trent Cotchin, who praised Moore on his abilities on field after they played alongside each other during Cotchin’s star appearance for the Crocs in July.

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