Collingwood’s NSW scholarship player, Tom Young, has been selected to play for the 2009 NSW/ACT Rams squad.

Young was signed by Collingwood under the NSW scholarship scheme in 2007 and has enjoyed two successful years playing junior football.

The 16 year old took part in the 2009 AFL under-18 state zone trials representing the Western Sydney Pioneers.

Collingwood’s national recruiting manager, Derek Hine, was on hand to watch Young play during the trials and was impressed with how the midfielder handled himself.

“We are delighted in the way Tom has come along,” Hine told collingwoodfc.com.au, after the announcement of Young’s selection into the squad.

“It is particularly pleasing to see him selected as a younger player in the squad.”

Young is the second Collingwood NSW scholarship player to play for the Rams.  Recently drafted Magpie rookie Scott Reed played two seasons for the NSW/ACT Rams.  Reed was the first player to sign to Collingwood as a NSW scholarship player and was selected by the club in the 2008 AFL Rookie Draft.

When not playing for the NSW Rams, Young will play senior football for Sydney University in the premier division of Sydney AFL.

At 191 centimetres, Young proved he is capable of playing a multitude of positions including defence, midfield and forward.

 “He is developing into a handy player that can make an impact all over the ground.”

Due to the NSW scholarship system, Collingwood will have first rights to Young when he applies for the 2010 AFL National Draft at the end of this year. 

“The club will continue its pursuit in furthering Tom’s career over the course of the 2009 and 2010 season.”