Football
6 August, 2025
Whelan stars at school nationals
Laharum youngster Chase Whelan has continued his breakout 2025 season, helping lead Victoria to the national title at the School Sports Australian Football Championships held in Queensland last week.
The Horsham College student was one of the stars of the championships, leading the under 15 tournament with 17 goals, and was named joint Most Valuable Player.
The standout tournament also saw Whelan named to School Sport Australia’s all-Australian team.
Asked about his achievements from the championships, the teenager says he was most proud of helping Victoria win the title.
“The individual stuff was good, but I love winning the nationals the most, because it was the last year of the under 15s,” Whelan said.
“We went out with the mentality of finishing with a legacy, and that's what we did, so I couldn't be much prouder.”
Whelan was quick to thank Laharum Football Netball Club and his family for helping him participate in the championships.
“I’m pretty grateful for the opportunity,” Whelan said.
“Laharum footy club donated some money and the senior players helped me to get up there and sponsor it for me, so without them, I wouldn’t have been able to.
“My nan and pop helped me as well, so I’m thankful to all the people that helped behind the scenes.”
Whelan started the championships with a six-goal effort in his side’s win over New South Wales.
After progressing through the group stage, Whelan kicked five goals and was named Victoria’s best in a 48-44 win over Western Australia in the semifinal, before Victoria defeated South Australia 41-25 in the final.
The youngster relished the opportunity to play with some of the best junior footballers in the nation.
“It was good to get to know all the boys because they are all outstanding footballers,” Whelan said.
“The team came from all around Victoria; a few from Echuca, lots from Melbourne, but they're all a good group of blokes, and I’m very privileged to play with such a good team.”
Whelan’s performance adds to his impressive year, where he is averaging almost five goals a game for Laharum’s senior side in the Horsham District Football Netball League.