The Battle of the West: Rep Your Code is almost here! Ahead of Saturday night’s showdown, we caught up with some of the rising stars from both the Bulls and the Wanderers.
Zane Helweh and Will McKay are two scholarship players who have made an impact on the Bulls squad. Both progressed through the Bulls FC Academy to earn their spots in the first-grade team.
Zane Helweh grew up in South West Sydney, beginning his football journey with Bankstown Sports Strikers FC, before moving through Marconi Stallions and joining the Bulls FC Academy. The 19-year-old has become a goalscoring talent, netting over 12 goals during his Academy career, just shy of the Golden Boot winner.
Helweh made his A-League debut for the Bulls in the first home match of the season against Adelaide United on Monday 27th October. Reflecting on his debut, Helweh said:
“It means everything. I’ve always dreamed of playing professional football, and I’ve got the opportunity. I’m very grateful for it, and I love it.”
Joining him on a scholarship is Will McKay, a 19-year-old right back who was named Academy Player of the Year at the Macarthur Bulls Medal Night earlier this year. McKay began at Lilli Pilli FC and progressed through the Bulls FC Academy. He has also gained experience in continental football, making his ACL2 debut against Beijing Guoan FC and appearing on the bench for the Cong An Ha Noi fixture.
Speaking about his scholarship, McKay said:
“It’s an amazing opportunity. I wouldn’t want to be anywhere else. It’s exciting for what this season is going to bring. Being in the A-League means everything.”
On the other side of the rivalry, Aidan Simmons and Alex Bonetig have risen through the Wanderers Academy to play top-flight football in Australia. Both have already made an impact on the Wanderers squad and featured in several matches.
With the Battle of the West: Rep Your Code approaching, all four players will have the chance to shine at Campbelltown Sports Stadium, with bragging rights on the line. Who will come out on top: South West Sydney or Western Sydney?
