Three Named in 2025 VAFA's Big V Centenary Squads
St Bernard’s is proud to announce that three of our own have earned selection in the prestigious 2025 VAFA's Big V Centenary Squads, with senior stars Mitch Hughes and Ben Huggard named in the Men’s squad, and rising young ruckman Alex Alessio earning a spot in the Under 19s.
Hughes: Leading From the Back
Club captain Mitch Hughes has been a model of consistency this season, steering the Snowdogs with poise and power from the half-back line. His inclusion in the squad is a deserved reward for a campaign that has seen him average 22 disposals, 6 rebound 50s, 6 intercept possessions, 4 marks and 2 score involvements per game.
A natural leader on and off the field, Hughes' composure under pressure and ability to launch attacks from defence have made him one of the most respected defenders in the competition.
Huggard: Dynamic Weapon
Joining Hughes is dynamic Ben Huggard, whose impact has been impossible to ignore. Averaging 23 disposals, 11 contested possessions, 5 inside 50s, 4 clearances, 5 score involvements and a goal per game, Huggard has added both grunt and class to St Bernard’s engine room.
Equally capable of winning the ball in the contest and hurting teams on the scoreboard, Huggard’s selection is a nod to the damage he’s done all over the ground in 2025.
Alessio: The Future is Now
Rounding out the Snowdogs' representation is promising ruckman Alex Alessio, who has earned a call-up to the VAFA's Big V Men’s Under 19 squad. Alessio’s development this season has been outstanding — showing strong tap work, physical presence, and the kind of footy IQ that turns potential into performance.
His inclusion highlights the bright future of the club, and he joins an elite list of emerging talent across the league.
The 36 players selected in the initial Big V Men’s Centenary Squad will host Perth Football League at Sportscover Arena, Elsternwick Park on Saturday July 12.
While the Big V Under 19 rep team returns to action for the first time since 2019, and the 40 players named in the initial squad to face the Bendigo FNL at Queen Elizabeth Oval in Bendigo on Sunday, July 13.
Congratulations to Mitch, Ben and Alex on their well-earned honours!
Written by: Hannah Juricskay
