WorkSafe AFL Victoria Country will rely on mix of youth and experience when it tackles the VAFA this Sunday at the Junction Oval.

The No.1 side is brimming with players that have worn the Big V before, headlined by captain Guy Campbell.

The Echuca United star will line up against the VAFA Seniors after overcoming a back injury and will pull on the boots alongside his club coach Scott Beattie.

Joining Campbell in the representative side is a number of experienced interleague campaigners, including a couple of old sparring partners from his days in the Goulburn valley league with Rochester.

34-year-old Paul Kirby (Tatura) will be pivotal to the team's chances in the ruck, while Tim Looby (Shepparton United) will provide the cornerstone of the defence, alongside Ovens and Murray league champion Tyson Hartwig (Wangaratta Rovers).

The O&M will also be represented by Matt Pendergast (Lavington) and tough on-baller Jarrod Thompson (Yarrawonga).

Vic No.1 coach peter Knights said he was lucky to have such great leaders to call on.

"With experience comes leadership," Knights said.

"With guys like Guy Campbell and Matt Pendergast, we've got guys who have been good players for a long period of time and are great people to have involved."

Knights also highlighted his highly talented young brigade, led by Geelong league stars James Linton (Colac), Jai Sheahan (Newtown & Chilwel) and Luke Bath (St Mary's).

"You need that enthusiasm that comes with youth and these guys will add a lot of excitement to the group in their first time in the Big V jumper."

With players converging from all corners of the state, Knights said the challenge of bonding as a group was something they relished.

"We've got guys that have never seen each other play before and expected to come together and gel for this one game."

"But that's what makes it exciting and so many of them really do become friends forever more."

Waiting for the WorkSafe AFL Victoria Country No.1 side is a supremely skilled Ammos side, boasting its own wealth of experience.

Captain Jack Watts (University Blues) is an eight-time Big V rep player and will be key to his side's chance at centre half forward, while the lethal left foot of Cam Howat (Old Carey) is likely to cause havoc through the midfield.

Former WAFL star Ross Young has also earned his first senior Big V jumper after returning the University Blues this season.

The Ammos leading goalkicker in the premier division, Brendan Goss (Old Xaverians ,is also in ripping form and the small forward will be one of the players Knights and his side must stop if they hope to walk away with victory.

Knights said it was an honour for players on both sides to be selected.

"It is a very special guernsey that players must cherish it and realise the responsibility that goes with wearing this jumper."

"Players of note always stand up in these types of games."

Article first appeared www.vcfl.com.au JUly 4 2013