Finn White steps in for injured Angus Fluker, as Toby Virgo named alternate

Australian Men’s U20 head coach Henry Lawson has today announced that defender Angus Fluker has unfortunately had to withdraw due to injury.

Fluker has been replaced by alternate Finn White, while Toby Virgo has been elevated to the position of alternate.

Coach Lawson said that the team and staff are devastated for Fluker.

“Angus has been magnificent through the entire process and has earnt everyone’s great respect. He is an excellent representative of Australian Lacrosse and can be proud of making this team and earning his blazer – nothing can take that away from him,” said Lawson.

“We hope that Angus understands that this doesn’t define his Australian lacrosse journey, and we look forward to seeing him compete for future Australian teams.”

White joins the team as a defender/face-off, having trained as an SSMD in every session in South Australia since the campaign began, before asking to broaden his skillset and training as a long pole since final selections.

“After playing defence at Senior Nationals, as well as with his Glenelg state team, he has proven himself 100% ready to go in this position, complemented by the versatility he brings to support our face-off team as well,” said Lawson. “As is the case with all our alternates, Finn’s commitment to the programme has been outstanding and we congratulate him on earning this role.”

Following White’s elevation, Lawson confirmed that the fourth alternate position has been filled with another long pole.

“Please join me in congratulating Toby Virgo on his selection as fourth alternate,” said Lawson.

“Well known to us from helping us out at Nationals, Toby has had an excellent year, fitting in seamlessly with us in June and earning All-Australian honours at this year’s U18 Nationals. Congratulations Toby.”

Our Australian Men’s U20 side head to Jeju in South Korea next month.