The 2025 QAFL Colts season is heating up, and the Aspley Hornets are quickly emerging as one of the best teams to watch. After a strong campaign last year, the Hornets have returned with renewed energy and an impressive blend of new talent and experienced heads.
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Their recent victory over Noosa, which was known for early upsets this season, was a clear signal that Aspley is serious about contending this year. A large part of Aspley’s early success has come from a well-rounded and dynamic playing group, with several individuals stepping up to shape the Hornets’ identity in the opening rounds:
Zody Bradshaw
He has been a standout across both midfield and forward roles. He consistently wins one-on-one contests and impacts the game in both attack and defence. His athleticism, including a strong vertical leap, allows him to play multiple roles, and his development mindset is evident in his consistent performances.
Tom Levi
A versatile utility, Levi has solidified his spot in the midfield thanks to improved fitness and game awareness. He brings pace and control to Aspley’s engine room and is equally effective drifting forward. His ball use on both sides and his adaptability give the Hornets an edge during high-pressure moments.
Blake Keating
He is anchoring Aspley’s backline with intelligence and timing. His ability to read the play and intercept consistently frustrates opposition attacks, while his clean foot skills help launch counterattacks. He provides a calm presence that gives structure to the defensive unit.
Marshall Harrop
Operating mainly in defence with the ability to roll up to the wing, Marshall Harrop has become one of the team’s key on-field organisers. He wins his contests and shows a high level of understanding of team structures, allowing him to guide teammates and maintain shape under pressure.
Brock O’Sullivan
He is in his first year within the Colts system and is still building confidence, but his natural forward instincts are evident. He creates strong leads and works hard to keep the ball locked inside the forward half. While he’s still developing his marking consistency, his effort and defensive pressure are already valuable assets.
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Emerging Contributors Step Up
In the Noosa match, Milo Presland drove momentum from midfield, showing strong leadership and excellent execution. Pat Dalton contributed significantly on the wing with his two-way running and ball use. At the back, Zac Brown and Tyler Fabian were instrumental.
The Hornets’ early form reflects a squad that’s not only talented but focused on growth and improvement. With a deep midfield, a reliable defence, and a forward line full of promise, Aspley is shaping up as a genuine threat in the 2025 QAFL Colts season. If their trajectory continues, they could be one of the teams to beat come finals time.
Published 9-May-2025
