How is NSW producing so many gun juniors all of a sudden?
NSW has produced gun footballers for many years. Primarily from Southern NSW ie Riverina. Hawkins, Bruest, Smith, Carey, Brownless
Only difference before was that the pathway was harder to get to an AFL club. Some went to boarding schools in Victoria.
Now with the GWS Academy they don't need to leave home.
On top of this more of the talented players are staying in the system longer and not choosing other sports. Again because of the extra money put into talent identification. Heeney is an example