SEBASTIAN Burford-Gorst has been selected in the Australian junior gridiron team to play at the 2016 World under-19 Championships in Harbin, China.
The 17-year-old, who grew up in Darwin, will be part of a 45-man squad that will fly to China in   June to compete against the likes of the United States and Canada. 
Burford-Gorst, who plays for Uni SA Eagles in the Gridiron Association of South Australia junior competition, has been picked as one of only five receivers in the squad.
"There were 10 receivers trying out and there were only five spots and I was one of the people chosen," he said.
The South Australian league isn't well recognised around the country, with only two clubs competing in the junior division, which makes Burford-Gorst's selection remarkable.
"Our league isn't that popular at all, so it was hard to get some recognition," he said.
"It was the first time the coaches had visited South Australia to check us out." The Cincinnati Bengals supporter has only been playing the game for just over a year and got involved in the sport through his father.
"My dad used to play the sport in Darwin back in the day, so he got me into it through watching the NFL." Burford-Gorst believes that Australia has a strong chance of matching it with the world's best.
"I reckon we have got a good chance against China and some of the lower teams," he said.
"Teams like the USA and Canada will be tough, but we should put up a good fight."The tournament will take place from   June 28 to   July 10.