The Echuca under-16 captain's first stop was Blacktown International Sport Park in Sydney last Saturday, where he made his debut for the GWS Giants Academy under-16 side.
After impressing in trial matches, Gronow's form carried into the clash against Sydney Swans Academy, booting a goal and earning a nomination among the best players as a forward-midfielder.
While the Giants fell 9.5 (59) to 12.11 (83), the St Joseph’s student was pleased with his first hit-out after earning his spot in the final squad.
“The trials were in Canberra, there were 48 kids there and I didn’t know anyone,” Gronow said.
“I played well in that game, kicking two goals and managed to secure a spot in the main team.
“It was completely different to local footy. A lot quicker, higher standard, people watching.
“I went alright in the end. Hopefully, I get a spot in the next two games.”
Gronow didn’t have long to dwell on his performance in Sydney, because he was straight on the plane back to Melbourne and on the road to Mooroopna to skipper Goulburn Murray Junior League’s under-16 interleague side on Sunday.
The GMJL won both of their encounters against the Murray and Bendigo league sides, another notch on the belt for the young leader.
“I just hopped on the plane back to Melbourne and had a sleep in the car on the way there. I was off to Mooroopna the next morning,” he said.
Gronow shapes as one of the region’s bright up-and-coming football talents, highly regarded on both sides of the border in 2023, with his Giants debut coming after playing two games for the Bendigo Pioneers under-16 side earlier in the year.
“It’s been going well,” Gronow said of his season.
“I’ve had lots of opportunities to show my talents, which I’m thankful for.”
His Murray Bombers currently sit in second place in division one of the GMJL, with a pivotal clash against Shepparton Swans this Sunday.
“It’s a great bunch of boys, we have a bit of fun,” Gronow said.
“Hopefully we can get a win this week, make finals and maybe get to the grand final.”
It wasn't just a big weekend on the park for the 16-year-old, however.
Back in Echuca, older brother Jackson marked a milestone of his own, making his senior debut for Murray Football League club Echuca United in the Eagles' clash against Deniliquin.
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