Jackson was livid after learning on Friday that rising star Jeromy Lucas is not permitted to play in the Jets’ local derby at home against Temora on Saturday. 

Lucas kicked three goals in an eye-catching senior debut last weekend but – with representative games at the national under 16 championships coming up on Tuesday and next Saturday – he is not allowed to play this weekend.

Jackson was furious.

“All they’re doing is making it hard for country football,” Jackson said.

“We’re all fuming about it and we’ve had this for years. 

“But I firmly believe that you’ll learn more playing senior football in the country than against kids in rep stuff.”

His view is rejected by former Sydney Swans premiership player Tadhg Kennelly who oversees the AFL NSW-ACT Rams programs.

Kennelly says players and parents were informed two weeks ago that they couldn’t play school or club football this weekend and insists the talent programs have players’ best interests at heart.

“They’ve got two games in five days and it’s a national competition,” Kennelly said.

“It’s the first time ever they’re going to get exposed to AFL recruiters. It’s not just any rep game.

“At the end of the day, all we’re trying to do is actually expose the kids to opportunities to get them on AFL lists.

“It’s disappointing from our view that he can't see the bigger picture which is all about burnout issues for kids who are 15, 16 years old.”

Jackson, who spent two years at Geelong under Tom Hafey, believes there’s too much importance on the junior talent programs.

“It’s not only the Northern Jets, it’s about football communities – unless AFL Riverina clubs stand up to these people, we will be the ones that will suffer in the long term,” Jackson said.

He said Collingullie’s Matthew Kennedy, drafted by GWS Giants is an example that talented footballers can make AFL lists without being in the talent system for years.