From Esperance to Subiaco: Tholstrup continues his rise

Stepping up to the mark and excelling appears to be in the DNA of Esperance product Koltyn Tholstrup.

Although just 16-years-old, the key forward is making a name for himself at Colts level, with 15 goals to his name and averaging 16 disposals across five matches this season.

His strong marking ability and his accuracy by foot caught the eye of state selectors, where he was named in WA’s under 18s squad.

Tholstrup told Subiacofc.com.au he was ‘stoked’ to be picked.

“I was selected as an underager last year in the 17s which was a surprise,” he said.

“I didn't know anything about state footy or anything like that.

“Getting picked for the 18s this year was a bit of a surprise too but I was very happy to be included.”

The WAFL Colts leading goal kicker said he’s enjoying his football with the Lions, where he’s progressed from the Futures side to being a key part of the Colts team.

Tholstrup grew up on a cattle farm in Myrup, where he learned the tricks of the farming trade with his grandfather.

It was there he found his love for football, first running out for the local side Newtown-Condingup.

Ahead of year 10, his education saw him move to Cunderdin, where he began his studies to become a stock agent.

His footballing talent saw Tholstrup line up in the town’s league team when he wasn’t playing for Subiaco’s Futures side.

The 16-year-old said he was able to grow quickly, playing against bigger bodies including the likes of former AFL players Quentin Lynch and Tendai Mzungu, as well as playing alongside former Lion Jarrod Kayler-Thomson.

“I learned a fair bit playing for Cunderdin, with all the boys there who are very experienced,” Tholstrup said.

“Hearing the journeys they’ve had opened my eyes to what it would all be like.”

He said his upbringing and playing in different teams allowed him to develop as a footballer, where he learned a variety of different roles.

While he’s proven his impact as a forward, he’s spent time in the midfield this season, and has played roles on the wing in the past.

However, he said he enjoys his position up forward and the bonds he’s made as part of the Lions’ potent attack.

According to Tholstrup, Subiaco has been important for his own development.

He credited Future’s coach Stuart Page as a big factor for his progression.

“He (Page) is the one who got me to where I was last year in the 17s,” Tholstrup said.

“He understands country people really well, and he worked pretty closely with me and my family to work around training and games.”

He continued, saying Subiaco’s coaching and support staff are always there to lend a hand.

“Chayce Creedy and Stu Berryman, they all understand and them taking it on board has been a major help,” he said.

“All the opportunities they’ve given us, and if you ever need to speak to them they’re always there.

“I’m thankful for the resources they provide, and I’m very lucky to be in the maroon.”

In the wake of Subiaco’s League side taking a trip to Kalgoorlie for round five, Tholstrup spoke highly of his time playing footy at home.

2017 was the last time the WAFL played in Esperance, where the Newtown-Condingup product was there in person to witness Subiaco defeat Claremont.

He said more games in the town he grew up in would be a great experience for the people there.

“It's a bit more surreal now that I'm a bit closer to them at Colts level,” he said.

“The level of football is a huge step up.

“The fact that they came down to Esperance and played, it was pretty cool.”

League forward Ben Sokol kicked four goals on the day, and is someone Tholstrup looks up to.

In regard to the rest of the season, the 16-year-old said the Colts group has never been tighter, which could go a long way for the side’s success later in the year.

Their 2-3 start to the season has them fourth on the ladder, heading into their clash against second-placed East Fremantle on Saturday.

The Colts match will be the first AFL game at the WACA Ground since 2000.

A cricket fan himself with plenty of memories of the ground, Tholstrup said it will be an exciting prospect.

“I can’t wait to be honest,” he said.

“It’ll be a bit weird to play footy on ‘The Furnace’ as they call it in cricket.

“Just going to the changerooms and on the ground, it’s going to be pretty good to tell family and friends.”