Labelled as one of the youngest sides in the competition, the Western Bulldogs have proven in 2015 that age is no barrier.

Currently sitting in eighth place, the Bulldogs have unearthed plenty of that young talent this season, with the rapid development of their young charges a key in their 7-5 win-loss record.

In the round 13 match against St Kilda, the Bulldogs played five teenagers – Marcus Bontempelli, Tom Boyd, Bailey Dale, Toby McLean and Lukas Webb.

All five players contributed with a goal each on the night, and have made the most of their opportunities.

Senior coach Luke Beveridge lauded the efforts of his young group to provide competition for spots throughout the season.

“We didn’t have any really low picks, Toby was our first pick in the draft and they’re doing an enormous job,” said Beveridge speaking with Fox Footy’s On The Couch on Monday night.

“It’s a credit to the boys and definitely our staff to have them at this stage of the year contributing like they are, getting through the work.”

While Bontempelli was a stand out in his first year at the Dogs in 2014, he’s shown no sign of second year blues, averaging 19 disposals this season.

Boyd has entered his second year at AFL level, and his first at the Club, under enormous scrutiny, but has shown promising signs for his future, earning a NAB AFL Rising Star nomination in round 12

Dale, McLean and Webb were all part of the 2014 draft class and have managed 17 games between them this season.

Much has been spoken about Beveridge’s willingness to reward those playing well at VFL, and the coach assured that the young Dogs were earning their place.

“They’re not passengers, they’re not given games, they’re going really well.

“It’s important to reward the players who are playing well at VFL level and there’s an expectation whether you’re a young side or a more mature side that everyone contributes to a level that your teammates can rely on.”