The absence of internationals Sarah O'Connor and Georgia Nanscawen, who are preparing for the Champions Trophy, and an ill-timed injury to former national squad member Denise Durajski, has forced the Bombers to turn to the youngsters.

McGill, who offered Nanscawen her break in top-flight Victorian hockey at Fenton Street Reserve, relishes the opportunity to unearth the next star of the future.

"Last week I played seven 18 years and under," she said.

"The kids don't let us down - they're fantastic."

McGill admits there is an imbalance in that her team is "a bit too young" for her liking.

The reality is the Bombers must battle on. They are firmly entrenched in the top four after 10 rounds.

Their aim is to avenge last year's grand final loss.

Finals have to be the main aim with their shortage of numbers.

"We've still got a good enough mix of players to really challenge," McGill said.

"We're looking forward to having Georgia and Sarah home for finals so let's make sure we get in there. I'd like to get a top-two spot but if it doesn't happen we'll have to do it the hard way."

The recruitment of another one-time international Ngaire Smith has alleviated part of the inexperience issues. The attacking 30-year-old was capped 97 times for the national team and scored 22 goals.

She was at her peak as part of the 2003 Champions Trophy-winning team in Sydney.

Smith returns to the hockey field refreshed and enthusiastic after taking a year off. "It's been about her coming home again and wanting to play again," McGill said.

"Her experience certainly helps.

"She's still moving well, she's still fit and in good nick so she'll be really handy with us."

Former Essendon men's state league 1 goalkeeper George Bazeley was added to the Kookaburras squad for the Champions Trophy in Melbourne later this year.