Dissecting the Draft

After an AFL National Draft which offered up its fair share of surprises, draft expert Matt O’Leary dissects each pick and analyses your club’s overall performance at the selection table.

Adelaide, 8.5/10
13. Daniel Talia (Calder), 29. Jack Gunston (Sandringham), 45. Sam Shaw (Oakleigh), 61. James Craig (North Adelaide) 74. Brodie Martin (Rookie Elevation)
This draft was almost brilliant for the Crows, the only downside being the lack of variety in the club’s picks. Talia was too good an opportunity to pass up at pick 13, and he will be groomed to take over from Rutten and Bock long-term. Shaw and Gunston, the latter of whom had been heavily linked to the Crows, shape as very handy third-talls, an area in which the Crows lack depth. Craig, who somehow slipped to pick 61, topped off a very commercial draft for Adelaide. Despite receiving a general tick of approval, it would have been wise for a midfielder or flanker to be selected at some point instead of four players over 190cm. This is particularly so given the pending retirements of Goodwin, Edwards and McLeod.

Brisbane, 7/10
27. Callum Bartlett (Geelong Falcons), 47. Ryan Harwood (Tassie Mariners), 73. Jesse O’Brien (North Adelaide) 84. Bryce Retzlaff (Labrador), 91. Matt Maguire (St Kilda), Pearce Hanley (Rookie Elevation)
The Lions traded themselves out of this draft by recruiting Brendan Fevola et al during trade week. Despite this, the club performed reasonably well with the picks available to it, particularly by securing Bartlett at pick 27. Bartlett is a classy prospect who would have been selected higher but for injury. Harwood was a very safe selection at pick 47 and shapes as a likely replacement for Simon Black at the bottom of the Lions’ packs. O’Brien and Retzlaff offer something a little different, but are unlikely to become household names. Maguire is a great selection for a club looking to push up the ladder, particularly so late in the draft. Overall, the Lions will probably walk away from the selection table content, rather than ecstatic.

Carlton, 5.5/10
12. Kane Lucas (East Frem), 43. Marcus Davies (Tassie Mariners), 59. Rohan Kerr (Dandenong), 72. Sam Jacobs (Rookie Elevation), 83. Aaron Joseph (Rookie Elevation)
The Blues entered and exited this draft in desperate need of a key position prospect. This meant that the club couldn’t possibly be awarded higher than a mid-range mark. Lucas, who contributed most of the Blues marks here, is a wonderful midfield talent who should play 150 games. However, the Blues already have at least four genuine midfielders in Judd, Murphy, Gibbs and McLean and also have a host of others offering support. The logic that a club should pick the best available player in the first round of a draft is understandable, but there are exceptions to this rule and this was a glaring one. Carlton really should have selected Talia at pick 12 as a result. Davies was a reasonable selection at pick 43 and Kerr could be handy after being chosen at pick 59, but selecting one of the key position players available at those points would have been a far better option for the Blues.

Collingwood, 9/10
30. Luke Ball (St. Kilda), 62. Ben Sinclair (Oakleigh), 75. Josh Thomas (Broadbeach), 85. Simon Buckley (Melbourne)
After having only one selection inside the top 61 picks, it may be difficult for many to understand why the Magpies have been awarded such a high mark. The answer is quite simple – Collingwood went into the draft with a game-plan and executed it to perfection. This of course refers primarily to the coup of securing Ball at pick 30, which could prove to be the difference between another mediocre finals showing and a grand final. Recruiting the former Saint was a triumph for both player and club and the Magpies really could have packed their bags after this selection. Icing was added to the cake late in the draft, however, after the Pies somehow secured Thomas at pick 75, and also snared Buckley at pick 85. Sinclair at pick 62 was a little odd in the midst of three sensible selections, but this didn’t detract from a great draft for the men in black and white.

Essendon, 9/10
10. Jake Melksham (Calder), 24. Jake Carlisle (Calder), 26. Travis Colyer (Claremont), 33. Anthony Long (Calder)
The Dons went quietly about their business and the result will please the club’s coaching staff and fans. Melksham had been heavily linked to pick 10 and he should provide much needed class to a midfield crying out for support. Whilst the Bombers didn’t really need a genuine tall option, Carlisle at pick 24 was simply too good an opportunity to resist (and he will probably end up maturing more quickly than Gumbleton and Neagle anyway). Colyer was an ideal selection at pick 26, primarily to replace the pace lost when Lovett was traded. Long went too early at pick 33, but the club has been keen on the Norm Smith Medallist’s nephew for many years and it was a reasonable pick given the three players selected beforehand. This could be a wonderful draft for the club.

Fremantle, 8.5/10
4. Anthony Morabito (Peel), 20. Nat Fyfe (Claremont), 36. Joel Houghton (Perth), 48. Jesse Crighton (Tassie Mariners), 49. Dylan Robertson (Dandenong), 52. Justin Bollenhagen (South Adelaide), 79. Greg Broughton (Rookie Elevation)
Although 8.5/10 might not seem like a great achievement, for the Dockers this is the equivalent of winning a Nobel Prize. The club, so long-maligned for getting its picks tragically wrong, started well by choosing Moribito at pick 4 and kept ticking along from there. My favourite in Fyfe was a good choice at pick 20 and Houghton will serve as a much needed key position prospect after being snared at pick 36. Selecting Crichton and Robertson at picks 48 and 49 was, however, the most pleasing aspect of the Dockers’ draft. These players will add tenacity and a third-tall defensive option respectively, both of which are qualities lacking at Fremantle. Bollenhagen, despite having the best name of any draftee, is a speculative pick, but was reasonable given the five solid players secured beforehand. Congratulations to the much maligned Fremantle recruiters for a job well done.

Geelong, 9.5/10
17. Daniel Menzel (Central Districts), 28. Mitch Duncan (East Perth) 40. Allen Christensen (Geelong Falcons), 42. Nathan Vardy (Gippsland), 56. Josh Cowan (North Ballarat), 65. Jeremy Laidler (Geelong)
After pulling in five genuine players, the Cats have ensured that their dynasty will continue. Menzel is a solid and skilful flanker, who may have been selected too high, particularly given the talent that slipped out of the first round. However, the Cats’ next three selections – Duncan, Christensen and Vardy – were simply inspired, albeit somewhat fortunate. The trio is supremely balanced, offering speed, toughness and height and the club couldn’t have done any better with picks 28, 40 and 42. Cowan rounded out a great night for the premier by being selected as a handy prospect at pick 56.

Hawthorn, 4/10
39. Sam Grimley (Northern Knights), 46. Ben Stratton (East Perth), 57. Jordan Williams (Bendigo), 58. Rhan Hooper (Brisbane),
The Hawks rivalled the Dogs as the worst performers at the draft. Entering the meeting at pick 39 was never going to be easy for the 2008 premier, but selecting Gimmley first up, when Vardy and Craig were still available, was highly questionable. The big man would have almost certainly been available with the club’s last selection at pick 69 and really isn’t the safe ruck option the Hawks should have been looking for. Stratton and Williams were vanilla picks at 46 and 57 respectively, and there were better options available. Hooper could provide the real highlight here, given his rare talents and the fact that the Hawks will be hoping that their recruits fire in the next two to three years. Duryea was a risk at pick 69 and Cloke or Maguire would have been better options. This was a poor effort from the Hawks after an otherwise charmed decade for the club at the drafting table.

Melbourne, 9/10 1. Tom Scully (Dandenong), 2. Jack Trengove (Sturt), 11. Jordan Gysberts (Eastern Rangers), 18. Luke Tascott (North Adelaide), 34. Max Gawn (Sandringham), 50. Jack Fitzpatrick (Western Jets)
This draft will go down in the history books as a great day for the Melbourne Football Club. However, the Dees could have done even better and really should have scored 10 out of 10 with the picks they had. Scully, Trengove, Gysberts and Tapscott are all outstanding prospects (particularly the first two) but the decision to opt for four midfielders in the first 18 picks, particularly after securing Morton, Blease and Strauss in the last two years, was bordering on stupid. Carlisle, Black or Talia should have been selected at pick 11 or 18 with team balance in mind. The Dees were lucky that Gawn was still available at pick 34, and Fitzpatrick was a good selection at pick 50, so the club ultimately achieved some degree of balance. However, this was probably more the result of luck than good planning, which is the reason why a higher mark hasn’t been awarded.

North Melbourne, 9.5/10
5. Ben Cunnington (Geelong Falcons), 21. Ryan Bastinac (Dandenong), 25. Aaron Black (Peel), 37. Jamie Macmillan (Oakleigh), 41. Ayden Kennedy (Eastern Rangers), 53. Brayden Norris (Murray Bushrangers), 80. Cruize Garlett (Rookie Elevation)
North was one of the big winners from this draft. Cunnington is an absolute gem and he, along with Bastinic, could form a wonderful midfield combination. Black was the big slider in the pool and the Roos would have been both grateful and shocked that he was available at pick 25. MacMillan and Norris are good flanker/ midfield prospects who bring quality skills and endurance respectively. Rounding out the Roos’ selections is Kennedy, who is a great third tall in the making. North’s bounty from this draft is a beautiful mix of players, all of whom were selected at or below their value. The Roos’ task now is to overcome the club’s reputation for taking too long to develop its young players.

Port Adelaide, 8/10
8. John Butcher (Gippsland), 9. Andrew Moore (Eastern Rangers), 16. Jaspar McMillan-Pittard (Geelong Falcons), 82. Daniel Stewart (Rookie Elevation), 88. Wade Thompson (Rookie Elevation)
With three picks in the first round, Port would have struggled to draft poorly. Butcher was a great, albeit predictable pick first up. The strapping key position prospect should be able to hold down centre-half-forward for the Power relatively shortly. Moore represented a bolter at pick 9, but the club would have been pleased to select a swing-man to groom as the next Chad Cornes. McMillan-Pittard is slightly overrated, but Williams is well-known for putting a premium on attitude and interviewing skills, so his selection makes some sense at pick 16. Despite securing three very good players, the Power may regret not using the opportunity to select a genuine midfield talent to bolster a weak area at the club. A strong draft, but selecting Lucas/ Melksham at pick 9 or Bastinic/ Tapscott at pick 16 could have made it great.

Richmond, 8.5/10
3. Dustin Martin (Bendigo), 19. Ben Griffiths (Eastern Rangers), 35. David Astbury (North Ballarat), 44. Matthew Dea (North Ballarat), 51. Troy Taylor (NT Thunder), 67. Jeromey Webberley (Clarence) 71. Ben Nason (Central Districts), 89. Robin Nahas (Rookie Elevation), 94. Andrew Browne (Rookie Elevation)
Martin and Griffiths were probably the best combination of players that the Tigers could have hoped for with picks 3 and 19. Between them they represent the third best midfielder in this draft and a top-line, burly key position forward in the making. Astbury was a needs-based pick for a side lacking key position depth after several retirements and delistings. He and Taylor, who was a steal at pick 51, will add some real variety to the Tiger’s attack. Dea was a solid selection at pick 44, even though many wouldn’t have picked him. The Tigers last two picks, Nason and particularly Webberley, were slightly dubious choices. This was a good draft for the Tigers overall, with the first two players selected shaping as genuine stars for the yellow and black.

St Kilda, 7/10
32. Nicholas Winmar (Claremont), 60. Jesse Smith (Kangaroos), 64. Adam Pattison (Richmond), 77. Will Johnson (Sandringham), 87. Zac Dawson (Rookie Elevation), 93. Luke Miles (Rookie Elevation)
The Saints recruited for now, which was hardly surprising given that their premiership French double doors are well and truly open. Smith was a shock selection at pick 60, but he is still an outstanding talent who could free up Goddard and Gram from the half-back line. Pattison was also a surprise at pick 64, but he will offer depth and cover for the aging Gardiner/ King combination and could end up playing second fiddle to McEvoy long-term. Winmar was possibly taken too early, although the club was very keen on his talents. Johnson is a mature-aged defender who wasn’t expected to be picked up, but that late in the piece he was a risk worth taking. The Saints are starting to resemble a Good Sammy’s store, such is their glut of second-hand players, but their rationale is understandable and has proven successful so far.

Sydney, 8/10
6. Gary Rohan (Geelong Falcons), 14. Lewis Jetta (Swan Districts), 38. Sam Reid (Murray Bushrangers), 54. Byron Sumner (Woodville), 55. Trent Dennis-Lane (Subiaco), 90. Kristin Thornton (Rookie Elevation)
The Swans had two very early picks which meant that they were always going to secure some special talent. Both their early selections were used on flashy players in Rohan and Jetta, who are, whilst supremely gifted, somewhat risky. It may have been wiser to select a safer option at pick 14, such as Tapscott or Stevens, but the Swans needed x-factor and they have secured plenty in these two players. Sydney also performed solidly in the middle of the draft, with Reid a wonderful selection for the Swans backline at pick 38, Sumner an interesting speedy option at pick 54 and Dennis-Lane a genuine goal-kicker for the era post Hall and O’Loughlin. This was a good draft for the Swans, even though the club didn’t secure a genuine midfield gun or a key position prospect.

West Coast, 8/10
7. Brad Sheppard (East Fremantle), 22. Garrick Weedon (Claremont), 23. Koby Stevens (Gippsland)
The Eagles have been strong drafters over the past few years and this continued last night. Sheppard was linked to the club in the lead up to the draft and, whilst Lucas may have been a better selection, he will serve the club well for the next decade. As the first round shenanigans unfolded, it became clear that the Eagles would have some brilliant young talent to choose from at picks 22 and 23. Stevens, in particular, was worthy of a first round selection, but it was surprising that Colyer, Carlisle and particularly Black, were overlooked in favour of Weedon. A better than average day at the office for West Coast, but they could have done even better given that all the cards fell their way.

Western Bulldogs, 3/10
15. Christian Howard (Glenelg), 31. Jason Tutt (Ainslie), 63. Lukas Markovic (Eastern Rangers), 76. Shane Thorne (Northern Territory), 86. Liam Picken (Rookie Elevation), 92. James Mulligan (Rookie Elevation)
The Dogs are the undisputed worst drafters of 2009. Both of the club’s first two picks, Howard and Tutt, could have been selected much later in the piece and the Dogs may rue overlooking the other talent which was available at picks 15 and 31. Both of the club’s late picks, Thorne and Markovic, are mature age players selected to help the club make the most of its premiership window. However, it is questionable whether they are talented enough to do so. It started badly with the bolter Howard at pick 15 and didn’t get any better from there. If this was a primary school report, it would recommend that the Dogs be held back to repeat the class next year.

2009 AFL National Draft Preview

With the last untainted draft for many years taking place tonight, guest writer Matt O’Leary outlines his pick by pick predictions and analyses the players who may be snared by your club.

1.
Melb
Tom Scully
Medium Midfielder
Dandenong Stingrays, VIC
182cm, 74kg, 15/05/91
An outstanding talent, Scully has been touted as the number one pick all year. Captained Vic Metro and averaged 25 disposals at the U18 championships this year, which led to his selection as rover in the U18 AA team. Was also selected as the ruck-rover in the TAC Cup team of the year. A brilliant all-round midfielder, he is especially damaging at stoppages (as highlighted by his average of 5.2 clearances a game during the U18 championships) and has the ability to run all day. His outstanding leadership and maturity round out a first-rate resume. Late mail has suggested that the Demons think Trengove might be better placed to deal with the pressure of going number one, but these should probably be treated with a grain of salt. Lock him in.
2.
Melb
Jack Trengove
Medium Midfielder
Sturt, SA
185cm, 82kg, 02/09/91
By selecting Trengove to couple Scully, the Demons have secured the best two midfield prospects in the draft. Trengove has been outstanding all year, from his U18 championships, which secured him the ruck-rover berth in the U18 AA team, to his outstanding and heavily documented performances in the SANFL finals. Apparently his form over the last month of the SANFL season was akin to Nathan Buckley’s in 1992 and led him to being heavily tagged. A footballer’s footballer who ticks all the boxes, he will undoubtedly join forces with Scully, Morton, Strauss, Blease and co to form an outstanding young midfield at the Dees.
3.
Rich
Dustin Martin
Medium Midfielder
Bendigo Pioneers, VIC
187cm, 86kg, 26/06/91
The U18 AA and TAC Cup team of the year centreman is a clear favourite to be taken by the Tigers. Even if his raw football ability wasn’t enough to convince recruiters of his talent, his draft camp performances would have been impossible to ignore, after he came in the top two in the kicking and 20m sprint tests and seventh in the agility test. The fact that Sydney made a late bid to swap picks 6 and 14 for the Tigers pick 3 was seen as a sign of how highly the Bendigo midfielder is rated. Will provide much needed class to help Cotchin and Deledio in the Tigers midfield.
4.
Frem
Anthony Morabito
Tall Midfielder
Peel Thunder, WA
190cm, 90kg, 29/10/91
The athletic Peel player, who has been likened to Adam Goodes by many an astute judge, is likely to be selected by Fremantle. Morabito was selected as a wingman in the U18 AA team and he will probably play predominately as tall-winger/midfielder at AFL level, but he also has the ability to play as an undersized CHF. Will offer something different to the Palmer/ Hill midfield set-up and give Dockers fans some hope for the future. Late mail linking this pick to Rohan is worrying, given that he is exactly the sort of high risk/ reward pick that Fremantle is accustomed to making and getting hopelessly wrong.
5.
North
Ben Cunnington
Medium Midfielder
Geelong Falcons, VIC
186cm, 84kg, 30/06/91
Cunnington has been universally described as the hardest player in this year’s draft, so he should fit in well if selected by the Shinboners. Another U18 AA and TAC Cup team of the year player, he is an all-round midfielder who will complement Ziebell as a genuine class player in North’s centre square. John Butcher and Cunnington’s former Falcons teammate Gary Rohan are the only other real possibilities with this pick.
6.
Syd
Gary Rohan
Medium Forward/ Midfielder
Geelong Falcons, VIC
186cm, 79kg, 07/06/91
This looms as a very interesting pick which will shape the rest of the top 10. If he is still available, Rohan will be hard for Sydney to overlook. Told he wasn’t good enough for the Falcons under-16 side, Rohan has pushed himself into top 10 calculations with his selections in the U18 AA team and the TAC Cup team of the year. His outstanding results at draft camp (first in the kicking test, 5th in repeat sprints and equal 5th in the 20 meter sprint) further underline his talent. Has also been labelled as having “x-factor”, a quality desperately lacking at the Swans. Unless one of the top five slides to this pick, the Swans will likely only consider Rohan and Lucas, the later of whom may actually be a better long term player and fit for the Swans midfield.
7.
WCE
Lewis Jetta
Small Forward/ Midfielder
Swan Districts, WA
178cm, 72kg, 04/05/89
Placing Jetta is the most difficult task in this draft. Realistically he could fall anywhere between West Coasts’ picks 7 and 22. I accept that he is the best mature-age talent available, but that doesn’t mean he should be selected in the top 10. Somewhere between picks 13 and 18 is more reflective of his abilities in my opinion. Despite my reservations, Jetta’s silky skills and lightening pace will have several clubs strongly considering picking him up and I can’t go against West Coast’s much publicised interest in him. Jetta shone in several big games at WAFL and representative level this season, suggesting that he will be a ready made player in 2010. I think most Eagles fans would prefer to see Lucas, Butcher or Sheppard selected here, but I hope that they embrace Jetta for the talent that he is. Whoever the Eagles do select, you could do worse than putting $10 on them for the NAB Rising Star Award – the last three number 7 picks in National Drafts (Selwood, Palmer and Rich) have gone on to win the award.
8.
Port
John Butcher
Tall Forward
Gippsland Power, VIC
197cm, 84kg, 03/07/91
If he slips through, the Power should not think twice about selecting Butcher. The club desperately needs to find a replacement for Tredrea and Butcher is the best available in this pool. Butcher was considered a top 3 pick mid-year, but his stocks have waned slightly after an average U18 championships. However, he was still named as the CHF in the TAC Cup team of the year and is a better option than Talia, Carlisle and Black. He has some perceived flaws, most notably in relation to his kicking for goal, but most astute judges are backing him to overcome these and become a top quality KP forward. The only thing that might make Port think twice here is that their other KP forward prospects (the Westhoff brothers and Matthew Lobbe) are all of a similar height and build to Butcher and their attack might lack some variety as a result.
9.
Port
Kane Lucas
Medium Midfielder
East Fremantle, WA
188cm, 79kg, 26/06/91
Arguably the safest pick in this draft outside the top three players, Lucas is already admired by many in the industry and is seen as a ten-year player. Along with Rohan, Lucas was one of the best testers at the draft camp, coming equal 3rd in the 3km time trial, first in agility, equal 7th in the vertical jump and equal 5th in the repeat sprint. He was also an U18 AA and has long been touted as classy and well-rounded midfield/ forward prospect. As mentioned, he is a better prospect than Jetta and could feel slightly miffed about being forced to relocate Alberton rather than pulling on an Eagles’ jumper next year. That being said, he strikes me as an incredibly professional young man who will give his football club his all and will make a large impact very quickly. Suggestions that he will slip to the end of the first round (which have been made in several quarters) are ludicrous – he should be selected by Sydney, West Coast or Port and, at worst, slip to pick 14. Melksham and Sheppard would be the most likely other alternatives at this pick.
10.
Ess
Jake Melksham
Medium Midfielder
Calder Cannons, VIC
182cm, 69kg, 29/08/91
This is one of the first really curly picks in the draft, assuming that a slider like Rohan or Lucas doesn’t appear out of the woodwork. In recent years the Dons have loaded up on tall players with their early picks, securing Hurley, Myers and Gumbleton in the top 10. This, coupled with the loss of Lovett and a general lack of midfield class, means that it would be a surprise if the club doesn’t use this pick on a budding young midfielder. Melksham, if available, would be an ideal selection here and offers a real all-round midfield prospect. Top ten performances in the agility and beep tests at draft camp illustrate his athletic ability and his best on ground performance in the TAC Cup Grand Final underlines his football talent. Melksham should be selected somewhere between the Power’s pick 8 and the Swans pick 14, but he has been most heavily linked to the Dons here. If Melksham isn’t available, Stevens would be the most likely to be selected. However, my smokie for this pick is Sheppard, both for his All Australian football ability and the fact that the Bombers have such strong links to WA (having selected Ryder, Myers, Pears, Jetta and Gumbleton with early picks in recent years).
11.
Melb
Aaron Black
Tall Forward
Peel Thunder, WA
193cm, 78kg, 29/11/90
If Melbourne wanted to play it safe, it would select Vardy here to ensure that its budding young midfield had something mildly resembling a ruckman to palm the ball to them. However, with four picks inside the top 18, and another at 34, the Dees will throw caution to the wind by selecting Carlisle in the hope that Vardy or Gawn will still be available later. Having overlooked Vardy, the Dees will consider three outstanding young talls – Carlisle, Talia and Black. The last of this trio is an outstanding talent, whose stocks have surged after he finished equal third in the vertical jump and equal second in the kicking test at the draft camp. His raw talent was further underlined when he had 29 possessions, 14 marks and kicked 6.4 in a Colts game against Subiaco. Black will probably be saddled with the dreaded label of “potential”, but along with Liam Jurrah and Jake Watts, he should form the basis of a strong tall forward-line for Dees for years to come. If he isn’t selected here or by Carlton with the next pick, which would be a surprise, he definitely won’t slip past the Dockers at pick 20. The Demons will of course be on the lookout for a slider, and one in the form of Butcher would be seen as a godsend.
12.
Carl
Daniel Talia
Tall Defender/ Forward
Calder Cannons, VIC
194cm, 89kg, 02/10/91
While the Blues have already picked up Lachlan Henderson during trade week, they are likely to invest in another KP prospect with the pick they swapped for Fevola. Talia, if available, would be an ideal selection. Named CHB in the U18 AA team, Talia can play forward or back and has a ready made body for AFL. He is talented enough to be the Blues CHF or CHB for ten years. If not selected here, Talia shouldn’t slip past the Bulldogs at pick 15. Carlisle and particularly Black will also be considered by the Blues here.
13.
Adel
Bradley Sheppard
Medium Midfielder/ Defender
East Fremantle, WA
186cm, 78kg, 23/05/91
With no real gaps to fill in their line-up, the Crows will select the best available player, which means Stevens, Moore, McMillan-Pittard and Sheppard will be the most strongly considered. Carlisle or Talia, whilst outsiders, would also be good long term replacements for Bock and Rutten if available. Another possibility is that Jetta and Sheppard could swap positions from where I have them in this mock draft. Sheppard would seem to be the right fit here, since his stocks have soared in the back half of the year, due to his consistently high-level performances at WAFL level, his selection in the U18 AA team and his sensational results at draft camp. That should impress Neil Craig and the Adelaide hierarchy, who will be looking to make the most of Goodwin, McLeod and Edwards’ last tilt at a flag. Ultimately, he will be groomed to take over from Goodwin and McLeod in the pivotal sweeping role across the Adelaide half-back line, where he will likely work in tandem with Brad Symes.
14.
Syd
Koby Stevens
Medium Midfielder
Gippsland Power, VIC
187cm, 83kg, 18/06/91
Having selected a medium forward/ midfielder in Rohan, Sydney should turn its attention to rejuvenating its aging midfield stocks with this pick. Stevens, Melksham, Tapscott and even Lucas could be selected if available. Carlisle or Black would be viewed as outsiders if the Swans choose to go tall. Stevens is my tip here because he shapes as a genuine footballer’s footballer and the Swan’s coaching staff and supporters would be ecstatic to secure a player of his type. Is an all-rounded player who can win the hard ball and deliver it to teammates as a link-man. The characteristic that sets Stevens apart from the other contenders at this pick, however, is his ferocious attack on the football and the opposition – averaging a huge six tackles a game during the U18 championships. He could be selected anywhere between 10 and 20, with a number of analysts seeing him sliding out of the first round. I think that he is too good a player for that and I am backing him in to be selected by Essendon, Adelaide, Sydney or, at worst, Geelong. Carlisle is a real option if the Swans choose to go tall, particularly if Lucas is picked at 6.
15.
WB
Andrew Moore
Medium Utility
Eastern Ranges, VIC
188cm, 81kg, 30/05/91
Having gone tall with their first selections in the last two national drafts (selecting Ayce Cordy with pick 14 in 2008 and Jarrad Grant with pick 5 in 2007), it seems likely that the Dogs will select the best available midfielder or mid-sized utility with this pick. Moore, along with Tapscott, Stevens and Bastinic, fits this description. Moore, who is the brother of Richmond’s Kelvin, has been likened to other tall midfielder’s/ swingmen such as Ryan O’Keefe. Whilst physically not dissimilar to his brother, the younger Moore is a far superior football and athletic talent and it would be a surprise if he slides out of the top 20. Will most probably be selected somewhere between Adelaide’s pick 13 and Geelong’s pick 17. This should make him the first of several Eastern Ranges players, including Gysberts and Griffiths, to be selected.
16.
PA
Luke Tapscott
Medium Midfielder/ Forward
North Adelaide, SA
180cm, 86kg, 28/06/91
Somewhat unbelievably, this will be Port’s last pick in the draft, before four sides have even had their first picks. After having secured the best KP prospect (Butcher) and one of the best midfielders (Lucas) in this pool, the Power will likely select the best available player with this pick. Rated as a likely top 10 selection as recently as a month ago, Tapscott has apparently fallen out of favour with recruiters. However, it would be hard to see Port overlooking him here, unless the club is particularly fixated on a KP player such as Black or Carlisle. Tapscott is a medium midfielder and forward who is rated as one of the best kicks in this draft. You can see why comparisons have been made between him and Daniel Rich, given their similar body-shape and foot-skills. Such comparisons are obviously optimistic and could ultimately be an unfair burden on the young South Australian. Having played his junior footy at North Adelaide, Tapscott should feel comfortable at Port and will add great support to Boak, Hartlett and Lucas. Yet another AA U18 player.
17.
Geel
Jake Carlisle
Tall Forward/ Defender
Calder Cannons, VIC
196cm, 83kg, 01/10/91
A ruckman appears to be Geelong’s only genuine need at this point, but for some peculiar reason the Cats are tipped to overlook Vardy here in the hope of securing another prospect later in the draft. Carlisle is an outstanding talent and his stocks have continued to rise throughout this year. He is now firmly seen as being amongst the top four KP prospects in this draft, along with Butcher, Talia and Black. FB in the TAC Cup team of the year, Carlisle would have, but for the late emergence of Black, been picked a lot higher than this. Will be tried in various key posts and will spend some time in the gym before possibly settling into the vacant CHF position once Mooney retires. A host of players (Black, Vardy, Moore, and Stevens) could also be picked here, but Bastinic or McMillan-Pittard would be my picks if Carlisle isn’t available or is overlooked.
18.
Melb
Nathan Vardy
Ruckman
Gippsland Power, VIC
198cm, 89kg, 25/06/91
With other clubs openly on the lookout for a young ruckman, Melbourne will be very tempted to pick the talented Vardy with pick 11. However, having run the risk of Port and Geelong overlooking the best ruck prospect in this pool, the Dees shouldn’t have to think long before snaffling Vardy here. The Dees are desperate for a project ruckman, with Spencer as good as they have at the moment. An athletic and skilled big man, Vardy could be the man to feed a talented midfield of Scully, Trengove, Blease, Strauss and co for years to come. Black has also been strongly linked to this pick and he and Griffiths aren’t without a chance of being selected here, leaving the Dees to select the best available of Craig and Gawn at pick 34. Luke Ball has also been linked here, with the Demons playing a game of cat and mouse with the former Saint, but I have left him to be selected by another club in the 20’s.
19.
Rich
Benjamin Griffiths
Tall Forward
Eastern Ranges, VIC
198cm, 99kg, 17/09/91
Richmond has gaps to fill all over the field, but will be pleased with the opportunity to add a quality KP prospect in Griffiths. This is particularly so given the retirement of Richardson, the delisting of Polak, the trading of Schultz and the failure of the Cleve Hughes experiment. The Tigers current forward line structure – which relies heavily on the undersized Jack Reiwoldt and Mitch Morton – would be well served by a burly tall of Griffiths’ ilk. The first thing that strikes an observer about Griffiths is his sheer physical size and presence. At 198cm and already 99kg, Griffiths could have an immediate impact on the AFL scene. That being said, he poses some risk, given that his sublime talent is somewhat offset by his long injury history. This hasn’t stopped him from being dubbed the strongest mark in this pool and his height and power will ensure that he is well in demand in a draft which is thin in relation to those qualities. It is unlikely that he will be selected higher than this, but he shouldn’t slip past the mid-20’s (despite this being suggested), due mainly to the dearth of other quality tall options in this pool.
20.
Fre
Max Gawn
Ruckman
Sandringham Dragons, VIC206cm, 97kg, 28/12/91
Fremantle’s rucking stocks at the minute read Sandilands, Clarke.... Bradley... nothing else. It is one of many areas which the club’s recruiting and list management staff have left unattended. The Dockers should be desperate to secure another genuine long term ruck prospect and they will be aware that those options are drying out fast in this pool. If the club, in its infinite wisdom, chooses to overlook a ruckman, the best available of Black, Carlisle, Panos and Griffiths should be selected. That being said, the Dockers will probably continue their chequered drafting history by selecting a player such as Troy Taylor, who is an outstanding talent but who isn’t what Fremantle need at this stage of the club’s development. Surely, for the sake of their long suffering fans, sense will prevail here and the Dockers won’t be tempted into making another Stephen Hill pick inspired more by potential than past performance. With my questionable confidence in mind, I will lock Gawn in here in the hope that the Dockers don’t disappoint again. Gawn is a beast of a man at 206cm and almost 100kg, Given his height and build, he shapes as a traditional project ruckman, who will be nurtured in the hope that he becomes a rucking colossus in his early to mid twenties. Given that he has already shown strong signs, and is yet to turn 18, it is quite possible that this will happen. Will have the perfect opportunity to learn from Sandlilands before forming a wonderful partnership with Clarke to feed the Dockers growing midfield stocks.
21.
North
Ryan Bastinac
Medium Midfielder
Dandenong Stingrays, VIC
183cm, 74kg, 22/06/91
Having selected a hard, inside player in Cunnington, North will turn their attention to securing an all-round or fast midfielder this pick. Given this, the best available player is Bastinic, who is an elite gut-runner who came second in the three km time trial and beep test at draft camp. He was also named on a wing in the TAC Cup team of the year. Many experts see him as possibly sliding to mid 20’s in this draft and I think that if that happens the club that selects him will be very lucky. His coach at the Dandenong Stingrays is glowing in praise for Bastinic’s endurance and football ability, which he said placed him only marginally behind Tom Scully. Whilst that may be a slight exaggeration, it is clear that this is a genuine player who I place in my top 12 in terms of ability in this draft.
22.
WCE
Jasper McMillan-Pittard
Medium Defender
Geelong Falcons, VIC
185cm, 70kg, 01/01/91
McMillan-Pittard has been so heavily talked up over the past month that I can’t let him slide any further, even though I’d like to. Labelled with the title “the best interviewee at draft camp”, McMillan-Pittard is said to be a keen student of the game, which sits well with his athletic abilities. Apparently he has shot up the rankings to such an extent that he could be selected in the first or early second rounds. However, I would be disappointed if rumours of him being selected as high as 13 by Adelaide or 14 by Sydney eventuated. Geelong, at 17, is the earliest I would select him, and only under duress. McMillan-Pittard is a solid and skilful flanker and rotation midfielder who will need to add bulk to his frame. West Coast has a good recent history of securing talented players who have been picked to go earlier in the draft (think Ebert at 13 in 2007 and Ashley Smith at 36 in 2008) so I think they will be on the lookout for another slider. Bastinic and McMillan-Pittard are the most likely meet this criterion in my mind.
23.
WCE
Mitchell Duncan
Medium Forward
East Perth, WA
188cm, 81kg, 10/06/91
Having secured a fast midfielder/ forward in Jetta and a flashy half-forward in Taylor, West Coast will consider a host of options with this pick, ranging from tall timber (Fitzgerald, Panos, Griffiths) to pace and flair (Duncan, Colyer) to genuine midfield talent (Christensen, Gysberts). Having said this, the Eagles have a strong, albeit underrated young spine (including Mitch Brown, McKenzie and Kennedy) and a young ruck prodigy (Natinui), so they don’t desperately need to secure the services of a KP prospect. This is despite the fact that they have gone fairly short with their previous two picks in this draft. Ultimately Duncan could be the man selected to add a genuine tall-wingman options to a quality young midfield perhaps deficient in that area. Duncan is one of several potential draftees to have graduated from the football nursery of Trinity College, Perth. His stocks have soared towards the later half of this year, which has much to do with his outstanding draft camp, and he is now a real chance of being selected as high as this. An AA U18 wingman opposite Morabito, Duncan will likely play as a fast leading HF or wingman in the AFL. Is probably more of an outside player, but he is strong overhead, has good endurance and is quick, which mean that he could be a difficult player to match up on.
24.
Ess
Jordan Gysberts
Medium Midfielder
Eastern Ranges, VIC
188cm, 83kg, 11/06/91
Gysberts, a star for Eastern Rangers in the U18 competition, is another skilful young midfielder to go with the club’s earlier selection of Melksham. He is a talented medium-tall player who can push forward and who came second in the kicking test at draft camp, which underlines his skills. Duncan, Bartlett and Christensen are other midfielders who will be considered here, with the latter’s chances particularly solid if the club decides that it isn’t interested in Luke Ball at pick 26. Ultimately, team balance could dictate that Gysberts will be selected to provide more of an outside and attacking option for the Dons midfield.
25.
North
Troy Taylor
Medium Forward
NT Thunder, NT
188cm, 75kg, 12/09/91
In the absence a slider, Taylor or Fyfe appear to be the most likely players to be selected here. Taylor is an outstanding talent whose freakish skills have been likened to those of Daniel Motlop and Michael O’Loughlin. This alone has attracted the interest of many clubs, particularly Fremantle, Collingwood and West Coast. Despite the hype, his U18 championship statistics are less than impressive: his average of 13 possessions, 3.2 tackles and a goal and a half a game is only solid for a player in his role and he had a surprisingly poor possession efficiency of 45%. It is likely that Taylor will play a third tall forward role, using his leap and pace while rotating between the half-forward flank and the goal-square. Should assist the North forward structure.
26.
Ess
Luke Ball
Medium Midfielder
St Kilda, AFL
184cm, 83kg, 25/05/84
Barring a minor miracle, Luke Ball will not be playing alongside Swan and Pendlebury in Collingwood midfield next year. Melbourne, Essendon, Port and Brisbane – all said to be keen on securing his services – are better placed than the Magpies to secure the services of the All-Australian, B&F, former captain of the Saints. Essendon has expressed an interest and Ball would be an ideal fit for a midfield crying out for support and leadership. The club has plenty of salary cap room, given the loss of Lloyd, Lucas and McPhee, and will be looking to Ball to help ensure that the ground made up in 2009 isn’t lost next year. Bartlett, Christensen, Duncan and a host of others could come into consideration if Ball isn’t available or if the club decides to look elsewhere.
27.
Bris
Daniel Menzel
Medium Defender
Central Districts, SA
185cm, 77kg, 13/09/91
Brisbane has traded away its long-term future for a premiership in the next two years. This suggests that the club will probably look to draft a player who is ready to step up to the highest level almost immediately. They will be hoping that Ball slips to them and this could happen. However, if the former Saint is already gone, the Lions will like the look of Menzel. AFL Talent Manager Kevin Sheehan named him in his top 30 prospects for this draft, but that is about the only love that Menzel has received over the past month. Many experts have ignored the talented South Australian after he was talked as a potential first-round option earlier in the year. Menzel is a highly skilled prospect, as evidenced by the fact that he had the highest disposal efficiency (85%) of all players who averaged over 15 disposals at the U18 championships. He also managed to average 18 disposals and six marks a game during those championships, so he knows how to find the ball and not just use it. Rarely tackles and has a high uncontested possession count, which suggests that he will likely be an outside player, possibly rotating between half-back and the wing. A solid option, he is behind only Trengove and Tapscott as far as South Australian midfield prospects go. Apparently he will be selected between North’s pick 25 and the Crows pick 29. Watch for Bartlett, Thomas or Coyler if Menzel is ignored.
28.
Geel
Callum Bartlett
Small Midfielder
Geelong Falcons, VIC
179cm, 75kg, 19/06/91
Once again I have the Cats overlooking their only real need in a ruckman. Bartlett was considered a top 20 certainly at the start of this season, but has slid down the ranks due to serious injuries which have curtailed his final under-age season. However, the goal-kicking midfielder is still an outstanding prospect and clubs will be wary not to write him off on the basis of his injury history (as happened to Judd and Joel Selwood). Should add some real pace and flair to an already potent midfield, and will mix well with Carlisle as the club’s first selection. Christensen, Gysberts and Craig are other options here.
29.
Adel
James Craig
Ruckman/ Tall Defender
North Adelaide, SA 195cm, 91kg, 18/04/91
Adelaide will likely have some genuine options with this pick. Craig, however, fills two critical needs – a big bodied key defender to develop for the post-Bock and Rutten era and a quality, albeit undersized, ruck prospect to help strengthen a questionable area in the Crows’ armoury. His tap work and ground presence in the U18 championships earned him the starting ruck position in the U18 AA side and his first placing in the vertical leap at draft camp underlined his potential to be another Paddy Ryder or Jeff White. Ultimately he may be too small to play as a number one ruckman, but he will be a perfect second option and will work well around the ground. Adelaide, with their philosophy of seemingly always picking the best player available, will find it hard to resist Craig here. However, the Crows will of course have their eyes open for any sliders from higher up the list, and someone like Menzel or Duncan could fit this bill.
30.
Coll
Josh Thomas
Small Midfielder
Gold Coast, QLD
178cm, 70kg, 01/10/91
The Magpies will be gutted that Ball hasn’t slid to this pick, but that is the price that the club must pay for failing to offer even a moderately fair deal to the Saints. With a fairly balanced list, the Magpies don’t really need to draft specific players, so will probably just go with the best available. Since opting not to sign with GC17, Thomas has been linked to Collingwood with pick 30. He is a talented and skilled ball magnet who will be happy to be reunited with his former Gold Coast teammate Dayne Beams. Averaged 19 disposals and, more importantly from a Magpies perspective, 5.3 clearances a game in the U18 championships. Taylor and Crichton will also be strongly considered if available.
31.
WB
Allen Christensen
Small Midfielder
Geelong Falcons, VIC
176cm, 75kg, 19/05/91
Christensen hasn’t been strongly linked to the Dogs during the lead up to this draft, but he really is just simply too good a player to overlook at this point. Having another inside player to help Boyd and Cross at the bottom of the Dogs packs will be tempting for Rocket Eade and his men. A brilliant under age performer over a number of years, Christensen had a solid if unspectacular season at U18 level this year. Likened to Daniel Kerr, Christensen was considered a top 10 selection at the start of the year, before being overtaken by some other midfield prospects. Could quite conceivably be taken towards the end of the first round, but is more likely to be a 21 to 36 pick. His height and perceived lack of pace will perhaps hold him back to this pick, which are the same reasons Kerr was available to West Coast at pick 18. However, like Kerr, Christensen should prove his doubters wrong and will go on to forge a successful career at the highest level.
32.
StK
Jessie Crichton
Medium Midfielder
Tassie Mariners, TAS
183cm, 66kg, 18/06/91
With one of the most balanced lists in the AFL, the Saints should merely look to secure the best available player at this point, and Crichton is just that. One of the genuine footballers in this pool, Crichton was once considered a first round prospect, but is now more likely to find a home between picks 22 and 35. Is a strong runner and finished sixth in the agility test at draft camp. Despite being classed as an outsider player, Crichton regularly throws himself into packs and this is emphasised by his average of six tackles a game during the U18 championships. His bravado may get him unstuck at AFL level, unless he adds considerable bulk to his light frame. Fyfe, as a much needed third tall forward option, and Reid, as another tall defensive player, will also be considered by this year’s runner up team. Along with Harwood, Crichton will be flying the Tasmanian flag come draft night, and will be well pleased to land here.
33.
Ess
Sam Reid
Tall Defender/ Utility
Murray Bushrangers, VIC
192cm, 84kg, 27/12/91
Having secured three midfielders, the Bombers will look to draft a taller player, with Reid a fantastic option here. One of the many potential draftees looking to join his older brother in AFL ranks, Reid is shorter, but just as athletic, as his Ben. One of the best all-round performers at draft camp, he finished 4th in the 20m sprint, 7th in the beep test and 8th in the vertical leap, which is an impressive combination. Despite this, he appears to have a wide draft range, which varies from the back end of the first-round right through to the high 30’s. I personally think that he will be a very solid third tall defender, playing a similar role to that which Andy Otten played for Adelaide this year and Andrew Mackie plays for Geelong.
34.
Melb
Travis Colyer
Small Forward/ Midfielder
Claremont, WA
175cm, 73kg, 24/08/91
Melbourne have already ticked off all of their pressing requirements, so the club will be able to draft the best available players for their last two picks. Grimes would be the pick which would please the fans most, but Colyer, Bartlett, Duncan, Reid or Crichton will be the ones most closely considered here. Colyer, if not selected by West Coast, would appear the most likely of this quintet. A terrier-like small midfielder and forward from the strong Trinity College PSA side, he has shot-up the ranks during the later half of this year. AA U18 who tested outstandingly at draft camp (5th in agility, 4th in repeat sprints, equal 10th in the 20m sprint and equal 10th in the shuttle run). His height will be the only thing that holds him back, but it shouldn’t stop him from being selected here at the latest. Coyler’s pace provides something different to what the Demons first two gun midfield selections bring to the table.
35.
Rich
Ryan Harwood
Medium Midfielder/ Defender
Tassie Mariners, TAS
184cm, 79kg, 08/07/91
Along with Crichton, Harwood represents Tasmania’s best prospects in this draft and he shouldn’t let the Apple Isle down. The AA U18 player shapes as a clearance specialist, having averaged an impressive 5.6 clearances a game across the U18 championships. I see him as a very solid third round pick in that he is unlikely to be targeted any higher than this, but is also unlikely to slide any further than the high 40’s. Having discarded two hard-bodied inside players in Coughlan and Tuck, Harwood makes sense here.
36.
Frem
Nat Fyfe
Medium Forward
Claremont, WA
186cm, 73kg, 18/09/91
My favourite player in this draft, having coached him tennis as a 13 and 14 year old at Aquinas College. His stocks have soared as the year has progressed, as he was consistently outstanding at State U18 level and for the Claremont Colts. Six goals in the WAFL Colts Grand Final underlines his ability. Strong overhead and ran a huge 14.7 beep test at draft camp. Has been likened to Brett Burton and Robert Murphy. From personal experience I can speak very highly about his character and the Dockers could do a lot worse here. The club will be especially happy that he has fallen this far, given that several clubs with picks in the 20’s, notably West Coast and North, have expressed a strong interest.
37.
North
Matthew Panos
Tall Forward
Norwood, SA
192cm, 85kg, 25/01/91
Having selected two wonderful midfield prospects in Cunnington and Bastinic, and a flashy forward in Taylor, the Roos should really look to securing a KP player with this pick. This is particularly so given that Tarrant, the only young KP player selected by the club over the past two years, is having difficulties getting over a series of injuries. Whilst they have extracted several good years out of recycled players, such as Sav Rocca and Nathan Thompson, North has struggled to find a home grown key forward since Carey and Longmire and I think that the club will be keen to snaffle Panos or Griffiths as a result. Panos’ strength and raw goal kicking ability make the U18 AA FF a perfect fit for the Roos’ forward line. Given his size (192cm and 85kg), preferred position (key forward) and state (South Australia), there may even be comparisons drawn with Carey, but as good as he is, Panos would be happy to become half the player that the Duck was. Suggestions that he will slip past 50 are, in my mind, absolutely ludicrous, and I think that he really belongs in the 20’s. If Fremantle select him at pick 36, I will write a personal letter to Mark Harvey congratulating him, such is the esteem I hold Panos in.
38.
Syd
Joseph Dare
Medium Defender Geelong Falcons, VIC
188cm, 81kg, 17/10/92
Dare has been linked to several clubs, including the Cats and the Hawks, but the Swans would be very happy to secure his services here. Classed as a medium defender, Dare could be pigeonholed into a medium-tall utility or swingman role at AFL level, but that is something the Swans could use. Strong hands are said to be a real feature of his game. After averaging a solid 19 disposals and 6 marks a game during the TAC Cup season, Dare has his admirers, but his exact draft placing is open to much debate. Ultimately a position in the third round appears appropriate. Looks about 14 years old and could use some time in the gym, so he is unlikely to see senior action until at least the second half of 2010. Will be a solid start to the Swan’s three mid-draft selections.
39.
Haw
Sam Shaw
Tall Defender
Oakleigh Chargers, VIC191cm, 77kg, 05/04/91
Shaw is one of the many players in this draft around the old 6 foot 3 inch mark, which makes it hard to categorise him as a tall. That being said, his standing vertical leap at draft camp (75cm), which was good enough for second place at the draft camp, suggests that he could probably play as an under-sized KP player. In addition to his vertical leap results at draft camp, he came third in the agility test and fifth in the 20m sprint, making him one of the better performing attendees. Wasn’t overly impressive during his three matches for Vic Metro, and this will probably prevent him from being selected much higher than this. As a piece of trivia, Shaw attended the famous Xavier College in Kew, which has bred a number of notable footballers including Luke Ball. The Hawks will consider Grimes, and any available ruck talent, but will ultimately be happy to secure Shaw.
40.
Geel
Dylan Grimes
Tall Defender
Northern Knights, VIC
192cm, 81kg, 16/07/91
By securing Grimes, Geelong has filled a positional need due to the retirement of Harley and the pending retirement of Milburn. Grimes, like his elder brother Jake, has impressed the entire football community with his maturity, football nous and passion for the game. His performances at draft camp, including but not limited to his strong interviewing, have put the icing on the cake for a top 50 selection. Is probably not going to the player that his brother will be, but will be a strong, tight-checking third tall defender who will bleed for his football club. Melbourne, Hawthorn and even Fremantle could strike before now, but it is unlikely that he will be available for much longer.
41.
North
Roland Ah Chee
Small Midfielder
Norwood, NT
181cm, 79kg, 21/11/90
A bit of a surprise selection here, but Ah Chee has done absolutely everything necessary to push himself in front of recruiters all year. His superlative U18 championships were particularly noteworthy, during which he topped the disposal averages with 26 a game and also averaged 7 marks and 4 tackles. His stocks rose further after his results at the SA state screening, which placed him in the top bracket of testers nationally. There is not a lot he can’t do, given his pace, aggression, endurance and skills. Ultimately he should be given a midfield licence, but will likely be tried as a small forward whilst he matures physically. This is probably a little high for him, but I think he will be selected at some point.
42.
Geel
Jack Fitzpatrick Ruckman/ Tall Utility
Western Jets, VIC
201cm, 85kg, 26/06/91
Geelong will be conscious that they have very little rucking depth, with Ottens an injury concern, Mumford leaving and varying doubts over West, Simpson and to a lesser extent Blake. Here I finally have Geelong acting on this need by securing a ruckman (of sorts) in the form of Fitzpatrick. I consider him a slider at this pick, and the Cats should be well pleased to have secured his services. I think part of the reason that Fitzpatrick isn’t rated higher is the uncertainty surrounding exactly where he will play at AFL level. At 201cm, he is certainly tall enough to be a ruckman, but he has spent much of his junior career playing in key posts. Ultimately I think he will be a second ruckman operating in a not dissimilar manner to Drew Petrie from the Kangaroos. Almost unbelievably fast for a man standing two meters tall, Fitzpatrick finished first in the repeat sprints and in the top ten in the 20m sprint at draft camp. Will have to add bulk to his frame to compete with the big men, but already weighs a lot more than some other project players who have been on AFL lists for a year or two, notte mentioning any names. Will be something of a Cinderella story given his decade-long battle with chronic fatigue syndrome.
43.
Carl
Ayden Kennedy
Tall Forward
Eastern Ranges, VIC
191cm, 79kg, 31/10/91
Carlton will be pleased to secure Kennedy, as he seems to be the sort of player that they could make good use of long term. Yet another 190-193cm prospect in this pool, Kennedy is an athletic third tall type of player who compares himself to Robert Murphy, and this appears appropriate. His fourth placing in the agility test and a blistering 2.88 seconds for the 20m sprint at draft camp, which topped all attendees, is encouraging for a player of his height. The fact that he averaged two goals a game in the TAC Cup is also a promising sign for the Blues. He is likely to be selected in the third round of the draft.
44.
Rich
Dylan Robertson
Medium Defender Dandenong, VIC
190cm, 78kg, 21/06/91
The third best Dandenong Stingray available, after Scully and Bastinic, Robertson is a skilful medium-tall defender. Is in that in between height, which means that he will struggle to be a KP player, but should prove a useful third tall or rebounding flanker. Selected in Sheehan’s top 30 prospects for this draft. I don’t view him quite so highly, but the running defender should still be selected by the end of the third round of this draft, with 38 to 44 appearing most likely. Richmond would be pleased to have secured the services of a player capable of adding some height and run to its defence.
45.
Adel
Jack Gunston
Tall Utility
Sandringham Dragons, VIC
191cm, 74kg, 16/10/91
Over recent weeks, Gunston has flown up the charts and is now seen as a solid third round selection. Apparently a number of clubs are considering the young former Dragon, with Adelaide making the most noise. Played particularly well in the later stages of the TAC Cup season and this should stick in the minds of recruiters. Howard or Carey may also be selected here, which would please the South Australian diehards, but I feel Adelaide will be drawn to a medium tall here, given that the club doesn’t have many such players. I still think Gunston could slip further than this, but he is a bright prospect and Adelaide don’t have too many options left if they want to secure a tallish utility.
46.
Haw
Anthony Long
Medium Defender
Calder Cannons, VIC
186cm, 70kg, 06/01/91
Essendon probably would have loved to have secured the services of the nephew of the 1993 Norm Smith Medallist, but unfortunately for the club and for the younger Long, pick 33 (which is the Bombers last) is too high a price to pay. A medium defender or flanker, Long plays a different role to his uncle, but has inherited some of the trademark flashiness. Long didn’t set the world on fire during the TAC Cup, averaging only four kicks and six handballs a game across his 11 matches. His draft camp results were also underwhelming, although he has shown a turn of speed and a reasonable leap. Is thought to be a middle of the range pick, but I think he could potentially slip further down the line. Despite my reservations, most experts have linked him to the third round, and the Hawks would be happy with he or Weedon here.
47.
Bris
Joshua Cowan
Medium Midfielder
North Ballarat Rebels, VIC
183cm, 71kg, 16/03/91
One of three North Ballarat Rebels to be in line for selection (along with Hooper and Astbury), Cowan is a wingman and midfielder who has a bit of toe and good endurance (he finished top 10 in the 3km time trial at draft camp). He also rates his decision-making as one of his best qualities. Had an interrupted year at TAC Cup level, playing only seven games, but averaged 20 disposals and 6 marks and showed some promise. One of the skinnier draft hopefuls at just 71kg, Cowan will need to work on his frame before he is up to embarking on his AFL career, which might not suit the Lions immediate plans. However, this is about his range.
48.
Frem
Joel Houghton
Tall Forward
Perth, WA
194cm, 82kg, 26/11/91
Houghton is viewed as a fairly solid KP prospect, whose stocks will be helped by the perceived lack of depth in that department in this draft. Will likely be trialled at either of the key forward posts. Took 10 marks or more on three occasions at Colts level this year, so he is obviously strong overhead and provides a target, which is a task made easier by the fact that he has a great tank. Also averaged 2.5 goals a game at that level, which suggests he is a genuine goal-kicker. With the delisting of Adam Campbell and Ryan Murphy surely on his last legs, Houghton is a good pick for Fremantle.
49.
Frem
Gerrick Weedon
Medium Forward/ Midfielder
Claremont, WA
186cm, 80kg, 25/05/91
Fremantle will be pleased that Weedon has slipped this far, as he has been touted in some quarters as a second round pick. Weedon is yet another classy prospect from the production line of Aboriginal footballers from Clontarf College in Perth. Originally from Broome in northern Western Australia, he boarded at Clontarf and played for Claremont. Capable of playing anywhere between half-back and half-forward, Weedon could add flair and a little pace to an AFL side. Like former Claremont players Jim and Phil Krakouer, Weedon is said to possess strong awareness around the field and this should see him make the transition to AFL ranks reasonably smoothly. He wont slip past Fremantle’s three picks between 48 and 52.
50.
Melb
Liam Patrick
Medium Forward
Wanderers, NT
185cm, 73kg, 04/03/88
Melbourne has a huge seven places to fill on its list for 2010. This will be their sixth and last selection in this draft, with the final spot on the list being reserved for pick one in the pre-season draft, which will be used to select Joel MacDonald. Patrick really doesn’t need much of an introduction here – just think of his cousin Liam Jurrah and you have a very good idea of the sort of player he is. Apparently he stocks have soared in the past month, which would have been helped by the great success of Jurrah during his first year at AFL level. Is a risk, but Melbourne will be willing to take it in the hope that they will have the best and most exciting forward line in the competition in years to come.
51.
Rich
Jamie McMillan
Medium Midfielder
Oakleigh Chargers, VIC
188cm, 81kg, 29/09/91
Richmond is searching for players with strong skills, having identified a weakness in that area, and McMillan certainly offers this quality. Has been a solid under-age performer, his future output should be helped by a decision to turn his back on cricket and focus on football full-time. Is seen as a mid-draft selection. Richmond will consider another KP prospect here, although McMillan, if available, is said to be the club’s priority.
52.
Frem
Trent Dennis-Lane
Medium Forward
Subiaco, WA
182cm, 74kg, 30/08/88
This selection will decide the second last spot on Fremantle’s list before Adam McPhee is added via the pre-season draft. West Coast and Fremantle are said to be in a race for Dennis-Lane’s services, but this seems to be a pretty one-sided battle given that he shouldn’t be a top 25 prospect and the Eagles finish their draft at pick 23. Kicked 57 goals in the WAFL this year, but many WAFL analysts have bemoaned his lack of defensive pressure and his occasional lack of poise, which was evident early in the WAFL Grand Final. I think he belongs in the rookie draft, where Fremantle could strike with pick 3, but there are strong murmurings that he will be selected at this opportunity. I am hoping that the Dockers don’t waste a pick on him, as Ballantyne, Mayne and co are not dissimilar players, but it looks like they will.
53.
North
Michael Barlow
Medium Midfielder
Werribee, VIC
18/12/87, 189cm, 92kg
This will be the Roos sixth and last selection on a busy night for the club. Barlow, who is said to be on the radar of several clubs, would be a nice way for the club to round out its selections. The mature-age player came runner-up in the Liston Trophy in the VFL this year and was brilliant at the Victorian screening, which further underlined his claims for a spot on an AFL list. I expect him to be taken somewhere around this area in the draft, particularly because of the perceived shallow talent pool. Several other players will be considered here, most notably ex-Demon Simon Buckley, who has been training with the club. Don’t be shocked if Myles Sewell, who beat Barlow in the Liston Trophy count, is plucked by North here.
54.
Syd
Kyle Hartigan
Tall Defender
Western Jets, VIC
194cm, 89kg, 07/11/91
A really strong KP prospect in this draft, he could turn into a fine FB or CHB at AFL level. Hartigan’s spoiling and strong marking are said to be particular strengths. Averaged 17 disposals and six marks a game in the TAC Cup, so can obviously find the football as well as stand a tall forward. Named by Champion Data in the top 25 prospects in this year’s draft, which may not be particularly accurate but is interesting nonetheless. An AIS/ AFL graduate, he will be pursued by the clubs looking to develop key defenders, which is why Sydney makes sense. Luff is some chance at this pick also.
55.
Syd
Mark Hutchings
Small Midfielder
East Perth, WA
180cm, 82kg, 25/05/91
This will be the Swans last selection in this draft, with the final position on their list likely to be filled by Daniel Bradshaw via the pre-season draft. Hutchings is a strong, fiercely competitive inside midfielder who captained the WA U18 state team to victory this year. His qualities include strong leadership and great endurance (he came top 10 in the three km time trial and beep test at draft camp). Will probably be a solid, somewhat defensive midfielder rather than a superstar, which makes him a safe pick for the later rounds. Unfortunately, however, his height and perceived lack of speed could count against him, and he could slip outside this draft in a similar manner to Leigh Adams a couple of years ago. Tutt and McNeil, both NSW/ ACT prospects, will also be closely considered here.
56.
Geel
Tom MacKenzie
Tall Defender
Geelong Falcons, VIC
191cm, 85kg, 10/09/91
Geelong has five places to fill on its senior list and I expect them to fill all of those in this draft, rather than looking to the pre-season draft. This will make MacKenzie the last player added to the premiers’ list for 2010. Yet another Falcons’ prospect in this pool, Mackenzie is a reasonably tall defender who will probably end up helping Grimes in playing the third tall roles vacated by Milburn and Harley. Although he hasn’t attracted the same level of attention as some of his former teammates, MacKenzie is a fairly solid prospect who a club would be pleased to select somewhere between 50 and 70 in the draft. Geelong should like the prospect of adding another local to its list. Smith could be a roughie if still available.
57.
Haw
Jesse Smith
Medium Defender/ Midfielder
North Melbourne, AFL
191cm, 83kg, 29/09/86
The placement of Smith, the former North half-back/ midfielder, is one of the more intriguing aspects of this draft. Smith’s undoubted talent, coupled with the much talked about lack of depth in this draft, should outweigh the doubts that many clubs have about his fitness. Geelong, Brisbane and Hawthorn are the three clubs most likely to take the punt here. They have all shown interest, but the Hawks are probably in the front seat given that he is training with the club. That being said, the Cats are best placed to pounce, given the club has four picks before the Hawks have two. Don’t be surprised if he is picked at 56 by the Cats or by Brisbane later, particularly if they don’t secure Ball at pick 27.
58.
Haw
Jack Hannath
Ruckman
Central District, SA
199cm, 83kg, 09/07/91
There are a number of clubs (namely Melbourne, Port, Hawthorn, Essendon, Fremantle and Geelong) who are on the lookout for a developing ruckman in this draft. The clubs that miss out on Vardy, Craig and Gawn may look to Hannath as the next best option available. This should please the young South Australian, although he may still only be selected on a rookie list. With Robert Campbell’s premature retirement, Max Bailey’s third knee reconstruction and the uncertainty surrounding Luke Lowden, Hawthorn needs to invest in a young ruckman and is running out of options. There will be doubts over Hannath’s ability to play consistent football at the highest level, but the Hawks will be willing to take the chance. The real uncertainly surrounding Hannath is that he hasn’t really performed at U18 level, as James Craig’s presence held him back in the U18 championships.
59.
Carl
Marcus Davies
Medium Midfielder/ Defender
Tassie Mariners, TAS
187cm, 81kg, 04/06/91
Carlton has been on record stating that it will select three youngsters with its three selections in this draft. This means that if the Blues want to select discarded Saints KP player Matt Maguire, they will have to delist another player to have a pick in the pre-season draft or select him as a mature-age rookie. One of the later two appears likely to happen, unless a club like Hawthorn takes a punt to sure up its tall defensive stocks.
After Crichton and Harwood, Davies represents the Tasmania’s best prospect in this draft. He played some good football during the U18 championships, averaging 20 disposals and five marks a game. Finished 10th in the three km time trial and second in the beep test at draft camp, so endurance is obviously a strong part of his game. He will probably be groomed as flanker or wingman, where he will be able to use his pace, engine and skills to good use.
60.
StK
Nicholas Winmar
Medium Forward/ Midfielder
Claremont, WA
190cm, 78kg, 27/04/91
I admit that there is a certain amount of romanticism in this pick and Winner, who has hardly been a consistent performer at under-age level, could slide to the rookie draft. The nephew of the former St Kilda great of the same name, he has been a classy but inconsistent performer over recent years. A tall wingman who can kick a goal, he showcased his skills in the kicking drill at draft camp in which he came equal second. His mockers will point to his propensity to drift out of games of long periods, but on the plus side he has talent to burn and is worth a risk. Yet another Claremont Tiger in this year’s pool, Winmar will likely be selected somewhere between Fremantle’s picks 48 and 49 and the early 70’s.
61.
Adel
Alex Carey
Medium Midfielder
Glenelg, SA
181cm, 76kg, 27/08/91
Very late mail has linked the Crows to a mature-aged selection here, most probably from the SANFL. Michael Coad, the 26 year old tall defender from Sturt, appears to be the most likely selection if this eventuates. However, Carey has been strongly linked to the Crows for some time. An AIS academy graduate who averaged 20 disposals a game across the U18 championships, he is seen as a strong inside midfielder. This is likely to be his range in the draft and reports linking him to Adelaide with pick 28, or dropping out of the draft altogether, are an interesting dichotomy. Carey is also an outstanding cricketer who reportedly had the potential to play for the Redbacks, but unlike Western Australian spin prospect Anthony Delberello, he has decided to take the more well-trodden path of the AFL.
62.
Coll
Serhat Temel
Tall Forward
Calder Cannons, VIC
195cm, 95kg, 12/05/91
Averaged 15 disposals, seven marks and three goals a game across the TAC Cup, and was on fire late in the season, which should stay in the minds of recruiters. A move to the forward line late in the season, which resulted in large bags of marks and goals could have identified his future position on the field. Likens himself to Jarryd Roughead and is certainly of a similar build to the burly Hawks forward. He could be anything and Pies supporters will dream of the day that they see him firing alongside Cloke and Anthony in the Collingwood forward line. Should be selected late.
63.
WB
Brayden Norris
Medium Midfielder
Murray Bushrangers, VIC
186cm, 69kg, 27/11/91
Norris is a lightly-framed half-forward/ wingman who likens himself to Dale Thomas. He produced some encouraging results at the draft camp, particularly in winning the beep test. His endurance is said to be matched by his pace. He will be relying heavily on his athletic abilities to be drafted, but if given a chance could prove a useful player. He will definitely be on an AFL list next year, but it could quite easily be in the role of a rookie.
64.
StK
Luke Thompson
Tall Defender
Geelong Falcons, VIC
192cm, 85kg, 08/02/91
Another player who was eligible to be selected last year but was overlooked. Like his former Falcons teammate, Tom MacKenzie, Thompson is a tallish defender who will attract attention in the latter half of this draft. His chances won’t have been helped by a late-season injury which curtailed his draft camp. Despite this set-back, he will likely attract attention from the Magpies, Hawthorn, Saints and Bulldogs, who are all sides hoping to secure some greater depth in their backlines. Should develop into a burly and tight-checking defender if given time.
65.
Geel

No selection (upgraded rookie).
66.
Melb

Pass. The Demons will save a pick for Joel MacDonald in the pre-season draft.
67.
Rich
Tom Hill
Tall Forward/ Ruckman Northern Knights, VIC
199cm, 82kg, 07/04/91
Hill was touted as an underage prospect last year, but wasn’t selected. The dearth of tall options in this draft, coupled with a solid year at U18 level, should ensure that he isn’t overlooked again. Hill is a tall forward and potential second ruckman who suits Richmond’s needs and will complement Griffiths up forward and Vickery in the ruck. Will obviously need to add bulk to his frame, but his height and leap (third in the vertical jump at draft camp) are impressive.
68.
Frem

Pass – having used six picks, Fremantle will save a spot on their list for Adam McPhee, who they will secure in the pre-season draft.
69.
Haw
Cameron Cloke
Ruckman/ Tall Forward
Carlton, AFL
196cm, 96kg, 20/12/84
Hawthorn has five places to fill on their list and I expect them to fill the final one with this pick. Cloke, Adam Pattison, Wade Skipper and a host of other discarded big men to be considered closely by the Hawks. Cloke, the former Collingwood and Carlton ruckman/ KP player is almost guaranteed to find a new home, due mainly to several club’s desperation for an experienced ruckman. Cloke is a solid player with a large frame who will contribute to a new club in much the same way as he did at Carlton – as a second ruckman and burly forward. Had his best season in 2008, during which he played 20 games, but was average in 2009, which was the combination of poor form, injury and the swiftly developing Blues’ ruck stocks. Still under 25, he is young enough to be pursued by clubs employing youth policies. Probably deserves another opportunity, particularly after his unceremonious and late delisting by the Blues, but we all know that he isn’t going to be more than a solid player who plays his part. Ultimately, Cloke and former Tiger Pattison will be vying for one spot on a senior list next year, with the other likely to languish on a rookie list.
70.
Haw

No selection (upgraded rookie).
71.
Rich
Andrew Hooper
Small Midfielder/ Defender
North Ballarat Rebels, VIC
172cm, 78kg, 18/01/91
This is Richmond’s seventh (the highest of any club) and last pick in this draft. Even with the high number of selections, the Tigers still retain a pick in the pre-season draft, which could be used on wayward former Lion, Rhan Hooper. The Hooper in question here has one of the best resumes in this draft pool, given that he is an AA U18, TAC Cup team of the year member, Larke Medallist and outstanding performer at draft camp (top three in agility, standing vertical leap and the 20m sprint). Has been linked to the Tigers and there are a few reasons why the union might happen, albeit that most of these are of very little value. Firstly, he is a strong Richmond supporter. Secondly, new coach Hardwick should appreciate his tough style. Finally, the club has shown with Rodan and King in previous years that it isn’t afraid to draft small. If he was 10cm taller and has the same athletic and football attributes, Hooper would be a top 20 prospect. He deserves to be selected, even though players of his height are often forgotten.
72.
Carl

No selection (upgraded rookie).
73.
Bris
Matthew Scott
Medium Midfielder/ Defender
Eastern Ranges, VIC
185cm, 72kg, 12/04/91
With two very late picks in this draft, Brisbane’s options will obviously be quite limited. Given that, Scott appears to be the most solid draft prospect available, particularly given that he averaged 20 disposals and a goal a game for the Eastern Ranges in the TAC Cup. He has a light frame, even for a draftee, and this will need to be developed quickly. Had the distinction of wearing number 1 for Vic Metro during the U18 championships. Scott is a genuine footballer, but he has flown under the radar for much of the lead-up to this draft. Long-term, Scott could easily turn out to be a very serviceable player.
74.
Adel

No selection (upgraded rookie).
75.
Coll
Simon Buckley
Medium Defender
Melbourne, AFL
190cm, 90kg, 18/04/87
Barring a real surprise, the Magpies will use one of its final two selections on a recycled player of the ilk of Buckley, Daniel Harris, Shane Tuck or Robert Shirley. Despite training with the Roos, Buckley has been linked heavily to the Magpies in recent days. The former Demon, whose career has never quite got off the ground because of injury and lapses of form, is seen as a player worthy of a second chance. His height and run have been displayed to good effect on occasions, most notably during late-2008 when he looked to have cemented a spot in the Dees’ line-up. Will join Leigh Brown as another reject to be plucked by the Pies late in the draft in recent years.
76.
WB
Sean Tighe
Tall Forward/ Defender
Western Jets, Vic
197cm, 89kg, 09/01/91
I probably need to contribute an out-and-out smokie to this mock draft and Tighe is the man upon whom I am bestowing this honour. No one is talking about him, at least not strongly, so I’m going out on a limb here. The Bulldogs, whilst having a number of developing KP players on their list, haven’t got an obvious brut of a key defender coming through their ranks. Tighe and perhaps Daw could solve this dilemma. Whilst Daw would have been a safer pick on my part, I like the look of Tighe, who won the Jets B&F and was named CHB in the TAC Cup team of the year this year after being left out of the Vic Metro team for the U18 carnival. Along with Temel, Tighe probably belongs in the “could be anything” corner. Is a great size and is relatively athletic. If given an opportunity, he could be a special player at senior level.
77.
StK
Kallen Geary
Small Midfielder Bendigo Pioneers, VIC
177cm, 70kg, 30/05/91
It is uncertain whether the Saints will use this pick to complete their list or whether they will retain a spot to fill in the pre-season draft. It will probably depend on which youngsters are left at this point, but my feeling is that the Saints will be happy to have secured Lovett and Peake and probably won’t be in a position to secure any real recycled talent deep in the pre-season draft. This means that another lucky youngster will be selected here. Geary, the brother of St Kilda’s Jarryn, is the most outstanding middle distance runner in this pool. The 9 minute 43 second three km time trial that he ran at draft camp (considerably better than the top times in recent years) is sure to rocket him into the eyes of many clubs, even if his raw football ability isn’t at the same elite level. His statistics from under-age football suggest that he will be an outside midfielder, although he personally sees himself as able to win the hard-ball. Geary shapes as a strong possibility to be rookie listed in the same manner as his brother was, despite his outstanding athletic qualities. Rayner would have my vote here, but it is unlikely to mean much.
78.
Rich

Pass – the Tigers will save the final spot on their list for the pre-season draft.
79.
Frem

No selection (upgraded rookie).
80.
North

No selection (upgraded rookie).
81.
Syd

No selection (upgraded rookie).
82.
Port

No selection (upgraded rookie).
83.
Carl

No selection (upgraded rookie).
84.
Bris
Joshua Donaldson
Ruckman/ Tall Forward
West Perth, WA
193cm, 85kg, 04/05/91
Even at this hour of the draft, Brisbane still has two spots to fill on its list, which is the by-product of Michael Voss’ recent list-cull. It would seem unlikely that both of these picks will be used at the pre-season draft, so one spotty teenager, or recycled hack, who has sat in his seat sweating whilst other clubs dropped the phrases “pass” or “rookie upgrade” like they are going out of fashion, will have his dream come true with this pick. Sam Power is some chance to join his brother Luke here, but this selection might wait until the pre-season draft. If there is one thing that the Lions need (especially after the loss of Henderson) it is a developing KP player. Given the club’s earlier selections, this need is yet to be addressed. Whilst he has played much of his junior career as a hopelessly undersized ruckman, Donaldson realises that he will have to develop into a KP player if he is to be successful at AFL level. Despite this need for positional change, Donaldson is a natural footballer and his speed, agility and leap should help him to forge a career at the highest level. Should be a back-end selection is this draft.
85.
Coll
Jason Tutt
Small Midfielder
NSW/ACT Rams176cm, 72kg, 15/05/91
This will likely be the last selection in this draft, unless the Pies hold the selection over for the pre-season draft, which is a possibility to give the club more time to consider its options. One of the many pint-sized players hoping to land on an AFL list this Thursday. Tutt was a star for NSW in the U18 championships, during which he averaged 18 disposals and a goal. His long, precise kicking and his run through the midfield are highlights of his play. Like many other draft prospects, his height may hold him back, as there are very few players of 176cm running around in the AFL these days. Hails from Ainslie in the ACT, the same club as the great James Hird. The Territory, which has been long starved of AFL talent, will be hoping that their home-grown lad can be selected. Rayner, Astbury, Sumner and McNeill are also chances here.

NB McNeill, Wanganeen, Astbury, Sewell, Williams, Luff, Maguire, Harris, McDonald, Thorp, Rayner, Sumner, Dea, Daw and Howard are also players likely to be selected in this draft or the pre-season draft.