2022 Draft Watch

[Mofra]

Re: 2022 Draft Watch

The same discussion could be had about Hayes. He is a solid prospect but Weddle took on all the big jobs and allowed Hayes to roam freely. It's quite telling that the coaches preferred Weddle to play on Cadman as opposed to Hayes. I would argue that at least Busslinger appears to be more damaging with the ball coming out of defence, whereas Hayes appears more suspect. Hayes has improved this area of his game but I'm not sure he can pull the trigger like Busslinger, especially at the next level.

Additionally, at least Busslinger has exposed WAFL form. He may not have been matched up on the giants but you can see how he competes against stronger bodies which is another feather in his cap.

Maybe I need to see a bit more of him, but he did seem to double-grab his marks a little more often than I'd like from such a highly touted prospect too

[GVGjr]

Re: 2022 Draft Watch

From the HUN

A player with “serious tricks” is rocketing up draft boards and looms as one of the top-20 bolters. Find out more in our guide to the best forwards available.

Anyone who has ever played SuperCoach knows that if a player scores 150 points, they have had a huge game.

This year, top AFL draft prospect Harry Sheezel scored more than 200 points in three separate NAB League games for the Sandringham Dragons.

It was the first time a player had done that in the competition since 2014.

“I have played SuperCoach,” Sheezel said.

“I kind of don’t know how I get those scores. I think it just suits my type of game style, the system. It is pretty cool to see. But something I have been working on is the consistency. While those games are really good, I’m trying to bridge the gap between my worst and best.”

Sheezel’s worst performances this year were still impressive, with recruiters marvelling at his ability to keep himself in games and even get up for matches when he was battling hip soreness late in the season.

A crafty 183cm forward or midfielder who can turn a half-chance into a golden opportunity, Sheezel’s ability to impact on the scoreboard is off the charts.

Not only did he average 2.6 goals a game for the Dragons, but he also recorded the most score assists of any player in the league with an average of 2.1 a game.

“I do see myself as a midfielder as well,” Sheezel said.

“I’m able to impact the scoreboard when I am in there. But I probably settled as a forward this year.”

Sheezel looks up to GWS star Toby Greene and there are some similarities there with his intensity around the ball and footy smarts around goal.

“He’s a class above,” one recruiter said of Sheezel.

“He’s an unbelievable drop-of-ball player inside forward 50. He’s just a freak who has got real forward craft.”

The one knock on the 18-year-old is his speed, which Sheezel is aware of and might limit his midfield opportunities at AFL level.

“Speaking to a few recruiters I like to think I counter that with my ability to use my agility and spatial awareness,” Sheezel said.

“Straight line speed, while it is important and it is something I’m working on for longer distance, there’s not really times in games when you’re hitting top speed.

“I think my agility’s up there – one of the best – so I think that helps me a lot.”

Sheezel has grown up a Hawthorn supporter and piqued the interest of senior players at St Kilda when he trained at Moorabbin as part of the AFL Academy program over Easter.

However, he looks set to be snapped up by North Melbourne with one of the first three picks in this year’s draft – before the Hawks or Saints come into the picture.

SHEEZEL’S 200-POINT SUPERCOACH SPECIALS

Round 4 v Tasmania: 237 ranking points, 28 disposals, 5 marks, 6 goals, 6 score assists, 17 score involvements

Round 9 v Northern: 217 ranking points, 37 disposals, 9 marks, 6 clearances, 3 score assists, 13 score involvements

Round 10 v Western: 202 ranking points, 33 disposals, 6 marks, 6 clearances, 3 goals, 1 score assist, 6 score involvements

BEST FORWARDS IN 2022 AFL DRAFT POOL

1. Harry Sheezel (Sandringham Dragons/Vic Metro)

A freakish talent, the 183cm Sheezel can do a lot of damage with not many disposals. He is a classy goalkicker who averaged 2.6 goals across 14 NAB League games this season and possesses arguably the biggest X-Factor of any player in this year’s draft pool. Sheezel can also have a run through the midfield. He is not overly quick, but has good endurance and brings a high football IQ to the onball brigade. He looks a certainty to be snapped up by North Melbourne with one of its first two picks.

2. Aaron Cadman (Greater Western Victoria Rebels/Vic Country)

The best key forward available in this year’s draft pool, Cadman has drawn comparisons to Geelong champion Jeremy Cameron. A mobile 194cm big man with a lovely left-foot kick, he has strong hands above his head and is also good below his knees. Cadman’s running ability to get up the ground to provide a marking target for teammates stands out and he kicked multiple goals in each of his four matches for Vic Country in the under-18 national championships. Most clubs don’t rate Cadman in their top four or five, but the Giants are in need of a key forward and traded up the draft order to ensure they can secure him at pick 1.

3. Matthew Jefferson (Oakleigh Chargers/Vic Metro)

A clear second-best key forward behind No. 1 pick fancy Cadman, Jefferson grew in confidence and developed his game significantly throughout his draft year. Likened to Essendon’s Harrison Jones, he is a hardworking lead-up forward whose contested marking is his weapon. Jefferson announced himself when he kicked five goals in a quarter against Western Australia in the under-18 national championships, on his way to seven goals from eight kicks for the game. While still lightly framed, he is a player with enormous upside.

4. Olli Hotton (Sandringham Dragons/Vic Metro)

The 181cm Hotton struggled in a new role as a forward at the start of the season, having mostly played as a midfielder in the past. But he flourished in the role in the second half of the season and sits as a likely top-20 pick. At the draft combine, Hotton showed he is as quick as almost anyone over 20m and has a serious leap. But it was a 24-disposal, 3.2 game against South Australia in the under-18 national championships that really got recruiters excited. Hotton is the son of former Collingwood and Carlton forward Trent Hotton.

5. Charlie Clarke (Sandringham Dragons/Vic Metro)

There is no shortage of interest in Clarke, who has spoken to 15 AFL clubs as he has emerged as a potential top-20 pick. The likes of GWS, Hawthorn and North Melbourne are all big fans of the 182cm medium forward, who shot to prominence after a seven-goal game against Tasmania in round 4 of the NAB League. Clarke brings great energy around the ball, is an elite runner and can snap a goal from almost anywhere. While he has also spent time through the midfield with the Dragons, Clarke is viewed as a forward at the next level. He kicked six goals from four under-18 national championships games.

6. Jacob Konstanty (Gippsland Power/Vic Country)

Not without a chance of being a top-20 selection on draft night, Konstanty is an exciting pressure forward who has some serious tricks. He is on the small side at 176cm, but has great pace and evasiveness and loves to lay a tackle on his opponents. Konstanty was also able to impact through the midfield for the Power in the NAB League this year but is more likely to settle as a forward at the next level. He made the most of his opportunities in an eye-catching game against the Allies in the under-18 national championships, recording six score involvements and three goals from only eight disposals.

7. Alwyn Davey Jr (Oakleigh Chargers/Vic Metro)

A highly talented Essendon father-son prospect, Davey has pace to burn and can do things out on the field that not many others can. He likes to take the game on, has a good balance between his inside and outside game and often impresses with his pressure and tackling. Davey starred playing school football throughout the year for Xavier College but was a little quieter than he had hoped to be in the under-18 national championships. His standout game from the tournament came against Western Australia when he booted two goals and had three score assists from 19 disposals. Rival clubs have differing views on where a bid will come for Davey, but one is expected somewhere between picks 15 and 30.

8. Darcy Jones (Swan Districts/WA)

A late draft order mover, Jones caught the attention of clubs even more after he set a new record in the agility test and finished fifth in both the running vertical jump and 20m sprint at the national draft combine. What Jones lacks in height at 175cm, he makes up for athletic traits and football ability. Recruiters say he is “pretty hard to fault” as a half-forward who possesses creative ball use and is a constant goalscoring threat in the attacking half. Jones averaged 19.7 disposals and kicked four goals across his three under-18 national championships games for Western Australia and also impressed playing some senior WAFL football late in the season.

9. Brayden George (Murray Bushrangers/Vic Country)

A 185cm power forward who has been compared to Melbourne’s Christian Petracca, George might have sat in the top few places on this list had he played a full season this year. He ended up playing in only eight NAB League matches due to a knee injury and had his year come to an early end after he ruptured his ACL during a match for the Bushrangers in late August. But what George has shown when he has been out on the field is that he is a threat in attack both in the air and at ground level. He averaged 2.3 goals and 5.5 score involvements from an average of just 8.8 disposals this season.

10. Coby Burgiel (Gippsland Power/Vic Country)

The 183cm Burgiel started this year on a wing for the Power in the NAB league before moving to half-forward where he proved a goalkicker. Burgiel has good spatial awareness, serious speed, sound skills by hand or foot and can win more than his fair share of contested ball. He averaged 21.6 disposals and 1.3 goals across nine games for the Power, before going on to average 16.5 disposals and 1.3 goals across four games for Vic Country at the under-18 national championships. Expect him to find an AFL home somewhere in the second round of the draft.

11. Isaac Keeler (North Adelaide/SA)

A 198cm athletic key forward or ruck, Keeler has drawn comparisons to a young Paddy Ryder. He represented South Australia in the national championships, as well as averaging 17.9 disposals and kicking 19 goals from 15 SANFL under-18 games. Keeler’s competitiveness and endurance have been raised as potential concerns among some recruiters, but he is viewed as a player with significant potential upside. Keeler is a member of Adelaide’s Next Generation Academy, but is expected to attract a bid in the top 40 picks in the draft, meaning he is unlikely to find his way to the Crows.

12. Anthony Munkara (West Adelaide/Allies)

Tied to Essendon’s Next Generation Academy, Munkara hails from the Tiwi Islands and has excited during a limited number of games he has played this year. He booted nine goals for Westminster in a school football match against Trinity College in Adelaide earlier this season and also showed some good signs while playing as part of the AFL Academy team against Collingwood’s VFL side in May. Injuries and personal reasons meant Munkara only featured in one national championships match for South Australia and played no SANFL under-18s games in the second half of the year. However, he remains a player who is of interest to a number of clubs – including the Bombers – given his speed, agility and overhead marking ability, which make him a dangerous player inside 50.

[Mofra]

Re: 2022 Draft Watch

'Bolter'? Sheezel's been tipped as a top-3 pick for months

[GVGjr]

Re: 2022 Draft Watch

'Bolter'? Sheezel's been tipped as a top-3 pick for months

I actually think the reference is for Konstanty

[GVGjr]

Re: 2022 Draft Watch

The match-winner in this year's draft who could be perfect for St Kilda

St Kilda holds the ninth pick in this year’s National Draft and Callum Twomey believes they are looking to find a match-winner.

It’s no secret the Saints were all-in on attempting to lure Jordan De Goey in the trade period, looking for a dynamic player to break open games.

Twomey named South Australian midfielder Mattaes Phillipou as a player who could potentially fill that role from this draft.

“In terms of the Saints, Cam McKenzie who is part of their Academy, with the Saints’ luck they don’t get access to him inside the top 40 picks and if they want him they’re going to have to use their own pick on him,” he told SEN’s Sportsday.

“He’s going to be right in the mix (for them). I think West Coast will be a chance for him, I think Geelong will be a chance for him as well, but they’re in the mix there.

“Mattaes Phillipou is another one. Oliver Hollands who is the younger brother of Elijah at the Gold Coast would also be in the range for midfield options.

“I think the Saints are looking for match-winners and they spoke about that through the trade period (going after Jordan De Goey).

“Phillipou could be the De Goey, he’s 192cm and goes forward and kicks goals, he’s got confidence that’s out of sight, he’s got all of that.

“McKenzie is the Callum Mills of this year’s draft, that’s the player I liken him to. He’s a bull, he’s tough, he can mark overhead, he’s 187cm and spent some time and trained well at the Saints this year.

“Ross Lyon likes competitors, but he might like a runner and Ollie Hollands is the best runner in the draft and a two-way runner.”

The AFL changed the rules regarding Academy access after the Western Bulldogs got access to Jamarra Ugle-Hagan at the very top of the 2020 National Draft.

That has led to Melbourne missing out on Mac Andrew in 2021 and now the Saints with McKenzie this year.

[Grantysghost]

Re: 2022 Draft Watch

Really feels like an even field this year after the top few.
Going to be an interesting draft night.

[GVGjr]

Re: 2022 Draft Watch

Really feels like an even field this year after the top few.
Going to be an interesting draft night.

So many variables, one unexpected pick could change everything. If someone like GC decides that with Rory Thompson retiring it makes Busslinger a priority for them the picks swaps and someone sliding down the order increases.

[GVGjr]

Re: 2022 Draft Watch

AFL draft 2022: All the latest news and whispers

BLUES FAN A CHANCE TO JOIN HERO

A Carlton fan who models his game on Sam Walsh is firmly in the mix to join to the Blues with the club’s first pick in this year’s draft.

Ollie Hollands is a wingman or onballer from the Murray Bushrangers who is understood to be in the sights of Carlton and is one of 12 players who has been invited to the first night of the national draft.

The Blues – who hold pick 10 – are interested in bolstering their stocks of strong-running midfielders and Hollands fits the bill as a player who finished equal-first in the 2km time trial at the national draft combine last month.



The 18-year-old hails from Wodonga but has spent the past three years at Geelong Grammar and is the brother of Gold Coast Suns wingman Elijah Hollands.

The pair’s great-grandfather Martin Cross played 36 VFL games for Carlton in the 1960s and their father Ben played eight games for Richmond in 1999.

“I spent the first half of the year playing different types of roles like half forward, wing, halfback, spent a little bit of time in the midfield,” Hollands said.

“So I definitely feel like being able to have that experience and play a mix of different roles has really helped develop my game.”

Hollands has had multiple interviews with the Suns this year, but Gold Coast is believed to have other targets at pick 5.

That means Hollands looks more likely to play against his brother at AFL level than with him.

“I feel like we’d probably get into each other a little bit, just that competitiveness between the two of us,” he said.

“But I think it would be good fun and a good challenge.”

Essendon has also expressed strong interest in Hollands, but currently only hold picks 4 and 22.

DONS DRAFT DOMINO TO SHAPE TOP 10

Essendon is set to shape the top-10 of this month’s draft with their prized selection at pick four the domino that can shake up the order.

As has been the case in previous years with the notoriously cryptic Bombers, those in the draft space are finding it difficult to get a read on who they will take with their first pick – which will be at No. 5 after Will Ashcroft’s expected bid inside the first two selections.

A host of midfielders – Elijah Tsatas, Mattaes Phillipou, Reuben Ginbey, Bailey Humphrey and recently Elijah Hewett – have been linked to the Bombers’ prized pick.

Essendon has shown strong interest in South Australian Phillipou, a dynamic 190cm prospect who is the son of former Bulldog Sam, with the club interviewing him three times in the lead-up.



The midfielder-forward would bring something different to their midfield mix with his height, composure in traffic and his capacity to be used in attack.

Tsatas has been billed as a top-five selection throughout the year despite sitting out most of the year with injury, with the ball magnet adding inside skills his damaging outside game in a stellar season where he won Oakleigh Chargers’ best and fairest from just five matches.

But the 187cm midfielder could be as a potential slider in the top 10 if the Bombers look elsewhere, with the Bombers’ selection poised to have a significant say on what happens next.

Geelong Falcons prospect Jhye Clark has been strongly linked to Geelong’s selection, while West Australian youngster Ginbey is unlikely to get past West Coast’s selection (pick nine after Ashcroft bid), with the athletic midfielder also linked to both Essendon and Gold Coast.

Humphrey, who bolted into top-10 calculations with his game-breaking feats as a powerful midfielder and dangerous forward, is expected to be taken anywhere from the Bombers’ selection to Carlton’s at pick 11.

ROOS EYEING DUO

North Melbourne has been urged to take explosive underage midfielder George Wardlaw with complete confidence that his nightmare hamstring issues are behind him.

The Kangaroos are eyeing Wardlaw, who has been likened to Patrick Dangerfield, and jet forward Harry Sheezel with picks two and three in this year’s draft.

It leaves Essendon with a tough choice at pick four between a group of talented midfield products including Oakleigh’s Elijah Tsatas (186cm) and Gippsland’s Bailey Humprey (186cm), and three other bigger-bodied ballwinners Mattaes Phillipou (190cm), Reuben Ginbey (189cm) and Cam Mackenzie (188cm).

Wardlaw suffered three hamstring strains in the back half of the season which have concerned clubs and prompted recruiters to zero in on his medical screening results.

But Wardlaw’s Oakleigh Chargers coach, Jason Davenport, said there were zero long-term concerns over his run of hamstring problems which saw him miss the national carnival and draft combine testing.

Davenport said the explosive midfielder was an incredible talent who was simply a victim of bad luck combining school footy with St Kevin’s and the NAB League this season.

“Medically there are zero ongoing concerns in regards to the injury because he could have played in the last (Vic) Metro game and it was the same with the draft combine,” Davenport said.

“We all just wanted to be extremely conservative with him so he could really just prepare for when he goes into an AFL program and be ready to start from the get-go.

“He is a pretty special player and an excitement machine, who fans will quickly fall in love with.

“There’s some Dangerfield in him with regard to his overhead marking, because he plays like he is on pogo sticks the way he can get up off the ground.

“And he is very, very tough. His willingness in the contest and in the big moments to win the ball – and this is the Dangerfield comparison – to dive on hand grenades or do something out of the ordinary to put teammates in better positions impacts the outcomes of games.

“He is very courageous with his contest stuff.”

Greater Western Sydney is set to take Vic Country key forward Aaron Cadman with the No. 1 pick it traded from North Melbourne.

The Kangaroos stepped back in the order from one to two because of how highly it rated Wardlaw (182cm) and Sheezel (185cm) despite pleas for the club to target another key forward.

Sandringham gun Will Ashcroft is considered the best player in this draft and is headed to Brisbane Lions as a father-son with the first move on draft night on November 28.

For North, Sheezel provides some firepower and class to the forward half where he could slot alongside Nick Larkey, Cameron Zurhaar and, in time, Charlie Comben.

Essendon face one of the toughest calls on draft night where it will likely attempt to add more size and power to its engine room to join Zach Merrett and Darcy Parish.

Attacking ball magnet Tsatas is widely considered the top talent at the Bombers’ pick four, and Davenport backed his attitude and capacity to deliver for his AFL club from next season.

“I love Elijah and George and Elijah are very different, yet best of friends,” Davenport said.

“Elijah is super competitive and unbelievably determined and he wants to be great.

“I certainly found him to be extremely coachable.”

THE RANCE-LIKE DEFENDER IN SIGHTS OF PIES, HAWKS, BOMBERS

A defender who has drawn comparisons to former Richmond star Alex Rance has “come with a bullet” in the second half of the year to firm as a top draft prospect.

Recruiters believe Oakleigh Chargers backman Josh Weddle has “enormous upside”, which has seen him attract significant interest ahead of this month’s national draft.

Weddle had looked a mid-to-late draft pick early in the year but is now expected to be snapped up somewhere between picks 15 and 30 on the back of his rapid improvement.

He measures 192cm but can play taller given he has a great athletic profile and is ultra competitive.

“He’s athletically very strong. He’s explosive. He can play on talls, he can play on smalls,” Oakleigh talent manager Jy Bond said.

“AFL clubs are pretty excited about him and his ability to play both ends – mid, back, forward. He’s come on really well.”

Weddle ranked second in the running vertical jump at the national draft combine and also posted impressive results in the 20m sprint and 2km time trial tests.

He is believed to have attracted interest from clubs including Collingwood, Hawthorn and Essendon – who all hold picks in the 20s.

[GVGjr]

Re: 2022 Draft Watch

MOMENTUM BUILDING ON ALLAN

Rival clubs believe West Coast may pounce on strong-running midfielder Ed Allan with their first pick as other sides circle this year’s big draft bolter.

The Eagles – who hold picks 8, 12, 20 and 26 – have shown significant interest in the 194cm West Australian, who is the son of former Hawthorn and Fremantle player Ben.

But Carlton (pick 10) also likes the look of Allan, along with the likes of Melbourne (pick 13) and Sydney (pick 14).

Given the Blues’ interest, if the Eagles don’t take Allan at pick 8 he could be off the board by pick 12.

Allan has good size and speed and is a strong runner who was the quickest player over 20m at the national draft combine.

He played limited football this year due to a stress fracture in his back but starred in the five games he played late in the season for Claremont in the WAFL Colts.

West Coast has also been strongly linked to 196cm West Australian key defender Jedd Busslinger at pick 8 and are also believed to be considering South Australian midfielder-forward Mattaes Phillipou and Victorian midfielder Cameron Mackenzie.

TWO CLUB PLAYER, VFL GUN LOOM AS MATURE-AGE DRAFTEES

Two Port Melbourne mature-agers loom as possible pick-ups in this month’s draft intake, including a former AFL player who has been compared to All-Australian Jack Sinclair by one of the Saints’ former coaches.

VFL intercept king Ethan Phillips – who won the Fothergill-Round-Mitchell Medal after breaking Sam Collins’ intercepts record in the VFL – and former Roo and Demon Corey Wagner have both attracted interest from clubs ahead of the draft.

Phillips, who would become the 16th consecutive recipient of the VFL’s best young player award to land on an AFL list, has generated interest from three clubs as a ready-made 198cm key defender with the ability to intercept like Paddy McCartin.

Wagner, 25, emerged as a contender to get his third crack in the AFL system after a move to halfback this year which proved a revelation.

Fremantle is his most likely destination as a rookie with the club showing strong interest in the speedy defender.

Wagner has been out of the AFL system since he was delisted by the Demons after one season at the club in 2019.

Borough coach Adam Skrobalak says his speed and ball-use draw similarities to Sinclair – who Skrobalak coached for seven years at St Kilda during his time at the club as a line coach – and believes he would be an “unbelievable” addition for a club.

“To me (Wagner) plays very, very similar to Jack Sinclair. He’s come up and made All-Australian this year and he’s got similar attributes,” Skrobalak said.

“He’s a great runner, he’s got speed, he’s really strong in the contest and he has great ball-use, he just sees gaps and can open up the play. If there’s a team there that is looking for someone who can defend really well and then really help them on offence, he’d be unbelievable.”

“He’s had two cracks at it before but now playing off a halfback and getting a greater understanding of where he is at with his footy, he has just gone to another level.”

He also said Phillips’ reading of the play and elite intercept traits have elements of Sydney pick-up Paddy McCartin.

“Ethan is obviously a bit bigger than Paddy but he has always been able to read the ball very well, even when he was a forward at St Kilda when I was there from a young age,” he said.

“There’s definitely some similarities in how they read the ball off the boot and the confidence to come off their opponent and intercept.”

[The Doctor]

Re: 2022 Draft Watch

Kevin Sheehan's Small Forwards & Midfielders

https://www.afl.com.au/news/864892/kevin-sheehan-s-2022-nab-afl-draft-top-prospects-small-forwards-defenders-and-midfielders

NATIONAL COMBINE

Jhye Clark
State: Victoria Country
State League Club: Geelong Falcons
Community Club: Queenscliff
Date of Birth: 23/07/04; Height: 181cm; Weight: 76kg

Hard-edged midfielder who attacks the ball aggressively and distributes it neatly by hand and foot on either side of his body. He averaged 23 disposals (70% efficiency), four clearances and five tackles during the 2022 NAB AFL National Championships – U18 Boys, finishing runner-up in the Larke Medal, as well as winning Victoria Country’s MVP award and All-Australian honours. Was outstanding all year for the Geelong Falcons, averaging 25 disposals (13 contested) and winning their best and fairest award, as well as earning selection in the 2022 NAB League Boys Team of the Year.


Charlie Clarke
State: Victoria Metro
State League Club: Sandringham Dragons
Community Club: Port Melbourne Colts
Date of Birth 04/01/04; Height: 182cm; Weight: 80kg

A small forward who shot to prominence in the NAB League when he kicked seven goals against the Tasmania Devils in just his fourth game in the competition earlier this year. Was able to win plenty of the ball, averaging 19 disposals, and finished with 29 goals in 15 matches for the Sandringham Dragons in their premiership year. Was rewarded with selection in the NAB League Team of the Year. He was also prominent for Victoria Metro as a pressure forward, kicking six goals in four matches in their Championship-winning team. His 6:26 seconds for the 2km time trial at the 2022 NAB AFL Draft Combine highlighted his endurance and work ethic.


Alwyn Davey Jnr
State: Victoria Metro
State League Club: Oakleigh Chargers
Community Club: Ashburton
Date of Birth: 26/02/04; Height: 181cm; Weight: 77kg

A small forward and midfielder, he possesses one-touch hands, is crafty around goals and has great pace and elusiveness. He recorded the fastest in-game speed this year, moving at nearly 34km/h. Was a classy performer for Victoria Metro in the National Championships-winning team, averaging 14 disposals and a goal a game. Was an influential playmaker for the Oakleigh Chargers in the NAB League, averaging 16 disposals in six matches, mixing his games with school commitments at Xavier College. He is the son of former Essendon forward Alwyn Davey Snr and has been nominated as a father-son selection for Essendon this year, with rival clubs set to bid his value on Draft night.


Blake Drury
State: Victoria Metro
State League Club: Oakleigh Chargers
Community Club: Vermont
Date of Birth: 11/01/04; Height: 176cm; Weight: 73kg

Prolific ball-winning midfielder with a wonderful combination of speed and endurance, which together with his game sense and composure always has him in the centre of the action. His best performance in the National Championships was his 26 disposals and eight inside 50s in Victoria Metro’s win against the Allies. Overall, he averaged 19 disposals across four matches for Victoria Metro, who he served as co-captain. Had similar consistent performances for the Oakleigh Chargers, averaging 19 disposals and kicking seven goals in seven matches to make the NAB League Team of the Year. Always plays with high energy and is a clever user of the ball. His 6:25 seconds 2km time trial at the Draft Combine showed not just his excellent endurance, but a glimpse of his competitive edge.


Steely Green
State: Western Australia
State League Club: South Fremantle
Community Club: Brookton Pingelly
Date of Birth: 09/01/04; Height: 179cm; Weight: 74kg

A small midfielder who has been one of the surprise packets of the year with his immediate impact at senior level for South Fremantle, where he averaged 19 disposals (eight contested) and four tackles in eight WAFL matches. He brought his zest and competitive mindset into play for Western Australia at the National Championships, where he averaged 15 disposals a match. A composed character with good vision and speed, he also makes excellent decisions with ball in hand. His elite agility was displayed at the Draft Combine, with his 8.24 seconds on the agility tested ranked fourth-best and his 6:17 on the 2km time trial ranked seventh at the national Draft Combine.


Olli Hotton
State: Victoria Metro
State League Club: Sandringham Dragons
Community Club: Hampton Rovers
Date of Birth: 06/09/04; Height: 182cm; Weight: 80kg

Quick and agile forward and midfielder with a very good feel for the game. Has emerged as a real AFL prospect this year. Was outstanding for Victoria Metro in the National Championships and earned All-Australian honours. His performances included a starring effort in the comprehensive win over South Australia, with 24 disposals and three goals. Another member of the Sandringham Dragons dynamic mosquito fleet in their premiership year, he was always presenting in dangerous spots to influence and averaged 17 disposals (eight contested) in eight NAB League matches. The son of former Collingwood and Carlton tall forward Trent Hotton, he showcased his speed at the Draft Combine with 2.92 seconds for the 20m sprint which ranked sixth quickest nationally.


Darcy Jones
State: Western Australia
State League Club: Swan Districts
Community Club: Kalamunda
Date of Birth 03/04/04; Height: 174cm; Weight: 63kg

A small midfielder who is quick, skilful and has footy smarts. All attributes were displayed in the National Championships for Western Australia, averaging 20 disposals (eight contested), as well as finishing with four goals to win All-Australian honours. Showed rapid development and progression through the grades at Swan Districts to play three matches at senior level after dominating in the under-18s, winning the club best and fairest despite only playing six matches. Was the athletic star of the Draft Combine, smashing the agility test all-time record with a time of 7.70 seconds. He also ranked equal-first at the national Draft Combine for the standing vertical jump with his 75cm leap and fifth for speed with a slick 2.91 seconds on the 20m sprint, highlighting how he breaks away from stoppages.


Jacob Konstanty
State: Victoria Country
State League Club: Gippsland Power
Community Club: Drouin
Date of Birth 09/11/04; Height: 177cm; Weight: 73kg

A small forward who switched football codes from soccer, which he had played for the four years prior, to the oval ball just two years ago and rapidly put himself on the AFL radar. His pace, evasiveness and pressure game became real weapons in the NAB League this year, averaging 15 disposals, six tackles and kicking 17 goals in 14 matches for the Gippsland Power. He earned NAB League Team of the Year honours and finished runner-up in the Power’s best and fairest award. Also brought his high energy and creative game for Victoria Country, showing his bag of tricks in the National Championships where he averaged 11 disposals and four tackles, while kicking four goals in three matches. His 8.29 seconds on the agility test at the Draft Combine showcased one of his weapons.


Noah Long
State: Victoria Country
State League Club: Bendigo Pioneers
Community Club: Echuca
Date of Birth: 23/08/04; Height: 177cm; Weight: 73kg

Small midfielder and forward who overcome a knee tendonitis issue over summer and then a collarbone injury during the season to play some exciting football for the Bendigo Pioneers, Victoria Country and Geelong Grammar this year. A composed player with the ability to win the ball on the inside and outside, he showed he can hit the scoreboard with his three goals against Western Australia at the National Championships. A really competitive type with speed, agility (8.34 seconds on the agility test) and endurance (6:34 on the 2km time trial), he has drawn some comparisons to Fremantle star Caleb Serong.


Jack O’Sullivan
State: Victoria Country
State League Club: Oakleigh Chargers
Community Club: Kyneton
Date of Birth: 22/10/04; Height: 177cm; Weight: 71kg

Small midfielder and forward who had a solid foundation representing Victoria Country in two under-17s matches last year. However, after just four games at the beginning of the NAB League season and an impressive 25-disposal trial match for Country, had his season decimated by a shoulder injury. Missed all National Championship fixtures in 2022 and returned for a few games at Xavier College and the NAB League Wildcard round for the Oakleigh Chargers. Tested fully fit at the Draft Combine, with his running vertical jump of 89cm, ranked fourth overall, showing his power. Also recorded sound results for speed (3.02 seconds on the 20m sprint) and endurance (6:32 on the 2km time trial).


Nick Sadler
State: South Australia
State League Club: Sturt
Community Club: Glenunga
Date of Birth: 08/01/04; Height: 180cm; Weight: 74kg

A midfielder who continued to take his game to new levels this year. Progressed from dominating under-18s with Sturt, where he averaged 24 disposals and kicked 11 goals in ten games, to playing two senior games in the SANFL as the year unfolded. Showed the ability to win his own ball, clean hands, along with great vision and awareness in playing three matches for South Australia in the National Championships, averaging 15 disposals. Did not test at Draft Combine due to a knee bursitis.

[The Doctor]

Re: 2022 Draft Watch

cont.

STATE COMBINE

Josh Bennetts
State: Victoria Metro
State League Club: Eastern Ranges
Community Club: Rowille
Date of Birth: 08/09/04; Height: 178cm; Weight: 75kg

Small midfielder and forward who had an outstanding year with the Eastern Ranges in the NAB League, averaging 18 disposals (six contested) and kicked 14 goals in 13 matches. His efforts were rewarded by winning the club’s best and fairest award. With his mother born in the Philippines, he been part of Hawthorn’s NGA program and has represented the World team in talent showcase matches along his pathway. Is creative around goals and has elite agility, demonstrated by his slick 8.25 seconds in the agility test at the State Draft Combine in Victoria.


Jayden Davey
State: Victoria Metro
State League Club: Oakleigh Chargers
Community Club: Ashburton
Date of Birth: 26/02/04; Height: 179cm; Weight: 79kg

Small midfielder and forward who is the twin of fellow draft prospect, Alwyn jnr. Suffered an ACL injury after showing enormous promise last year. Was part of the Flying Boomerangs program alongside his brother in 2019, which helps prepare Indigenous players for potential AFL careers. Both showed similar speed, agility and game sense and have been part of Essendon’s academy programs for several years. The twins have also played together at Xavier College in Victoria and participated in the Oakleigh Chargers development programs, as well as spending time in the Northern Territory. Essendon has confirmed its intentions to list both players this year under the AFL’s father-son rule.


Harry Flynn
State: Victoria Metro
State League Club: Eastern Ranges
Community Club: North Ringwood
Date of Birth: 26/06/04; Height: 178cm; Weight: 76kg

Small defender who is very composed with the ball and a neat distributor by hand and foot. Consistent performer for the Eastern Ranges this year, averaging 18 disposals in eight NAB League matches. Comes from a talented sporting family, with his father Sean an outstanding Premier Cricket player with Ringwood and highly respected in cricket circles for his performances and leadership.


Harvey Gallagher
State: Victoria Country
State League Club: Bendigo Pioneers
Community Club: Sandhurst
Date of Birth: 26/09/03; Height: 179cm; Weight: 77kg

Small forward and defender who has had an outstanding season after being overlooked in last year’s Draft. Made the most of every opportunity, which including kicking five goals in one of the Colgate Young Guns games earlier in the year and then impressed with 23 disposals when selected for Victoria Country in the final game of the National Championships. In between he starred at both ends of the ground for the Bendigo Pioneers, averaging 24 disposals and kicking 13 goals to win his club’s best and fairest award. Also impressed at the Victorian State Draft Combine, particularly on the 20m sprint (2.93 seconds) agility test (8.12 seconds) and running vertical jump (89cm), which were all eye-catching performances.


Brandon Leary
State: Tasmania
State League Club: Tasmania Devils
Community Club: North Launceston
Date of Birth: 13/05/03; Height: 177cm; Weight: 72kg

A small forward who has the innate ability to make something out of nothing in the forward line. He kicked 33 goals in 14 matches for the Tasmania Devils in the NAB League. He also averaged 13 disposals and three tackles a game to win NAB League Team of the Year honours. Continued to kick goals with the Allies at the National Championships, converting five goals in two matches. His speed and agility were sharp during testing at the State Draft Combine in Victoria, recording 3.02 seconds for the 20m sprint and 8.2 seconds on the agility test.


Archie Lovelock
State: South Australia
State League Club: Glenelg
Community Club: PHOS Camden
Date of Birth: 19/12/04; Height: 178cm; Weight: 72kg

Small midfielder and forward who was a star for Glenelg’s under-18s team and won the Allan Stewart Medal as best on ground in the club’s grand final victory. He averaged 26 disposals and kicked 11 goals across 10 matches at under-18s level for the Tigers. Has clean hands and a sharp football brain. Was a consistent player for South Australia at the National Championships, averaging 16 disposals and kicking four goals in four matches. His time of 6:33 at the State Draft Combine in South Australia showed both his endurance and competitiveness to finish off an impressive year.


Baynen Lowe
State: South Australia/Tasmania
State League Club: Norwood
Community Club: Devonport
Date of Birth: 29/07/03; Height: 177cm; Weight: 78kg

Former Tasmania Devils midfielder who relocated to Norwood, where he became a small forward and an important part of a premiership-winning team in his first year. He averaged 25 disposals for the Devils at NAB League level last year. Went on to play 18 SANFL matches this year, averaging 11 disposals and three tackles, as well as kicking 25 goals to grab the attention of AFL clubs.


Matthew Payne
State: Victoria Metro
State League Club: Western Jets
Community Club: Spotswood
Date of Birth: 06/03/04; Height: 174cm; Weight: 73kg

Small forward who shared his season between the Western Jets and Melbourne Grammar. His speed, elusiveness, and innate goal sense are features of his game. Played nine matches for the Jets in the NAB League, averaging 11 disposals and kicking 12 goals. Then grabbed the attention of AFL clubs with his speed and agility at the State Draft Combine in Victoria, highlighting two of his weapons as a small forward prospect. Recorded a time of 7.71 for the agility test, which was the fastest of all State Draft Combine players, and 2.88 for the 20m sprint.


Osca Riccardi
State: Victoria Country
State League Club: Geelong Falcons
Community Club: Newtown & Chilwell
Date of Birth: 23/08/04; Height: 177cm; Weight: 65kg

Small midfielder who is a late developer, having moved into the Geelong Falcons program this year and really impressed with his footy smarts, gut running and clever ball use. Another young prospect to emerge from St Joseph’s College, he averaged 15 disposals (five contested) and kicked five goals from the wing for the Falcons and was rewarded with selection for Geelong at VFL level. His athletic profile was very impressive at the Draft Combine, recording a time of 6:17 seconds for the 2km time trial, as well as a slick 3.02 seconds for the 20m sprint. The son of former Geelong star Peter Riccardi, who played 288 AFL games, the Cats have committed to selecting him as a rookie under the father-son rule should he not be selected in the National Draft.


Joe Richards
State: Victoria Country
Community Club: Wangaratta Magpies
Date of Birth: 23/11/99; Height: 176cm; Weight: 71kg

Played as a small forward for the Murray Bushrangers five years ago and has since developed into one of the Ovens and Murray league’s premier midfielders. Kicked 11 goals in his third senior O&M match and finished with 29 goals from 11 matches playing midfield in 2022. Has won three senior club best and fairest awards over the past four seasons, as well as claiming best afield honours in the O&M interleague match against the Goulburn Valley league. Has also twice finished runner-up for the league best and fairest award. He possesses speed, power and agility and is an elite kick on either side. Tested soundly at the State Draft Combine in Victoria when a late inclusion amongst our top prospects, recording 3.03 seconds for the 20m sprint and 8.44 seconds in agility test.


Frank Szekely
State: South Australia
State League Club: North Adelaide
Community Club: Central Augusta
Date of Birth: 13/08/99; Height: 173cm; Weight: 69kg

Wingman who has really matured as a consistent player at senior level with North Adelaide. An Indigenous talent with close to 50 games under his belt, he had a fantastic 2022 season, averaging 19 disposals and kicking 14 goals across 19 matches to help his side to a grand final appearance. Elusive and quick, his endurance was also outstanding in testing, with his 6:22 seconds for the 2km time trial ranked third overall for all players who tested at State Draft Combines.


Beau Tedcastle
State: Northern Territory
State League Club: GWV Rebels
Community Club: St Marys
Date of Birth: 29/03/04; Height: 178cm; Weight: 75kg

Small forward with real X-factor around goals. His natural speed and precise kicking are real weapons inside 50. An Indigenous prospect, he has relocated from Darwin to the highly renowned St Pat’s College in Ballarat. Played 11 matches with the GWV Rebels in the NAB League this season, averaging 12 disposals and kicking 19 goals to earn a game with the Allies at the National Championships. His speed was confirmed at the State Draft Combine in Victoria, with his 2.93 seconds on the 20m sprint impressive.


Kai Windsor
State: Victoria Metro
State League Club: Eastern Ranges
Community Club: South Belgrave
Date of Birth: 27/01/04; Height: 180cm; Weight: 76kg

Wingman with eye-catching pace and agility, as well as being a strong overhead mark for his size. Prominent in the midfield for the Eastern Ranges in the NAB League this season, averaging 18 disposals and kicking seven goals across 11 matches. Also averaged 11 disposals in three matches for Victoria Metro, adding his speed through the midfield to their National Championship-winning team. His agility time of 8.18 seconds was ranked in the elite bracket among State Draft Combine participants.

[Jasper]

Re: 2022 Draft Watch

Based on some very limited viewing I like Hotton and Jones if they were somehow available for our 2nd pick.

[lemmon]

Re: 2022 Draft Watch

I've been watching a few of the Champs games back - really liked Hustwaite from Vic Country and surprised his name seems to be sitting in the second round on draft boards.

Big kid, lovely kick, finds space and can go to a flank - looks like he'd slip into the Dunkley role should he make it to our second pick.

[The Doctor]

Re: 2022 Draft Watch

MOMENTUM BUILDING ON ALLAN

Rival clubs believe West Coast may pounce on strong-running midfielder Ed Allan with their first pick as other sides circle this year’s big draft bolter.

If that happens there is going to be a slider who becomes available to us. Who could it be?

Hypothetically

1. Bris - Ashcroft
2. GWS - Cadman
3. Norf - Sheezel
4. Norf - Wardlaw
5. Ess - Phillipou
6. GCS - Ginbey
7. Haw - Humphrey
8. Geel - Clark
9. WC - Allan
10. STK - McKenzie/Tsatas
11. Carl - Hollands
12. Dogs - ?

Could it be one of McKenzie or Tsatas?

[GVGjr]

Re: 2022 Draft Watch

If that happens there is going to be a slider who becomes available to us. Who could it be?

Hypothetically

1. Bris - Ashcroft
2. GWS - Cadman
3. Norf - Sheezel
4. Norf - Wardlaw
5. Ess - Phillipou
6. GCS - Ginbey
7. Haw - Humphrey
8. Geel - Clark
9. WC - Allan
10. STK - McKenzie/Tsatas
11. Carl - Hollands
12. Dogs - ?

Could it be one of McKenzie or Tsatas?

Allan at pick 8 really would change the order and does it suggest that WC expect that we are really interested in him?
They would be hoping to then land Busslinger at pick 13.

It could be out of Phillipou, McKenzie or Tsatas that slides but I wouldn't rule out Busslinger still being our pick even if one or even two of them are available.

Tsatas is a brilliant player and it would be a huge surprise if he got to our pick or beyond.
Essendon should consider Phillipou because they genuinely need a bigger bodied mid.

If Allan does go at 9 that will really shake things up.