Potential Draftee Watch - Version 2008 [Archive]

rizzo

9 May 2008, 22:03

Rohan O'Brien - West Coast Recruiting Managers thoughts.

NSW/ACT

Xavier McMahon - Xavier won the most disposals for NSW/ACT and he was a pretty good player all day. He also gave his side plenty of run.

Kade Klemke - Kade, like Xavier, also led the way for his side all day, winning plenty of the ball, while giving his team run.

Jordan Foster - Early in the match, Jordan took some terrific contested marks and he kicked three goals. He had a big impact on the game.

Northern Territory

Patrick Heenan - Although the Northern Territory missed several key players, Patrick was one of side's best and won 20 touches - the most for his side. He tried really hard all day.

Charlie Sharples - Charlie was also among Northern Territory's best, winning 17 touches.

Tasmania

Tom Salter - Tommy was really good in the midfield. He was Tassie's highest ball-winner with 24 touches.
Jacob Hislop - He was really good in the middle and was one of Tassie's top ball-winners.

Daniel Trevena - He was terrific out of defence and gave Tassie plenty of drive and rebound.

Tyson Mihocek - Tyson booted four goals in the last quarter when the game was up for grabs and he finished with five for the day, so he certainly had a big impact on the game.

Queensland

Matt Thomson - Matt was Queensland's leading ball-winner and he worked hard all day.

Justin Myers - Justin was his side's next best possession winner, trying hard throughout the match.

Jessie Haberfield - I thought Jessie had a pretty reasonable game and was a good contributor.

TheBigT

9 May 2008, 22:20

The Rioli for NT looks a very very promising player. Seems a bit like Cyril.

mmm probably somethin to do with being related, growing up together and playing together, unfortunately not draftable this year, if he is he won't play, still in year 11.

rizzo

11 May 2008, 12:10

Day 2:

Tasmania 3.5 6.7 10.9 11.11 (77)
NT 2.1 5.1 5.3 10.4 (64)

GOALS
Tasmania: Cornelius 3, Mihocek 2, Shade 2, Brakey, Cox, Hislop, Salter
Northern Territory: Rolfe 5, Hampton, May, Sharples, Taylor, Tungatalum

BEST
Tasmania: Robinson, Harwood, Salter, Cornelius, Shade, Hislop, Milne
Northern Territory: Rolfe, Sharples, Hale, Heenan, May, Ah Chee

My Notes:
Cornelius again proved that he is a quality player with 3 goals. I thought he was unlucky not to be drafted last year, and is putting up his hand this year.

Mihocek is looking like he is going to be a very good player. Backed up with goals in the 2nd match to prove that game 1 wasn't a fluke.

Robinson for Tassy was dominate. At times he seemed to have a ball of his own. Would of had at least 20 - 30 touches.

Hislop is also looking a tasty option for recruiters. He has put in two impressive performances so far this year.

Rolfe was probably the only real stand out for the NT. Pretty sure he is an over age player. He did well getting 5 goals and had around 15 or so touches.

rizzo

11 May 2008, 12:22

Day 2:

NSW/ACT 2.3 44 6.11 9.13 (67)
Queensland 2.1 3.3 4.5 5.6 (36)

GOALS
NSW/ACT: Foster 3, Duryea 2, Gordon 2, Clisby, Ediriwickrama
Queensland: Fowler 2, Myers 2, Keefe

BEST
NSW/ACT: Ediriwickrama, Gordon, Reed, Duncan, Foster, Clisby, Wilson
Queensland: Thomson, Daye, Myers, Beams, Haberfield, Fowler

My Notes

Ranga: The bloke is an absolute superstar! he was just so dominate today it wasn't funny. Has an amazing tank and a great footy brain. Over 30 touches EASY!.

Jordan Foster was also impressive, kicking another 3 goals. Looking a likely type.

James Wilson is man mountain. I singled him out last year for his size, and he still is as big as ever. Was impressive in the ruck thats for sure!

Joseph Daye another I outlined last year. He looks the goods and hopefully will get drafted. Tall and athletic, he picked up 20 odd touches.

Matt Thomson was also pretty good, would have had around 20 odd touches as well.

Myers was also impressive, and is building up a great reputation. Hard at the footy and good skills. Was impressed by him!

rizzo

11 May 2008, 20:03

Stuff From Recruiters Last Year:

6 – Aaron Cornelius – Tasmania – 191cm, 80kg
Too young to be drafted this year, but certainly one to watch out for in 2008, Cornelius starred against Queensland with five goals and showed plenty of spark in his game. He also grabbed seven marks – including a sensational pack mark in front of goal.

Aaron Cornelius
Recruiter 1: Aaron Cornelius kicked five goals for Tasmania, but he isn't eligible for this year's draft. There are good wraps on him moving forward.

Recruiter 2: Cornelius has got a bit of excitement about him. He plays from behind a bit too much and plays with some arrogance, but he's got natural talent.

Joseph Daye
Recruiter 1: Daye is an athlete. He's left-sided but has no right-side at all, so that does limit his ability going forward. Tasmania tried to force him onto his right foot and he always tried to get back onto his left. He was inconsistent across the game and his kicking can be erratic. He has talent, but he needs to play four quarters before people can be confident that he should be drafted.

Recruiter 2: I thought he was a bit disappointing today. He can certainly kick the ball with his left foot and is very athletic, but I don't think he works hard enough or reads the play well at all.

rizzo

11 May 2008, 20:10

Stuff I posted last year
(http://www.bigfooty.com/forum/showthread.php?t=344231)

Ranga Ediriwickrama - 71kg - 179cm - 10.9.90

Wells has done it again with this scholarship player. Ranga was close to the best on the ground, and put in a dominate display. He has a light frame, so he is an outside player imho.

However he makes up for this being lightning quick. The amount of ground he covered today was extreme. His engine is huge, he didnt come off until 3QTR time.

Disposal was ok, seems to rush it a little and kicks it higher than most.

Seems pretty versitle, played of half back as well as up forward for a while.

The kid will be a gem.

Max Wilson - 100kg - 199cm - 7.5.90
Not really sure what to read into this kid. Might be to young for the draft, however he is massive. 100Kg 17 year old just oozes potential.

Despite his weight/height he was agile and did well around the ground. The problem for him is that he has a shocking engine. Goes about 10-15mins before needing a rest. However a preseason will fix that.

Doubt he will go in the draft, but a rookie potential for sure.

Charlie Sharples - 67kg - 180cm - 16.2.89
This bloke is a definite smokey. Very light framed, but pretty tall. He reads the ball well out of the pack and has a bit of dash and flair. Seems like the perfect rookie option. Not sure where he would fit in at AFL level. Maybe as a presenting HFFer.

Joseph Daye - 194cm - 79kg - 2.2.90
Ill be the first to admit that he didn't show much today, but its just a gut feeling i have about him that makes me think that he could be special. Seems to be in and out of play, and really did struggle with his right foot. He is also very thin. (Ok i no your all like well rizz what makes you think he will be a player). He reminds me very very much of what Franklin looked like when i saw him at the carnival. Daye is very agile and is an athlete. He has solid hands. I think he will be a late choice, but a team who takes him has a lot of upside. Really want Geelong to look at him for this reason. The way he pushed up the ground today was very nice. Really looked to give them an option.

Aaron Cornelius - 191cm - 80kg - 29.5.89
Love this kid. Really looks like he will be a very good player. Has a nice lead and timing is very good. I feel with some better delivery he will be a very dangerous player. There are somethings you can teach, and some you can't. He still has a lot of learning to do, but has everything that you can't teach a player in his arsenal. Needs to bulk up. if he gets to the 90kg weight range he will be a very very sold player.

The Pivotonian

12 May 2008, 17:33

I'll see what I can dig up on the boys from WWT.

These are the Eagles guys who were named in the initial SA under 18 squad.

Sam Davoren (H - 177cm, W - 75kg)
Matthew Broadbent (H - 190, W - 90)
Glen Dawson (H - 185, W - 72)
Christopher Hall (H - 179, W - 65)
Jarrad Redden (H - 202, W - 88)
Travis Lane (H - 175, W - 75)

Of these guys, the ones that people should look for are Redden, Davoren, Broadbent and Lane (who may not be eligible this year, need to check).

To date, IIRC, Lane, Davoren and Broadbent have played in the WWT League side however Lane and Davoren are on the smaller side.

Davoren and Lane have been playing forward while Broadbent has been coming off HB.

Early thoughts are that Broadbent is clearly the stand out.

Fellow Eagle supporters said he played his best league game of the year last weekend against reigning premier Central Districts.

As Central have dominated the SANFL for the last 7 years this is a very good sign for a kid.

One poster on Bigfooty described Broadbent as having "...clean hands and first-rate dispoal and looks a certainty to play AFL..." (to paraphase).

This is also some info on Lane who won the COKE STAR SEACH AWARD this year.

Eagles Travis Lane Wins Rd 4 Coke Star Search Award
WOODVILLE-WEST TORRENS’ TRAVIS LANE WINS ROUND 4 COCA-COLA STAR SEARCH AWARD NOMINATION

Travis Lane from the Woodville-West Torrens Football Club has been named the Round Four Coca-Cola Star Search Award nominee.

At just 16 years of age, and in his second League appearance, Lane displayed maturity well beyond his years in the Eagles’ 35-point win over Norwood at Coopers Stadium on Friday night.

Playing as a small crumbing forward, Travis accumulated 9 possessions, including six kicks, three handballs, three marks and two goals in the first quarter.

Currently the youngest player playing League football, Travis’ performances in the Eagles’ U17 trial matches over the summer saw him named in the Reserves side for rounds one and two, before making his League debut in round three against the Port Adelaide Magpies.

Travis, a talented cricketer, attends St Michaels College and represented South Australia in the 2007 NAB AFL Under 16 Championships in Queensland. He is the Eagles first Coca-Cola Star Search Nominee for the 2008 season.

Hopefully this isn't too long and someone finds some use for it. :D

rizzo

12 May 2008, 23:18

Great post mate. Didn't fremantle draft a Reddon a few years back?

The Pivotonian

13 May 2008, 08:29

Great post mate. Didn't fremantle draft a Reddon a few years back?

Possibly but I doubt it is this kid.

A guy in another post said he hoped Adelaide went for either Redden or Broadbent.

Personally, I wouldn't mind Geelong targeting Broadbent (or someone similar). He sounds a bit like a Mackie.

I'll try and find some footage of him - stupid ABC2, why don't you televise SANFL games anymore??

Another kid out of the WWT production line is Lee Staple (187, 80) but he didn't make the SA squad but a few guys seem to think he goes alright.

rizzo

13 May 2008, 10:14

Tom Redden was who they drafted... Any relo?

http://www.footydraft.com/players.php?player=thomas_redden

The Pivotonian

13 May 2008, 14:01

There is always a posibilty but I have a feeling that if they were brothers both would have played at the same club.

Thomas Redden played for Glenelg.

However, the Redden name does the rounds in the SANFL. Along with Jarrad Redden there is a Denis Redden on the WWT list.

And Mick Redden, going back a few years, was a state rep. ruckman who played with North Adelaide.

However, in a long winded way, the answer is - no, I don't think Jarrad and Thomas are brothers.

As a side note, here is a quote from glengowan regarding a few of the boys.

...Broadbent looks to be the stand out - a good sized midfielder - just a smart footballer. Davoren impresses more with each game - his foot skills on both feet are excellent. Lane handled league well as a small forward, popping up with a couple of goals in the games he played. Hall is very skinny and haven't seen enough of him to comment. Redden is a skinny giant, takes a good grab...

saintscrazy

15 May 2008, 10:38

saintscrazy

15 May 2008, 10:42

paddymellon

16 May 2008, 23:52

jordan foster is from my local club mango. great kid, best on ground on debut in 1st grade at just 16. great to see him playin good for new south.

rizzo

26 May 2008, 14:03

VICTORIA Metropolitan has pulled off a stunning three-point victory over arch-rival Victoria Country in the opening match of the first round of the NAB AFL under 18 championships.

Metro 12.4 (76) defeated Country 11.7 (73) in the curtain-raiser to the Melbourne and Hawthorn clash at the MCG, after Jack Watts, who booted four goals, kicked the match-winner just before the final siren sounded.

Yet at the 17-minute mark of the last quarter (all terms are 20 minutes with no time-on), Vic Country looked set to overcome the city slickers, having trailed at every other change, when Tom Rockliff jagged his fourth for the match.

It was fitting Watts and Rockliff stood up for their respective sides in the latter stages, as they were super for their respective side's best. Watts also finished with eight marks, including four contested, as Rockliff finished with a game-high 11 contested possessions.

Vic Country's Nick Suban, an under-18 All-Australian last year, had 25 disposals - the most for the match - and was also superb. Teammate Nic Heyne, who took a cracking one-handed 'speccy' up forward in the final term, finished with 19 touches and two goals.

Shaun McKernan, the younger brother of dual North Melbourne premiership player Corey, impressed for Vic Metro with 11 disposals and 13 hit outs. And Michael Hurley, an under-18 All-Australian defender last year, continued to impress down back.

Vic Country 2.2 4.3 8.5 11.7 (73)
Vic Metro 4.0 7.1 9.3 12.4 (76)

GOALS
Vic Country: Rockliff 4, Young 3, Heyne 2, Christensen, Suban
Vic Metro: Watts 4, McKernan 2, Banner, Lisle, Martin, McGarry, Purves, Shuey,

BEST
Vic Country: Rockliff, Suban, Heyne, Hooper, Young, Sidebottom
Vic Metro: Watts, Zaharakis, Hurley, McKernan, Lisle, Gotch

rizzo

26 May 2008, 14:06

Throughout the 2008 NAB AFL under 18 championships, afl.com.au will speak to a key recruiter/official about the players they thought shone on a particular day's play.

On Saturday, we spoke to AFL youth and high performance coordinator Jason McCartney.

His comments came after the second day's division two matches at the MCG in the lead-up to the Australian Football Hall of Fame Tribute Match between Victoria and the Dream Team, where Tasmania held off the Northern Territory by 13 points and NSW/ACT defeated Queensland by 31 points.

NSW/ACT
Ranga Ediriwickrama - He was really good. He had a high work-rate and won a lot of the footy - he won 32 possessions. Ranga was good in game one, but he was cleaner with his ball-use and gathering. He really led from the front and was outstanding.

Scott Reed - I thought Scotty Reed was super. He played wing and centre half-back in game one and played as a key defender in game two. He was not beaten in the one-on-one contests. He ran hard, provided contests and his ball movement and penetration inside forward 50 was good. Scotty had a really positive game and has been solid in both matches.

Nathan Gordon - Nathan has not been named as a scholarship player yet, but I'm led to believe Sydney will claim him. He was really good overhead for a smaller player. He's 184cm, plays up forward and is really smart around goals. He's an opportunist and can push up into the midfield as well. Nathan also kicked a couple of goals in the second quarter and was really impressive.

Max Wilson - A strong, big aggressive ruckman, he adds so much to this team. He really leads the way with his physicality.

Jordan Foster - His contested marking - he took three in the first five minutes of game one - is fantastic. He's also a good finisher in front of goal and although he didn't get a lot of the ball in game two, he marked everything that came his way. He's one player who has really jumped up, so that's a real positive.

Northern Territory
Peter Rolfe - Has been around for a while, but he kicked five goals against Tasmania and you know what you're going to get from him each week. He also had 17 possessions, so he was a real shining light.

Patrick Heenan - I've liked what I've seen of him in the last two games - I haven't seen him much since he was in under 16s - and he's now at Melbourne Grammar. He played a loose role in the back-pocket and he's got a license to free up and attack, but he makes good decisions. What I like about him is that he's got great balance and takes the game on. He's been good.

Robert Hale - He's had a couple of solid games, playing off the wing. He's also at Melbourne Grammar now. He didn't play under 16s last year, because he had groin surgery. Robbie was good overhead, he won his own ball and it looks like his disposal has improved a bit from a couple of years ago.

Curtly Hampton - The one I really liked was Curtly Hampton, who is a 14-year-old boy. He's not 15 years old until October and he's been in our Kickstart program. He went to South Africa this year and he'll be in the program later this year. He's been really well managed. There is no great expectation on him. He's just lively and every time he's on the ground, he makes things happen. He's got some real bounce about him. His thought process is always to get the ball and play on - I think we've got a good one on our hands there. Most guys are 17 or 18 years old, but the Northern Territory is the exception, due to the smaller population.

Queensland
Matt Thomson - A ball-winner, he's not the biggest kid going around, but he finds the footy and he uses it well - he's now had a couple of solid games. He got 28 touches against NSW/ACT.

Joey Daye - He was really good. We know he can provide run-and-carry and that's when he's at his best, so it was really pleasing to see him get it inside the corridor. He got his hands on the footy and used it well.

Jessie Haberfield - He's a really tough, disciplined player in the contested situations. He wasn't outstanding, but his hardness always keeps him in the game.

Justin Myers - He came under my attention - I haven't seen a lot of him - and he looks a really neat player. He won the ball 22 times and his finishing was really good too. He followed up, kicked a couple of goals and was good in the corridor.

Lachlan Keefe - Although he didn't have a lot of the ball, he is now tied to Collingwood under the non-registered for three years rule. He was at our AIS camp in December, through our rookie search program and he showed fantastic athleticism. What impressed me against NSW/ACT is the work that Collingwood has already put into him. You can just see he has developed, as he has improved since we last saw him. He looked really clean and there has already been a transformation in him. So there is some real upside to him.

Tasmania
Mitch Robinson - He was one I hadn't seen or heard much of until today, but he played off the wing and half-back and won 21 possessions. His athleticism, the way he found space all day, his run-and-carry and the way he used the ball impressed me. I didn't see much of him the other day, but he bobbed up against the Northern Territory.

Tom Salter - He got 24 possessions in game one and got 19 in his second match. He was good, in and around the contests, and started the game really well. I had a question mark against him in game one - he turned it over a couple of times - but he didn't miss a target in game two, so that was really good.

Aaron Cornelius - A lot is expected from Aaron, but I thought he was okay. Every time he went to the contest, he had three guys around him - he's going to get that a lot because he is a super overhead mark - but he still managed to take some good contested marks. I thought he worked really well and as a key forward, it can become frustrating playing against three players. He took six marks, three contested and finished with three goals.
Bart McCulloch - Bart didn't get a lot against the Territory but I was impressed with him in game one. He has good agility for a big bloke and makes good decisions. He could be okay.

rizzo

26 May 2008, 14:07

New South Wales/Australian Capital Territory v Tasmania

TASMANIA has won it first division-two title since 2005 and now enters the division-one section as the most likely challenger to South Australia, Victoria Country, Victoria Metropolitan and Western Australia in this year's NAB AFL under-18 championships.

The Apple Isle made it three from three after breaking away from NSW/ACT during the final quarter at Casey Fields on Tuesday.

Tasmania 13.6 (84) defeated NSW/ACT 8.7 (55) by 29 points, after the islanders booted six goals to two in the last term.

It was the Rams' first loss, but they too will take on the division-one teams, having finished second with two wins from three matches.

Mitch Robinson’s fine form for Tassie over the three matches earned him the Hunter Harrison Medal for the best division-two player and his state's Most Valuable Player award. He claimed 16 disposals and booted two goals in his side's win on Tuesday.

Joseph Groenewegen with 27 hit outs and Jake Cox, who had 15 touches and four scoring assists, were also fine players for Tassie.

NSW/ACT's Ranga Ediriwickrama, who is tied to Geelong via the scholarship scheme, was again the leading ball-winner with 24 touches, as Luke Bruest claimed his side's MVP award.

New South Wales/Australian Capital Territory 1.1 5.3 6.6 8.7 (55)
Tasmania 2.1 5.1 7.5 13.6 (84)

GOALS
NSW/ACT: Duryea 3, Breust 2, Foster, Gilchrist, Gordon
Tasmania: Cornelius 2, Hislop 2, Robinson 2, Cox, Crichton, McCulloch, Groenewegen, Michocek, O'Brien, Symmons

BEST
NSW/ACT: Ediriwickrama, Breust, Stubbs, Duryea, Duncan, Kirkwood, McNeil
Tasmania: Robinson, Groenewegen, Cox, Williams, O'Brien, Allwright

Division-two qualifying series (match five) played at Casey Fields

Northern Territory v Queensland

NORTHERN Territory may have played a dead-rubber against Queensland in the second match at Casey Fields, but the Thunder ensured the Scorpions would finish the NAB AFL under-18 championships without a victory, winning by 54 points.

The Territory 14.7 (91) thrashed Queensland 5.7 (37), after the Thunder booted nine goals to three during the second and third quarters.

The Northern Territory’s Peter Rolfe, who booted five goals in game two, backed up with another impressive display, chipping in with three goals and 17 touches. Another one to catch the eye was high-leaping and contested marker Casey Sibosado.

Northern Territory's Most Valuable Player award went to the diminutive, but exciting, Patrick Heenan who claimed 24 touches against the Scorpions.

Charlie Sharples (28 disposals) was the Territory's leading ball-winner, although Queensland's Dayne Beams won a game-high 34 disposals in a fine display.

Ball-magnet Matt Thomson capped off a fine carnival with 25 touches against the Thunder, as well as Queensland's Most Valuable Player award.

Northern Territory 4.3 9.4 13.6 14.7 (91)
Queensland 1.3 3.3 4.4 5.7 (37)

GOALS
Northern Territory: Farmer 3, Rolfe 3, Sibosado 2, Tungatalun 2, Gugliotta, Heenan, Phoenix, Schaper
Queensland: Green 2, Myers 2, Fowler

BEST
Northern Territory: Sharples, Rolfe, Sibosado, Heenan, Farmer, Hale, Ah Chee
Queensland: Beams, Holman, Myers, Thomson, James, Stanley

Division two qualifying series (match six) played at Casey Fields

* The Division Two Hunter-Harrison Medal was won by Mitch Robinson from Tasmania

* The NAB MVP Awards were awarded to Luke Breust (NSW/ACT), Mitch Robinson (TAS), Patrick Heenan (NT) and Matt Thomson (QLD).

rizzo

26 May 2008, 14:08

On Tuesday, we spoke to Geelong recruiting assistant Luke Williams.

His comments came after the third day's division-two matches at Casey Fields, where Tasmania defeated NSW/ACT by 29 points to win the second division title.

Those two teams have advanced through to the next stage to take on South Australia, Victoria Country, Victoria Metropolitan and Western Australia. In the final division two matches, the Northern Territory claimed its first win and kept Queensland winless by 54 points.

NEW SOUTH WALES/AUSTRALIAN CAPITAL TERRITORY

Luke Breust - I thought he had a really influential game. He used the ball well and was quite creative with his hands. He's really clean with his hands. Luke booted two goals.

Josh Duncan - Josh ran pretty hard and took the ball inside 50 five times.

Ranga Ediriwickrama - Ranga had a good game. He's one of our scholarship boys and we've been really happy with his carnival and he's won a lot of footy. He worked really hard around the stoppages and has won contested footy, so he should be proud of his efforts.

Anthony Stubbs - Stubbs is a West Coast scholarship holder and I thought he was really good, particularly in the second half across centre half-back. I thought he competed really hard, won the contested ball OK.

NORTHERN TERRITORY

Charlie Sharples - I thought Charlie's first quarter, in particular his work-rate and work-ethic, was terrific. He showed a bit of speed and was competitive, so he helped set the scene for the Territory.

Roy Farmer - I thought Roy Farmer in the second quarter was exciting. He kicked three goals in the second quarter and showed his Indigenous magic.

Casey Sibosado - He took some really strong contested marks. He's got a good build and has a real presence during the game.

QUEENSLAND

Justin Myers - Myers has had a really consistent carnival off half-back. He is well-balanced and uses the ball well on both sides of the body. He had another consistent game.

John James - John played in the forward pocket and was pretty lively and worked really hard in the forward line.

Dayne Beams - He was an outstanding player for Queensland. In my opinion, that was the better of his games in these championships. He came off the wing and marked the ball well and used it well on both sides of the body. He also gave his side good run, particularly in the second half.

TASMANIA

Mitch Robinson - Mitch played off the half-back flank and his first quarter was terrific. Like Charlie Sharples for Northern Territory, Mitch helped set the standard for Tassie in the first quarter.

Adrian Williams - He had a really honest, competitive game at centre half-back, so he should be pretty proud of his efforts. He was pivotal for Tassie.

Tom Salter - He battled hard through the midfield.

Brentyn Milverton - As did Milverton, who also worked hard in the middle

rizzo

26 May 2008, 14:10

The Northern Territory again displayed their wizardry and skills, and took on the opposition with speed and agility. This was particularly evident on the wide spaces of Casey Fields.

The Indigenous boys in particular only have to look at the likes of Austin Wonaeamirri and Cyril Rioli for inspiration. Who's to say there can't be another Aussie or Cyril among the NT players?

Patrick Heenan and Charlie Sharples were prolific ball-winners and very exciting players.

Although Queensland failed to win a match throughout the championships, it possessed some enormous height in its side. Long-term, this is very promising for the likes of Charlie Dixon (199cm), Zac Smith (203cm) and Lachlan Keefe (204cm). Another Queenslander to impress was midfielder Dayne Beams.

For NSW/ACT, Ranga Ediriwickrama, who is of Sri Lankan heritage and is a scholarship holder with Geelong, is a ball-magnet. He was very impressive across the three matches.

Two more scholarship holders with AFL clubs -- Josh Duncan (St Kilda) and Scott Reed (Collingwood) -- were others who caught the eye. Midfielder Luke Breust also had an excellent three games.

The promising Bart McCulloch (198cm) stood out for Tasmania, as a ruckman/key forward. His teammate, Aaron Cornelius, was outstanding in attack and his strong marking was a feature.

The Hunter Harrison medal for division two's best player went to 188cm ball-winning midfielder Mitch Robinson from Tasmania. Robinson has also played some matches for Tassie Devils in the VFL.

Harrison was an administrator in the Northern Territory for a long time and he now lives in Queensland. He was a wonderful contributor to the national vision of the game.

c0ze

27 May 2008, 22:33

When is Ranga available to be drafted? Can't wait to see him play.

rizzo

27 May 2008, 23:43

When is Ranga available to be drafted? Can't wait to see him play.

This year mate. We can either Rookie list him or Senior list him. It's our choice.

Barabbas

28 May 2008, 14:23

He's starting to sound like a shoe-in. Thanks for posting all that Rizzo.

thejester

28 May 2008, 18:00

Starting to? He is the classic Thompson player - hard at it and a magnet for contested footy.

rizzo

28 May 2008, 23:40

Starting to? He is the classic Thompson player - hard at it and a magnet for contested footy.

Has a bigger engine then a train. The bloke is a freak. Watched him last year at the carnival, ran all day and came off for his first rest in the 3rd qtr.

Big Nasty

30 May 2008, 15:50

Thanks Rizzo. Interestering reading, which was that Thompson you were comparing Ranga to?

TheBigUnit

1 Jun 2008, 19:55

Watched him for the 1st time today and he was excellent against very good opposition (WA), all the appraisals in this thread are bang on - led from the front, tremendous endurance/work ethic/intensity, very good contested ball/stoppage winner, good pace etc. - it's a pity he wasn't surrounded by more class, which would've allowed his good work to be converted into goals. You lucky bastards! (again) :D

rizzo

2 Jun 2008, 13:39

n Sunday, we spoke to AIS-AFL academy high performance coach Alan McConnell.

His comments came after the first day's play of division one, where Vic Metro sealed a three-point thriller over Vic Country, just moments before the final siren.

VICTORIA COUNTRY
Nick Suban - Suban's ball-winning ability and ground work was great.

Nic Heyne - Heyne created a number of opportunities to work his way into the game. He used the ball effectively and also created a number of scoring opportunities.

Tom Rockliff - He was a very good player, booting four goals.

VICTORIA METROPOLITAN
Jack Watts - He finished with 12 possessions and booted four goals, including the match-winner.

Shaun McKernan - His ruck-work was excellent. Vic Metro had the better of the stoppages because of McKernan's ruckwork.

Tyrone Vickery - Vic Metro's ruck dominance was due to McKernan and Vickery. Vickery also won his share of the ball as well as influencing the play with his ruckwork.

Tom Lynch - He was dominant early, but drifted out of the game. He presented up extremely well early in the game, when he was playing as a leading forward, coming up to half-forward.

Michael Hurley - Hurley was the best backman on the ground. He just doesn't get beaten in one-on-one contests. He hasn't had high possessions, but whenever he's been in a one-on-one contest, he never gets outmarked. He also doesn't give his opponent easy possessions, so I'd say he was the dominant defender.

Xavier Gotch - He picked up good numbers in terms of possessions - he got 21 disposals the most for his side.

David Zaharakis - Zaharakis also gained 19 possessions, behind only Gotch for Vic Metro.

rizzo

2 Jun 2008, 13:40

ALL, key-position type players and a return to the more “natural” footballer are the early long-range draft predictions from two of the country’s leading underage footy experts.

While AFL talent manager Kevin Sheehan and AIS/AFL high performance coach Alan McConnell said more would be known at the completion of the 2008 NAB AFL Under-18 Championships, both men have seen enough to form an opinion of the young crop coming through the ranks.

“We can see there’s a very, very impressive group of tall players,” Sheehan said.

“We could see that from second division, the qualifying division played there, and we saw that with the opening game between Vic Metro and Vic Country the other day.”

While one of the hottest draft prospects in years -- WA’s Nicholas Naitanui -- is certain to gain attention, Sheehan was quick to point out the depth in the group.

"It’s not just all about Naitanui, put it that way,” he said.

“There’s lots of other taller key-position ruckmen type-players that are attracting a fair bit of interest.”

Quality taller players are highly prized due to their relative rarity.

“They’re harder to come by, that’s the key to it,” Sheehan said.

“They’re from a reasonably limited pool … but it’s becoming a bigger pool. We seem to have a lot more bigger blokes appearing at our championships and trials.”

Last weekend a number of taller players impressed during Victoria Metropolitan’s thrilling win over Victoria Country.

Shaun McKernan, the younger brother of former North Melbourne and Carlton star Corey, was among those to impress for Vic Metro. Jack Watts also starred in the game, his fourth goal on the final siren securing a victory for Vic Metro.

Both players are involved with the AIS/AFL Academy, which is seen as developing the crème de la crème of Australia’s top footballing talent.

The Academy was responsible for 13 of the top 14 picks at last year’s NAB AFL Draft and currently comprises more than 20 per cent of AFL lists.

McConnell gave an interesting insight when assessing the talent he believes will be on offer later this year.

“I would have thought in general there’s a larger group of just genuine footballers,” McConnell said.

“There’s perhaps not as many elite athletes as there has been in recent years but lots of very good footballers, if that makes sense.

“They’re smarter players. Certainly, the group of Academy boys have had the capacity to embrace concepts perhaps more readily than the last couple of years, which suggests to me that they’re perhaps a more innate, natural football-orientated group.”

As for the players coming through this year, McConnell says the group he has dealt with – the Academy has an intake of just 30 each year – would offer AFL clubs plenty.

“There’s a mix … there’s a bit of everything to be honest,” he said.

“I think there’s something for everybody but I guess the question is always, ‘after pick 20 what else is left?’

“But I would have thought the top end of the draft should be laced with boys with good footy brains.”

rizzo

2 Jun 2008, 13:41

Results from the round one match of the 2008 NAB AFL Under-18 Championships played between South Australia and Tasmania at Adelaide Oval today:

South Australia 17.6 (108) d Tasmania 9.9 (63)

GOALS
South Australia: Johnston 4, Hartlett 2, Mardling 2, Hall 2, Cahill 2, Broadbent 2, McAdam, Lane, Blesing
Tasmania: McCullough 3, Cox 2, Robinson, Cornelius, Hislop, Allwright

BEST
South Australia: O'Keefe, Armstrong, Martin, Cahill, Hall, Jones
Tasmania: O'Brien, Allwright, Salter, Harwood, Robinson, Crichton, Milne

A seven goal to one last quarter handed South Australia a convincing 45-point victory.

The remaining round one match w

The Pivotonian

23 Jun 2008, 11:30

This is from the AFL website today. While I don't think Geelong needs "small defenders" (athough Broadbent probably is more mid) I am hearing more and more good things about the kid.

THROUGHOUT the remainder of the 2008 NAB AFL under 18 championships, AFL youth and high performance coordinator and former AFL star Jason McCartney will give afl.com.au his thoughts on the players who caught his eye. Here are his assessments after Victoria Metro defeated South Australia by 53 points at Adelaide Oval on Sunday.
Victoria Metro:
Jack Watts: Jack is a star. He’s one of our AIS boys and he’s also a very talented basketballer. He wanted to balance both footy and basketball through the scholarship program, but in the end he has chosen to go for football because his workload was just too great. He was a star in Vic Metro’s win Vic Country. He was a little bit quiet against Tasmania, but obviously very prominent against South Australia.
He kicked five goals, had 17 disposals and took three really big contested marks. He has great agility, great lateral movement and the ball just melts into his hands.
There has been a lot of talk about the WA boys and how talented they are, but Wattsy is a great kid and is right in that mix.
Tom Scully: Tom is another star in the Vic Metro side. He’s bottom-aged, so he can’t be drafted this year, but he is all class. He’s a left-footer; is good around the clearances and sets up the play with his quick hands. He had a massive nine inside 50s against South Australia and also kicked two goals, but it was his work around the clearances that was most impressive. He’s just a quality act.
Jordan Lisle: Jordan plays at centre-half back and has been really good over the three games. He’s disciplined, strong overhead and has great footy smarts. He rarely gets beaten in a contest and he also provided some good run from defence in the game against South Australia.
Shaun McKernan: Shaun is really playing his part. Saturday’s game was probably the most time he has spent on the ground during the championships so far. In the first two games he switched between the ruck and interchange to make way for some of Vic Metro’s other good, tall options, but against SA he rested a bit up forward. He has a great attack on the footy in the air and is a great contested mark. He was really solid in the ruck with 15-hit-outs and it was another good performance from Shaun. It’s just frightening to think I played with his brother and watching Shaun is like seeing Corey play all over again. He’s just a replica.
David Zaharakis: David had a really good first game; was a bit quieter in the second, but he was just tremendous again on Saturday. He’s got a really high work rate and can play out on the wing and also in the midfield. He’s pretty hard at it and always finishes well. He had another 21 touches against SA and also five inside 50ms. David is a really good leader and is a bit of a barometer for Vic Metro. When he plays well; the team usually does and that was certainly the case on Saturday.
Luke Shuey: Luke had 18 disposals, five clearances and also snared a couple of goals playing through the midfield and across half-forward. He plays with a really good intensity and, even though he got rushed with a few disposals on Saturday, when he had those opportunities to finish around goal, he did.
South Australia:
Matthew Broadbent: Matty is very good in close. His disposal is effective by both hand and foot and he’s been quite consistent throughout the championships. Against Vic Metro he finished up with 21 possessions and three hard-ball-gets. He had a really good, solid four-quarter performance.
Dale Armstrong: Dale was very prominent on Saturday. He’s not the biggest kid out there but he has a great work rate. His clearance work was very good in the third quarter and he ended up with 21 disposals, four clearances and five inside 50ms. Dale was certainly one player I thought stood up for the SA team.
Rhys O’Keeffe: Rhys is a left-footer, who like Broadbent, uses the ball really well. He played across half-back and also in the midfield. He had 20 disposals and showed he can win his own footy with three hard-ball-gets.
Jay Shannon: I haven’t seen much of Jay in the Championships so far, but he was a real in-and-under type player in the midfield on Saturday. He wins his own footy, is good around the stoppages and finished with 21 disposals and five inside 50s.
The views in this story are those of the author and not necessarily those of the clubs or the AFL

Exclusive to AFL BigPond Network

year of the cat

23 Jun 2008, 21:06

Suban and Ziebell from what I have read sound like likely types. Any more info on either of them? Have you seen them play? Heyne is another one.

thejester

23 Jun 2008, 22:01

Is Lisle a Geelong local?

Could be what we need for a tall defender.

rizzo

1 Jul 2008, 00:28

Is Lisle a Geelong local?

Could be what we need for a tall defender.

Nope.

Shifter has summed up who to look for. A very good list.

A FORTNIGHT ago in Sydney, Victoria Country was on the receiving end when their underrated opponent New South Wales/Australian Capital Territory rose to the challenge and inflicted an unlikely defeat (and a sizeable dent) on the more fancied Victorians.

The loss was another blow to Vic Country after its narrow defeat by Vic Metro, but a debrief by coach Robert Hyde and his off-field crew saw a sharply-focused, revitalised and committed group turn up at Subiaco on Saturday, determined to restore their battered reputations against the undefeated Western Australia.

This of course was the venue where Western Australia smashed Vic Metro last year, starting a five-match winning streak at this level for the Sandgropers.

Yet the Vic Country team responded in emphatic fashion, leading by 45 points at half-time, before withstanding a spirited Western Australian comeback to win by 27 points.

On Sunday, at the wonderful and picturesque Adelaide Oval, Vic Metro continued its winning run with a convincing victory over South Adelaide to head the top of the division one table, after three rounds.

So far we have seen matches played in five states, with teams learning enormously about the challenges at this level. For the rest of the series, we will see individual performances lift, strategies put in place to minimise the impact of in-form opposition players and teams playing with great pride and passion in representing their states.

The final two rounds of the competition will be held at Casey Fields (Saturday, July 5) and Telstra Dome (Wednesday, July 9) and those matches have much to live up to, such has been the great competition so far.

The following a run down of players who have caught the eye and ones to watch out for at Casey Fields and Telstra Dome …

Tasmania
Mitch Robinson – Robinson has continued the form that saw him win the Hunter Harrison Medal as division two's best-and-fairest in the qualifying series. He has great ball-winning ability (averaging 19 disposals), is a penetrating kick and is evasive to boot. The youngster from Lauderdale has been a shining light for the Mariners.

Jesse Crichton – A 183cm midfielder from North Launceston, Crichton leads the competition in handballs (35 at an average of 12 per match). He possesses pin-point accuracy with his disposals and is a smooth-gatherer.

South Australia
Rhys O'Keeffe – A dashing medium-defender at 187cm, O'Keeffe, from North Adelaide, has also been prominent for his team in all three matches. Averaging 17 disposals, with four hard-ball gets, along with nine handball receives, indicates his ability to win the ball in contested situations, as well as provide great run through defence.

Lewis Johnston – Bottom-aged tall forward, Johnston (192cm), is also from North Adelaide and he shows great promise. He leads the competition in contested marking. His 10 markes up forward against WA in a beaten side was impressive along with 4 goals in game 1 from limited opportunities.

Victoria Country
Steele Sidebottom – Vic Country would be pleased with the output from Sidebottom, which has been supported by Champion Data statistics. He is rated fourth overall in disposals (55 at an average of 18.3) and first for contested possessions (29 at an average of 9.8). He is also ranked third in clearances (15 at an average of five).

Tom Rockliff – A medium forward from the Murray Bushrangers, Rockliff has won a total of 26 contested possessions and 13 hard-ball gets. He has also taken eight contested marks and seven goals, to be third on the goalkicking table, which has been outstanding. He has also laid 12 tackles (ranked fourth overall), showing he is prepared to keep the ball inside the forward 50 for his team.

Jack Ziebell - Medium defender / midfielder who has exceptional capacity to win the contested football and make great decisions with it and under pressure. Missed game 1 due to injury but was Vic Country's most influential player in games 2 & 3. Strong overhead and powerful on the burst, he hits his targets with hand and foot.

New South Wales/Australian Capital Territory
Kade Klemke – The medium defender has been among NSW/ACT's most consistent performers. He is ranked fifth in disposals (55 at an average of 18.3) and is second in uncontested marks (17). Klemke has shown an ability to read the play across half-back and judges the ball well when in flight, showing great courage in the air.

Ranga Ediriwickrama – His first two games were outstanding, averaging 25 disposals, before a hamstring injury early against Tasmania set him and his team back. His has won 28 contested possessions from nine quarters, which still ranks him second overall. It demonstrates his courage and his attack on the ball. He is a one-touch player and a great reader of play.

Western Australia
Matt De Boer – A medium-sized midfielder, De Boer has been very good for his team, with his strong attack on the ball and run. This has been supported statistically, with 69 disposals in total (averaging 23 per match) which ranks him No.1. He has also taken 20 (average of 6.9) marks, ranking him first in the competition. De Boer has also 17 inside 50s, which is also number one in the competition.

Nick Naitanui – The ruckman leads the hit-outs with 51 (including 10 to advantage, which is ranked No.2). Naitanui is also ranked second in both clearances (16) and tackles (15) – statistics ruckmen are not usually prominent in. It also reflects his competitiveness and natural speed.

Victoria Metropolitan
Jack Watts – A key position player, Watts has shone up forward, taking 16 marks and booting 11 goals. He also has demonstrated his team orientation on a number of occasions highlighted by an exceptional assist in short passing (with great vision and skill) to teammate Tom Scully to seal the match against SA. With 5 goals already on the board that game others may have been tempted to look for a 6th.

Jordan Lisle – The tall defender has taken 13 marks and impressed down back. He is also capable of playing key forward and at 196cm has the height and natural athleticism already to complement his clean hands to play a variety of roles. Father Mark played in the ruck for North Melbourne does not qualify for father/son.

Shaun McKernan – He has been prominent in the ruck with 38 hit outs and 16 marks. Unbelievably like his older brother Corey both in looks and movements at the same age. Has a wonderful leap, good feel for the game, courage and versatility. At 196cm can play forward/back or in the ruck.

David Zaharakis – A medium-midfielder, Zaharakis finds space and uses the ball well, winning 25 effective kicks (ranked fourth) and averaging five inside 50s. Has good breakaway speed allowing him to run the lines. At 180cm and 73kg will develop physically and has shown real sharpness around the goals.

year of the cat

1 Jul 2008, 08:35

Shifter has summed up who to look for. A very good list.

Lewis Johnston – Bottom-aged tall forward, Johnston (192cm), is also from North Adelaide and he shows great promise. He leads the competition in contested marking. His 10 markes up forward against WA in a beaten side was impressive along with 4 goals in game 1 from limited opportunities.

Steele Sidebottom – Vic Country would be pleased with the output from Sidebottom, which has been supported by Champion Data statistics. He is rated fourth overall in disposals (55 at an average of 18.3) and first for contested possessions (29 at an average of 9.8). He is also ranked third in clearances (15 at an average of five).

Tom Rockliff – A medium forward from the Murray Bushrangers, Rockliff has won a total of 26 contested possessions and 13 hard-ball gets. He has also taken eight contested marks and seven goals, to be third on the goalkicking table, which has been outstanding. He has also laid 12 tackles (ranked fourth overall), showing he is prepared to keep the ball inside the forward 50 for his team.

Jack Ziebell - Medium defender / midfielder who has exceptional capacity to win the contested football and make great decisions with it and under pressure. Missed game 1 due to injury but was Vic Country's most influential player in games 2 & 3. Strong overhead and powerful on the burst, he hits his targets with hand and foot.

Ranga Ediriwickrama – His first two games were outstanding, averaging 25 disposals, before a hamstring injury early against Tasmania set him and his team back. His has won 28 contested possessions from nine quarters, which still ranks him second overall. It demonstrates his courage and his attack on the ball. He is a one-touch player and a great reader of play.

Jordan Lisle – The tall defender has taken 13 marks and impressed down back. He is also capable of playing key forward and at 196cm has the height and natural athleticism already to complement his clean hands to play a variety of roles. Father Mark played in the ruck for North Melbourne does not qualify for father/son.

Shaun McKernan – He has been prominent in the ruck with 38 hit outs and 16 marks. Unbelievably like his older brother Corey both in looks and movements at the same age. Has a wonderful leap, good feel for the game, courage and versatility. At 196cm can play forward/back or in the ruck.

David Zaharakis – A medium-midfielder, Zaharakis finds space and uses the ball well, winning 25 effective kicks (ranked fourth) and averaging five inside 50s. Has good breakaway speed allowing him to run the lines. At 180cm and 73kg will develop physically and has shown real sharpness around the goals.

These are the ones that have taken my eye so far. McKernan and Sidebottom may go a bit early for us. The others appear to be possibilities. Great to see Ranga feature again!! Bargain. Thanks for the info Rizzo.

rizzo

1 Jul 2008, 12:42

These are the ones that have taken my eye so far. McKernan and Sidebottom may go a bit early for us. The others appear to be possibilities. Great to see Ranga feature again!! Bargain. Thanks for the info Rizzo.

You have mentioned some very good players there YOTC. TBH, i have spent more time in DIvi 2 so far, so Next wednesday will be a good time to have a look at divi 1.

It's good going into these sort of things with very little knowledge. Stops you from being biased.

year of the cat

1 Jul 2008, 14:27

You have mentioned some very good players there YOTC. TBH, i have spent more time in DIvi 2 so far, so Next wednesday will be a good time to have a look at divi 1.

It's good going into these sort of things with very little knowledge. Stops you from being biased.

Are on holiday next week and are hoping to go along on Wed to Telstra Dome if I get an opportunity.

rhino_19

2 Jul 2008, 12:16

Why the hell are u talking about the division 2 teams so much? You'd be better off talking about the team right under your nose, the Falcons. They had 6 drafted and 2 rookied last year, probably more than any division 2 state team.
They are very strong again this year, surely you'd be more interested in the local talent!!!

MisterX

2 Jul 2008, 19:32

I would like to hear thoughts on Zaharakis and Shuey please!!

will they make it?

cheers

rizzo

6 Jul 2008, 21:18

TASMANIA v WESTERN AUSTRALIA
Tasmania

Jesse Crichton – Once again, Jesse was good. He kicked a couple of goals, had four tackles, 15 disposals and was really creative by hand. He had good poise and balance. I haven't seen him put in a bad performance since division two started.

Aaron Cornelius – I thought this was Aaron's best game in four or five games. He had 14 disposals, seven marks – three were contested – and this was a fine effort, considering the ball only went inside 50 for Tasmania 20 times. His second quarter was outstanding. He had six marks in that period. It was a really solid performance. He played on instinct, he played in front and his work-rate was high.

Maverick Weller – Maverick played his first game and we'll see him in the under 16s championships in a few weeks time. He played in the under 16s last year. Maverick finished with 16 disposals – including seven contested possessions. He was actually rated by Tasmania's match committee as its second best player. He's clean with the footy, makes good decisions and he's going to be one to watch out for in the next few years. We'll be looking at him closely in the under 16s and in the bigger picture, he could be in the mix for an AIS/AFL scholarship. It was great for him to get exposed at under 18 level.
Western Australia

Kane Lucas – Again, he accumulated possessions. He had the most uncontested possessions on the ground with 18, from his 20 disposals, but that was because he works hard and finds space. He also sets up well around the stoppages. Early on, he didn't use the ball as effectively as Kane normally does, but overall it was another good game.

Daniel Rich – He worked into the game, after a slow start. He ended up with 16 disposals and six clearances, but what's so dangerous about Daniel is that he is so penetrating with his left-foot. He also had seven inside 50s and it was good to see some defensive pressure, laying four tackles. There have been such high expectations on Daniel and although he hasn't quite achieved those standards, I wouldn't say he's a poor performer. He's been pretty consistent on two or three occasions and probably lowered his colours a couple of times, but it's great to see him working hard.

Chris Yarran – Chris had 16 disposals and seven tackles. He played forward and got into the midfield a bit, but he is very classy and uses the ball extremely well. It looks like he is coasting around in second or third gear, because he is such a great mover, but when he got up into the midfield, he put the foot down and accelerated a few times. There is still more in the tank from Chris, so that's a worry for Vic Metro on Wednesday.

Nick Naitanui – He had 15 disposals, including 13 handballs, but 10 were contested possessions, so in-and-around the stoppages, he was excellent. He also had 19 hit outs and really set the game up for Western Australia.

VIC COUNTRY v SOUTH AUSTRALIA

Vic Country

Nick Suban – Nick had 19 disposals, including nine contested possessions, five tackles and six inside 50s. He was very good through the midfield and back behind the ball. He's a left-footer and continually sets the play up by foot. He doesn't waste the ball and showed really good leadership again.

Steele Sidebottom – He had 17 disposals, 11 contested, with five tackles and four clearances. It was another good all-round performance. He used the ball really well from a half-back role.
South Australia

Christopher Hall – He's been quite classy throughout all of South Australia's matches. Chris was opposed at times to Steele Sidebottom and he did really well with his 20 disposals, including 11 contested. He was good around the stoppages and quite clever with six clearances. He's got quick hands and more importantly he does use the ball really well by foot. He's also a nice mover and finisher on the run.

Matthew Broadbent – Matthew has been very consistent throughout all games. He has been averaging 14 or 15 disposals throughout the carnival and he gained 14 against Vic Country, with five inside 50s and four rebounds. I think he really set the game up for South Australia with his attack on the footy. He also carried it and played with great intent. To just watch his game against Vic Country, you would think he had more stats than he did – such was his big influence on the game, so that was great.

Luke Tapscott – Luke came in to play a defensive role on young Andrew Hooper, who has provided Vic Country with a lot of run and rebound and has been really solid in the backline. Not only did Luke put a stop on Hooper, he also booted five goals and looked as if he really loved the contest. He kept his feet really well, loved the contested situations and to finish with five goals from just nine possessions was a great result for him and South Australia.

VIC METRO v NSW/ACT

Vic Metro

Michael Hurley – Michael was impressive again. The key defender didn't let the ball get past him and if he wasn't spoiling, he was marking everything. He had 15 disposals, including three strong contested marks and his rebound was excellent. He also uses the ball particularly well and is a penetrating kick. In the last quarter, he wandered down into attack – similar to a NAB Cup style of play – where he received the handball from Jack Fitzpatrick, who would not have kicked the distance, and Michael put the ball over the fence. What he lacks in leg speed, he makes up for with his anticipation. He's the type of player who gets in front and reads the ball really well. But overall it was yet another fine game from Michael.

Tom Scully – Tom is very classy. A left-footer, he predominantly played as a half-forward and finished with 15 disposals and applied some great forward pressure with seven tackles. He also kicked a couple of goals. Tom continually got to the foot of the contest and he always gets to the correct position. When he gets the ball and runs with it, he doesn't waste the footy. He's definitely one to keep an eye out for over the next year.
NSW/ACT

Kade Klemke – Again, he was good across half-back. He was opposed to Tom Scully at times and although Tom probably got away from him at times, Kade was really good overhead and made really good decisions. He had 19 disposals and provided great rebound – eight times – and was good in-and-around the stoppages in the back-half. Kade has been really consistent throughout the championships and I watched him play for the Murray Bushrangers last week and he was rock solid again.
Josh Bryce – He's only 186cm, but he has been used by NSW/ACT as a key defender and he has played well on most key forwards, including Tasmania's Aaron Cornelius. He started on Jack Watts and did okay. He is disciplined, and although he doesn't get a lot of the footy, he rarely gets beaten one-on-one. Josh was then moved to Tom Lynch in the second half and Lynch had a very good first half, as a lead-up forward, but Josh really quelled Tom's influence in the third quarter. So without winning a lot of the footy and looking at the coaches' votes for NSW/ACT, Josh was rated pretty highly again. He's been playing out of position and he normally plays half-back/wing for the Murray Bushrangers, but he has been a key position player for NSW/ACT and he can hold his head up high again.
Exclusive to AFL BigPond Network

year of the cat

7 Jul 2008, 22:20

Matthew Broadbent – Matthew has been very consistent throughout all games. He has been averaging 14 or 15 disposals throughout the carnival and he gained 14 against Vic Country, with five inside 50s and four rebounds. I think he really set the game up for South Australia with his attack on the footy. He also carried it and played with great intent. To just watch his game against Vic Country, you would think he had more stats than he did – such was his big influence on the game, so that was great.

Rizzo, this bloke could also be considered for that small/med back role that a few on here are saying we are short on. Apparently has played effectively in this role for SA this carnival.

Are you going on Wednesday?

rizzo

8 Jul 2008, 00:20

Rizzo, this bloke could also be considered for that small/med back role that a few on here are saying we are short on. Apparently has played effectively in this role for SA this carnival.

Are you going on Wednesday?

Sure am mate. Looking forward to seeing how far they have come along.

Was talking to a few of the Geelong Falcons today as well. They are really enjoying the vic country experience.

The Pivotonian

8 Jul 2008, 09:07

Rizzo, this bloke could also be considered for that small/med back role that a few on here are saying we are short on. Apparently has played effectively in this role for SA this carnival.

Are you going on Wednesday?

Jump on board :thumbsu: This kid can play. Doing some very good things in the SANFL at senior level off half-back.

A number of WWT supporters are furious that he keeps getting pulled out of the league side to play U/18s.

Don't know if Geelong really needs his type but I'm hoping he is around for Geelong to at least consider him. Can play in and outside but sounds a bit like Mackie.

Be interested to hear what you guys think if you get to see him live this week.

rizzo

8 Jul 2008, 12:26

NSW/ACT Rams captain Ranga Ediriwickrama says irrespective of whether he ends up making it to the top level or not, the AFL’s scholarship program on offer for youngsters in northern states helps make players better footballers.

Ediriwickrama is on scholarship with Geelong, and could join the reigning premier later this year should the Cats opt to select him in the NAB AFL Draft in November.

If they don’t, the impressive midfielder will be open to any of the 15 other AFL clubs.

But whether he makes it to the big time or not, Ediriwickrama says the experience of rubbing shoulders with some of football’s elite has helped him become a better player.

“I was down for a week in the December holidays, and I also went down in about February for an intra-club game and got to play in that ... it was a really good experience,” Ediriwickrama said of his time with the Cats.

While the pacy onballer ran with the likes of David Wojcinski and James Kelly during the pre-season scratch match, it was a fellow youngster that left the biggest impression on the highly-touted ballwinner.

“I really like the way Joel Selwood goes about it at Geelong,” he said.

“Just what I’ve seen from him at training … his professionalism, and just that he’s such a young player and he’s such a leader.”

Ediriwickrama missed last Saturday’s round of matches, but has been among the standouts of the carnival in earlier matches.

Click here to read a Q&A with the NSW/ACT RAMS captai

rizzo

8 Jul 2008, 12:28

POTENTIAL No.1 draftee Nicholas Naitanui says he is not feeling the weight of public expectation on his shoulders.

His words come despite the massive scrutiny of the Western Australian ruckman – perhaps the most of any youngster set to enter the AFL in recent years.

"I don't take much notice of it. In Perth especially … especially being from a Fijian background, they can get a good story out of it, but I don't really mind, so I just keep playing footy and enjoying it," Naitanui said.

"I'm just another footy player. I'm a little bit different and I know I play a bit different to some other players, but when I was a kid, I looked up to the Josh Frasers and the Dean Coxes, so hopefully I can be the same – especially to the young Fijian kids back at home and the ones in Australia as well.

"Some of [my footy] I'd say comes naturally, but I've worked pretty hard as well at the same time. I was never the fastest bloke and I'm still pretty skinny at the moment as well, so I think as I get older and keep improving – you can never stop learning … so I wouldn't say it comes naturally.

"Just coming into the AIS program with Alan McConnell, I remember telling him I didn't want to play AFL footy – I enjoyed playing it, but I didn't think I was good enough … so that built my confidence and I think ever since then, I've wanted to go as high as I can go."

The 197cm athletic tall said it was "weird" having people starting to recognise him on the street.

"I was walking through the streets of Melbourne and everyone notices who you are, so you've got to make sure you're doing the right thing around town," Naitanui said.

"As long as I keep my head on and do well at football, it'll be alright to be a role model in a sense to some of the younger kids coming through.

"Sometimes I say I don't play football, so I can get a bit of break, and I say I play basketball, because I'm built like a basketballer and I don't really mind it."

A Collingwood supporter, largely because WAFL side Swan Districts sport the same colours, Naitanui admits that in an ideal world, he would like to remain in Western Australia rather than be drafted outside of the state.

"It'd be good to stay home; [I'd] probably get homesick if I go somewhere else. But then again, I don't really mind where I go – just to get the opportunity to play at an AFL club is my main dream," Naitanui said.

Meanwhile, Naitanui said the interest in AFL from Fiji was growing.

"A few of the clubs have gone across and are trying to pick up a few players and start programs over there," he said.

"I know some of the Port Adelaide players like David Rodan and Alipate Carlile are trying to start football up there as well, so hopefully they'll bring a few more over.
"Most of my family know my over there, but they wouldn't really understand [the] number one or number two [draft selection] – they just see players like Rodan on the TV, because they've got AFL on the TV as well now."

rizzo

8 Jul 2008, 12:30

OUTSTANDING South Australian under-18 prospect Hamish Hartlett says having an older brother to learn from, already in the AFL system, has been a great learning experience for him.

Hartlett, whose brother Adam plays for Carlton, is set to be one of the leading prospects at this year's NAB AFL Draft, but he said having Adam for advice had been beneficial in his development.

"Getting the opportunity to head over there [to Melbourne] a few times a year and see what it's like from a first-hand perspective – it makes you just want it that much more, so it's been really good and really helpful," Hartlett said.

Hartlett, who also represented South Australia in last year's under 18 series, said there were plenty of expectations on him to back up in 2008.

"I expect the best for myself, like a lot of the guys, and it's a bad thing sometimes – you've got to go in nice and relaxed and cool and calm, just the way you'd prepare for a normal game back at home and everything will come alright in the end," Hartlett said.

"A lot of guys coming into the carnival put a lot pressure on themselves – I know I certainly did – but you just need to have the balance between the individual and the team, and all in all, the team comes in first."

rizzo

8 Jul 2008, 12:31

EXCITING young key Vic Metro key forward Jack Watts says he is unsure if he will nominate for this year's NAB AFL Draft.

Watts, who has been a standout in this year's NAB AFL under 18 championships, said he was still weighing up his options when he spoke about his future on Monday at Telstra Dome.

"I really haven't thought about it at all – the draft or where I'm going. I haven't even decided whether I'm nominating or not yet," Watts admitted.

"I'm lucky to have the opportunity to get into this position, but I'm not really looking too much into it.

"Obviously, school is a massive one. If you happened to get picked up by an interstate team and you're still doing year 12, it can cause a few problems, so that's a big concern of mine – that's about as far as I've thought about it really."

Recently, Watts had to make a big decision in his sporting career – either pursuing a basketball or football career. He said it was "definitely a tough choice" as he's "loved both of them my whole life".

"I've been playing the two sports my whole life and I really wasn't sure what was going to happen this year, so to have made a decision and to have had the opportunity to play with the best in the country has been great. It's happened quickly, but it's been great so far," Watts said.

"Once I made the decision, it was a bit of a relief and [I] could really concentrate on footy now. I enjoyed the whole carnival and had a ball, and coming up against Western Australia will be great.

"Basketball is an international sport and in Australia it's not really going that well at the moment, so you'd really have to travel internationally to be successful and make a really good career out of it, so that was a big factor."

"I love my home, I love Melbourne and Victoria, so it was a big factor. In the end, footy was the choice."

Watts' fine form has elevated his status in recent times to a potential No.1 draft pick, but the impressive youngster doesn't see himself as a club saviour.

"I didn't know whether I was going to be playing footy six weeks ago, so to be talked up and getting the attention that I'm getting at the moment is definitely a weird feeling I've never had before, obviously," Watts said.

"To be talked up as a saviour or to go to a club and bring them out of the ditches or something like that – it's just too early to be thinking about that at all.

"I'd have to get my body right to play AFL, and at the stage I'm at now, I'd say I'm definitely not really ready for it yet – I'm still a lanky, tall, skinny kid, so I'd look to play school footy and play for Brighton Grammar and try and get my body right."

rizzo

8 Jul 2008, 12:32

VIC COUNTRY youngster Jack Ziebell says moving to Melbourne to further his football and schooling has helped his progress enormously.

Ziebell, who is an outstanding draft prospect, spoke of how attending Caulfield Grammar, the school of Chris Judd, Brendon Goddard and Andrew McQualter had been an important part in the development.

"I started last year. I was 15 at the time, but it was probably the best thing I've done, so far. My school has gone through the roof, which is good," Ziebell said.

"Andrew McQualter has come down to our school footy. He's helped us out every now and then, which is good. Last year, Brendon Goddard came down and took a training session, so they're good role models for the boys."

Ziebell, who hails from Wodonga Bulldogs/Murray Bushrangers, said he was the youngest player to play a senior match for his local club.

"I played my first senior game when I was 15. I was the youngest player to play at my club, so it was a big honour to do that," the versatile youngster said.

rizzo

8 Jul 2008, 12:33

TASMANIAN midfielder Mitch Robinson says an AFL team from the Apple Isle would be a dream for all aspiring footballers from the southern state.

Robinson said it would be "every Tassie boy's dream to play for an AFL team representing the state".

"There has been a lot of support from all of the public and supporters of the Devils as well, wanting a team [in the AFL]. It'll bring a lot of youth up and it'll be a big goal, so there is good support from the Tassie public," Robinson said.

"[It would also help the players] instead of going through all of the hard yards and trying to get noticed by the mainland recruiters.

"And bringing those two together [the north and south of the state] … putting them in the same room is pretty hard … but it'd be definitely good for us."

Robinson has had an excellent carnival, having won the Hunter Harrison Medal as the best second division player in the NAB AFL under 18 championships. He said it has been a great opportunity to step up against the top-tier teams.

"After div two, I didn't really expect to win the medal to be honest, but coming into div one, I've got a lot more attention with some of the tagging opponents and there has been a lot of pressure … from people at home, expecting us to do well in div one. We haven't come through with the goods yet, so hopefully we can get a win on Wednesday," Robinson said.

Robinson, who has also played for the Devils in the VFL, said it was an advantage to play against mature, fitter and bigger bodies.

"Last year, I played locally and I got a call from Daryn Cresswell to come and play. The VFL is really good, and it gives [you] a lot of experience coming back to the 18s," Robinson said.

"I'm pretty sure next year might be a state-wide league, and that'll definitely make the competition a lot stronger. An AFL team would be really good."

rizzo

8 Jul 2008, 12:37

NEW SOUTH Wales/Australian Capital Territory midfield dynamo Ranga Ediriwickrama says having been signed by Geelong as a scholarship player has helped his game enormously.

Ediriwickrama, who has been outstanding in this year's NAB AFL under 18 championships, said the Cats had been monitoring his progress with regularity.

"It's been really good actually. I've got to watch the best AFL players train, like Gary Ablett and just see how they go about it and take it into training back at home at Pennant Hills, where I play and I can learn from the best," Ediriwickrama said.

"They've always been in contact with me and have been asking me how I am, and they want me to get that balance right and you just get to see what you need to do to be the best AFL player, so it's been really good."

Although he missed last round with a hamstring injury, Ediriwickrama said he would be available for NSW/ACT's final match against South Australia on Wednesday at Telstra Dome.

Hailing from Sri Lankan parentage, Ediriwickrama said his parents have been converted to Australian Football, although they are still passionate cricket fans.

"They've been really supportive," Ediriwickrama said.

"At first, my Mum was a bit scared because she thought I would get injured, but it hasn't happened at all, so she's been really supportive now and along with my Dad, who has been real supportive and [he's] just wanted me to do whatever I wanted to do with my life.

"My Dad has picked it up pretty quickly, but they still love their footy."
Exclusive to AFL BigPond Network

rizzo

8 Jul 2008, 12:40

NSW/ACT RAMS midfielder Ranga Ediriwickrama is a NSW scholarship holder with Geelong. He spoke to gfc.com.au’s Ben Broad about his budding career and what the future might hold.

Tell us a little bit about your background and how you got into footy.
Both my parents are Sri Lankan, but I was born here. I got into footy through a couple of mates at school. I first played at a [primary schools] tournament called the Paul Kelly Cup.

I just played in that and after that my friends just said ‘you know, you should really try to play AFL’ and I just thought ‘what the hell, I’ll give it a shot’, and from that I just started playing.

What about the scholarship? How did Geelong first notice you?

They first saw me at an under-16 state carnival in NSW. They were monitoring my progress from there, but they officially showed interest in me at an under-18 carnival at Coffs Harbour last year. I signed a contract about May last year. It came out of the blue, as I wasn’t expecting it at all. I wasn’t thinking about a scholarship at all, I was just enjoying my footy.

What does having a scholarship with the Cats mean?

It pretty much gives you that association with the club. I’m talking mainly with [Geelong recruiting assistant] Luke Williams.

They just pretty much help with my development and my progress. But what Geelong has done with me is they’ve tried to develop me not just as a player but as a person, and make sure I’ve got the right balance in my life. They’re always ringing me and asking me how I am, how’s my family, and how school's going.

What sort of contact or involvement do you have with the club during the year?

I would like to get down a bit more, but with the Rams commitments, it’s a bit too hectic to get down too often and spend a bit more time at the club.

What about over summer – did you get down then?

I was down for a week in the December holidays and I also went down in about February for an intra-club game and got to play in that, so that was pretty good. It was a really good experience.

Who’d you run alongside?

I was playing on [David] Wojcinski for a bit … he was pretty quick! And also James Kelly. But it [my opponent] changed quite a bit. I was also on a couple of the VFL players at times.

The last month or so you’ve been busy playing the NAB AFL Under-18 Championships. Have the Cats still been chatting to you?

Yeah, they have been.

So, how does it work from here? Can any club have a crack at you come the end of the year, or are you Geelong’s property?

At the time of the draft, Geelong has first priority and they can choose to either draft or rookie me. I think if Geelong is interested, it has to nominate me prior to the draft.

If they don’t, I can nominate for the draft and if any other club wants to pick me up they can.

When you’re not playing for the NSW/ACT RAMS, where are you playing footy?

I play for the Pennant Hills footy club in the first grade side. I haven’t been playing there much with all my RAMS commitments, but when I have been playing, I’ve been rotating from half-forward to on the ball to the wing.

Are there any AFL players you could compare yourself to or try to base your own game on?

I really like the way Joel Selwood goes about it at Geelong, just what I’ve seen from him at training. Just his professionalism, and just that he’s such a young player and he’s such a leader … the way he trains, you can see it in the way he plays.

You’re captaining the RAMS this year … from what you’ve seen briefly from a guy like Selwood, do you try to take any of that on board when you’re leading your side out?

I've learned a couple of things just from watching him at training. You pick things up. I guess you wouldn’t notice it immediately but then you realise, ‘oh yeah’ that’s where you’ve learned some of the things you do when you’re captaining.

AFL Talent Manager Kevin Sheehan on Ediriwickrama’s national championships:
“His first two games were outstanding, averaging 25 disposals, before a hamstring injury early against Tasmania set him and his team back. Has won 28 contested possessions from nine quarters, which still ranks him second overall. It demonstrates his courage and his attack on the ball. He is a one-touch player and a great reader of play.”

thejester

8 Jul 2008, 18:11

The more I hear about Jordan Lisle the more I like him. 196cm and 87kg, played primarily as a CHB at the carnival but has gone forward and kicked a few. Named in the bests a couple of times and the wrap McCartney gave him sounds just like what we need - physically big enough, beats his man, but also has provided run out of defence. Best of all people have him falling to our first pick.

The Pivotonian

9 Jul 2008, 16:52

Posted elsewhere on the main Geelong board, figured I better move it here.

...just got back from the Dome.

Saw a couple of quarters of the Vic Country V Tassie match.

Can't really make too many comments based on what I saw (I'll save that for after watching the replays I'm taping) but me and the guy I went with liked the looks of;

Butcher (Vic C)- stick thin but took some nice marks and kicked a few. Seemed to read the play well. I think the match up was in his favour though.

Jones (Vic C) - a solid unit which may have assisted him in breaking a few tackles but found the pill and usually did something with it (at least he did in the quarters we watched). Looks ready-made to slot in but noticed his shoulder was pretty heavily stapped - not that that means much these days.

Hughes (Vic C) - got a bit of toe and seems to find it but disposal wasn't great and some decisions were a little questionable. Pretty light and small as well.

Allwight (Tas) - was good. Really liked him. Found a bit of it and didn't really waste it.

Cornelius (Tas) - did a couple of neat things up forward and kicked a couple (when we were watching) but seemed to like sitting behind his man a bit and looked a little disinterested at times. Looked more for the body rather than leading.

Can't wait to watch the replays. As I say, these were just initial thoughts from the two quarters I saw.

N.B - I hear from elsewhere that Jones started on Cornelius and was given a lesson and then moved up the ground. Be interesting to check the replay to verify this. As it stands, the thoughts above are gleaned from watching 2 quarters during an "extended" lunch break today ;)

thejester

9 Jul 2008, 17:31

Pivot, I watched all three and Jones was bathed by Cornelius. One contest in particular Jones had front position, so Cornelius simply stepped around him and took the mark. However thought he made up for it up the ground.

My vague thoughts, ignoring the blokes we are clearly not going to be in a position to take:

I was bitterly disappointed Ranga didn't pull up and it showed in the Rams performance. All game NSW had the look of boys against men, the SA boys generally being bigger and possessing better skills. Hartlett their obvious standout but 'The Tap', Schoenmaker, Johnston, Hall & O'Keefe were all great; Hall in particular had a blend of speed and disposal that really hurt the Rams. However the NSW boys were always hard at it and in the third showed that some of them could have what it takes. You'd think more than a few clubs looking to dish scholarships noticed Daniel Spiteri. Youngest and smallest bloke on the park, he inspired the fight back in the third with his attack and a great running goal. McMahon, Reed (already belongs to Collingwood), acting skipper Klemke and van Muir were also good.

Vic Country demolished Tasmania and it was frankly embarrassing. Country had guys all over the field playing well - but for our purposes Falcon Simpkin played well down back whilst Sam Hughes was also impressive rotating between the forward line and midfield. Will Young was pretty impressive at both ends. Roughead, Suban and Sidebottom were all names thrown up beforehand and all played well through the midfield. For Tassie Cornelius was a clear standout up forward whilst Allwright and Robinson battled on throughout in the midfield.

The final game didn't have much sting in the end. Watts had an extremely quiet game, Natanui showed flashes, whilst Rich was excellent. Metro was far to strong however; Sloane and Hurley dominated down back, Vickery couldn't be stopped forward, and the combination of Zaharakis and Banner in the middle crushed any hope WA had. Lisle didn't see a lot of it, both his men having extremely quiet afternoons. Had a nice passage of play though where we came running off half back, recieved the handball and ran through the middle before hitting a lead forward on the chest about 35 out. Hope we get him.

Pav for AA

9 Jul 2008, 19:43

I'll post my thoughts on the W.A boys

4 Stephen HILL 01-May-90 182 72 West Perth Football Club

- Likely type. Good frame for utility
- Needs to bulk up, disposal affected by frame, ie breaking tackles
- Good attack on the ball
- Nice speed
- Penetrating kick on the left

5 Matthew DEBOER 10-Mar-90 187 85 Claremont Football Club

- Fairly disappointing.
- Has had a more than reasonable carnival but a tad dissapointing
- his disposal was reasonably assured, especially by hand.
- Certainly knows where to go the find the footy but actually taking it from a contested situation is another matter
- A good carnival from a workhorse.

7 Neville JETTA 12-Feb-90 178 75 Swan Districts

- Worked hard all day
- Perhaps too small to think about playing midfield next year.
- Good disposal, ferocious tackler and certainly creative in close
- One of W.A’s better performed midfielders
- Very quick first 5 steps and runs well at top speed.'Betts like'

10 Daniel RICH 07-Jun-90 183 83 Subiaco Football Club

- 17 Possessions in the first half.
- It appeared as if both sides instructed their players no to tag in the first half.
- When the tag was placed on him in the second half he accepted it yet again
- It is a worrying trend, tends to remain stationery around a stoppage.
- For a kid without explosive pace he can’t afford to do that
- Having said that his best performance in the carnival and left foot is still damaging
- Still not sure if he should be considered ‘Elite’

17 Michael WALTERS 07-Jan-91 177 75 Swan Districts Football Club- Best on Ground for W.A along with Clancee Pearce
- Worked well around the stoppages
- Very creative
- Nice acceleration and good closing speed
- Very High Footy IQ, exceptional positioning
- Hits most of his targets

23 Clancee PEARCE 23-Oct-90 183 85 Swan Districts

- Probably the BOG for W.A along with Walters from a HBF
- Reads the play very well, chopped off a few forays forward simply by reading the ball off the boot before his man
- Moves well in traffic, good disposal
- Very good closing speed
- Well built one preseason would be enough to get him “AFL Ready”
- Hits his targets well by foot, low ball drop ensures safety with kicks but slows his disposal time, may have to be wary of this at the next level.

30 Christopher YARRAN 19-Dec-90 180 84 Swan Districts Football Club

- Silk. That’s the first word that comes to mind.
- Fantastic skills at ground level, by hand and by foot.
- Used his body well to out position direct opponents. If he didn’t take the mark, his pace ensured he was gone when he picked the ball up.
- Out marked Mckernan one on one simply by reading the flight of the ball better and using his body to good effect.
- Perhaps needs to do more further up the ground. When cast in the middle tended to lean forward of the play searching for kicks, similar to Rich in that aspect.
- Definitely AFL Ready and a fairly safe bet for a Forward Pocket HFF who could develop into a midfielder

Enjoy

rizzo

9 Jul 2008, 19:54

Great input guys. I will have my profiles up tomo!

year of the cat

9 Jul 2008, 20:54

Went along to watch the first half of Vic Metro v WA. Was a little disappointed with the standard of todays game. The main difference that I noticed was the tackling of the Vic Metro players was far superior to their opposition. Some of the more highly touted picks showed flashes of talent but still have a long way to go. Rich to me was the most impressive, "ready to go", midfielder by a long stretch. Natanui is impressive physically, I just reckon he may be a player who always has potential if that makes sense.

Was hoping to see how Lisle performed and watch him closely. But in the half that I was there he really had limited opportunties to showcase his talents. Hurley however looked good but the opposition may have been fairly weak in his case. A player though.

One who stood out for me was Sam Blease. Hard running, athletic wingman who runs both ways. I reckon he would have made a few clubs take notes of him.

Of the other Vic Metro players, Vickery looked ok in patches as did McKernan as tall options. Another that I noted was Luke Stanton. Haven't heard anything written about him, but had a mature body, was a good mover and had reasonable skills.

For WA, Walters looked ok in patches. Deboer was quiet.

The Pivotonian

10 Jul 2008, 10:17

Guys, I'll post this here rather than the main board as I suspect you blokes might be more on my wavelength.

This year's draft looks a bit deeper than people were expecting and I think Geelong (and the other top 4 sides) will still be able to land a quality player in the late teens. I suspect the talent will run down to about 30. :thumbsu:

I have heard some opposition supporters state they would give up a late teen/early 20s pick for Prismall. Based on what I have seen and read I think Geelong should take a punt and trade for that. A pick 16/17 and a pick 22/23 could land Geelong a couple of very likely types to go with Ediriwickrama (who may be on the senoir list or may be a rookie but looks set to be at Geelong next year in some capacity).

I haven't seen Lisle yet but he sounds like the kind of guy I was thinking of when I stated that GFC needs another key position backman in this year's draft.

I know I have a hard-on for Broadbent but I didn't see anything yesterday that changed my mind about him. He doesn't get it as often as Harlett but his decision making was great and he is very clean. Hits his targets (one bit of play in the first half stood out when he was under pressure on half back and still put it 40 metres downfield hitting his team-mate), seems to know when to run off and when to stay.

Latching onto Lisle (key back) and Broadbent (running half back who can rotate through the midfield) along with Ediriwickrama would be a massive win in my opinion.

I like Prismall but he is, in my opinion, somewhat over-rated by both us supporters and opposition supporters (who may be buying into the Prismall hype) so maybe Geelong should take a risk, cash in the chips and try and land a couple of 'goodies' in this draft. That isn't to say that Prismall couldn't come back and hurt Geelong - he could very well - but I can't see him breaking into the side without the aid of injury to key midfielders and at the moment the jungle drums are saying his trade value is high (perhaps too high??)

As a side note - Schoenmakers, O'Keefe, Shannon, Redden, Hall and Johnston all stood out for SA for mine but I agree, the opposition probably wasn't quite up to scratch. I did like the look of Klemke for New South Wales (this is all based on the first half that I watched last night).

The Pivotonian

10 Jul 2008, 13:40

Pivot, I watched all three and Jones was bathed by Cornelius. One contest in particular Jones had front position, so Cornelius simply stepped around him and took the mark. However thought he made up for it up the ground.

Didn't quote all of it but :thumbsu: posting.

Jones starting on the last line seems an odd one...I never would have picked him for full back duties. Has he played there in the TAC Cup??

Up the ground I thought he did alright but he doesn't look the right match-up type for a guy like Cornelius.

Interesting...

thejester

10 Jul 2008, 14:31

I've only heard about him as a defender....and it was a weird passage of play. When Cornelius took the mark, Jones looked like he wanted to cry - don't think he could believe he'd got around him.

And nice analysis on the last page mate - I pretty much agree, particularly if Prismall is coming out of contract. Why let him rot in the ressies when we could be developing younger talent to take over from the old brigade?

rizzo

10 Jul 2008, 15:12

Just putting the finishing touches on the first two sets of profiles.

First up will be Tasmania and New South Wales/ACT

rizzo

10 Jul 2008, 15:14

Tasmania

Tom Salter - 77kg - 184cm - 03.03.1990
Hard running ferocious midfielder. He attacks the ball and the man very well. He is an accumulator of possession, the type of guy when you look at the stats sheet and are in shock he has as many as he does. I love his long penetrating kicks and his willingness to break the lines.

Skills
* Kicking
*Running
*Attack on the man

Brentyn Milverton - 77kg - 180cm - 24.06.1990
An interesting one, that probably wont get drafted. A medium – Small sized defender who is as tough as nails. He is hard at the man and also at the ball and never takes a backwards step. The only criticism I have of him is that he probably gets a little bit lost when things do n’t go his way.

Skills
* Tougness
*Attack on the man
*Link up role

Mitch Robinson-77kg - 188cm - 07.06.1989
Prolific ball winner who player both inside and outside. Love his height, a perfect size for a tallish midfielder. The best thing about him is that he is reliable. He very rarely plays a bad game. Always is up there and his disposal is pretty good. His ability to get the ball himself or sit out the back of the backs is also a bonus.

Skills
* Disposal
* Consistency
*Running

Aaron Cornelius - 84kg - 192cm - 29.05.1990
Tassy had a one man forward line and it was him. Tallish, without being really tall. He has good speed off the lead and a nice strong mark. I wouldn’t say contested marking is a strength, but you will rarely see him drop one at full belt. He leads to the right places as well, which is vital.

Skills
* Speed
*Determination
*Kicking at goal

Joseph Groenewegen - 77kg - 196cm - 25.10.1991
Another smokey that i don’t think is eligible for this years draft. At 196cm he is the perfect height for a developing ruckman. With the light frame he still managed to carry himself well in the ruck. Overall his ruckwork was great. Within the pace of 10mins on Saturday he had hit 3 to advantage against a more mature ruckman.

Skills
* Ruckwork
*Athleticism

rizzo

10 Jul 2008, 15:15

NSW/ACT

Daniel Spiteri - 71kg - 173cm - 08.04.1991
The little helmet boy has really impressed me. The helmet puts recruiters off but he overall is a pretty good package. Very short, but is nice as solid. I like his ability to lead up the ground and run back with the ball. Is a nice set shot and has an engine.

Skills
*Endurance
*Forward smarts
*Set shots

Kade Klemke -78kg - 180cm - 15.07.1990
Kade is an interesting one. He is a magnet that is for sure. I think at times his disposal lets him down a bit. A nice size and build for a player. Has the ability to sit off half back or run through the midfield which is a bonus. Disposal lets him down a bit. He tends to just bomb away rather than look for a target. Also lacks an opposite foot at times.

Skills
* Veristile
*Ball getting

Jeremy Kirkwood - 75kg - 184cm - 07.05.1991
Very similar to Klemke, except better. A little bit taller which helps and also younger. Won’t be taken this year, but next year he will really come of age.

Skills
*See Klemke

Jordan Foster - 85kg - 190cm - 05.04.1990
Was very very solid down back all carnival. He is very athletic for his height and can run a bit. Probably needs to be taught more on how to position himself when the ball was coming down. At 190 i think we will see him get to about 194cm which will make him a tall defender. His determination is also a stand out. Never gives up on a contest and is always there and abouts.

Skills
*Determination
*Athletiic
*Endurance

Mitchell Frial - 78kg - 198cm - 19.08.1989
This kid REALLY REALLY impressed me. Easily their best tall option in the team. 198 at 18 years old is the perfect, and will probably develop into a 200cm type person. Wasn’t that great in the ruck but when he went back was impressive. Typical rugby type player who is tall and athletic. I would love to see this kid drafted. Think he has a lot to offer.

Skills
* Running
*Marking
*Durability

Max Wilson - 105kg - 197cm - 07.03.1990
Absolutely brutal this kid. Had massive wraps on him last year, and I still do. Has a very controlled agression on both the player and the man. Disposal seems to let him down a bit, and is pretty heavy for a bloke his size. Wouldn’t call him fat though. Likes to use his body which is a good sign. Ruckwork is pretty good and seemed to handle the job of drifting back very well.

Skills
*Size
*Attack on the ball and man
*Play an extra man down back

rizzo

10 Jul 2008, 16:18

South Australia

Hamish Hartlett - 74kg - 182cm - 14.08.1990
Absolute star. Love the way he goes about it. Really quick on his feet and is evasive. Good pace and is a big long booming kick. There is no wonder why the wraps are so high on him. Like it how he links up well from defense. Can run forward and kick goals from outside 50. Is a complete package. Easily in the top 10.

Skills
* Running
* Disposal
* Evasive

Ben Speight - 71kg - 177cm - 02.05.1990
A bit smaller then some but really really powerful through the hips. He creates a lot of running going forward and has the disposal to back it up. Many times throughout the games ive seen him in, he has been able to shake of tackles. Sometimes he just needs to lower his eyes a little.

Skills
* Running
* Endurance
* Disposal

Chris Hall - 65kg - 179cm - 25.06.1990
Really really light on, but you wouldn’t notice it. Didn’t have big wraps for him originally but stood out in the carnival. Love his ability to dash and run. He is no slouch, and isn’t afraid to take players on. This is what i really like. A player who has the ability to pack themselves at this age is going to be a good player. Is a good tackler to, a real under the radar player this one.

Skills
* Tackling
* Speed
* Faith in his ability

Matthew Broadbent - 81kg - 189cm - 01.08.1990
Extremely agile, a real silky mover. Always in and around the packs, but i would see him as an outside player. Has a nice height about him which could see him play a Darren Milburn type role at an AFL club. He is able to take a hit as well. The only downside to his game is that he is between heights. Not quick enough to play on the smalls and not tall enough to play effectively on the talls. He still has a lot of growing to do.

Skills
* Run and carry
* Agility
* A real play setter off Half back.

Scott Blessing - 80kg - 184cm - 11.02.1990
Smaller version of Broadbent. Plays the exact same role, with a touch more outsideness. He is very good defensively and will always follow up. A couple times he has had the chance to be front and center but decided to go up which was a bit disappointing.

Skills
* See Broadbent

Paul Cahill - 80kg - 192cm - 19.08.1990
Different type of key forward. He uses his explosive pace to get away from his man. Generally don’t find that in a guy that is 192cm. Nice mark and a beautiful set shot for goal. This guy will be there an abouts come draft time. Would love to see him play more out of CHF, tends to spend more time between goal and 30m out.

Skills
* Speed
* Marking
* Set Shot

Ryan Schoenmakers - 85kg - 189cm - 08.11.1990
Like this bloke alot, and comes a cross as a genuine leadup half forward. Strong hands for a bloke between sizes and a nice penetrating kick. Gets a lot of depth into it and has no problems kicking from 40+ out. Made the most of playing second fiddle to Johnstone. He may be found out as being a bit short at AFL level, but if he can improve his running he could easily provide that half forward lead up role.

Skills
* Kicking
* Marking
* Forward awareness

Lewis Johnstone - 87kg - 192cm - 03.03.1991
I dont want to give away my top 30, but I will give away this guy as my number 1. Have kept a keen eye over him this year and has turned out a gem. He has natural ability, something that a lot of clubs would love. Mix that with a great running ability and agility and you have the perfect player. At 192 he can play tall, which is great. Mix that with his ability to take pack marks and a good leap. Don’t worry when the ball is at ground level, because he will star there as well. He is just so natural in everything he does. A person that has flair, but also does the team things. A real person you could market your club around. Can also go back as well, which adds another string to his bow.

Skills
* Awareness
* Forward line Prowess
* Marking
* Match Winning ability

Jarrad Redden - 88kg - 202cm - 27.12.1990
A nice tap ruckman who really sets the play up from the middle. He is ok around the ground, but he will need to work on that. If he is drafted, it will be for his rucking ability. Has a nice leap and good timing. I’m not sure if it was the quality of players he had under him, or him but he hit a lot of the ball to advantage.

Skills
* Good verticle leap
* Timing
* Tapwork

Luke Tapscott - 82kg - 178cm - 28.06.1991
To young to be drafted, but is gearing himself up to be a top 20 pick next year. Nice size, nice natural football ability. I like how strong he is through the body. Think Chapman in that regard. Is a genuine goal kicker, that wins his own ball. I think he needs to work a little more defensively however. Seems at times to just watch what is happening around him.

Skills
* Strength
* Goal Sense
* Goal kicking ability

Jack Redden - 74kg - 185cm - 09.12.1990
Don’t ask me what it is about this guy, but I have a huntch. Think that he was probably starved a bit of game time, but has all the natural markings of a footballer in the making. He is a good mark, and has a nice kick on him. Has very good hands, and is a bloke that will get the ball out of a contested situation quite well.

Skills
* Handpassing
* Playmaking
* Marking.

rizzo

10 Jul 2008, 17:00

Victoria Metro

Jack Watts - 85kg - 194cm - 26.03.1991
A lot of people’s favorites around the traps, and i can see exactly why that is the case. He is a beautiful timer of a lead and is a one touch player. Can take contested marks, doesn’t have that flair that Johnstone has. He does the 1%er’s well and will lead a few recruiters lists, that is for sure.

Skills
* Marking
* Set shots
* 1%er’s

Luke Stanton - 83kg - 191cm - 08.01.1990
Ready made tall midfielder. A lot of people may not have heard about him, but has been playing some great footy this year. His body is set to go and at his height you can’t look past him. Skills wise he is pretty good. His kicking can let him down at times. Isn’t the fastest bloke, but I would not be calling him a slouch. Will be around for a later pick and will be a solid footballer.

Skills
* Height for a midfielder
* Ball winning ability
* Ability to find space

Tom Lynch - 84kg - 191cm - 15.09.1990
Sneaky player who players smaller than his height suggests. A true forward flanker who is just as good above his body as he is below it. Sometimes doesn’t do the team thing and will blaze away towards goal. The thing that stands out for him is that he wins the ball alot at ground level, however if he is asked to be at the front of a pack or is after the loose ball he will do it without any problems. Very flexible. I like.

Skills
* Ability to play tall and small
* Aware of what is happening around him
* Goal sense

Shaun McKernan - 95kg - 196cm - 15.11.1990
O yes. This kid will be a star. A genuine Ruckman that can go forward and kick goals. Nice ruck skills at the stoppages. Likes to throw his body around as well which is a bonus. Love the passion he shows when he is out there. Looks very very dangerous when he drifts forward. This is because he is strong overhead and is a very good shot at goal. Has a great kicking action and kicks through it.

Skills
* Tap Work
* Contested Marking
* Set shots

Michael Hurley - 92kg - 192cm - 01.06.1990
You want a tall defender? Look no further than this bloke. Is an absolute gun and is ready made for senior football. Does the job nullifiing the opposition back, then will hurt you with his run up the ground. Disposal is good most of the time, and he reads the play really well. The good thing about Michael is that he has both aspects of his game running at the same time. He will kill you with his run, however when the ball comes into the forward line quick he will always be there with a spoil.

Skills
* Offensive
* Defense spoils
* Reading of the play

David Zaharakis - 73kg - 180cm - 21.02.1990
Genuine midfielder who will damage you off half forward. Really elusive and tends to pop up when you least expect him to. Really good disposal, and is probably a little more outside than in. Is deceptive in his speed. One that if you let run around for to long he will rip you to shreds.

Skills
* Game breaker
* Elusive
* Good disposal

Sam Blease- 72kg - 183cm - 19.02.1991
I would be inclined to take his bloke before Broadbent and Blessing. Just seems a more rounded package. He has a super tackle on him and will not give up until the bloke is driven into the gorund. Kicking and overall disposal is excellent. Is a sppedy little bugger and generates a lot of run and movement. He is a strong mark both contested and uncontested and will always be good for a spoil from behind.

Skills
* Disposal
* Speed
* Tackling

Jordan Lisle - 87kg - 196cm - 12.07.1990
Very strong defender who will more than likely slip into the late first round category. Many will argue that he was the second best defender of the tournament, and I would not argue that they were wrong. He seems to be like Hurley, except tends to stay on his man and is more of a true defender. Has a nice spoil and reads the ball well coming into 50.

Skills
* Reading of the play
* Spoils
* Body position.

Tyrone Vickery- 86kg - 200cm - 31.05.1990
Very gifted tall forward at 200cm. This is the type of guy you want patrolling down there. Nice lead and a very very strong mark. If he can get to the 200cm 100kg mark he will be a true power forward. At his size it is hard to get a hand in an spoil.

Skills
* Marking
* Size
* Goal Kicking