PRIORITY
1 - RICHMOND - Brett Deledio
(Murray Bushrangers), 18 April 1987, 188cm, 81kg
With Richmond in pole position for the first time since 1989, the Tigers are almost certain to call out - 'Player 110398, Brett Deledio, Murray Bushrangers' and pounce on brilliant young inside midfielder with the first selection in the 2004 National Bank's AFL Draft. Hailing from Kyabram in country Victoria, Deledio, has been a standout player at junior level, having won the Kevin Sheehan Medal for the best player in the National Bank's AFL under-16 championships, while he graduated from the AIS/AFL Academy and was All-Australian at under-18 level in 2004, after he averaged 24 disposals during the carnival. He was later named in the 2004 TAC Cup team of the year. Deledio also shone during the recent Draft Camp, when he finished fourth overall in the 20-metre sprint with a time of 2.90 seconds, while his 92-centremetre running vertical jump was in the top bracket of players. Also a talented cricketer, Deledio is a super-competitive player, with his marking overhead and smartness around goal a feature of his game. Southern Districts dynamo Richard Tambling and outstanding South Adelaide midfielder Ryan Griffen are also in the mix for the number one title, but expect Deledio to be in the yellow and black after the meeting kicks off at 10am on Saturday morning. Deledio's father Wayne played one match for Carlton in 1975.
2 - HAWTHORN - Richard Tambling
(Southern Districts), 12 September 1986, 181cm, 74kg
With Deledio expected to be the first player claimed in the 2004 Draft, expect Hawthorn to quickly snap up Tambling with the first of its three selections in the top seven. Tambling has been an elite performer at junior level, having been named the best player at both under-16 and under-18 level, which earned him the Alan McLean Medal and the Hunter Harrison Medal respectively. During his three matches at this year's National Bank's AFL under-18 championships, he notched up 61 disposals to cap off a stellar carnival. Tambling also captained The Allies during grand final week this year, when he led the side to victory in the inaugural National Bank's AFL under-18 Rising Stars Cup against Victoria. An AIS/AFL Academy member in 2002/03, Tambling shone at the recent Draft Camp, where he recorded a time of 2.87 seconds in the 20-metre sprint and a vertical leap of 93 centremetres, which were among the best tested this year. The dashing Northern Territorian goalkicking midfielder with the blistering pace and silky skills will be an excitement machine at Glenferrie.
3 - WESTERN BULLDOGS - Ryan Griffen
(South Adelaide), 27 July 1986, 187cm, 85kg
The Bulldogs will be rapt with Griffen at number three, despite the fact several good judges believe he is capable of being this year's number one draftee. Griffen, who captained South Australia at this year's National Bank's under-18 championships, had a terrific carnival and he was duly rewarded with All-Australian selection. A medium-sized inside midfielder, Griffen has genuine football talent, is smart around goal and has good vision. He is rated by many as simply a 'natural onballer'. An AIS/AFL graduate, Griffen received the Mike Fitzpatrick Scholarship in 2004, while he played for South Adelaide's senior team in the SANFL during 2004, despite the fact he was playing under duress with a knee injury.
ROUND ONE
4 - RICHMOND - Jarryd Roughead
(Gippsland Power), 23 March 1987, 193cm, 88kg
Likely to be the first 'tall' selected in the 2004 Draft, Roughead is a left-footed key forward/defender from Leongatha in country Victoria. The Tigers are poised to select Roughead, just ahead of Perth key forward/defender Lance Franklin, with their second selection. The 'home grown' factor may play a part in the decision-making process, although Franklin, along with Geelong Falcons ruckman John Meesen, who has come into the equation recently, is also a chance to be selected by the Tigers at number four. Meesen can't be discounted. An AIS/AFL Academy member in 2003/04, Roughead represented Vic Country in this year's National Bank's AFL under-18 championships. This coincided with an outstanding year with the Gippsland Power, where he led the club's goalkicking with 46 majors, which included a six-goal haul against the Dandenong Stingrays in round 18 in the TAC Cup. Also a talented basketballer, Roughead gained selection in the 2004 TAC Cup team of the year.
5 - HAWTHORN - Lance Franklin
(Perth), 30 January 1987, 196cm, 87kg
A tantalising player, 'Buddy' Franklin was rated as a potential number one draftee in some quarters earlier in the year and although that may have slipped a fraction, he is still regarded as a top-six selection. The athletic key forward/defender is agile for his size, while he is a booming kick and a good mark. An AIS/AFL Academy member in 2003/04, Franklin made his senior debut with Perth in the WAFL this year. He was also rewarded with the Mike Fitzpatrick Scholarship in 2003. Franklin represented Western Australia at this year's National Bank's AFL under-18 championships and kicked the winning goal in the dying seconds against Victoria Metropolitan to help give his side a two-point victory at Skilled Stadium. Franklin remains a genuine candidate for Richmond at number four, but with Roughead firming as a Tiger, the Hawks are likely to snap-up Franklin with their second pick, just ahead of Queenslander Tom Williams, who has stunned the football community with his ability, after switching from a rugby union background to Australian Rules in less than 12 months. He, too, has more than interested the brown and gold.
6 - WESTERN BULLDOGS - Tom Williams
(Morningside), 17 July 1986, 196cm, 87kg
There is no doubt Williams will be one of the most fascinating stories in this particular meeting. Along with his rugby union background, his all-round sporting ability includes swimming and basketball, but his athletic prowess is set to take him into the AFL. His rating has shot up considerably since the Draft Camp, where he finished second overall in the three-kilometre time-trial with a time of 10 minutes 36 seconds. The Bulldogs are set to pounce on Williams with their second selection, yet he will enter the thoughts of Hawthorn at number five, while Richmond is also not out of the question with its second selection. Williams was a member of the 'developing talls' group in the AIS/AFL Academy squad during 2003/04, while he represented Queensland in the 2004 National Bank's AFL under-18 championships. It has been a remarkable year for a player who has played fewer than 15 matches since taking up the code a year ago. Also, not out of the ball-park at number six for the Bulldogs are West Adelaide ruckman Cameron Wood and Glenelg midfielder/forward Danny Meyer.
7 - HAWTHORN - John Meesen
(Geelong Falcons), 20 June 1986, 199cm, 89kg
One of the most sought after ruckmen in this year's Draft, Meesen is a strong marking big man, who can also play up forward. A member of the Victoria Country team at under-18 level this year, he was also named as first ruck in the 2004 TAC Cup team of the year. More recently, Meesen recorded a brilliant time in the three-kilometre time-trail at the Draft Camp, when he finished in the top 10 per cent, after he completed a run of 10 minutes 44 seconds. It was a terrific performance for a player of his size, particularly in the latter stages, when he pushed himself right to the finish. Meesen is right on Hawthorn's radar and should be snapped up at seven, but he is not without a chance of being taken earlier by Richmond at number four.
8 - ADELAIDE - Cameron Wood
(West Adelaide), 4 March 1987, 204cm, 89kg
This is where this year's Draft gets interesting and where The Phantom Draft could go pear-shaped. Adelaide faces the dilemma of going for a ruckman, a midfielder or a Victorian. The three players in the mix are Wood, Sturt midfielder Angus Monfries and Eastern Ranges' forward/defender Matthew Bate. All three players are under the microscope for the Crows and it is likely to come down to the two South Australians - Wood and Monfries. Both loom as irresistible prospects, but the fact that some astute judges have 'crystal-balled' Wood as potentially the best ruckman in the game, while looking several years down the track, is something the Crows will find hard to refuse. Although Monfries has been likened to Port Adelaide premiership player Kane Cornes, the fact that incumbent Adelaide ruckman Matthew Clarke is set to be gearing up for his final season in 2005, could sway the Crows in selecting Wood. He is mobile, has good disposal skills for his size and is quick with his hands. An AIS/AFL graduate, he also played seniors with West Adelaide in the SANFL this year, while he was named All-Australian after representing South Australia at the 2004 National Bank's AFL under-18 championships. It is sure to be a fascinating pick. Wood is a former baseballer, who was in the Australian squad in 2003. He also had an offer to try out with the Atlanta Braves.
9 - CARLTON - Jordan Russell
(West Adelaide), 6 November 1986, 188cm, 78kg
Equally intriguing will be Carlton's first selection in the draft, with two dashers in the mix - West Adelaide's Jordan Russell and Murray Bushrangers Chris Egan. Although Eastern Ranges' ruckman Fabian Deluca, the younger brother of Carlton's Adrian, can't be ruled out of contention either, although he may be in the picture at number 25, it's understood the Blues will be choosing Russell or Egan at number nine. But the situation could be complicated somewhat if Wood is overlooked in favour of Monfries by the Crows at number eight. The Blues are likely to opt for Russell, particularly with Collingwood and Port Adelaide right in the mix for the speedy South Australian. Both the Magpies and the Power have the number 10 and 11 picks. There is also a slim chance that Egan could also slip through to Carlton's second choice at number 25, but it is firmly believed that Russell won't last any longer than the top-15. A midfielder with genuine pace and fine skills, Russell spent most of the season in West Adelaide's senior side, while he also represented South Australia at this year's National Bank's AFL under-18 championships. His pace shone through at the recent Draft Camp when he finished in the top three per cent for speed testing over five, 10 and 20 metres. He also recorded a time of 2.89 seconds for the 20-metre dash.
10 - COLLINGWOOD - Matthew Bate
(Eastern Ranges), 24 May 1987, 191cm, 90kg
When Bate entered 2004 with the knowledge that he would be nominating for this year's Draft, it was only when the draft age was changed in March that it seemed he would be spending another year in the TAC Cup. But in September, several players that were affected by the change, including Bate, received permission by the AFL to nominate for this year's meeting. It brought the talented forward/defender right back into contention. He also enhanced his reputation by winning the 2004 Morrish Medal for the best player in the TAC Cup and now seems certain to be a first-round selection. A member of the TAC Cup team of the year, Bate is a penetrating left-foot kick, with good pace and agility. His agility skills were on show at the 2004 Draft Camp when he recorded a time of 8.37 seconds and reached level 14.1 in the gruelling beep test. Although he is a genuine possibility for Adelaide at number eight, Bate looks set to be Collingwood's first selection, particularly if Russell is taken by Carlton with the previous pick. But if Russell is overlooked by the Blues, the Magpies are likely to swoop, which will put Bate in the picture for Port Adelaide, Richmond and Melbourne at 11, 12 and 13 respectively. Meyer is also another hot tip to be chosen with the Pies first choice.
11 - PORT ADELAIDE - Danny Meyer
(Glenelg), 3 August 1986, 183cm, 70kg
Having been likened to Port Adelaide great Gavin Wangeneen, Meyer has become a genuine target around the middle part of the first round in this year's Draft. A talented, athletic midfielder/forward, Meyer possesses genuine pace and has an outstanding vertical jump, as shown at the Draft Camp, where he managed a leap of 87 centremetres. His jump was among the top ranked performances. Although he spent the majority of 2004 with Sacred Heart College, he still represented South Australia at the National Bank's AFL under-18 championships. Meyer is strong overhead, smart around goals and has a sharp footy brain. Although he is right in the mix for Collingwood at number.10, he is strong contender for Port Adelaide's first selection, particularly if Wood, Russell and Bate are out of the equation, when the Power gets its first opportunity. Geelong Falcons midfielder Jordan Lewis is also a genuine chance to be taken by Port Adelaide at this point and it would come as no surprise if he was taken at number 11, instead of the Power's second selection at 19, which is another possible scenario.
12 - RICHMOND - Fabian Deluca
(Eastern Ranges), 27 January 1987, 203cm, 97kg
Deluca, the younger brother of Carlton's Adrian, was a member of the AIS/AFL Academy in 2003/04 and the Victoria Metropolitan side in the National Bank's AFL under-18 championships in 2004. A developing, mobile ruckman, Deluca is one of the leading big men in this year's pool. Richmond will have its third selection at this point and with a ruckman on its shopping list, Deluca is right in the mix for the Tigers. If Wood was available, expect the yellow and black to favour the South Australian, but if Meyer or Bate were still up for grabs, they too would enter the picture. In fact the Tigers are likely to select Meyer, if he is available. Deluca could also be a possibility at number 16 or even at 20 for the Tigers. But another player in Richmond's sights is Norwood's Chad Gibson, who has risen up the pecking order in recent weeks. His rating continues to firm and it would not surprise if he was snapped up by the Tigers at 12. The number of permutations that could occur at this stage includes Deluca sliding down to Carlton's second selection at number 25, which is also a genuine possibility.
13 - MELBOURNE - Chris Egan
(Murray Bushrangers), 26 October 1986, 187cm, 78kg
A fascinating selection awaits the Demons, as Russell, Bate or Meyer will all be considered if one of them slips though at number 13, while Egan, Gibson, Lynden Dunn and Deluca will also be in their thoughts. But with Russell, Bate and Meyer likely to be out of the equation, expect Melbourne to secure the talent-laden Egan. A running forward/defender, Egan represented Victoria Country in this year's National Bank's AFL under-18 championships. He also shone during a TAC Cup match in round 17 this season, when he won 37 disposals and kicked two goals from a half-back flank against the Dandenong Stingrays. Egan recorded a 94-centremete running vertical jump at the recent Draft Camp, while he also ran a time of 2.95 seconds in the 20-metre sprint. Both performances were in the top bracket at the camp. His pace, marking overhead and long kicking are features of his game. Interestingly, Egan has a Melbourne connection with his uncles Phil Egan and Les Bamblett, both spending part of their careers at the Demons.
14 - ESSENDON - Chad Gibson
(Norwood), 12 January 1987, 195cm, 93kg
Gibson's rating in the overall order has risen considerably in recent weeks, with a number of clubs jostling for his services. Richmond could take him with its third selection at 12, but Melbourne might get him at 13 or 15, if he is available. But expect Essendon to be right in the mix to snap-up the powerful ruckman turned key defender/forward. Gibson, who has been likened in some quarters to Brisbane Lions triple premiership player Jonathan Brown, is an impact player who had an outstanding Draft Camp. He came first in the standing vertical jump, with a leap of 73 centremetres, while he also recorded a time of 2.95 seconds for his run in the 20-metre sprint. A member of the AIS/AFL Academy in 2003/04, Gibson also represented South Australia at this year's National Bank's AFL under-18 championships. St Kilda, Brisbane Lions, Port Adelaide, Western Bulldogs and Adelaide are just some of the other clubs with a more than keen interest in him. If Gibson was taken or bypassed and Egan was available, expect the Bombers to pounce. But Lewis, Sturt midfielder Adam Thomson and Northern Knights big man Ryan Willitts will also be in the mix.
15 - MELBOURNE - Lynden Dunn
(Calder Cannons), 14 May 1987, 192cm, 90kg
A tall forward/defender, Dunn lifted his rating even further during the TAC Cup finals when he played an important role in the victorious Calder Cannons campaign. And just days after playing in that premiership, Dunn ran a terrific beep test at the 2004 Draft Camp, when he reached level 14.6. It was the best performance from a player of his size at the camp, while he finished fourth overall with only three midfielders ahead of him. It will be another interesting selection for the Demons, considering it is their second of just three selections this year. The Demons are likely to opt for a tall at pick 13 or 15 and Dunn will be right in their thinking. The dilemma for Melbourne is that he is unlikely to last until selection 43, which is the club's final pick in this year's Draft. The Demons rate him highly and may take him at 15, as Hawthorn, Port Adelaide and Geelong are believed to be closely monitoring his whereabouts. It could turn out that one of Egan or Thomson and one of Gibson or Dunn are taken with the Demons picks at 13 and 15.
16 - RICHMOND - Ryan Willitts
(Northern Knights), 23 January 1987, 197cm, 100kg
A strong mark and long kick, Willitts is a key forward/defender and ruckman who represented Victoria Metropolitan at the 2004 National Bank's AFL under-18 championships. He is regarded as a first-round selection in this year's Draft and is viewed as a top-20 selection by the Tigers. Richmond's eagerness to bolster their big man stocks is likely to continue with pick 16 and Willitts fits the bill. Port Adelaide is also showing interest, with Essendon other possible option. Lewis will also come into strong consideration for the Tigers at this stage.
17 - ST KILDA - Angus Monfries
(Sturt), 19 January 1987, 180cm, 70kg
Put simply, Monfries is an outstanding 'ball-magnet', who works tirelessly and accumulates disposals at will. He is one of the best available midfielders in this year's Draft, while is also one of the most intriguing selection posers of the meeting. The huge tip is either Wood or Monfries at eight for Adelaide, but if Wood is the Crows' first selection, which could be the case - as he is a 204-centremetre ruckman with enormous potential - where does that leave Monfries? There is a school of thought that Adelaide could net him with their second selection at 24, but in reality, it's unlikely. St Kilda and Port Adelaide are just two of the clubs in the mix for Monfries, but with the Saints entering the selection process for the first time at 17, the red, white and black's philosophy of picking 'the best available player' may just be the case. Although an experienced ruckman is likely to enter the equation for the Saints further in the drafting jigsaw puzzle, midfielders will also be a target, when you consider Robert Harvey, Andrew Thompson and Justin Peckett and even Stephen Powell are closing in towards the end of their careers. Throw in the departure of Heath Black and the Saints all of a sudden need a further injection of run and ball-winning ability to complement the talents of Lenny Hayes, Luke Ball and Nick Dal Santo. An AIS/AFL graduate, who was prominent against Ireland this year at under-17 level, Monfries was also named All-Australian after some outstanding performances at this year's National Bank's AFL under-18 championships. He is highly regarded highly by the Saints and is right in the mix with their first selection. Northern Knights forward/ruckman Adam Pattison and defender/forward Adam Hartlett will also be considered strongly for the Saints.
18 - BRISBANE LIONS - Nathan Van Berlo
(West Perth), 6 June 1986, 183cm, 73kg
An outstanding performance at the 2004 Draft Camp further enhanced Van Berlo's standing in the draft pool. A standout athlete, with a good football brain, it could be argued that he was the most impressive performer at this year's camp. In achieving level 15.2 in the beep test and a time of 10 minutes 35 seconds in the three-kilometre time-trial, he finished on top in both categories. He also finished second to Sturt's Danyle Pearce with a time of 7.80 seconds in the agility test. Pearce beat him by the narrowest of margins, with a time of 7.79 seconds. A midfielder/defender, Van Berlo captained the West Perth Colts team in 2004, represented Western Australia in the National Bank's AFL under-18 championships and was named in the WAFL Colts team of the year. He has attracted strong interest from the Brisbane Lions at 18, but if he was overlooked he wouldn't last long, as Port Adelaide would be eager to claim him with its following selection at 19. Aside from any players that fall though, others in the mix for the Lions at 18 include Thomson, Western Magpies defender/forward Pat Garner, Claremont defender Alan Toovey and Clarence forward/midfielder Justin Sherman.
19 - PORT ADELAIDE - Jordan Lewis
(Geelong Falcons), 24 April 1986, 183cm, 73kg
Port Adelaide is firming for Lewis but the question is - will it be at the Power's first selection at number 11 or at its second pick at 19? It's an interesting situation, as both Meyer and Lewis are targets for the club. Lewis may just slide through to 19, although Richmond also remains a genuine possibility for him at 16. A left-footed midfielder, Lewis is a genuine footballer who is terrific overhead and good at the stoppages. He is also highly rated for his football nous. He was named All-Australian after an outstanding carnival in this year's National Bank's AFL under-18 championships, while he was named first rover in the 2004 TAC Cup team of the year. He also finished runner-up in the 2004 Falcons best-and-fairest award. Port Adelaide would be rapt if it could claim both Meyer and Lewis, while Monfries, Van Berlo and Willitts would also be strong possibilities if either player was unattainable. If Port Adelaide acquires Lewis earlier, expect Gippsland Power midfielder Andrew McQualter to come right in the mix for selection 19. Calder Cannons' ruckman Ivan Maric may also figure at this stage.
1 - RICHMOND - Brett Deledio
(Murray Bushrangers), 18 April 1987, 188cm, 81kg
With Richmond in pole position for the first time since 1989, the Tigers are almost certain to call out - 'Player 110398, Brett Deledio, Murray Bushrangers' and pounce on brilliant young inside midfielder with the first selection in the 2004 National Bank's AFL Draft. Hailing from Kyabram in country Victoria, Deledio, has been a standout player at junior level, having won the Kevin Sheehan Medal for the best player in the National Bank's AFL under-16 championships, while he graduated from the AIS/AFL Academy and was All-Australian at under-18 level in 2004, after he averaged 24 disposals during the carnival. He was later named in the 2004 TAC Cup team of the year. Deledio also shone during the recent Draft Camp, when he finished fourth overall in the 20-metre sprint with a time of 2.90 seconds, while his 92-centremetre running vertical jump was in the top bracket of players. Also a talented cricketer, Deledio is a super-competitive player, with his marking overhead and smartness around goal a feature of his game. Southern Districts dynamo Richard Tambling and outstanding South Adelaide midfielder Ryan Griffen are also in the mix for the number one title, but expect Deledio to be in the yellow and black after the meeting kicks off at 10am on Saturday morning. Deledio's father Wayne played one match for Carlton in 1975.
2 - HAWTHORN - Richard Tambling
(Southern Districts), 12 September 1986, 181cm, 74kg
With Deledio expected to be the first player claimed in the 2004 Draft, expect Hawthorn to quickly snap up Tambling with the first of its three selections in the top seven. Tambling has been an elite performer at junior level, having been named the best player at both under-16 and under-18 level, which earned him the Alan McLean Medal and the Hunter Harrison Medal respectively. During his three matches at this year's National Bank's AFL under-18 championships, he notched up 61 disposals to cap off a stellar carnival. Tambling also captained The Allies during grand final week this year, when he led the side to victory in the inaugural National Bank's AFL under-18 Rising Stars Cup against Victoria. An AIS/AFL Academy member in 2002/03, Tambling shone at the recent Draft Camp, where he recorded a time of 2.87 seconds in the 20-metre sprint and a vertical leap of 93 centremetres, which were among the best tested this year. The dashing Northern Territorian goalkicking midfielder with the blistering pace and silky skills will be an excitement machine at Glenferrie.
3 - WESTERN BULLDOGS - Ryan Griffen
(South Adelaide), 27 July 1986, 187cm, 85kg
The Bulldogs will be rapt with Griffen at number three, despite the fact several good judges believe he is capable of being this year's number one draftee. Griffen, who captained South Australia at this year's National Bank's under-18 championships, had a terrific carnival and he was duly rewarded with All-Australian selection. A medium-sized inside midfielder, Griffen has genuine football talent, is smart around goal and has good vision. He is rated by many as simply a 'natural onballer'. An AIS/AFL graduate, Griffen received the Mike Fitzpatrick Scholarship in 2004, while he played for South Adelaide's senior team in the SANFL during 2004, despite the fact he was playing under duress with a knee injury.
ROUND ONE
4 - RICHMOND - Jarryd Roughead
(Gippsland Power), 23 March 1987, 193cm, 88kg
Likely to be the first 'tall' selected in the 2004 Draft, Roughead is a left-footed key forward/defender from Leongatha in country Victoria. The Tigers are poised to select Roughead, just ahead of Perth key forward/defender Lance Franklin, with their second selection. The 'home grown' factor may play a part in the decision-making process, although Franklin, along with Geelong Falcons ruckman John Meesen, who has come into the equation recently, is also a chance to be selected by the Tigers at number four. Meesen can't be discounted. An AIS/AFL Academy member in 2003/04, Roughead represented Vic Country in this year's National Bank's AFL under-18 championships. This coincided with an outstanding year with the Gippsland Power, where he led the club's goalkicking with 46 majors, which included a six-goal haul against the Dandenong Stingrays in round 18 in the TAC Cup. Also a talented basketballer, Roughead gained selection in the 2004 TAC Cup team of the year.
5 - HAWTHORN - Lance Franklin
(Perth), 30 January 1987, 196cm, 87kg
A tantalising player, 'Buddy' Franklin was rated as a potential number one draftee in some quarters earlier in the year and although that may have slipped a fraction, he is still regarded as a top-six selection. The athletic key forward/defender is agile for his size, while he is a booming kick and a good mark. An AIS/AFL Academy member in 2003/04, Franklin made his senior debut with Perth in the WAFL this year. He was also rewarded with the Mike Fitzpatrick Scholarship in 2003. Franklin represented Western Australia at this year's National Bank's AFL under-18 championships and kicked the winning goal in the dying seconds against Victoria Metropolitan to help give his side a two-point victory at Skilled Stadium. Franklin remains a genuine candidate for Richmond at number four, but with Roughead firming as a Tiger, the Hawks are likely to snap-up Franklin with their second pick, just ahead of Queenslander Tom Williams, who has stunned the football community with his ability, after switching from a rugby union background to Australian Rules in less than 12 months. He, too, has more than interested the brown and gold.
6 - WESTERN BULLDOGS - Tom Williams
(Morningside), 17 July 1986, 196cm, 87kg
There is no doubt Williams will be one of the most fascinating stories in this particular meeting. Along with his rugby union background, his all-round sporting ability includes swimming and basketball, but his athletic prowess is set to take him into the AFL. His rating has shot up considerably since the Draft Camp, where he finished second overall in the three-kilometre time-trial with a time of 10 minutes 36 seconds. The Bulldogs are set to pounce on Williams with their second selection, yet he will enter the thoughts of Hawthorn at number five, while Richmond is also not out of the question with its second selection. Williams was a member of the 'developing talls' group in the AIS/AFL Academy squad during 2003/04, while he represented Queensland in the 2004 National Bank's AFL under-18 championships. It has been a remarkable year for a player who has played fewer than 15 matches since taking up the code a year ago. Also, not out of the ball-park at number six for the Bulldogs are West Adelaide ruckman Cameron Wood and Glenelg midfielder/forward Danny Meyer.
7 - HAWTHORN - John Meesen
(Geelong Falcons), 20 June 1986, 199cm, 89kg
One of the most sought after ruckmen in this year's Draft, Meesen is a strong marking big man, who can also play up forward. A member of the Victoria Country team at under-18 level this year, he was also named as first ruck in the 2004 TAC Cup team of the year. More recently, Meesen recorded a brilliant time in the three-kilometre time-trail at the Draft Camp, when he finished in the top 10 per cent, after he completed a run of 10 minutes 44 seconds. It was a terrific performance for a player of his size, particularly in the latter stages, when he pushed himself right to the finish. Meesen is right on Hawthorn's radar and should be snapped up at seven, but he is not without a chance of being taken earlier by Richmond at number four.
8 - ADELAIDE - Cameron Wood
(West Adelaide), 4 March 1987, 204cm, 89kg
This is where this year's Draft gets interesting and where The Phantom Draft could go pear-shaped. Adelaide faces the dilemma of going for a ruckman, a midfielder or a Victorian. The three players in the mix are Wood, Sturt midfielder Angus Monfries and Eastern Ranges' forward/defender Matthew Bate. All three players are under the microscope for the Crows and it is likely to come down to the two South Australians - Wood and Monfries. Both loom as irresistible prospects, but the fact that some astute judges have 'crystal-balled' Wood as potentially the best ruckman in the game, while looking several years down the track, is something the Crows will find hard to refuse. Although Monfries has been likened to Port Adelaide premiership player Kane Cornes, the fact that incumbent Adelaide ruckman Matthew Clarke is set to be gearing up for his final season in 2005, could sway the Crows in selecting Wood. He is mobile, has good disposal skills for his size and is quick with his hands. An AIS/AFL graduate, he also played seniors with West Adelaide in the SANFL this year, while he was named All-Australian after representing South Australia at the 2004 National Bank's AFL under-18 championships. It is sure to be a fascinating pick. Wood is a former baseballer, who was in the Australian squad in 2003. He also had an offer to try out with the Atlanta Braves.
9 - CARLTON - Jordan Russell
(West Adelaide), 6 November 1986, 188cm, 78kg
Equally intriguing will be Carlton's first selection in the draft, with two dashers in the mix - West Adelaide's Jordan Russell and Murray Bushrangers Chris Egan. Although Eastern Ranges' ruckman Fabian Deluca, the younger brother of Carlton's Adrian, can't be ruled out of contention either, although he may be in the picture at number 25, it's understood the Blues will be choosing Russell or Egan at number nine. But the situation could be complicated somewhat if Wood is overlooked in favour of Monfries by the Crows at number eight. The Blues are likely to opt for Russell, particularly with Collingwood and Port Adelaide right in the mix for the speedy South Australian. Both the Magpies and the Power have the number 10 and 11 picks. There is also a slim chance that Egan could also slip through to Carlton's second choice at number 25, but it is firmly believed that Russell won't last any longer than the top-15. A midfielder with genuine pace and fine skills, Russell spent most of the season in West Adelaide's senior side, while he also represented South Australia at this year's National Bank's AFL under-18 championships. His pace shone through at the recent Draft Camp when he finished in the top three per cent for speed testing over five, 10 and 20 metres. He also recorded a time of 2.89 seconds for the 20-metre dash.
10 - COLLINGWOOD - Matthew Bate
(Eastern Ranges), 24 May 1987, 191cm, 90kg
When Bate entered 2004 with the knowledge that he would be nominating for this year's Draft, it was only when the draft age was changed in March that it seemed he would be spending another year in the TAC Cup. But in September, several players that were affected by the change, including Bate, received permission by the AFL to nominate for this year's meeting. It brought the talented forward/defender right back into contention. He also enhanced his reputation by winning the 2004 Morrish Medal for the best player in the TAC Cup and now seems certain to be a first-round selection. A member of the TAC Cup team of the year, Bate is a penetrating left-foot kick, with good pace and agility. His agility skills were on show at the 2004 Draft Camp when he recorded a time of 8.37 seconds and reached level 14.1 in the gruelling beep test. Although he is a genuine possibility for Adelaide at number eight, Bate looks set to be Collingwood's first selection, particularly if Russell is taken by Carlton with the previous pick. But if Russell is overlooked by the Blues, the Magpies are likely to swoop, which will put Bate in the picture for Port Adelaide, Richmond and Melbourne at 11, 12 and 13 respectively. Meyer is also another hot tip to be chosen with the Pies first choice.
11 - PORT ADELAIDE - Danny Meyer
(Glenelg), 3 August 1986, 183cm, 70kg
Having been likened to Port Adelaide great Gavin Wangeneen, Meyer has become a genuine target around the middle part of the first round in this year's Draft. A talented, athletic midfielder/forward, Meyer possesses genuine pace and has an outstanding vertical jump, as shown at the Draft Camp, where he managed a leap of 87 centremetres. His jump was among the top ranked performances. Although he spent the majority of 2004 with Sacred Heart College, he still represented South Australia at the National Bank's AFL under-18 championships. Meyer is strong overhead, smart around goals and has a sharp footy brain. Although he is right in the mix for Collingwood at number.10, he is strong contender for Port Adelaide's first selection, particularly if Wood, Russell and Bate are out of the equation, when the Power gets its first opportunity. Geelong Falcons midfielder Jordan Lewis is also a genuine chance to be taken by Port Adelaide at this point and it would come as no surprise if he was taken at number 11, instead of the Power's second selection at 19, which is another possible scenario.
12 - RICHMOND - Fabian Deluca
(Eastern Ranges), 27 January 1987, 203cm, 97kg
Deluca, the younger brother of Carlton's Adrian, was a member of the AIS/AFL Academy in 2003/04 and the Victoria Metropolitan side in the National Bank's AFL under-18 championships in 2004. A developing, mobile ruckman, Deluca is one of the leading big men in this year's pool. Richmond will have its third selection at this point and with a ruckman on its shopping list, Deluca is right in the mix for the Tigers. If Wood was available, expect the yellow and black to favour the South Australian, but if Meyer or Bate were still up for grabs, they too would enter the picture. In fact the Tigers are likely to select Meyer, if he is available. Deluca could also be a possibility at number 16 or even at 20 for the Tigers. But another player in Richmond's sights is Norwood's Chad Gibson, who has risen up the pecking order in recent weeks. His rating continues to firm and it would not surprise if he was snapped up by the Tigers at 12. The number of permutations that could occur at this stage includes Deluca sliding down to Carlton's second selection at number 25, which is also a genuine possibility.
13 - MELBOURNE - Chris Egan
(Murray Bushrangers), 26 October 1986, 187cm, 78kg
A fascinating selection awaits the Demons, as Russell, Bate or Meyer will all be considered if one of them slips though at number 13, while Egan, Gibson, Lynden Dunn and Deluca will also be in their thoughts. But with Russell, Bate and Meyer likely to be out of the equation, expect Melbourne to secure the talent-laden Egan. A running forward/defender, Egan represented Victoria Country in this year's National Bank's AFL under-18 championships. He also shone during a TAC Cup match in round 17 this season, when he won 37 disposals and kicked two goals from a half-back flank against the Dandenong Stingrays. Egan recorded a 94-centremete running vertical jump at the recent Draft Camp, while he also ran a time of 2.95 seconds in the 20-metre sprint. Both performances were in the top bracket at the camp. His pace, marking overhead and long kicking are features of his game. Interestingly, Egan has a Melbourne connection with his uncles Phil Egan and Les Bamblett, both spending part of their careers at the Demons.
14 - ESSENDON - Chad Gibson
(Norwood), 12 January 1987, 195cm, 93kg
Gibson's rating in the overall order has risen considerably in recent weeks, with a number of clubs jostling for his services. Richmond could take him with its third selection at 12, but Melbourne might get him at 13 or 15, if he is available. But expect Essendon to be right in the mix to snap-up the powerful ruckman turned key defender/forward. Gibson, who has been likened in some quarters to Brisbane Lions triple premiership player Jonathan Brown, is an impact player who had an outstanding Draft Camp. He came first in the standing vertical jump, with a leap of 73 centremetres, while he also recorded a time of 2.95 seconds for his run in the 20-metre sprint. A member of the AIS/AFL Academy in 2003/04, Gibson also represented South Australia at this year's National Bank's AFL under-18 championships. St Kilda, Brisbane Lions, Port Adelaide, Western Bulldogs and Adelaide are just some of the other clubs with a more than keen interest in him. If Gibson was taken or bypassed and Egan was available, expect the Bombers to pounce. But Lewis, Sturt midfielder Adam Thomson and Northern Knights big man Ryan Willitts will also be in the mix.
15 - MELBOURNE - Lynden Dunn
(Calder Cannons), 14 May 1987, 192cm, 90kg
A tall forward/defender, Dunn lifted his rating even further during the TAC Cup finals when he played an important role in the victorious Calder Cannons campaign. And just days after playing in that premiership, Dunn ran a terrific beep test at the 2004 Draft Camp, when he reached level 14.6. It was the best performance from a player of his size at the camp, while he finished fourth overall with only three midfielders ahead of him. It will be another interesting selection for the Demons, considering it is their second of just three selections this year. The Demons are likely to opt for a tall at pick 13 or 15 and Dunn will be right in their thinking. The dilemma for Melbourne is that he is unlikely to last until selection 43, which is the club's final pick in this year's Draft. The Demons rate him highly and may take him at 15, as Hawthorn, Port Adelaide and Geelong are believed to be closely monitoring his whereabouts. It could turn out that one of Egan or Thomson and one of Gibson or Dunn are taken with the Demons picks at 13 and 15.
16 - RICHMOND - Ryan Willitts
(Northern Knights), 23 January 1987, 197cm, 100kg
A strong mark and long kick, Willitts is a key forward/defender and ruckman who represented Victoria Metropolitan at the 2004 National Bank's AFL under-18 championships. He is regarded as a first-round selection in this year's Draft and is viewed as a top-20 selection by the Tigers. Richmond's eagerness to bolster their big man stocks is likely to continue with pick 16 and Willitts fits the bill. Port Adelaide is also showing interest, with Essendon other possible option. Lewis will also come into strong consideration for the Tigers at this stage.
17 - ST KILDA - Angus Monfries
(Sturt), 19 January 1987, 180cm, 70kg
Put simply, Monfries is an outstanding 'ball-magnet', who works tirelessly and accumulates disposals at will. He is one of the best available midfielders in this year's Draft, while is also one of the most intriguing selection posers of the meeting. The huge tip is either Wood or Monfries at eight for Adelaide, but if Wood is the Crows' first selection, which could be the case - as he is a 204-centremetre ruckman with enormous potential - where does that leave Monfries? There is a school of thought that Adelaide could net him with their second selection at 24, but in reality, it's unlikely. St Kilda and Port Adelaide are just two of the clubs in the mix for Monfries, but with the Saints entering the selection process for the first time at 17, the red, white and black's philosophy of picking 'the best available player' may just be the case. Although an experienced ruckman is likely to enter the equation for the Saints further in the drafting jigsaw puzzle, midfielders will also be a target, when you consider Robert Harvey, Andrew Thompson and Justin Peckett and even Stephen Powell are closing in towards the end of their careers. Throw in the departure of Heath Black and the Saints all of a sudden need a further injection of run and ball-winning ability to complement the talents of Lenny Hayes, Luke Ball and Nick Dal Santo. An AIS/AFL graduate, who was prominent against Ireland this year at under-17 level, Monfries was also named All-Australian after some outstanding performances at this year's National Bank's AFL under-18 championships. He is highly regarded highly by the Saints and is right in the mix with their first selection. Northern Knights forward/ruckman Adam Pattison and defender/forward Adam Hartlett will also be considered strongly for the Saints.
18 - BRISBANE LIONS - Nathan Van Berlo
(West Perth), 6 June 1986, 183cm, 73kg
An outstanding performance at the 2004 Draft Camp further enhanced Van Berlo's standing in the draft pool. A standout athlete, with a good football brain, it could be argued that he was the most impressive performer at this year's camp. In achieving level 15.2 in the beep test and a time of 10 minutes 35 seconds in the three-kilometre time-trial, he finished on top in both categories. He also finished second to Sturt's Danyle Pearce with a time of 7.80 seconds in the agility test. Pearce beat him by the narrowest of margins, with a time of 7.79 seconds. A midfielder/defender, Van Berlo captained the West Perth Colts team in 2004, represented Western Australia in the National Bank's AFL under-18 championships and was named in the WAFL Colts team of the year. He has attracted strong interest from the Brisbane Lions at 18, but if he was overlooked he wouldn't last long, as Port Adelaide would be eager to claim him with its following selection at 19. Aside from any players that fall though, others in the mix for the Lions at 18 include Thomson, Western Magpies defender/forward Pat Garner, Claremont defender Alan Toovey and Clarence forward/midfielder Justin Sherman.
19 - PORT ADELAIDE - Jordan Lewis
(Geelong Falcons), 24 April 1986, 183cm, 73kg
Port Adelaide is firming for Lewis but the question is - will it be at the Power's first selection at number 11 or at its second pick at 19? It's an interesting situation, as both Meyer and Lewis are targets for the club. Lewis may just slide through to 19, although Richmond also remains a genuine possibility for him at 16. A left-footed midfielder, Lewis is a genuine footballer who is terrific overhead and good at the stoppages. He is also highly rated for his football nous. He was named All-Australian after an outstanding carnival in this year's National Bank's AFL under-18 championships, while he was named first rover in the 2004 TAC Cup team of the year. He also finished runner-up in the 2004 Falcons best-and-fairest award. Port Adelaide would be rapt if it could claim both Meyer and Lewis, while Monfries, Van Berlo and Willitts would also be strong possibilities if either player was unattainable. If Port Adelaide acquires Lewis earlier, expect Gippsland Power midfielder Andrew McQualter to come right in the mix for selection 19. Calder Cannons' ruckman Ivan Maric may also figure at this stage.
