1992edfl2012
Senior List
THE TOP 51 (COMMENTS FOR EACH PLAYER TAKEN FROM AFL.COM.AU...MY OWN COMMENTS THEN ADDED IN RED & GREEN)
1.
TOM BOYD - GREATER WESTERN SYDNEY – 200CM – 103KG -
We all know the name Tom Boyd - the power forward from the Eastern Ranges who has been inked in as the No.1 pick all year. Boyd played just two matches with the Vic Metro during the NAB AFL Under-18 Championships, but they featured nine goals and were enough to secure All-Australian selection. An ankle injury suffered against WA ended his national campaign, leading to a three-month layoff complicated by a calf niggle. He kicked four goals on his return to footy in the TAC Cup Grand Final. When the ball comes in, Boyd protects the drop zone well through excellent body use and reads the flight of the ball. On the ground, he combines excellent leg speed with a long, accurate shot for goal. Everyone knows that he’s pick 1. Others in the mix: Tom Boyd...lol
2.
JOSH KELLY – GREATER WESTERN SYDNEY – 183CM- 75KG-
A medium midfielder who combines precision kicking on his preferred left foot with an elite running capacity, Kelly is the subject of keen interest from recruiters for November’s draft. He ran the second-fastest 3km time trial to date in the recent draft combine (9m 32s), an effort that came as no major surprise given his aerobic ability. A strong showing in the Under-18 Championships, where he averaged 27 disposals in four games, culminated in All-Australian selection. The son of 61-game North Melbourne left-footer Phil, Kelly shows composure beyond his years and boasts excellent endurance. National talent manager Kevin Sheehan says he ticks every box for recruiters and most expect him to be picked up within the top five. I don’t think Billings, Scharenberg or Aish will jump Kelly here. Others in the mix: Matt Scharenberg
3.
JACK BILLINGS – ST KILDA– 184CM – 78KG-
A medium-sized forward who is brilliant on his preferred left foot and particularly damaging in and around the goals. Billings is a versatile player who can also play through the midfield and off half-back where his awareness and vision can prove pivotal. He kicked three goals in the last round of the Under-18 Championships against Vic Country to secure All-Australian honours for the second time after a brilliant 2012 campaign as an underage player. Apart from his elite kicking, Billings combines a strong overhead mark with an ability at ground level to make life difficult for opponents. Set to become another member of the large Oakleigh Chargers AFL alumni, Billings is expected to go top five in this year's draft. Tall mid or small outside mid? That’s the question for the Saints. Depends on Alan Richardson and the Saints’ decision as to whether they need outside run or goal kicking small forward/mid. Others in the mix: Aish, Scharenberg, Bontempelli.
4.
JAMES AISH – WESTERN BULLDOGS – 184CM – 75KG-
Aish is Norwood football royalty. He is the son of former Redlegs midfielder Andrew Aish, the nephew of 1981 Magarey Medallist Michael Aish and the grandson of former skipper Peter Aish. If those credentials weren't enough, in 2013 James broke a SANFL record by becoming the youngest Norwood player in 134 years to debut at league level. The silky midfielder is expected to be picked up as high as number two on November 21, behind the highly-rated Tom Boyd. Recruitment managers have long been impressed with Aish's disposal efficiency on both sides of the body and his ability in heavy traffic. Like Ollie Wines, Aish could feature heavily in his first year in the AFL system after a long apprenticeship of senior football. He was 16 on his SANFL debut and in his time at Norwood has learned what it's like to play against bigger bodies. Aish received All-Australian honours in both 2012 and 2013 and is perhaps the best midfield option in this year's draft. Aish or Billings (whoever is left) will go with this at this pick, however would not surprise if Scharenberg or Bontempelli goes here. Others in the mix: Scharenberg, Billings, Bontempelli.
5.
KADE KOLODASHNIJ – GOLD COAST – 190CM- 81KG-
An impressive NAB AFL Draft Combine completed Kolodjashnij's rise to becoming a genuine top-10 prospect at this year's draft. A versatile tall defender, the Tasmanian won both the running vertical jump off the right leg and the vertical relative jump; demonstrating his supreme athleticism that helps him cover the ground. A late inclusion into the AFL/AIS Academy at the end of last year, Kolodjashnij continued to go from strength-to-strength with an impressive NAB AFL Under-18 Championships in which he won the Division 2 Harrison Medal and Tasmania's Most Valuable Player award. A smart user of the ball on his preferred left foot. the talk is that this pick is all sewn up as KK regardless of who is left from Billings, Aish, Scharenberg etc... Gold Coast have their sights set on the 190cm midfielder/defender types as it’s a thin area on their current list. Others in the mix: Bontempelli & Scharenberg.
6.
MATT SCHARENBERG – COLLINGWOOD– 190CM- 87KG-
Once described by Mark Williams as the best schoolboy talent he had seen since Wayne Carey, the South Australian is extremely composed in his disposal and shows great temperament in heavy traffic. Scharenberg is a 190cm key position player who is equally comfortable forward or back. Had an outstanding NAB AFL Under-18 Championships which saw him collect back-to-back All Australian selections in 2012-13. Scharenberg came runner-up in the Larke Medal for the best player in Division One and his ability to read the play and strong hands make him an unstoppable force in the air. Is considered a strong chance to be selected in the top-five in this year's draft. Scharenberg is an interesting one as he could really go anywhere from 3 to 12. Rumoured to have injuries to both feet, but that could be nothing more than scare tactics put out by the team that really wants him in order to scare off other teams from taking him. Who pulls the trigger on him first? Others in the mix: Aish, Bontempelli, Salem, Lennon
7.
MARCUS BONTEMPELLI – BRISBANE – 190CM- 83KG-
The rangy Bontempelli can play both tall or small and in the midfield or forward line. A cousin of Saint-turned-Kangaroo Nick Dal Santo, he combines excellent durability with agility levels that make him extremely coachable. Bontempelli reads the play well and makes good decisions when the ball is in his hands. Despite a relatively quiet Under-18 Championship, he delivered an impressive 79 per cent disposal efficiency. A solid year for the Northern Knights at TAC Cup level confirmed him as a likely high draft pick. An AIS-AFL Academy graduate, like many of his elite peers. The prototype midfielder of the future. Has come from the clouds in recent months as he only avg: 67 supercoach points in the u/18 carnival for Vic Metro. Basically he has shot up the chart for the pure fact that he’s agile and “could” end up being the tall midfielder that all clubs want these days. If Lion’s choose to go Key Position tall, then I would expect Cam McCarthy to go here. Others in the mix: Scharenberg, Lennon, McCarthy, Freeman
8.
LUKE MCDONALD – NORTH MELBOURNE – 188CM- 85KG
In an enviable position for most draftees in the sense that his football future is already decided. The fact that North Melbourne have committed to father-son prospect McDonald at pick eight is a huge indication of the kid's talent. The son of 155-game Kangaroo Donald, he is a rebounding defender with the ability to push into the midfield, McDonald possesses the leadership qualities and a booming left foot very much in the mould of Luke Hodge. Vic Metro's captain for this year's NAB AFL Under-18 Championships, McDonald should find the transition into the AFL easier than most, having spent a season playing senior football in the VFL for Werribee. Would have been interesting if he wasn’t tied already to North Melbourne, could have been as high as pick 2 and pushed Kelly to pick 3 and so on.
9.
BEN LENNON – MELBOURNE – 188CM- 77KG-
One of the more tantalising propositions in this year's draft as a half-forward/midfielder, Lennon gives this draft a dose of excitement. Expected to be a top-10 pick, he marks strongly on the lead and is sharp by foot, but also knows his way around goal, fires bullet passes and backs himself with the ball. He was among the better kicks at the Draft Combine and was a three-way winner of the handball/clean hands test. Over a five-week stretch during the Under-18 Championships with Vic Metro, he averaged 28 disposals a game running through the midfield. Similar to Scharenberg & Bontempelli, Lennon is interesting as he fits the needs of afew clubs, could go to Pies at 6 or Brisbane at 7 easily. Lennon is a more natural forward than those two though as he can take a nice grab for his size and knows where the goals are. Others in the mix: Scharenberg, Bontempelli, Salem, Freeman
10.
CHRISTIAN SALEM – COLLINGWOOD – 183CM- 81KG-
A strong and damaging midfielder by foot, Salem can hurt the opposition with pinpoint kicks inside 50. He averaged 15 disposals and a goal in his four games at the Under-18 Championships and was noted for his competent decision-making. A close mate of another highly fancied midfielder, Josh Kelly, Salem's size makes him dangerous in and around the contest. Is a good overhead mark and, when the opportunity arises, rarely misses when in front of goal. Good in the clinches or just as good on the outside of the packs with his great disposal efficiency. Great ball user and a clever player too. Could easily start out as a rebounding backman before moving to the midfield once his body fills out. Others in the mix: Lennon, Bontempelli, Freeman, Crouch.
11.
DOM SHEED – WEST COAST – 184CM – 83KG-
A Western Australian midfielder who won the Larke Medal for the best division one player in the Under-18 Championships, despite suffering a broken collarbone. Sheed wins his own footy around stoppages; a telling reflector of his strong work ethic. Despite not displaying prolific speed, he has a mature body and is expected to feature in his first year in the AFL system. The left-footer is also catching the eye of recruiters for his decision-making by both hand and foot, especially in and around traffic. Averaged 28 disposals and six clearances in the Championships and was a dominant force against the other top under-18 talent in the country. Good clearance player, Sheed is the kid that West Coast has set their sights on for some time, is a local kid so is a logical choice, could play immediately too. Others in the mix: nobody...just Sheed
12.
NATHAN FREEMAN – RICHMOND – 182CM- 80KG-
Another genuine clearance specialist with elite endurance and pace, Freeman tested impressively at the NAB AFL Draft Combine. The youngster from the Sandringham Dragons took out the repeat sprint event and came second in the 20m sprint testing, while also recording a top 10 result in the beep test and 3km time trial. An accomplished ball-user on the outside with an explosive change of direction, Freeman also has the ability to find his own ball with his strong build and ability to read the contest. He improved the defensive aspect of his game in 2013 and will be a tantalising prospect for any club looking for a line-breaking midfielder. Tigers would be pretty happy to get Freeman with pick 12. Offers Tigers pure pace, would not be out of place in the top 10 to Dees, Lions or Pies. Others in the mix: Crouch, Taylor & Acres
13.
MATT CROUCH – CARLTON – 180CM- 78KG-
The brother of Adelaide's Brad, Crouch played only two matches with Vic Country throughout this year's NAB AFL Under-18 Championships after breaking his hand. Crouch, who has displayed excellent TAC form when fit, proved his ability in the final round of the Championships with 27 touches against Vic Metro. He was overlooked by GWS in the 2012 mini draft, a decision which surprised many. That gives clubs this season the opportunity to swoop on the prolific inside ball-winner who is expected to be a first-round draft pick. Great ball winner, averaged 37 disp in TAC cup footy in 2013, should inject youth to Carlton’s midfield which is lacking under 20-s Others in the mix: Taylor, Freeman, Dumont.
14.
DARCY GARDINER – GREATER WESTERN SYDNEY – 192CM- 85KG-
An Under 18 All-Australian this year, Gardiner is arguably the best key defender available in a draft generally short on key position players. The 192cm prospect is competitive, resilient, aggressive and a fighter. Though a key defender he has pace to play on the speedier forwards and also offers the versatility to be able to push forward and take a mark if required. His endurance impressed during the U18 champs as he willed himself to contest after contest and threw himself at the ball. Gathered five rebound 50s in three games for Vic Metro. Best key back in the draft, could join Plowman (drafted in 2012) as the Giants long term key backmen of the future. Others in the mix: Taylor, Acres, Dumont.
15.
BLAKE ACRES – SYDNEY – 189CM- 84KG-
A versatile prospect with good endurance, Acres has shown he can adapt to any role asked of him. A shoulder injury suffered early in the season threatened to derail his NAB AFL Under-18 Championships for Western Australia, but he returned for the last two games of the carnival and made a handy contribution. Having spent time playing senior football for West Perth, Acres showed he is equally adept at rebounding off half-back and cutting up opposition sides with his slick disposal. Strong overhead and wins the football on the inside and outside. Could have gone a little higher, his height makes him very versatile and if available I don’t see the Swans passing him up Others in the mix: Taylor, Gardiner, Lobb, Crouch.
16.
TOM CUTLER – GEELONG – 190CM- 85KG-
Medium midfielder with good game sense and ability to hit targets consistently by hand or foot. Can play on talls and smalls due to his athleticism and reads the ball in flight particularly well. Makes smart decisions when he comes off his man to affect the contest or win the ball back. I decided to go with a defender/midfielder for this pick as it may be the area the Cats look to as part of future planning. Similar to Enright/Mackie as can play on talls and smalls. But also go in the middle as has similar attibutes to James Kelly and Joel Corey. Smart Cats choice if available. If Acres is available though, I can see Geelong taking Acres ahead of Cutler. Others in the mix: Acres, Gardiner, Dumont, Dunstan.
17.
CAMERON MCCARTHY – FREMANTLE – 193CM- 85KG-
Compared to Nat Fyfe, the leaping West Australian turned to footy in his teens, having come from a cricket background. An impressive NAB AFL Under-18 Championships catapulted him into top-20 contention. He stepped up to deliver the game-winning goal against Vic Country in round four of the Championships, before suffering a broken leg in the final round against South Australia. A great mark and shot for goal, he is also highly rated for his ability to read the ball in flight. The obvious choice, local kid and a long term key forward prospect, still very raw but has great hands. Others in the mix: Marsh, Harvey.
18.
TRENT DUMONT – ST KILDA – 186CM- 83KG-
Hard, tough and with a little bit of dash, Dumont could step easily into the AFL system having starred in Norwood's recent SANFL premiership, collecting 20 disposals in a close to best on ground performance. Dumont has a damaging right foot and his experience against mature bodies in the SANFL will hold him in good stead. He is expected to be selected inside the top 20. Part of the supreme South Australian midfield group, Dumont averaged 17.2 disposals in the NAB AFL Under-18 Championships. Hard at it mid, fills a need for Saints as part of their midfield rebuild for post Hayes/Montagna and thrown in with Aish or Billings it would equal a great draft for Saints with the next pick still to come too Others in the mix: Hartung, Taylor, Dunstan
19.
JONATHON MARSH – ST KILDA – 192CM- 87KG-
Marsh threw himself into contention after a great NAB AFL Under-18 Championships with Western Australia. His performance against the Northern Territory, where he gathered 22 possessions and kicked four goals, raised eyebrows from talent scouts around the country. The younger brother of Sydney Swan Harry Marsh, who was taken with pick No.46 in the 2012 NAB AFL Draft, Marsh offers plenty of upside for clubs looking for a forward. At the Draft Combine, Marsh won the 20m sprint with a time of 2.78s and finished third in the repeat sprints in a time of 24.18s. Pace and height, long term 3rd forward prospect, Marsh is considered the smokie of the draft, some even think he could squeeze into top 15 with Carlton and Richmond very keen. Others in the mix: Hartung, Dunstan, Taylor, Hourigan
20.
LEWIS TAYLOR – GOLD COAST – 173CM- 73KG-
Powerful and quick, Taylor elevated himself into high-end draft contention with a superb NAB AFL Under-18 Championships. The Vic Country captain averaged 25 disposals while operating at 78 per cent disposal efficiency rate throughout the Championships; an effort which saw him claim All Australian honours. At only 173cm, he has drawn comparisons with Roo Brent Harvey with his ability to cut sides up throughout the middle of the ground with his pace and elite endurance. Missed the Geelong Falcons' finals campaign and the NAB AFL Draft Combine with a stress fracture in his foot, but many predict he has already done enough to see him selected inside the top 10. Very unlucky not to go higher, but is hard to place because of his height. I settled on the Gold Coast who I think will go for best midfielder available at this pick. It would not surprise if he went to Sydney at 15 or even Carlton at 13. Others in the mix: Dunstan, Hartung, Z Jones.
21.
LUKE DUNSTAN – PORT ADELAIDE – 185CM- 83KG-
Highly touted for his ability to play the game, Dunstan also boasts leadership credentials likely to see him selected inside the top 20. The Woodville-West Torrens product was captain of the victorious South Australian team in the NAB AFL Under-18 Championships, also winning All-Australian honours. Dunstan averaged 23 disposals of which almost 40 per cent were contested, making him a joint winner of SA's MVP award. He has been sidelined of late by a leg injury, marking a disappointing end to a solid year, but it is an injury which will have little bearing on his draft position. Port would be wrapped to throw Dunstan into their midfield group, they get a natural leader and if he teamed with Boak-Wines-Hartlett-Ebert it would be a very disciplined and hard midfield unit for the Power. Another one that could go earlier. Others in the mix: Z Jones, Hourigan, Cripps.
22.
BILLY HARTUNG – BRISBANE – 177CM- 75KG-
Hartung turned heads at the NAB AFL Combine by running a 16.6 in the beep test to break the record held previously by Hawthorn's Bradley Hill. However, he brings more than just the ability to run all day. An Uner-18s All Australian, Hartung is quick and possesses great evasive skills, and can be relied upon to hit up a target when the ball is in his hands. Despite being known as an excitement machine who loves to take the game on, the Dandenong Stingray showed he possessed the defensive skills to quell the influence of likely top-two pick James Aish in the NAB AFL Under-18 Championships. Has the ability to push forward and kick long goals on the run. Similar to Lewis Taylor in that he has been rated by many as a top 20 choice, elite endurance that would improve the Lions midfield which in need of a semi-rebuild with the loss of so many young mids this year. Others in the mix: Z Jones, Cripps, Templeton
23.
DANIEL MCSTAY – ADELAIDE – 194CM- 88KG-
Athletic, tall defender with competitive nature. Has the ability to shut down opposition forwards while providing good counter-attack. Hits targets on his preferred left foot. Can also play as a lead-up forward with good effect due to his strong marking and versatility. Was a very hard choice but i finally settled on McStay as the man with the long term view of replacing Rutten at Adelaide. Would not surprise though if Zak Jones or Patrick Cripps went at this pick though. Others in the mix: Cripps, Z Jones, Harvey, J Kolodashnij
24.
ZAK JONES – HAWTHORN – 181CM- 76KG-
Jones' draft chances skyrocketed with an incredibly consistent 2013 season. A medium-sized defender who is rarely beaten, Jones has the ability to play on both the small and tall forwards thanks to his closing speed and solid contested marking. Had an outstanding 2013 NAB AFL Under-18 Championships and was subsequently named as Vic Country's Most Valuable Player, as well as being selected in the All Australian team of the carnival. The younger brother of Melbourne star Nathan, Jones has been likened to Collingwood's Alan Toovey in the way he can both shut down an opponent and rebound from defence. Strong overhead for his size and a good decision-maker. Hard at it warrior type. Can play as lock down backman or in the engine room. Fills a need in replacing Guerra, long term could be seen as a midfielder to replace the Sewell-Mitchell types. Others in the mix: Garlett, Harvey, Templeton
25.
MITCH HARVEY – BRISBANE – 197CM- 95KG-
At 197cm and 92kg, Harvey could be selected to slot straight in at AFL level as a forward rotating through the ruck. A strong contested mark, the North Adelaide product displayed fantastic athleticism in the NAB AFL Under-18 Championships, where he also showcased his improving ruckwork. Harvey is the nephew of former Adelaide recruiting manager, now Collingwood recruiting assistant, Matt Rendell. I know Brisbane have S Martin-Lisle-Paine etc... but Harvey’s 197cm frame sets him apart when combined with his athleticism. Could go as high as 21 to Port Adelaide if the Power see their need for a tall forward greater than their need of a mid. Others in the mix: J Kolodashnij, Cripps, Kennedy-Harris
1.
TOM BOYD - GREATER WESTERN SYDNEY – 200CM – 103KG -
We all know the name Tom Boyd - the power forward from the Eastern Ranges who has been inked in as the No.1 pick all year. Boyd played just two matches with the Vic Metro during the NAB AFL Under-18 Championships, but they featured nine goals and were enough to secure All-Australian selection. An ankle injury suffered against WA ended his national campaign, leading to a three-month layoff complicated by a calf niggle. He kicked four goals on his return to footy in the TAC Cup Grand Final. When the ball comes in, Boyd protects the drop zone well through excellent body use and reads the flight of the ball. On the ground, he combines excellent leg speed with a long, accurate shot for goal. Everyone knows that he’s pick 1. Others in the mix: Tom Boyd...lol
2.
JOSH KELLY – GREATER WESTERN SYDNEY – 183CM- 75KG-
A medium midfielder who combines precision kicking on his preferred left foot with an elite running capacity, Kelly is the subject of keen interest from recruiters for November’s draft. He ran the second-fastest 3km time trial to date in the recent draft combine (9m 32s), an effort that came as no major surprise given his aerobic ability. A strong showing in the Under-18 Championships, where he averaged 27 disposals in four games, culminated in All-Australian selection. The son of 61-game North Melbourne left-footer Phil, Kelly shows composure beyond his years and boasts excellent endurance. National talent manager Kevin Sheehan says he ticks every box for recruiters and most expect him to be picked up within the top five. I don’t think Billings, Scharenberg or Aish will jump Kelly here. Others in the mix: Matt Scharenberg
3.
JACK BILLINGS – ST KILDA– 184CM – 78KG-
A medium-sized forward who is brilliant on his preferred left foot and particularly damaging in and around the goals. Billings is a versatile player who can also play through the midfield and off half-back where his awareness and vision can prove pivotal. He kicked three goals in the last round of the Under-18 Championships against Vic Country to secure All-Australian honours for the second time after a brilliant 2012 campaign as an underage player. Apart from his elite kicking, Billings combines a strong overhead mark with an ability at ground level to make life difficult for opponents. Set to become another member of the large Oakleigh Chargers AFL alumni, Billings is expected to go top five in this year's draft. Tall mid or small outside mid? That’s the question for the Saints. Depends on Alan Richardson and the Saints’ decision as to whether they need outside run or goal kicking small forward/mid. Others in the mix: Aish, Scharenberg, Bontempelli.
4.
JAMES AISH – WESTERN BULLDOGS – 184CM – 75KG-
Aish is Norwood football royalty. He is the son of former Redlegs midfielder Andrew Aish, the nephew of 1981 Magarey Medallist Michael Aish and the grandson of former skipper Peter Aish. If those credentials weren't enough, in 2013 James broke a SANFL record by becoming the youngest Norwood player in 134 years to debut at league level. The silky midfielder is expected to be picked up as high as number two on November 21, behind the highly-rated Tom Boyd. Recruitment managers have long been impressed with Aish's disposal efficiency on both sides of the body and his ability in heavy traffic. Like Ollie Wines, Aish could feature heavily in his first year in the AFL system after a long apprenticeship of senior football. He was 16 on his SANFL debut and in his time at Norwood has learned what it's like to play against bigger bodies. Aish received All-Australian honours in both 2012 and 2013 and is perhaps the best midfield option in this year's draft. Aish or Billings (whoever is left) will go with this at this pick, however would not surprise if Scharenberg or Bontempelli goes here. Others in the mix: Scharenberg, Billings, Bontempelli.
5.
KADE KOLODASHNIJ – GOLD COAST – 190CM- 81KG-
An impressive NAB AFL Draft Combine completed Kolodjashnij's rise to becoming a genuine top-10 prospect at this year's draft. A versatile tall defender, the Tasmanian won both the running vertical jump off the right leg and the vertical relative jump; demonstrating his supreme athleticism that helps him cover the ground. A late inclusion into the AFL/AIS Academy at the end of last year, Kolodjashnij continued to go from strength-to-strength with an impressive NAB AFL Under-18 Championships in which he won the Division 2 Harrison Medal and Tasmania's Most Valuable Player award. A smart user of the ball on his preferred left foot. the talk is that this pick is all sewn up as KK regardless of who is left from Billings, Aish, Scharenberg etc... Gold Coast have their sights set on the 190cm midfielder/defender types as it’s a thin area on their current list. Others in the mix: Bontempelli & Scharenberg.
6.
MATT SCHARENBERG – COLLINGWOOD– 190CM- 87KG-
Once described by Mark Williams as the best schoolboy talent he had seen since Wayne Carey, the South Australian is extremely composed in his disposal and shows great temperament in heavy traffic. Scharenberg is a 190cm key position player who is equally comfortable forward or back. Had an outstanding NAB AFL Under-18 Championships which saw him collect back-to-back All Australian selections in 2012-13. Scharenberg came runner-up in the Larke Medal for the best player in Division One and his ability to read the play and strong hands make him an unstoppable force in the air. Is considered a strong chance to be selected in the top-five in this year's draft. Scharenberg is an interesting one as he could really go anywhere from 3 to 12. Rumoured to have injuries to both feet, but that could be nothing more than scare tactics put out by the team that really wants him in order to scare off other teams from taking him. Who pulls the trigger on him first? Others in the mix: Aish, Bontempelli, Salem, Lennon
7.
MARCUS BONTEMPELLI – BRISBANE – 190CM- 83KG-
The rangy Bontempelli can play both tall or small and in the midfield or forward line. A cousin of Saint-turned-Kangaroo Nick Dal Santo, he combines excellent durability with agility levels that make him extremely coachable. Bontempelli reads the play well and makes good decisions when the ball is in his hands. Despite a relatively quiet Under-18 Championship, he delivered an impressive 79 per cent disposal efficiency. A solid year for the Northern Knights at TAC Cup level confirmed him as a likely high draft pick. An AIS-AFL Academy graduate, like many of his elite peers. The prototype midfielder of the future. Has come from the clouds in recent months as he only avg: 67 supercoach points in the u/18 carnival for Vic Metro. Basically he has shot up the chart for the pure fact that he’s agile and “could” end up being the tall midfielder that all clubs want these days. If Lion’s choose to go Key Position tall, then I would expect Cam McCarthy to go here. Others in the mix: Scharenberg, Lennon, McCarthy, Freeman
8.
LUKE MCDONALD – NORTH MELBOURNE – 188CM- 85KG
In an enviable position for most draftees in the sense that his football future is already decided. The fact that North Melbourne have committed to father-son prospect McDonald at pick eight is a huge indication of the kid's talent. The son of 155-game Kangaroo Donald, he is a rebounding defender with the ability to push into the midfield, McDonald possesses the leadership qualities and a booming left foot very much in the mould of Luke Hodge. Vic Metro's captain for this year's NAB AFL Under-18 Championships, McDonald should find the transition into the AFL easier than most, having spent a season playing senior football in the VFL for Werribee. Would have been interesting if he wasn’t tied already to North Melbourne, could have been as high as pick 2 and pushed Kelly to pick 3 and so on.
9.
BEN LENNON – MELBOURNE – 188CM- 77KG-
One of the more tantalising propositions in this year's draft as a half-forward/midfielder, Lennon gives this draft a dose of excitement. Expected to be a top-10 pick, he marks strongly on the lead and is sharp by foot, but also knows his way around goal, fires bullet passes and backs himself with the ball. He was among the better kicks at the Draft Combine and was a three-way winner of the handball/clean hands test. Over a five-week stretch during the Under-18 Championships with Vic Metro, he averaged 28 disposals a game running through the midfield. Similar to Scharenberg & Bontempelli, Lennon is interesting as he fits the needs of afew clubs, could go to Pies at 6 or Brisbane at 7 easily. Lennon is a more natural forward than those two though as he can take a nice grab for his size and knows where the goals are. Others in the mix: Scharenberg, Bontempelli, Salem, Freeman
10.
CHRISTIAN SALEM – COLLINGWOOD – 183CM- 81KG-
A strong and damaging midfielder by foot, Salem can hurt the opposition with pinpoint kicks inside 50. He averaged 15 disposals and a goal in his four games at the Under-18 Championships and was noted for his competent decision-making. A close mate of another highly fancied midfielder, Josh Kelly, Salem's size makes him dangerous in and around the contest. Is a good overhead mark and, when the opportunity arises, rarely misses when in front of goal. Good in the clinches or just as good on the outside of the packs with his great disposal efficiency. Great ball user and a clever player too. Could easily start out as a rebounding backman before moving to the midfield once his body fills out. Others in the mix: Lennon, Bontempelli, Freeman, Crouch.
11.
DOM SHEED – WEST COAST – 184CM – 83KG-
A Western Australian midfielder who won the Larke Medal for the best division one player in the Under-18 Championships, despite suffering a broken collarbone. Sheed wins his own footy around stoppages; a telling reflector of his strong work ethic. Despite not displaying prolific speed, he has a mature body and is expected to feature in his first year in the AFL system. The left-footer is also catching the eye of recruiters for his decision-making by both hand and foot, especially in and around traffic. Averaged 28 disposals and six clearances in the Championships and was a dominant force against the other top under-18 talent in the country. Good clearance player, Sheed is the kid that West Coast has set their sights on for some time, is a local kid so is a logical choice, could play immediately too. Others in the mix: nobody...just Sheed
12.
NATHAN FREEMAN – RICHMOND – 182CM- 80KG-
Another genuine clearance specialist with elite endurance and pace, Freeman tested impressively at the NAB AFL Draft Combine. The youngster from the Sandringham Dragons took out the repeat sprint event and came second in the 20m sprint testing, while also recording a top 10 result in the beep test and 3km time trial. An accomplished ball-user on the outside with an explosive change of direction, Freeman also has the ability to find his own ball with his strong build and ability to read the contest. He improved the defensive aspect of his game in 2013 and will be a tantalising prospect for any club looking for a line-breaking midfielder. Tigers would be pretty happy to get Freeman with pick 12. Offers Tigers pure pace, would not be out of place in the top 10 to Dees, Lions or Pies. Others in the mix: Crouch, Taylor & Acres
13.
MATT CROUCH – CARLTON – 180CM- 78KG-
The brother of Adelaide's Brad, Crouch played only two matches with Vic Country throughout this year's NAB AFL Under-18 Championships after breaking his hand. Crouch, who has displayed excellent TAC form when fit, proved his ability in the final round of the Championships with 27 touches against Vic Metro. He was overlooked by GWS in the 2012 mini draft, a decision which surprised many. That gives clubs this season the opportunity to swoop on the prolific inside ball-winner who is expected to be a first-round draft pick. Great ball winner, averaged 37 disp in TAC cup footy in 2013, should inject youth to Carlton’s midfield which is lacking under 20-s Others in the mix: Taylor, Freeman, Dumont.
14.
DARCY GARDINER – GREATER WESTERN SYDNEY – 192CM- 85KG-
An Under 18 All-Australian this year, Gardiner is arguably the best key defender available in a draft generally short on key position players. The 192cm prospect is competitive, resilient, aggressive and a fighter. Though a key defender he has pace to play on the speedier forwards and also offers the versatility to be able to push forward and take a mark if required. His endurance impressed during the U18 champs as he willed himself to contest after contest and threw himself at the ball. Gathered five rebound 50s in three games for Vic Metro. Best key back in the draft, could join Plowman (drafted in 2012) as the Giants long term key backmen of the future. Others in the mix: Taylor, Acres, Dumont.
15.
BLAKE ACRES – SYDNEY – 189CM- 84KG-
A versatile prospect with good endurance, Acres has shown he can adapt to any role asked of him. A shoulder injury suffered early in the season threatened to derail his NAB AFL Under-18 Championships for Western Australia, but he returned for the last two games of the carnival and made a handy contribution. Having spent time playing senior football for West Perth, Acres showed he is equally adept at rebounding off half-back and cutting up opposition sides with his slick disposal. Strong overhead and wins the football on the inside and outside. Could have gone a little higher, his height makes him very versatile and if available I don’t see the Swans passing him up Others in the mix: Taylor, Gardiner, Lobb, Crouch.
16.
TOM CUTLER – GEELONG – 190CM- 85KG-
Medium midfielder with good game sense and ability to hit targets consistently by hand or foot. Can play on talls and smalls due to his athleticism and reads the ball in flight particularly well. Makes smart decisions when he comes off his man to affect the contest or win the ball back. I decided to go with a defender/midfielder for this pick as it may be the area the Cats look to as part of future planning. Similar to Enright/Mackie as can play on talls and smalls. But also go in the middle as has similar attibutes to James Kelly and Joel Corey. Smart Cats choice if available. If Acres is available though, I can see Geelong taking Acres ahead of Cutler. Others in the mix: Acres, Gardiner, Dumont, Dunstan.
17.
CAMERON MCCARTHY – FREMANTLE – 193CM- 85KG-
Compared to Nat Fyfe, the leaping West Australian turned to footy in his teens, having come from a cricket background. An impressive NAB AFL Under-18 Championships catapulted him into top-20 contention. He stepped up to deliver the game-winning goal against Vic Country in round four of the Championships, before suffering a broken leg in the final round against South Australia. A great mark and shot for goal, he is also highly rated for his ability to read the ball in flight. The obvious choice, local kid and a long term key forward prospect, still very raw but has great hands. Others in the mix: Marsh, Harvey.
18.
TRENT DUMONT – ST KILDA – 186CM- 83KG-
Hard, tough and with a little bit of dash, Dumont could step easily into the AFL system having starred in Norwood's recent SANFL premiership, collecting 20 disposals in a close to best on ground performance. Dumont has a damaging right foot and his experience against mature bodies in the SANFL will hold him in good stead. He is expected to be selected inside the top 20. Part of the supreme South Australian midfield group, Dumont averaged 17.2 disposals in the NAB AFL Under-18 Championships. Hard at it mid, fills a need for Saints as part of their midfield rebuild for post Hayes/Montagna and thrown in with Aish or Billings it would equal a great draft for Saints with the next pick still to come too Others in the mix: Hartung, Taylor, Dunstan
19.
JONATHON MARSH – ST KILDA – 192CM- 87KG-
Marsh threw himself into contention after a great NAB AFL Under-18 Championships with Western Australia. His performance against the Northern Territory, where he gathered 22 possessions and kicked four goals, raised eyebrows from talent scouts around the country. The younger brother of Sydney Swan Harry Marsh, who was taken with pick No.46 in the 2012 NAB AFL Draft, Marsh offers plenty of upside for clubs looking for a forward. At the Draft Combine, Marsh won the 20m sprint with a time of 2.78s and finished third in the repeat sprints in a time of 24.18s. Pace and height, long term 3rd forward prospect, Marsh is considered the smokie of the draft, some even think he could squeeze into top 15 with Carlton and Richmond very keen. Others in the mix: Hartung, Dunstan, Taylor, Hourigan
20.
LEWIS TAYLOR – GOLD COAST – 173CM- 73KG-
Powerful and quick, Taylor elevated himself into high-end draft contention with a superb NAB AFL Under-18 Championships. The Vic Country captain averaged 25 disposals while operating at 78 per cent disposal efficiency rate throughout the Championships; an effort which saw him claim All Australian honours. At only 173cm, he has drawn comparisons with Roo Brent Harvey with his ability to cut sides up throughout the middle of the ground with his pace and elite endurance. Missed the Geelong Falcons' finals campaign and the NAB AFL Draft Combine with a stress fracture in his foot, but many predict he has already done enough to see him selected inside the top 10. Very unlucky not to go higher, but is hard to place because of his height. I settled on the Gold Coast who I think will go for best midfielder available at this pick. It would not surprise if he went to Sydney at 15 or even Carlton at 13. Others in the mix: Dunstan, Hartung, Z Jones.
21.
LUKE DUNSTAN – PORT ADELAIDE – 185CM- 83KG-
Highly touted for his ability to play the game, Dunstan also boasts leadership credentials likely to see him selected inside the top 20. The Woodville-West Torrens product was captain of the victorious South Australian team in the NAB AFL Under-18 Championships, also winning All-Australian honours. Dunstan averaged 23 disposals of which almost 40 per cent were contested, making him a joint winner of SA's MVP award. He has been sidelined of late by a leg injury, marking a disappointing end to a solid year, but it is an injury which will have little bearing on his draft position. Port would be wrapped to throw Dunstan into their midfield group, they get a natural leader and if he teamed with Boak-Wines-Hartlett-Ebert it would be a very disciplined and hard midfield unit for the Power. Another one that could go earlier. Others in the mix: Z Jones, Hourigan, Cripps.
22.
BILLY HARTUNG – BRISBANE – 177CM- 75KG-
Hartung turned heads at the NAB AFL Combine by running a 16.6 in the beep test to break the record held previously by Hawthorn's Bradley Hill. However, he brings more than just the ability to run all day. An Uner-18s All Australian, Hartung is quick and possesses great evasive skills, and can be relied upon to hit up a target when the ball is in his hands. Despite being known as an excitement machine who loves to take the game on, the Dandenong Stingray showed he possessed the defensive skills to quell the influence of likely top-two pick James Aish in the NAB AFL Under-18 Championships. Has the ability to push forward and kick long goals on the run. Similar to Lewis Taylor in that he has been rated by many as a top 20 choice, elite endurance that would improve the Lions midfield which in need of a semi-rebuild with the loss of so many young mids this year. Others in the mix: Z Jones, Cripps, Templeton
23.
DANIEL MCSTAY – ADELAIDE – 194CM- 88KG-
Athletic, tall defender with competitive nature. Has the ability to shut down opposition forwards while providing good counter-attack. Hits targets on his preferred left foot. Can also play as a lead-up forward with good effect due to his strong marking and versatility. Was a very hard choice but i finally settled on McStay as the man with the long term view of replacing Rutten at Adelaide. Would not surprise though if Zak Jones or Patrick Cripps went at this pick though. Others in the mix: Cripps, Z Jones, Harvey, J Kolodashnij
24.
ZAK JONES – HAWTHORN – 181CM- 76KG-
Jones' draft chances skyrocketed with an incredibly consistent 2013 season. A medium-sized defender who is rarely beaten, Jones has the ability to play on both the small and tall forwards thanks to his closing speed and solid contested marking. Had an outstanding 2013 NAB AFL Under-18 Championships and was subsequently named as Vic Country's Most Valuable Player, as well as being selected in the All Australian team of the carnival. The younger brother of Melbourne star Nathan, Jones has been likened to Collingwood's Alan Toovey in the way he can both shut down an opponent and rebound from defence. Strong overhead for his size and a good decision-maker. Hard at it warrior type. Can play as lock down backman or in the engine room. Fills a need in replacing Guerra, long term could be seen as a midfielder to replace the Sewell-Mitchell types. Others in the mix: Garlett, Harvey, Templeton
25.
MITCH HARVEY – BRISBANE – 197CM- 95KG-
At 197cm and 92kg, Harvey could be selected to slot straight in at AFL level as a forward rotating through the ruck. A strong contested mark, the North Adelaide product displayed fantastic athleticism in the NAB AFL Under-18 Championships, where he also showcased his improving ruckwork. Harvey is the nephew of former Adelaide recruiting manager, now Collingwood recruiting assistant, Matt Rendell. I know Brisbane have S Martin-Lisle-Paine etc... but Harvey’s 197cm frame sets him apart when combined with his athleticism. Could go as high as 21 to Port Adelaide if the Power see their need for a tall forward greater than their need of a mid. Others in the mix: J Kolodashnij, Cripps, Kennedy-Harris
