Draft Talk

[Kildonan]

Small Midfielders:

Name            State  Club              Ht    Wt
Adams Leigh      VIC   Eastern          176    83
Bird Craig       NSW   Nelson Bay       177    75
Collard Clayton  WA    Sth Fremantle    177    80
Djerrkura Nathan NT    Wanderers        174    75
Hayes Daniel     VIC   Eastern          
Jetta Leroy      WA    Sth Fremantle    175    73
Kiel Haydyn      QLD   Southport        178    79
Moss Garry       WA    East Perth       178    68
Thomas Lindsay   SA    Port Adelaide    178    77
Ross Ben         VIC   Gippsland        177    75

 

[Kildonan]

Tall Defenders

Name            State  Club              Ht    Wt
Austin Mark      SA    Glenelg           194   83
Brown Nathan     VIC   Nth Ballarat      194   89
Collier Tom      TAS   Lauderdale        192   86
Currie Daniel    VIC   Northern Knights  199   90
Everitt Andrejs  VIC   Dandenong         193   76
Frawley James    VIC   Nth Ballarat      192   81
Grose Gavin      QLD   Mt Gravatt        193   85
Hansen Lachlan   VIC   Gippsland         195   92
McKenzie Eric    WA    Claremont         195   91
Schofield Will   VIC   Geelong Falcons 
Thomson James    WA    Claremont         193   80
White Jesse      QLD   Southport         197   95

Tall Forwards

Name            State  Club              Ht    Wt
Allen Jarryd     VIC   Calder            192   85
Brown Mitchell   VIC   Nth Ballarat      193   92
Dawes Chris      VIC   Sandringham       194   101
Garland Colin    TAS   North Hobart      193   84
Gumbleton Scott  WA    Peel              195   92
Lee Alex         VIC   Dandenong         192   86
Reid Ben         VIC   Murray            193   81
Riewoldt Jack    TAS   Clarence          193   84
Tarrant Robert   VIC   Bendigo 
Thorp Mitchell   TAS   Northern Bombers  195   85

 

[Kildonan]

Grub29 has updated his list:

TOP 75 AS AT 16/10/06

1 Bryce Gibbs (Glenelg)
2 Scott Gumbleton (Peel Thunder)
3 Lachlan Hansen (Gippsland Power)
4 Mitchell Thorp (Northern Bombers)
5 Joel Selwood (Bendigo Pioneers)
6 Matthew Leuenberger (East Perth)
7 Leroy Jetta (South Fremantle)
8 James Sellar (Glenelg)
9 Albert Proud (Mt.Gravatt)
10 Jack Riewoldt (Clarence)
11 Clayton Collard (South Fremantle)
12 Daniel Connors (Bendigo Pioneers)
13 Broc O’Brien (Peel Thunder)
14 Ricky Petterd (Broadbeach)
15 Tom Hislop (Burnie Dockers)
16 Ben Reid (Murray Bushrangers)
17 Clinton Benjamin (Claremont)
18 David Armitage (Morningside)
19 Eric MacKenzie (Claremont)
20 Chris Schmidt (West Adelaide)
21 Bachar Houli (Western Jets)
22 Nathan Brown (North Ballarat Rebels)
23 Tom Hurley (Sturt)
24 Brent Renouf (Southport)
25 Tom Hawkins (Sandringham Dragons)
26 Jarryd Allen (Calder Cannons)
27 Mitchell Brown (North Ballarat Rebels)
28 Garry Moss (East Perth)
29 Gavin Urquhart (Morningside)
30 Andrejs Everitt (Dandenong Stingrays)
31 Kurt Tippett (Southport)
32 Shaun Grigg (North Ballarat Rebels)
33 Jarryd Morton (Claremont)
34 Tom Collier (Lauderdale)
35 Jarrod Harbrow (Murray Bushrangers)
36 Nathan Djerrkura (Wanderers)
37 Caleb Mourish (East Fremantle)
38 Travis Boak (Geelong Falcons)
39 James Hawksley (Peel Thunder)
40 Daniel Dzufer (Caloundra)
41 Rhyce Prismall (Western Jets)
42 Todd Pfeiffer (North Adelaide)
43 Daniel O’Keefe (Geelong Falcons)
44 Robert Eddy (Gippsland Power)
45 Jackson Sheringham (Geelong Falcons)
46 Joshua Kennedy (Sandringham Dragons)
47 Tim Houlihan (North Ballarat Rebels)
48 Grant Weeks (Bendigo Pioneers)
49 Sam Jacobs (Woodville-West Torrens)
50 Nathan Krakouer (Claremont)
51 Shawn Colbung (East Perth)
52 Dean Kelly (Oakleigh Chargers)
53 Ben Ross (Gippsland Power)
54 Shaun Hampson (Mt.Gravatt)
55 Leigh Adams (Eastern Ranges)
56 James Frawley (North Ballarat Rebels)
57 Chris Smith (Mt.Gravatt)
58 Jesse White (Southport)
59 Colin Garland (North Hobart)
60 Sam Sheldon (Oakleigh Chargers)
61 Sam Fielding (Clarence)
62 Tom Holmes (Glenelg)
63 David Mackay (Oakleigh Chargers)
64 Alwyn Davey (South Adelaide)
65 Justin Westhoff (Central Districts)
66 Nathan Batsanis (Oakleigh Chargers)
67 Robert Gray (Oakleigh Chargers)
68 Joseph Anderson (Darwin)
69 Daniel Currie (Northern Knights)
70 Chris Dawes (Sandringham Dragons)
71 Shane Edwards (North Adelaide)
72 Matthew Vasilevski (Northern Knights)
73 Jarryn Geary (Bendigo Pioneers)
74 Brent Connelly (Gippsland Power)
75 Craig Bird (NSW/ACT Rams)

I'll be back in a fortnight.

 

[MCG-Unit]

Great work St Kildonan - where could we obtain the lists for Victorian players invited to the Draft Camp - and those who attended the Vic state screenings..........

 

[Kildonan]

I've tried JH, but have not found them yet.

I have found a poster who referred to the Vic results in a post, but he hasn't answered my PM yet.

 

[bob down]

Grub29 has updated his list:

Albert Proud wont be going to the Saints. Showed up overweight at the draft camp and dissapointed in most of the testing.

 

[Kildonan]

I wonder if the draft camp showing was a deliberate attempt to allow him fall down the list.
(Could it be draft tampering?)

I mean who turns up to the draft camp (the eqivalent of an interview for possibly the biggest job opportunity of their life) less than fully prepared (without a valid reason)?

 

[macca69]

Albert Proud wont be going to the Saints. Showed up overweight at the draft camp and dissapointed in most of the testing.

He has had a shocking run with injuries this year, but is still very talented and I'd say his work-ethic is generally pretty good. However he may well have slacked off a little bit in the hope of slipping the Brisbane's second pick.

 

[Kildonan]

Top ten from each state according to FootyGoss:

WA Top 10

1. Scott Gumbleton - Peel Thunder
The highly-touted 18-year-old looks to be the complete centre half forward - strong contested mark, thin yet surprisingly strong and powerful. Made the successful transition to Peel's league side this season, including 5 Sandover Medal votes in the season-opener. U18 All-Australian this year and appears to be the most outstanding key forward in the draft.

2. Matthew Leuenberger - East Perth
The 18-year-old joins South Australian James Sellar as the most talented ruckmen available at this year's draft. Named the starting ruckman in the U18 All-Australian side after dominating at the national championships. Played at league level for the Royals this season, but was eligible to play in the colts' finals campaign, where he showed just why he is the best young ruckman in the country. 10 possessions and 29 hitouts in the Royals' grand final win earned Leuenberger the Mel Whinnen Medal for best on ground. Registered a 3.02sec 20m sprint time at draft camp, placing in the top 40 per cent, which is unexpected for a 202cm ruckman. Has drawn comparisons to West Coast star Dean Cox and will figure among the top 10 selections at least.

3. Leroy Jetta - South Fremantle
Freakishly quick midfielder/forward pocket who takes players on and breaks games open. Perhaps suited more to the forward pocket, where he displays his outstanding goal sense. Also an U18 All-Australian this year and finished in the top 10 in the Prendergast Medal for the reserves best and fairest. An almost definite top 10 hope.

4. Clayton Collard - South Fremantle
Almost in the same mould as teammate Jetta but is taller and more suited to the midfield. Played nine league games in 2006 including 18 possessions, nine marks and five goals against Swan Districts. Suffering from osteitis pubis, which restricted him at draft camp, but should still be a top 15 selection with a chance of going in the top 10.

5. Eric Mackenzie - Claremont
Key position player more suited to a role in defense. Excellent skills, damaging on the rebound and very impressive bodywork when opposed to a key forward. Has the ability to play at either end and should be snapped up by West Coast if he is not selected earlier in the draft.

6. Clint Benjamin - Claremont
Versatile utility who can also play as a forward or defender. Good endurance and speed for a 187cm utility. Played predominantly as a key defender at the U18 national championships this year. Only question is disposal, but should be a top 20 selection at least.

7. Brock O'Brien - Peel Thunder
Physical midfielder/half back flanker in the same mould Brock McLean. Thrives on physical contests and impressed at last two national championships at U18 level. Also played a handful of games in Peel's league side. Not lightning quick but has solid pace and appears physically ready to make the next step. A definite top 20 hope.

8. Jarryd Morton - Claremont
Brother of West Coast's Mitch Morton and son of Claremont legend Noel, a utility who plays at either end of the ground. Finished with an impressive 39 goals from 16 games in the colts, including a seven-goal haul against South Fremantle early this year. Solid at the national championships when playing predominantly in defense. Should be a second or third-round selection.

9. James Hawksley - Peel Thunder
Doesn't have the same profile as many of the other highly-touted Sandgropers but has a good combination of pace and height. Can be used on a wing or half-back flank, but more suited to a role in defense. Member of the 2005 AIS/AFL academy. Ran a solid 12.11sec at the state screening. Should be an early second or third-round selection.

10. Garry Moss - East Perth
U18 WA captain and All-Australian this year. Fairly small but has great ball-winning ability and is clever around goals. Played eight league games for the Royals after an impressive pre-season. Showed ability to adjust to league football, averaging 15 disposals in his eight games, including 26 against Perth. Also should be a second or third-round pick.

Victoria Top 10

1. Lachlan Hansen – Gippsland
Courageous key position player with one of the best contested marks in this year’s draft pool. Played at all positions down the spine during the U18 national championships but looks more suited to a defensive role. Dominates his opponents and does not drop many marks. Showed his amazing courage and hunger for the ball when getting knocked out in a national championships game while running back into a pack. One of five Vic Country players selected in the U18 All-Australian side. Excellent endurance and is freakishly athletic for his size. Minor hip surgery won’t stop Hansen from being drafted in the top five, while he is also considered a chance to go No.1.

2. Joel Selwood – Bendigo
One of the classiest young inside midfielders to come through the draft, brother of West Coast’s Adam and Brisbane’s Troy. Cool and composed in the stoppages, where he does his best work extracting the ball and winning possession. Physically tough player who centres aggression on winning the hard ball. Prefers to feed possessions to outside midfielders and running players in the same mould as Western Bulldogs star Daniel Cross. Excellent leadership skills also make him a more attractive prospect. Missed this year’s championships due to injury. Could be selected anywhere in the top 10.

3. Nathan Brown – North Ballarat
Another key position prospect more suited to a defensive role. Hard at the ball, great closing speed and damaging on the rebound. Vic Country MVP and U18 AA fullback at this year’s championships. Played forward at times for Rebels but clearly preferred option would be at fullback or centre half back. Could sneak into the top 10 or could be picked up anywhere from pick 10 to 25.

4. Daniel Connors – Bendigo
Quick inside midfielder, courageous and outstanding disposal. Has the ability to get the hard ball at stoppages as well as receive possession on the outside while using his pace to break the lines. Could also develop into a floating half back flanker, but has more upside as an inside midfielder. Strong overhead and a strong-bodied player. Tackling is only question mark but will most likely go between pick 10 and 20.

5. Bachar Houli – Western Jets
Tremendous, damaging skills for a small midfielder. Despite small size, Houli is hard at the ball and is superb in contested situations. Very smart player with outstanding vision and awareness. Missed out on U18 AA selection despite impressing at the championships. Struggled with ankle and back injuries in 2005 but had an injury-free 2006 season. Could be selected anywhere between pick 10 and 25.

6. Ben Reid – Murray Bushrangers
Tall, skinny key position player with huge upside and potential. Impressive at the U16 championships in 2005. Good set of hands, can take a contested mark, good leap and is very mobile and athletic for his size. Good defensive rebounder but can also play as a key forward. At 17 years of age, Reid is only just eligible for this year’s draft, so he has tremendous potential to develop into a solid key position player. Most likely selected between pick 16 and 30.

7. Jarryd Allen – Calder
U18 AA while representing Vic Metro at the national championships earlier this year. Versatile key position player who can play at either end of the ground. Could settle at centre half back in AFL. Could definitely be a huge bolter on draft day with the potential to go anywhere from top 20 to top 35.

8. Mitch Brown – North Ballarat
Brother of Nathan Brown, both in the same mould – key position players who can play at either end of the ground. Starred when swung forward in a championships match against WA. Big, strong body who loves the contest, in similar mould to Demon Brad Miller. Should also be selected somewhere after pick 20 which is a high-value pick for the club that picks him up.

9. Jarrad Harbrow – Murray Bushrangers
Can play as an inside or outside midfielder. Greatest assets are pace, kicking and goal sense. Didn’t have an extremely impressive championships campaign or draft camp but goalkicking midfielders can be invaluable. Should be selected somewhere after pick 25.

10. Grant Weeks – Bendigo
Key position player who finished runner up in Bendigo’s best and fairest this season. Tall flanker who developed into more of a full forward at the Pioneers in 2006. Presents to contests well and is good overhead. Accuracy in front of goal is one of his only weaknesses. Best suited to a half forward flank or lead-up centre half forward role. Most likely selected somewhere after pick 30.

*Tom Hawkins and Josh Kennedy were not considered as they will be picked up via the father/son rule.

South Australia Top 10

1. Bryce Gibbs – Glenelg
More of a natural footballer than an athlete but possesses freakish skills. Played senior footy for Glenelg in 2005 and 2006. One of only two South Australians that made the U18 AA side this year and was named SA’s MVP. Genuine midfielder, not lightning quick, but football ability and awareness make up for that. Can also be effective as a goalkicking wingman. Easily one of the best players if not the best in this year’s draft pool and with Carlton committing to Cain Ackland, Gibbs should be the No.1 pick.

2. James Sellar – Glenelg
Ruckman/key forward who has smooth skills for a key position player. Solid athleticism and is effective in contested situations. Good leap evident with a top 10 finish in the vertical leap at this year’s draft camp. Height could be the only question mark as to whether he can ruck at AFL level or will be a key forward. Dominated the 2005 U16 championships but failed to impress in this year’s U18 championships, when he reportedly suffered due to a bout of the flu. An almost definite top 10 selection with the potential to sneak into the top five.

3. Chris Schmidt – West Adelaide
Classy midfielder that showed his potential at the 2005 U16 championships where he was SA’s third best player behind Gibbs and Sellar. Suited to roles in the midfield, wing or forward flanks. Very smart footballer with excellent disposal. With Sellar out of form, Schmidt was clearly SA’s second best at the U18 championships. Top 10 in handspan testing at draft camp. Good overhead for a midfielder and has a strong mark. Most likely a second-round selection.

4. Tom Hurley – Sturt
SA U18 captain and U18 AA. Consistent ball winner with excellent pace and evasive skills. Draft stocks boosted by dominant championships performance this year. Suited to a role as inside midfielder with ability to win possession from stoppages. Kicking lacks penetration and precision at time but is a genuine ball magnet. Could be a first-round selection, more likely a second-rounder.

5. Alwyn Davey – South Adelaide
Outstanding small crumbing forward, brother of Melbourne star Aaron. Explosive pace and excellent defensive pressure. Has reportedly attracted interest from Port Adelaide and Melbourne. Was a disappointment until around July when he exploded onto the scene in the SANFL. Could go anywhere from the third-round onwards.

6. Sam Jacobs – Woodville-West Torrens
Only Woodville-West Torrens representative for SA at the U18 championships this year. Genuine ruckman who is mobile and works well with midfielders. Strong mark and good size. Played league football for the Eagles in the SANFL this season. Excellent work around the ground. Worth a mid-to-late round pick.

7. Zac Millar – North Adelaide
Former AIS/AFL academy member with skill and talent. Suited to a role either as a half forward flanker of midfielder. Deadly goal sense and excellent disposal. Well built and hard at the ball. Questions over his lack of endurance ability to do the one-percenters. Most likely a late-round pick.

8. Justin Westhoff - Central
Centre half forward prospect with a long, precise kick and strong mark. 19-year-old who played at league level in the SANFL this season. Terrific height for a key forward prospect but would need to add weight. If he can add around 10kg to his frame he would have tremendous upside for which ever club picks him up. Also a likely late-round pick.

9. Shane Edwards – North Adelaide
Terrific athletic qualities for a skinny midfielder. Hard working on-baller and despite skinny frame is a very good tackler (11 tackles in SANFL preliminary final). Third in the beep test at the draft camp. Outstanding endurance and aggression, but small size could see him drop to a late-round pick.

10. Todd Pfeiffer – North Adelaide
Played at league level in the SANFL but had an extremely disappointing U18 championships campaign. Class player who is poised and has great skills. Smart player, ball magnet and can drift forward and kick goals. Worth a late-round pick.

Allies Top 10

1. Mitch Thorp - Tasmania
One of the most talented and versatile key position players in this year's draft crop, can play at either end of the ground. Didn't have a great season for Tasmania in the VFL, but shined at the U18 national championships with All-Australian selection as well as Tasmania's MVP award. Almost a certainty to be selected in the top five.

2. Albert Proud - Queensland
Pacey midfielder who knows how to find the ball. Superb combination of pace, aggression and hardness. Experienced injury problems this year. Can play both as an inside and outside midfielder, enjoys breaking the lines and taking players on. Likely to go in the top 10.

3. Jack Riewoldt - Tasmania
Excellent season in Tasmania's VFL league side, overshadowing teammate Thorp. Cousin of St Kilda star Nick, more suited to a key forward role. One of the best contested marks in this year's draft pool. A chance to sneak into the top 10, but a definite top 15 selection.

4. David Armitage - Queensland
U18 All-Australian, another quick, skilled midfielder who helped Queensland capture the division two title at the championships. Knows how to find the footy and courage cannot be questioned. Stocks on the rise after best agility test in the country at draft camp. Also finished top 10 in beep test and 3km time-trial. An outside chance to sneak into the top 10 but a definite top 20 selection.

5. Kurt Tippett - Queensland
Relatively unknown until he exploded in the AFLQ finals in the Southport league side. Another basketball convert, suited to a key forward role and has shown the ability to assist in the ruck. Agile for a big man and deadly in front of goal. Impressed with four goals in the Rising Stars Cup. Should be a top 20 selection.

6. Tom Hislop - Tasmania
U18 All-Australian, physically tough inside midfielder. Good natural footballer, excellent skills with both hand and foot and impressive size for a midfielder. Most likely a top 20 pick.

7. Ricky Petterd - Queensland
Highly-rated midfielder after claiming the Harrison Medal for best player in division two at the national championships. Another Queensland representative in the U18 All-Australian side. Relatively quiet in the AFLQ but has smooth skills and leadership qualities. Chance to go in the first round but more likely to slip to the second round.

8. Brent Renouf - Queensland
Excellent form in the AFLQ finals for Southport, highly-rated ruckman who is easily one of the best talls to come out of Queensland this year. Showed flexibility when playing in the ruck and as a key defender in Southport's AFLQ grand final win. Top 10 in the vertical leap and 3km time-trial at the draft camp. A late first-round/early second-round selection.

9. Nathan Djerrkura - Northern Territory
NT MVP and its only representative in the U18 All-Australian side at the national championships. Impressive in the Rising Stars Cup win for the Allies with 23 disposals. Excellent draft camp,
finishing top 10 in agility, 30m repeat sprints, 20m sprint and beep test. Most likely a second-round selection.

10. Craig Bird - New South Wales/ACT
The captain and MVP for NSW/ACT at the U18 national championships, also their only All-Australian representative. Hard-working inside midfielder with 27 disposals in the Rising Stars Cup match. Could go anywhere in the draft and would be a handy asset with great work in the stoppages.

 

[Kildonan]

Weaver is renowned for his well researched phantom drafts
He has earned the respect of most here on BigFooty

2003 effort
2004 effort
2005 effort

List from July this year

Weaver's 2006 Phantom Draft

1. Bryce Gibbs (Carlton). This is an era of dominant midfielders and Gibbs is by far the brightest midfield prospect available. Genuinely football smart and takes up intelligent, dangerous positions, accumulates high kick numbers, uses the ball superbly and creates and kicks goals. Not a speedster and probably not a hard-ball player; very much in the Ben Cousins or Nick Stevens playmaker mould. Will play next year and will be a preseason favourite for the Rising Star. At 187cm he is very much the modern midfielder who could develop into a Lenny Hayes type centre square presence.

2. Lachlan Hansen (Essendon). The Bombers have the tough task of choosing between an elite ruckman (Leuenberger), a superb CHF (Gumbleton) or the best CHB prospect we’ve seen in a few years. Hansen is the lowest risk and most ready to play quickly. Struggled at CHF and his best junior football has been rucking – which he won’t do in the AFL. With their lack of key defensive options and an ageing Fletcher, they could play safe. Gumbleton has more raw talent and Leuenberger is the other contender. Hansen is a good reader of the play and has genuine football nous.

3. Scott Gumbleton (Kangaroos). With Hale, McIntosh and Moran the Roos are unlikely to take Leuenberger. Aside from that they pretty much need everything. Gumbleton is the kind you can build a forward line around. Tall, athletic, covers a lot of ground, has a good leap. Will muscle out into a very solid player in time. Shapes as a genuine CHF in the Nick Reiwoldt mould. Isn’t shy of the contest as a couple of the recent early-round bigmen have been.

4. Albert Proud (Brisbane). Brisbane love ruckmen but will have an eye on the QLD trio Tippett, Renouf and Hampson with later picks. They have declared midfield as a priority, which leaves them to choose between Selwood, Proud and Connors. Proud is the best QLD midfielder since Akermanis and Voss. Wins more hardball than Selwood and O’Keefe. Is tough as teak and quicker than Selwood. If one of the top-3 surprises, Hansen could see the Lions replace Leppitsch and Michael.

5. Matthew Leuenberger (Port Adelaide). Port pair Lade and Brogan are both 28+. By the time Leuenberger is 22 he will be ready to replace them as a genuine number 1 ruckmen in a team in which the ruckman plays an important role. He is tall, quick and agile with good skills and the ability to dominate games. His ruckwork is well developed for his age – he generally palms to advantage. Can be a bit hesitant to always throw himself at his opponent. Probably second only to Gibbs in terms on long-term potential – but ruckmen are always a gamble and long-term investment. Is the most likely candidate to be a spanner in the works and could go as high as 1.

6. Joel Selwood (Hawthorn). Selwood is a high-possession running player similar to Shane Crawford. He doesn’t have pure leg speed and his kicking can be hit and miss. He gets teams going forward and can be sharp in tight spaces. Very good a metre or two off the pack. A genuine playmaker and a good choice to put in the centre between wingmen Ellis and Muston. A year-long knee injury may see his value drop, but not too far. Has good leadership qualities.

7. Daniel Connors (Geelong). Connors has the appeal of being able to play both inside and outside. In close he has quick reflexes, vision and awareness to thread handballs through gaps only he sees. Outside he can tuck the pill under his arm, carry and kick with penetration and accuracy. Also has a handy high-mark in his locker. Not completely dissimilar to Heath Black and should be a solid third / fourth best midfielder in the AFL for 150 games. Ordering the midfielders is always tough but Connors should be one of the first to go.

8. Mitch Thorp (Collingwood). An intriguing prospect. His best football has been as a ruck-rover, more than a CHF. He could well get caught between the two roles. Best asset is his eagerness to play on after marking – wheeling around like Scott Lucas. Has a play-on style and the running ability of a midfielder. Pies might be gun-shy on Tassie tall forwards after a couple of hiccups. Need a tall forward prospect with Tarrant leaving and Rocca ageing.

9. Daniel O’Keefe (St Kilda). The Saints midfield has class but lacks depth. O’Keefe is the prototypical modern half-back flanker. Covers a large amount of turf, gets large numbers of touches and loses his man effortlessly. He is also a good kick and has a surprising leap. A 40-plus goalkicker from the wing and lead the TAC in uncontested marks by a big margin reflecting his running gamestyle. Finished the season strongly but a knee injury restricted him at the camp.

10. Shane Edwards (Collingwood). Very much an outside winger with electric pace and long-kicking. Loves open-spaces and showed some toughness in the SANFL that belied his light frame. Can be wasteful when he runs too far and doesn’t steady before kicking. Has good form in senior company, finishing the season very strongly and moving up the draft board. Has no left foot which could be a problem.

11. Eric McKenzie (Western Bulldogs). Dogs ran out of big blokes at stages this year and need to plan for Chris Grant not occupying CHB. McKenzie is a traditional tall defender, tall and strong and will be able to play on gorilla forwards. Has deceptively good pace for a bigger player that should allow him to drop into FB as well as playing further from goal. Reasonable kicking skills which is important at the kennel.

12. James Sellar (Melbourne). Will be excused his poor championship and remain regarded as one of the better key forward options. Might be one that could struggle to adapt to the AFL. At 195cm he probably can’t ruck and he lacks the pace for the backline. Up forward he shapes as an old-fashioned lead-up, pack-marking CHF. Superb leadership, good skills. Probably in the Nick Holland, David Schwarz style. A strong young midfield group should see the Dees draft tall.

13. Travis Boak (Richmond). If there is an early run on big blokes Richmond might be in a position to pick the eyes out of the runners. Boak is a classy outside guy who knows where the goals are, has some toe and loves to carry the footy. Is genuinely classy and has match-changing ability. Expect Richmond to go for a pacy midfielder, tough to know which – perhaps Edwards or Houlihan over Boak. Boak has the edge in class and has been on the radar since under-16 days.

14. Tim Houlihan (Adelaide). A stand-out at under-16 level who improved rapidly over the course of the season to be amongst North Ballarat’s best by the time of the finals campaign. At the start of the season a pencil thin winger nervous of traffic, by the close of the season doing superb defensive jobs across half-back. Quick, elite stamina, good skills and runs with the ball. Loves to weave his way down field with baulks. Very much the modern winger. Crows love the taller, running utility types and have based their gameplan around runners.

15. Clinton Benjamin (Sydney). The Swans have hybrid winger/KP players at both ends (O’Keefe, Kenneally, Bolton, O’Loughlin). Benjamin fits that mould. He is super quick, tall, well skilled, and extremely versatile. They don’t need someone to play straight away but he will provide depth in a couple of spots. Has electric pace and is extremely versatile. Needs to learn to kick on his left.

16. Tom Hislop (West Coast). The Eagles tend to take an inside midfielder early every draft Kerr (18), Judd (3), Waters (11), Hurn (13). Hislop would continue that trend and reinforce their midfield dominance. Amitage might be the other option if he slipped. Hislop is a genuine centresquare specialist who thrives in traffic and will be a clearance specialist. No super quick but agile enough to be tough to tackle in tight spaces.

17. Clayton Collard (Carlton). Collard is better but less credentialed than the higher-profile Jetta. Has a hint of Gary Ablett jnr about him. Collard might develop into a midfielder in time and alongside Betts gives the Blues some flair and genuine game-breaking pace and talent across half-forward.

18. David Armitage (Essendon). Pretty well developed player who might not have as much upside as some. Solid, inside type who loves the packs. Hislop would be the other option if he were available. Armitage tested well in camp and his stocks are rising, won the Rising Star award in the QAFL. Bombers centre-square needs surgery and Armitage would replace Jason Johnson in time.

19. Nathan Brown (Carlton) – A solid bodied man-marker, Brown has size and bulk but is deceptively quick. Obvious comparisons to Rutten. Enough speed off the mark to play at fullback as well. Thrives on the physical contest and seems to lift a level after he has been thumped a few times. Brown would free Thornton from FB allow O’hAilpin and Bower to run. Pagan would be keen on the second coming of Mick Martyn.

20. Chris Schmidt (Essendon) - Quite quick with passable skills off the half-back flank. Was second only to Gibbs at the Championship in a poor SA side. Has the right combination of size, speed and skills to be a valuable utility at AFL level. Needs to learn to keep his kicks down and get penetration on them – he kicks too many floaters. Also prone to fumbling which will hurt his chances in the centre square. Courageous in the spoil.

21. Mark Austin (Kangaroos) – Prospective CHB who has impressed at under-16 level, tested well in camp, and is showing impressive development for a bottom age player. Will be amongst the first key position players taken. If the Roos take the CHF Gumbleton early they will be in a good position to lock up the two key position spots. If they take CHB Hansen they may have to reach for Tippett as a FF option.

22. Leroy Jetta (Brisbane). If Tippett, Hampson and Renouf are off the board they may get nervous and go tall. If not Jetta might be the one. Jetta is not as quick as advertised, nor as skilled by foot, nor is he consistent or comfortable winning his own footy. Much better kicking long than when he attempts to pass short. Too much talent to ignore but there are better midfielders ahead of him.

23. Ricky Pettard (Port Adelaide) –Port tends to prefer more size in its midfielders but quality 185cm midfielders may not be available at this selection – they’d be hoping for Hislop, Armitage or Schmidt to fall. Pettard was named Queensland’s best at the Championships, is 184cm and has pace and skill. Still quite light and can be nervous in traffic. Like a lot of the better midfielders thrives in the backline when given time and space to set-up play.

24. Brock O’Brien (Hawthorn). O’Brien is out of fashion. He is probably a Hardwick or Kingsley type solid, tough back-pocket or tagger. Plays a little taller than advertised, uses the ball well. Tough to pick when a player like him will be taken. Really depends on which clubs (if any) are shopping for a specialist back-pocket. The Hawks love his type and might be his new home. WA directed all their defensive rebounding through O’Brien which reflects his matiruity and kicking skills.

 

[Kildonan]

Weaver's 2006 Phantom Draft Cont'd.

25. Rhyce Prismall (Geelong) – Outside forward flanker who made the Metro squad as a bottom ager and shows class and skill. Needs to bulk up and become more physical and win more of his own footy. But at 18 months younger than many of the other draft candidates that is not such a surprise. His brother is already down at the Cattery so expect Geelong to have a close eye on him.

26. James Hawksley (Richmond) – Hawksley is at the moment a lightly-built back-pocket but will develop into a utility winger/defender. The Richmond game plan will be based on rebound from defence and they need defenders like Craig Bolton and Tadgh Kennelly who
can play tall but run and kick.

27. Andrejs Everitt (St Kilda) – Spider’s younger brother is a CHB with a good leap and a good judge of a spoil. Still lightly framed and kicking needs work, but is a dogged defender who would be capable of holding down key defensive spots in a few years. At the moment he prefers to concede front position and go for the spoil, will have to learn to be more aggressive and play in front. Saints need to find more options to support Maguire and Fisher.

28. Kurt Tippett (Collingwood). Tippet is a ruckman / forward. In modern AFL he will probably spend more time in the ruck which might suit the Pies who need a ruck prospect. Tippett has a good leap to go with his height, is physical, can take a contested mark and is handy in the goalsquare. A good option to replace Rocca in time as the tall ruck / forward. Already 19 and bulked up he could play quickly.

29. Todd Goldstein (West Coast) - Elite junior basketballer who crossed to footballer quite late but showed good form in Oakleigh’s premiership side. Genuine 200cm+ guys who can jump and have good skills are valuable. Unlike many other basketball converts he actually has some footy smarts and can take a mark. He needs to hit the gym and lacks acceleration over 20m. The Eagles can afford to be patient. Saints might pinch him at 27 to address their ruck desert.

30. Tom Collier (Melbourne). Extremely athletic tall who can play forward but will probably find his home in defence. Still young and prone to making errors across the backline, particularly attempting kicks which just aren’t on. Demons don’t need him straight away, but have a good record of developing tall defenders.

31. Jackson Sheringham (Fremantle) – Quick wingman or rover who is not shy of carrying the ball and taking people on. Overlooked last year despite showing some good signs. Fremantle need pace and guys who can carry the ball. Sheringham is similar to Schammer and could combine well with him as a roving combination. Freo, more than most clubs, is willing to take on the under-180cm rovers which might help Sheringham.

32. Jarryd Allan (Adelaide) – Impressed late in season 2005 as a rake-thin backman. Started there this season and was in good form. Swung forward late in the season and showed himself to be the best FF in the TAC Cup. Played some important minutes in the ruck and at CHB for Metro. Might not be quite quick or athletic enough to make the jump to AFL as a forward but could be a solid project as a key defender. Adelaide won’t want a gorilla type with Meesan and Maric already on their books.

33. Jack Reiwoldt (Hawthorn) - A slow centreman in a KP player’s body. Takes very short steps when he runs which can give the impression of running on the spot. Gets his marks from superior reading of the play and anticipation. Lack of athleticism should seem him be the dropper in this draft. Doesn’t get gaps on defenders which means he takes too many contested marks, relies on losing opponents in traffic and getting the ball at ground level. Hawks have never been too fussed about athleticism and won’t be shy about calling his name.

34. Shaun Hampson (Brisbane) – Lions will probably want a ruckman and will be keen on the local trio. Hampson is the least publicised but is a good mark, has reasonable skills and is a passable athlete. Deceptively quick for a guy his size but might lose that as he adds the necessary bulk. Reasonable hands at ground level.

35. Ben Reid (Carlton) – Long-term projects as a key forward but at the moment is more likely to be seen on the wing of flanks. Extremely light and tends to show a very much an outside brand of forward play. Not completely dissimilar to Jarrad Waite and will probably remain a player who relies more on skills than pack crashing. Probably 20kg off a playing weight but will be one of the youngest taken.

36. Jarryd Morton (Essendon) – Outside HFF who has been used at CHF and CHB. Will be a 3rd forward or winger in time and has earned comparisons to Andrew Embley who plays a similar style and was similarly raw. Most clubs are prepared to gamble on those athletic types which bring some versatility to the table.

37. Nathan Krakouer (Kangaroos) – Small lightly-framed speedster who is a cousin to the famous family. Tends to play as a small forward or as a winger who stays away from traffic. Impressive draft camp results might catch the eye of clubs looking for a guy with pure speed who can kick goals. Those impressive sprint times from camp might suffer when if he adds the extra 15kg in bulk he will need for AFL duty.

38. Nathan Djerrkurra (Brisbane) – NT player who has been playing his school footy in Melbourne. Deceptively quick although he doesn’t always play with the intensity to highlight the pace. Tested well at camp and can be expected to have more development in him than most having played predominately in school. Has a bit of bulk about him which might have allowed him to bully the Div 2 championships a little where there were a lot of jockeys opposed to him.

39. James Turner (Port Adelaide) – Struggled to look like a genuine key forward but showed good reading of the play and used space inside the forward 50 well to be the best of the SA forwards in the Championships. Likely to be a Steve Johnson style medium forward. Is elusive and classy.

40. Josh Kennedy (Hawthorn) – Built like a tank and plays in straight lines. Will play fairly early in his development. May find elbowing aside Sam Mitchell and Jordan Lewis tough but will be a similar clearance machine to that pair. Some question over whether he is a man against boys and probably lacks the pace to play outside.

41. Tom Hawkins (Geelong) – Second coming of David Neitz right down to the mannerisms and playing style. Is a big genuine power forward with fantastic hands and the ability to take contested pack marks when out-numbered. Showed some good glimpes in the ruck and at 197cm could make a mobile ruckman. Has the footy smarts to go with his muscle, knows when and where to lead and demands the football.

42. Caleb Mourish (Essendon). Everyone’s favourite smokey. Allegedly a tall ruck-rover with exceptional ability. Allegedly on the Essendon radar. Who knows whether he will be taken at all, let alone when. Pick 42 seems good territory for a gamble, any later and they might be gazumped. By all accounts returned extremely dire results at the state screening so don’t be surprised if he is a non-factor on draft day.

43. Shaun Grigg (West Coast) – Superb all-round footballer without any real stand-out qualities. Very much the guy who would get 7 out of 10 in every area without getting a 10 in any. OK pace, skills, marking, goalkicking etc. Played back last year and was a fringe candidate. Rotated between centre and deep forward this year and impressed. That versatility will help him – but he’ll need to become excellent at something to stick in the AFL.

44. Ben Ross (Collingwood). Ross has speed and some flair. Very much an old-style winger / HFF who likes to get amongst the goals. Will start his AFL career as a small-forward. Tackles well which is important in the modern FP. Maybe lacks a little size, can get tagged out of games and needs to work on his defensive side. The Pie midfield is getting quicker and Ross would suit that perfectly.

45. Jarrod Harbrow (Bulldogs) – Unobtrusive midfielder with the knack of finding the perfect pass despite being under pressure. Standing would have dropped after a poor Championship and having his form tail away over the season. Lacks genuine speed and is very much a guy who relies on his vision and kicking skills to get full value from 15 touches a game. Likes a goal. Creative, low-possession player.

 

[Kildonan]

Weaver's 2006 Phantom Draft Cont'd.

46. Gavin Urquhart (Melbourne) – All-Australian 2 years running. Mostly a small half-back although can take a stint in the middle. Is a long kick and has bounced around Queensland a bit so might still have quite a bit more development in him. Has struggled with OP for much of the year.

47. Gary Moss (Essendon) – Elite rover who has quick movement towards the ball from the ruckman’s hands. Good in tight and good vision for the handball and superb decision making. Was captain of WA and shows leadership qualities. Lacks size and pace and it is rare to see vanilla rovers prized come draft day but Moss may be the exception because of those footy smarts.

48. Simon Hogan (Adelaide) – The star of the draft camp registering a series of eye-catching test results - quite possibly enough to vault him ahead of the pack of rovers into the draft proper. Is extremely light and was in truth a fringe midfielder in a very deep Geelong rotation. Spent most of his time floating around the wings and flanks. The Crows are the club of the sports scientists and will have circled his name after camp and could feel they can find a way to use him.

49. Colin Garland (West Coast) – A CHF or CHB who can take a contested mark, but is also a very good kick and plays on when he takes possession. Athletic enough to have a chance in AFL company. Impressed at CHF in the Allies game in one of his better performances of the season demonstrating good marking and mobility.

50. Brent Renouf (Sydney) – Ruckman with the size and athleticism to attract some serious consideration, but poor skills that will scare plenty away. A return to days of ruckmen who handball off every possession to a midfielder to avoid having to kick. Poor kicking in a ruckman can probably be more easily excused than most other spots and Renouf may still be in the mix. Swans might be happy enough to have a ruckman who competes and leaves the skill stuff to their running players.

51. Sam Sheldon (Carlton) – Son of Kenny and eligible under father-son rule but probably not quite worth sacrificing the pick. Is a clever outside wingman. Predominately played school football and missed the tail end of the TAC season with injury – which means he has not had too much exposure. Good athlete with reasonable skills.

52. Leigh Adams (Fremantle) – Tank like rover with deceptive pace. A bit of a concern that he might struggle to keep a playing weight. Good skills, gathers the ball at will and has leadership skills. Also a capable goalkicker when given the chance up forward. Showed a bit last year holding the Eastern defence together as a high-possession back pocket. Eastern were half as good when he wasn’t in the line-up which is a complement to him.

53. Todd Pfeiffer (Kangaroos) – Was rated highly coming into the season but had a poor year and was anonymous at the Championships. May have fallen completely out of calculations but his running and kicking ability should save him. Also managed to force his way into the SANFL seniors and show a little bit of promise. Crows might take him at 48, very much their type of running player.

54. Carl Peterson (Brisbane) – A 19 year old from country WA who was a late arrival in Perth, being invited down as part of the Clontarf Academy program. Missed most of last season with injury and OP but made an impressive 5-goal WAFL debut towards the end of the season. Despite being a year older than most and not coming through the Championship program he is unlikely to be missed. Did enough to win Claremont’s best first year player award. Could well be one who rises up the draft order and spoils many phantom drafts.

55. Lindsay Thomas (Port Adelaide) – Won last year’s SANFL under-17 medal, played well in the championships and showed clean hands in tough conditions and a surprising leap for a shorter rover type. The success of Pearce might prompt Port to be risk a pick on the similar Thomas.

56. Jarryn Geary (Hawthorn) – Classy and tricky half-forward who was surprisingly overlooked for the Country side despite good trial-game showings. After missing Country, went into the midfield and found some white-hot form with a string of best on grounds. Has a knack of swooping on centre clearances and running through the square for goals. OK pace and skills. Tricky around goals.

57. Jason Davenport (Geelong) – Won the equivalent of the Rising Star award in the VFL. A tallish, super-speedy wingman or half-back. Carries the ball, kicks long. Needs to bulk up, improve his stamina and polish the kicking. That said for a late starter in the game he has come on rapidly. Loves a goal off the wing. Perhaps a rookie listing. Cats should take him after his solid VFL form.

58. Will Schofield (Richmond) – Lightly built key defender who showed an ability to step out onto the wing and use his pace and running ability to good effect. Would bulk up and become an AFL fullback. Good leap and has great spoiling technique. More school footy than TAC Cup has kept his profile low, but is perhaps the best pure-spoiler in the draft.

59. Gavin Grose (Bulldogs) – Huge thumping left-foot kick, plays fullback and is a solid performer although by no means a star. Good height, needs some bulk and experience at a higher level. Prepared to run with the footy which the AFL clubs like.

60. Rhys Magin (Richmond) – Young wingman. Very good pace and running ability. Extremely light and would need a lot of patience. Richmond has had a lot of success with the very similar Andrew Raines and might be willing to repeat the exercise if they elect to use this pick.

61. Bachar Houli (St Kilda) – Solidly built midfielder who has great hands and is good in traffic. Has had a never-ending series of injuries that must be a huge concern. Also very solidly built from a young age which helped him thrive against more lightly built opponents. Huge kick for a guy his size. Can be a bit lazy defensively and tends to let his man see plenty of the footy, some pretty ordinary players have beaten him one on one.

62. James Frawley (Melbourne) – Arguably the best pure defender in the draft. Plays tight, is summoned to quieten the oppositions’ best player in each match. Athletic enough to play wings and flanks as well as the 3rd tall defender role. Has the ability to play short on guys like Collard. Very similar to James Clement and would play the same roles. Unfortunately kicking is deplorable which will hurt his chances.

63. Nathan Batsanis (Collingwood) – Fought off stiff competition to claim a spot in the Metro midfield and finished his season superbly to be arguably the best performed centre-square player in Victoria by September. Always fierce competition for rovers’ jobs but Batsansis may have edged ahead of the pack. Perhaps lacks that one stand-out quality to help him get picked, a solid allrounder.

64. Mitchell Brown (Adelaide) – Twin brother of Nathan. Nathan found a niche at fullback after being an adequate FF. While Nathan was thriving Mitchell played ruck and CHF and showed a love for the argy-bargey and packs, earning comparisons to Cam Mooney as a mobile small ruckman. Not overly athletic by modern standards. Could well become a good fullback if given a trial (if Nathan can do it Mitchell probably can as well). Tough as nails – played some of his best football with concussion.

65. Kyle Reimers (West Coast) – Tested well for agility and had some reasonable Championship performances. At 183cm he is AFL height and has versatility in his corner having played all over the ground. All-Australian at under-16 and a member of the Academy which will certainly bring him under consideration.

66. Aaron Edwards (Bulldogs) – Injuries, ill-discipline and a WAFL career at CHB all conspired against Edwards while at the Eagles. In his first VFL season he was a 100-goal fill forward. At only 184cm he is not tall enough to be a traditional FF and probably can’t play elsewhere. Very similar to Medhurst. With the Dogs tooling up for finals football he is ready to go and could release Brad Johnson from permanent full forward duties without the Dogs having to change their gameplan.

67. Tom Sheldon (Carlton) – Nephew of Ken. True winger who struggled for consistency and will need to get fitter to play out full games. Good skills and was amongst the best handful in the Allies game on his wing. With the Blues axing Sporn, Longmuir and co they could be looking to bring in a new batch of receivers. The Sheldon cousins would be a good choice on merit with the added bonus of being popular in the stands.

68. Sam Jacobs (Essendon) – A 200cm ruckman who has supporters in SA but looked a true dinosaur at Championships time. Ruckmen take more development and Jacobs is tall enough to tempt some clubs to work with him. Already 100kg plus is a bit of a concern, generally you’d prefer a teenager to have to put on weight as opposed to sharpen up the puppy fat.

69. Coalan Buckley (Kangaroos) – Winger with a bit of toe, although a bit selfish and a poor kicking action. Gets the ball and can snag a goal. Probably not tidy enough by foot to attract too many fans come draft day.

70. Mitchell Farmer (Brisbane) – The quiet achiever at Calder. The Cannon mosquito fleet will probably be overlooked and their receivers are a bit ho-hum. Farmer is the one who has the running ability, good skills and discipline to do jobs. His versatility, athleticism and skill could see him be a late round bargain, or at the very least a clever rookie list selection.

71. Tas Clingan (Kangaroos) - Only really showed his talent in the finals campaign, which probably translates to rookie consideration at best. Thrived on the HBF where he could run at the contests, fly for spoils, swoop on crumbs and run and bounce. Turns defence into attack with good pace and long kicking.

72. Chris Smith (Hawthorn) – First caught the eye as an effective small FF with a prodigious leap and a knack for the spectacular mark. By season’s end realised that he had to make an impact as a midfielder to get drafted and played some solid running footballer, particularly in the Allies match. He might have done enough to get picked up as a midfielder with some tricks. Very sticky hands when he goes for a speccy.

73. Simon Plummer (Geelong) – Mobile key defender. Solid enough skills that he can be used in the switch of play and trusted as a kick-in target. Prepared to run the footy and kick long. Reasonable man-on-man.

74. David MacKay (Richmond) – Lightly framed and although quick on the running track tends to steady himself and play a lower tempo style. Needs more intensity. Exceptional vision and good kicking skills makes him dangerous even with low possession totals. Will be in the mix for teams looking to develop a highly skilled winger.

75. Daniel Currie (St Kilda) – Lyon got his 200cm ruckman for the present in Gardiner but will probably want one for the future too. Currie has the height and has reasonable skills for a big man. Probably lacks mobility but might be a late round gamble because he is too young to rookie.

76. Ryan Anderson (Collingwood) – One of the best pure rovers running around. Good leader, top pace, kicking could improve but genuinely influences games. A good finals campaign might bump him into draft consideration. If not will be one of the rookies most likely to force his way onto a senior list. Northern without their skipper was just ordinary, Anderson made them a real threat.

77. Dane Avery (Bulldogs) – Elegant backman who always looks poised and casual. Lacks genuine leg speed (in particular acceleration off the mark) and toughness but is a superb kick. Had some midfield stints later in the season. He would thrive in modern football as loose defender or as the go-to guy bringing the ball out of defence like Pat Bowden or Ryan Houlihan.

78. Ben Fagan (Melbourne) – Played as an over-age player in the Tassie Mariners side in the TAC Cup invitation games. Played in the centre and thrived as a tall midfielder who roamed around and used his class to great effect. At senior company has been pigeon-holed as a KP player but that isn’t his go. Needs to develop the stamina to play midfield. Not dissimilar to a Paul Wheatley type. A very stylish player.

79. Jamie McNamara (Fremantle) – Talented back-pocket who showed poise in the Championships. Captained the East Freo colts side. Would be a tagger in the AFL. OK size at 183cm.

80. Alex Hutchins (Adelaide) – Centreman who is a member of the AFL/AIS academy but missed the Championships after not being able to put an early season injury behind him. Reasonable skills but a question mark on his pace and running ability. Perhaps lacks the stand out qualities to lift him above the crowd.

81. Joseph Anderson (West Coast) – Mostly played half-back for NT and was the best performed player for the season. Was tough, kept playing hard when the team struggled, and showed a good leap and no fear flying at the contests. Tested well for pace although didn’t always look quick on the field. A couple of summers building his stamina might fix that.

82. Tom Anderson (Sydney) – Had an impressive championships in the BP and as a bottom ager has time to develop into a rover. Showed good pace and skill, and composure under pressure. Swans love the rovers.

 

[Kildonan]

OWTS and others have done an excellent job compiling a list of ruckmen and when they were taken.

Ruckmen Selected in the National Draft

1999
#1 - Josh Fraser (Collingwood)
#24 - Jason Blake (St Kilda)
#26 (F/S) - Stephen Doyle (Sydney)
#27 - Cain Ackland (Port Adelaide)
#36 - Rhett Biglands* (Adelaide)
#59 - John Barnes* (Essendon)
#74 - Matthew Burton* (Kangaroos)
#77 - Lindsay Smith (Kangaroos)
#82 - Nick Stone (Collingwood)

2000
#2 - Justin Koschitzke (St Kilda)
#29 - Jamie Charman (Brisbane Lions)
#37 - Guy Richards (Collingwood)
#70 - Wayde Skipper (Western Bulldogs)
Rookie Elevation - Dean Cox (West Coast)

2001
#7 - David Hale (Kangaroos)
#15 - Barry Brooks (Port Adelaide)
#22 - Mark Seaby (West Coast)
#34 - Simon O'Keefe (Essendon)
#50 - Paul Salmon* (Essendon)
#72 - Tristan Walker (Collingwood)
#74 - Ricky Mott (Sydney)
Rookie Elevation - Chris Oliver (St Kilda)

2002
#9 - Hamish McIntosh (Kangaroos)
#10 - Jason Laycock (Essendon)
#15 - Nicholas Smith (Melbourne)
#20 - Will Minson (Western Bulldogs)
#24 - Paul Johnson (West Coast)
#28 - Tristan Cartledge (Essendon)
#43 - Cameron Cloke (Collingwood)
#67 - Steven Alessio* (Essendon)
Rookie Elevation - Aaron Sandilands (Fremantle)

2003
#18 - Llane Spaanderman (Brisbane Lions)
#35 - Brent Hall (Collingwood)
#38 (F/S) - Mark Blake (Geelong)
#47 - Andrew Ericksen (Sydney)
#57 - Ricky Mott* (Carlton)
#58 - Ben Hudson* (Adelaide)
#72 - Adrian Deluca* (Carlton)

2004
#8 - John Meesen (Adelaide)
#18 - Cameron Wood (Brisbane)
#33 - Cain Ackland* (St Kilda)
#35 - Fabian Deluca (Port Adelaide)
#40 - Ivan Maric (Adelaide)
#53 - Simon Taylor (Hawthorn)
#58 - Brad Moran (Kangaroos)
#73 - Chris Bryan* (Carlton)

2005
#7 - Patrick Ryder (Essendon)
#18 - Max Bailey (Hawthorn)
#49 - Michael Rix* (St Kilda)
#70 - John Giles (Port Adelaide)

* = Mature age/previous AFL club

 

[Warwick]

Cameron Wood went at 18 in 2004.

 

[Kildonan]

From the Drafts and Trading Board

*Final order.

Round One:

1: Carlton
2: Essendon
3: Kangaroos
4: Brisbane
5: Port Adelaide
6: Hawthorn
7: Geelong
8: Collingwood (from Fremantle via Richmond for Tarrant)
9: St. Kilda
10: Collingwood
11: Western Bulldogs
12: Melbourne
13: Richmond (from Fremantle as part of Polak deal)
14: Adelaide
15: Sydney
16: West Coast

Priority Selections:

17: Carlton
18: Essendon

Round Two:

19: Carlton
20: Essendon
21: Kangaroos
22: Brisbane
23: Port Adelaide
24: Hawthorn
25: Geelong
26: Richmond
27: St. Kilda
28: Collingwood
29: West Coast (from Dogs for McDougall)
30: Melbourne
31: Fremantle
32: Adelaide
33: Hawthorn (from Sydney for Everitt)
34: Brisbane (from Dogs via Eagles for Akermanis)

Round Three:

35: Carlton
36: Essendon
37: Kangaroos
38: Brisbane
39: Port Adelaide
40: Hawthorn (Josh Kennedy)
41: Geelong (Tom Hawkins)
42: Essendon (from Fremanle via Richmond for Solomon)
43: West Coast (from St Kilda for Gardiner)
44: Collingwood
45: Western Bulldogs
46: Melbourne
47: Essendon (from Fremantle for Solomon)
48: Adelaide
49: Sydney
50: West Coast

Round Four:

51: Carlton
52: Fremantle (from Essendon as part of Solomon deal)
53: Kangaroos
54: Brisbane
55: Port Adelaide
56: Hawthorn
57: Geelong
58: Richmond
59: St Kilda (from WCEvia Western Bulldogs for Gardiner)
60: Richmond (from Collingwood as part of Tarrant / Polak deal)
61: Western Bulldogs
62: Melbourne
63: Collingwood (From Richmond via Fremantle as part of Polak/Tarrant deal)
64: Adelaide
65: Sydney
66: Western Bulldogs (from WCE as part of McDougall trade)

Round Five:

67: Carlton
68: Essendon
69: Kangaroos
70: Brisbane
71: Port Adelaide
72: Hawthorn
73: Richmond
74: St Kilda
75: Collingwood
76: Western Bulldogs
77: Fremantle
78: Adelaide
79: Sydney
80: West Coast
81: Carlton
82: Kangaroos

Round Six:
83: Port Adelaide
84: Richmond
85: St Kilda

Round Seven:
86: Port Adelaide
87: St Kilda

Round Eight:
88: Port Adelaide
89: St Kilda

 

[Kildonan]

Important Dates:

Key dates for various stages of the player exchange and draft process:

Draft Camp (Canberra)
October 4 / 5 / 6 Completed

Exchange Period (Trade Week)
Monday October 9 to 2pm Friday October 13, 2006 Completed

List Lodgement One
2pm Tuesday October 31, 2006.
Maximum of 35 players, Rookie Promotions, Father/Son selections, Retained (second-year) Rookies

Draft Nominations Close
2pm Wednesday November 15

List Lodgement Two
2pm Friday November 17

Delisted Players Nominations Close
2pm Wednesday November 22

2006 NAB AFL Draft, held at Victory Room, Telstra Dome
10am Saturday November 25

Uncontracted Listed Players Nominations Close
2pm Tuesday November 28

List Lodgement Three and TPP Estimates; International Rookie Player Nominations
2pm Friday December 1

Delisted Player Nominations Close
2pm Friday December 8

NAB AFL Pre-Season Draft (Microsoft Live Meeting Technology)
10am Tuesday December 12

Nomination of Eligible Rookie Players (Brisbane Lions and Sydney)
10.15am Tuesday December 12

NAB AFL Rookie Draft (Microsoft Live Meeting Technology)
10.30am Tuesday December 12

 

[Bourky23]

armitage i'm happy with that... someone want to post a full bio and details about him

 

[sainter]

From the Burgatron Phantom Draft:

Selection 9

David Armitage

David Armitage may seem a surprise at No.18 - in reality he could easily fall in the top 10 at Collingwood (No.8 or No.10) or St Kilda (No.9) - but the reality with this meeting is that players will slip down the order simply due to the talent on offer. He has even been touted at No.4 for the Brisbane Lions. The Queenslander is clearly in the mix to be selected earlier in the draft, but he also looms as a super 'slider'. Essendon is very keen on Armitage and it will be ready to pounce at No.18 - if he remains there. The Bombers will also consider Krakouer and Petterd. He will certainly be an interesting player to follow in this draft.

Highlights/achievements: Left footed ball winner who can play in the midfield or in defence. Had outstanding AFL Queensland year with Morningside winning competition Rising Star Award. All-Australian at U18 level. Has quick hands, great courage and huge engine. AIS/AFL Academy graduate. Recorded the quickest time for the AFL Agility test at the NAB AFL Draft Camp with 7.88sec. A beep test of 14.2 and a three-km time of 10.35sec saw a ranking in the top 15 per cent of players tested. Originally from Mackay in Queensland.

 

[Bourky23]

thanks sainter! i'm happy then... i just wanted a quick bloke who can use it and he seems to fit that bill

 

[Axcellence]

Originally from Mackay in Queensland.

Here's your claim to fame Stkildonan - local boy from your area heading down to Moorabbin!

Saw his interview back there - dunno, he actually reminds me of Nick Dal Santo (even though he said he was a Rob Harvey type player).

 

[sainter]

Saw his interview back there - dunno, he actually reminds me of Nick Dal Santo (even though he said he was a Rob Harvey type player).

Made me laugh when he was asked to describe what kind of player he was and he said "like Robert Harvey".

Here's your claim to fame Stkildonan - local boy from your area heading down to Moorabbin!

Definitely. Good stuff Stkildonan.

 

[Kildonan]

Here's your claim to fame Stkildonan - local boy from your area heading down to Moorabbin!

Saw his interview back there - dunno, he actually reminds me of Nick Dal Santo (even though he said he was a Rob Harvey type player).

Our whole family are rapt that a kid from this remote region has made it in the big time - and moreso that he is a Saint.

I have seen some footage of him in action in the championships and I am very delighted - it doesn't matter where he's from - the kid can play!

I am saddened that I never noticed him while he was here in Mackay - apparently he played A grade here when he was 14 !!!

He went on to Morningside in Brisbane to further his footy career and was playing A grade there at 16 !!

The Brisbane comp might be underrated in Melbourne, but they have some fine coaches and some very real talent there. It is a great developmental competition - and will provide a greater number of players to the AFL as time goes on.

I was privvy to seeing Gavin Urquhart as a 16 year old and was impressed with his poise and skill. I don't know how I missed seeing Armitage at the same time, but them's the breaks.

 

[bluejay]

Is it true he said he was "like Robert Harvey"? LOL. I've read somewhere that Harvey was his idol. I can't really imagine how must it be to play alongside with your idol. Wow.

Anyway, if he just turns out to be half as good as him, I will be very pleased.

 

[Axcellence]

Anyway, if he just turns out to be half as good as him, I will be very pleased.

That's exactly what the interviewer said... just insert "St Kilda Fans" instead of I"

 

[Kildonan]

Analysing the Draft
25 November 2006
Matt Burgan

ST KILDA
One of three clubs to have seven selections in this draft - equal second most - yet the Saints only opted to use four picks and not utilise No.85, No.87 and No.89. It secured crack Queensland midfielder David Armitage with its first selection at No.9 - he was always in the mix for the Saints at that choice - while speedy defender Brad Howard (No.27) was the first early shock in the meeting. Howard had been speculated as a possible late pick. Key forward Jarryd Allen drifted down the pecking order and proved to be a good acquisition at No.59, while the Saints redrafted defender Matthew Ferguson, who was riddled with various injuries in 2006 and didn't add to his eight-game tally from 2003-05. Armitage is the standout in what turned out to be a relatively low-key meeting for the Saints, although it will be interesting to see how St Kilda approaches the Pre-Season draft with these vacant positions.