AFLW 2025 AFLW Draft / Prospects

[TigermanM2]

Irish duo catch the eye at AFLW Draft Combine​

An Irish pair has impressed at the Telstra AFLW Draft Combine
By Sarah Black
Oct 6, 2025, 4:14 pm

Aoife Horisk competes in the 2km time trial at the Telstra AFLW Draft Combine on October 1, 2025. Picture: AFL Photos

PROSPECTIVE Irish talents Mary-Kate Lynch and Aoife (ee-fa) Horisk lit up the track at last week's Telstra AFLW Draft Combine, catching the eye in the athletic testing.

Along with men's players Ruairi Forbes and Cillian Bourke, the pair were invited by the AFL after being talent spotted showing their wares playing Gaelic football.

AFLW DRAFT Get to know the next wave of talent

Horisk, from County Tyrone, was the fastest woman in the 20m sprint, and finished 10th in the 2km time trial around the athletics track at the AIA Centre.

She has been likened to a high half-forward, given her ability to hit the scoreboard and workrate, with Tyrone having taken out the title in the second division this year.

Lynch – who played in Meath's All-Ireland Grand Final loss this year alongside Vikki Wall and Aoibhin Cleary – was a heartbeat slower than her countrywoman, finishing in second in the 20m sprint.

She traditionally plays a lockdown role for Meath, and came face to face with Geelong and Tipperary star Aishling Moloney earlier this year.

The pair are likely to nominate for the Telstra AFLW Draft at the end of the year, with a number of sides interested.
In other Combine results, Gold Coast Academy prospect and forward Alannah Welsh ran the second-fastest official 2km time trial time, just behind now-Western Bulldog Sarah Poustie's record set last year.
Fellow Sun Mikayla Nurse – who has improved her ranking considerably after a strong year of football – finished second in the 2km and third in the sprint, the fastest of the 18-year-olds behind the Irish duo.

Mikayla Nurse competes in the 2km time trial at the Telstra AFLW Draft Combine on October 1, 2025. Picture: AFL Photos
Eastern Ranges wing Asher Fearn-Wannan, who stands at 177cm, set the second-fastest time ever in the agility test (behind now-Dog Zimmie Farquharson), as well as finishing first in the running vertical jump and fifth in the standing vertical jump.
Sydney Academy key forward Alex Neyland also impressed with a well-rounded performance, finishing second in the agility, standing and vertical jumps, and fifth in the 2km time trial.
2km time trial

Name	State	Clubs	Time (min:sec)
Alannah Welsh	QLD	Gold Coast Suns Academy/Southport	7:07
Mikayla Nurse	QLD	Gold Coast Suns Academy/Southport	7:18
Juliet Kelly	WA	Claremont/Marist	7:21
Chloe Bown	VIC M	Oakleigh Chargers/Kew Comets	7:33
Alex Neyland	NSW	Sydney Swans Academy/Singleton	7:40
Georja Davies	QLD	Gold Coast Suns Academy/Southport	7:43
Mia Anderson	TAS	Tasmania Devils/Clarence	7:49
Mischa Barwin	TAS	Tasmania Devils/Lauderdale	7:50
Olivia Wolmarans	WA	Subiaco/Mt Hawthorn Cardinals	7:50
Aoife Horisk	IRE	County Tyrone/Errigan Ciaran	7:51

20m sprint

Name	State	Clubs	Time (sec)
Aoife Horisk	IRE	County Tyrone/Errigan Ciaran	3.148
Mary-Kate Lynch	IRE	County Meath/Summerhill	3.169
Mikayla Nurse	QLD	Gold Coast Suns Academy/Southport	3.207
Lucy Waye	SA	West Adelaide/Goodwood Saints	3.209
Asher Fearn-Wannan	VIC M	Eastern Ranges/Blackburn	3.227
Alicia Blizard	WA	East Fremantle/Willetton	3.237
Josephine Bamford	VIC M	Eastern Ranges/Ferntree Gully Eagles	3.243
Eloise Mackereth	SA	Glenelg/Plympton	3.250
Madeline Quinn	NSW	Sydney Swans Academy/UTS Bats	3.258
Scarlett Johnson	VIC M	Northern Knights/Eltham	3.286

Agility

Name	State	Clubs	Time (sec)
Asher Fearn-Wannan	VIC M	Eastern Ranges/Blackburn	8.300
Alex Neyland	NSW	Sydney Swans Academy/Singleton	8.500
Scarlett Johnson	VIC M	Northern Knights/Eltham	8.538
Alicia Blizard	WA	East Fremantle/Willetton	8.549
Priya Bowering	TAS	Tasmania Devils/Lauderdale	8.569
Lucy Waye	SA	West Adelaide/Goodwood Saints	8.594
Mikayla Nurse	QLD	Gold Coast Suns Academy/Southport	8.632
Lily Baxter	SA	South Adelaide/Victor Harbor	8.660
Nalu Brothwell	VIC C	Dandenong Stingrays/Balnarring	8.660
Mia Russo	WA	West Perth/Wanneroo	8.666

Vertical jump

Name	State	Clubs	Height (cm)
Priya Bowering	TAS	Tasmania Devils/Lauderdale	59
Alex Neyland	NSW	Sydney Swans Academy/Singleton	57
Josephine Bamford	VIC M	Eastern Ranges/Ferntree Gully Eagles	55
Dekota Baron	QLD	Gold Coast Suns/Southport	55
Asher Fearn-Wannan	VIC M	Eastern Ranges/Blackburn	55
Lucy Waye	SA	West Adelaide/Goodwood Saints	55
Mia Anderson	TAS	Tasmania Devils/Clarence	53
Mizuki Brothwell	VIC C	Dandenong Stingrays/Balnarring	51
Olivia Wolmarans	WA	Subiaco/Mt Hawthorn Cardinals	51
Mikayla Nurse	QLD	Gold Coast Suns Academy/Southport	50

Running vertical jump

Name	State	Clubs	Height (cm)
Asher Fearn-Wannan	VIC M	Eastern Ranges/Blackburn	73
Alex Neyland	NSW	Sydney Swans Academy/Singleton	73
Priya Bowering	TAS	Tasmania Devils/Lauderdale	66
Josephine Bamford	VIC M	Eastern Ranges/Ferntree Gully Eagles	65
Dekota Baron	QLD	Gold Coast Suns/Southport	65
Madeline Quinn	NSW	Sydney Swans Academy/UTS Bats	64
Mizuki Brothwell	VIC C	Dandenong Stingrays/Balnarring	63
Georja Davies	QLD	Gold Coast Suns Academy/Southport	63
Scarlett Johnson	VIC M	Northern Knights/Eltham	63
Lucy Waye	SA	West Adelaide/Goodwood Saints	63

 

[TigermanM2]

Given we are pretty much going to land a pick inside the top 10 ( well inside I think but I am being cautious) here are the details of the top 10 Power Rankings by Aussie Rules Central as at September 2025

For mine, Chloe Brown sounds like a perfect fit for us.

1. Ava Usher​

SUNS Academy| Midfielder
height:163cm
D.O.B:11-08-2007

GENERATIONAL TALENT

The easiest choice for the number one selection possibly thus far given her ability. Usher has long been touted as the best player from this draft class, and even missing out on her entire bottom-age season due to an anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury she did just over 12 months ago has not reduced the hype nor interest.

Strengths:

What doesn’t she do well? From her explosive speed to high-level endurance, as well as her evasive ability, penetrating kick and sheer power, Usher is the closest player to the complete package that has come through the women’s game. There have been some elite talents through the pathways, but if Usher’s Under 16s season is anything to go by, she might be the best of the lot.

Question marks?

Honestly the only main question mark is how she will go returning from the long two-year layoff. Her rehabilitation has been first class, and the main unknown is the impact the knee will have on her once she gets back. Prior to that, she ticked a lot of boxes and if she can be back to her best when at AFLW level, then watch out.

Pre-National Championships: #1

It is mind-boggling to think Usher has sat at the top of the tree without playing a game the last two years. But she is just built different and her talent is off the charts. Few could argue she is the best player in this draft crop, and well, to-date.

2. Chloe Bown​

Oakleigh Chargers| Midfielder
height:173cm
D.O.B:20-12-2007

DUEL-SIDED DANGER:

An incredibly gifted footballer and a standout from the Victorian crop given both her current output and upside, Bown has been an eye-catcher over the past two and a half seasons. She earned a place with Vic Metro as a bottom-ager and has been a member of the title-winning Chargers’ outfit. Over her time at the Chargers, she has progressed as a forward into a tall midfielder.

Strengths:

Bown is tall at 173cm and unlike many other peers, can use both sides of her body. It is easy to think the right-footer is actually left-footed considering the natural look when she has to swing onto her opposite side. Add in her penetrating kick, footy IQ, incredible strength overhead and great decision making, and Bown is a really well-rounded prospect.

Question marks?

While her kicks are penetrating, Bown is one who can further refine her kicking to be more precise. She is great for distance and she has the smarts to put them into the right areas, but further refinement to really nail those passes over different distances will further enhance her game.

Pre-National Championships: #3

If there was an award to win, then Bown won it. The AFLW Under 18 Championships Best and Fairest, Vic Metro MVP, All-Australian team and captain, Coates Talent League Girls Best and Fairest and Team of the Year. Not only a ball magnet, but an award magnet too, and deserving of the number two spot.

3. Sunny Lappin​

Queensland Girls| Midfielder
height:170cm
D.O.B:28-11-2007

SUNNY'S CHOICE:

Sunny Lappin is the daughter of former Carlton and St Kilda small forward Matthew, though is more of a midfielder by trade. Playing inside or outside for Southport – where her dad became the senior coach this year – Lappin has the three-club choice between the Blues, Saints or Gold Coast Suns where she is tied to the Academy. Having really developed in 2025, she is consistently putting out big performances.

Strengths:

Lappin’s run and carry really stands out as a trait that excites crowds and no doubt recruiters too. She tucks the ball under the arm and looks to evade opponents every chance she gets, before dishing off cleanly by hand. Her work in traffic is very good, and she can get forward to hit the scoreboard, but is more likely to be the facilitator inside 50. Has come into her own moving on-ball in the light of other injuries and holds her own against quality opposition.

Question marks?

Lappin is still lighter bodied compared to other inside mids, so she can be bumped off it against the really strong opposition. Her gamestyle holds up against senior players though, and it is more continuing that efficiency on the inside when under pressure. Her best footy comes with space and when she can find it, the top-ager is hard to stop.

Pre-National Championships: #25

The bolter of the AFLW Draft, the smooth-moving midfielder has come from the clouds this season and is right up there with the very best in the draft crop. She has leap frogged a host of Suns Academy and Queensland teammates, and is deserving of such honour, having won her state’s MVP, All-Australian honours and was best on ground in the QAFLW Grand Final. Went to levels that didn’t seem possible in 2025, and hard to deny she could well be the second best Sun for her consistency and impact.

4. Georja Davies​

Queensland Girls| Key Position Utility
height:185cm
D.O.B:17-01-2007

RUCK OR ROVER?:

The fourth of the Davies sisters in line to reach the top level, Georja has come with massive wraps as the one likely to go the highest in the draft of the quartet. Now that clubs are able to place bids at certain picks, expect that to be the case. Though she started out as a key forward, Davies is a 185cm ruck/midfielder who can go into centre bounces and play either role really effectively.

Strengths:

Athleticism is what stands out for Davies, with a huge vertical leap and outstanding speed for a player of her size. Davies has the traits to play anywhere on the ground, though through the middle is where she has settled of late. From a skills perspective, she has a lovely kick which can hit targets with low bullets, a real point of difference considering her height.

Question marks?

While Davies is known to take the ball out of the ruck and has the smarts to compete around the ground, she is still developing that stoppage craft as a midfielder. She wins midfielder-like numbers, but more of those come from around the ground as a target or in transition than necessarily at the stoppage when acting as an onballer.

Pre-National Championships: #2

Davies spent the national championships in defence up until the last game, and showed off her complete versatility. Though she might not have won the MVP like the year before, made the All-Australian team at centre half-back and was one of her side’s strongest again. Only bumped down by a freak year from Lappin and incredible season from Bown.

5. Tayla McMillan​

Eastern Ranges| Midfielder
height:161cm
D.O.B:25-05-2007

TOUGH AND SKILLFULL:

A really well-balanced player, McMillan has the hardness you want from any player, but also the skill and poise that few have. Add them together as a combination, and she is a rare prospect. The Eastern Ranges prospect leads by example and is averaging similar numbers to last season, which given she is also spending time in defence, is very good. Was unlucky not to crack into a full member – rather than train-on – in Vic Metro’s Under 18s side last year, but unsurprisingly earned her place in the National Academy for 2025.

Strengths:

McMillan’s balance of strength and skill sets her apart. Usually when winning truckloads of contested ball and bursting out of the stoppage you can turn it over, but the Eastern Ranges small has such great poise she can lower the eyes and hit a target going forward. Her clean hands when she has it, and fierce defensive nature when her opponent has it, all underpins what she offers to a club. One of the most well-rounded players in the draft.

Question marks?

At 161cm, McMillan is a touch below the now average height for an inside midfielder, and she is not a huge goalkicker even when she spent time forward last season. It is an area she can further touch up as every great midfielder hits the scoreboard, but you’re being nit-picky when it comes to question marks as McMillan is really consistent across the board.

Pre-National Championships: #5

McMillan holds her place at number five, having done not too much wrong, and also just being one of the most well-rounded players in the draft. Outside of Usher, McMillan is the one with the most boxes ticked, and her balance of offensive and defensive weapons, as well as her skills and composure under pressure make her such a valuable talent. Won the Coates Talent League Girls’ Grand Final best on ground medal to cap of a huge year. Could be as high as third overall, too.

6. Dekota Baron​

Queensland Girls| Key Forward
height:179cm
D.O.B:03-01-2007

FORWARD FORCE:

Similar to Usher and Davies, Baron is one who has been talked up for some time out of the Suns Academy and offers a different look to them as well. More of a full-forward who can also ruck, Baron provides a presence inside 50 and won the QAFLW Rising Star Award last season for her year with Southport. Such is her highlights package, she also won Mark of the Year in the same competition and has really developed her athleticism over the last couple of years to be a nightmare matchup.

Strengths:

One of, if not the best contested mark in the draft crop, Baron has velcro-like hands that will pull anything down that is in her vicinity. As mentioned, her athleticism has further developed over the last couple of seasons to mean she can breakaway on the lead or win an arm-wrestle, making her a dual threat inside 50. Her set shot goalkicking is another big tick, with a reliable routine that gets the job done.

Question marks?

Her defensive pressure once the ball hits the deck is a work in progress, which is not too much of a surprise for a tall forward. She doesn’t drop it all that often so there usually isn’t need for a follow-up, but her defensive pressure, as well as continuing to develop a greater knack for one-on-ones against opponents who can match her size.

Pre-National Championships:#4

Happy to back in Baron still despite a slow start returning from injury. The glimpses of her best shone in the QAFLW with her grand final performance on the big stage finishing her year with a bang. One of the most varied draft ranges of the top group, we still see her as that very top echelon and can’t really drop her any lower on upside and her body of work the last couple of years.

7. Alex Neyland​

Allies Girls| Tall Forward
height:178cm
D.O.B:04-09-2007

THE DRAFT BOLTER:

While most of these names will be familiar to a lot of people who have kept close tabs on the National Academy, Neyland is one who has had a massive breakout year. A tall forward out of the Sydney Swans Academy, Neyland has exploded back onto the scene in her top-age season after missing last year due to an ACL injury. Playing for the Swans through the Under 22s Summer Series and Coates Talent League Girls competitions and then Allies at the national championships, Neyland has caught the eye with her balance of offensive and defensive traits and enormous upside. Though this might be a high ranking for a player with less exposure compared to some others, she has the talent for it.

Strengths:

Neyland is a fantastic aerial player who can find midfielder-like numbers with her work rate up and down the ground. She showed throughout the Summer Series and then into the Coates Talent League that despite playing at centre half-forward, is not restricted to the forward 50 arc, and works up the ground to impact even in the back half. A former centre half-back, Neyland’s point of difference compared to other tall forwards is her defensive pressure and creating plenty of goal-scoring opportunities for her teammates.

Question marks?

Having spent so much time out of the game the last 12 months, Neyland is still working on her kicking and getting more precise with her ball use. She is developing it as she goes along, but it shows going for goal too, with a few potential majors left out there. When she can tweak that element of her game – along with her composure – she will have a very well-rounded profile.

Pre-National Championships: #12

A ranking on pure upside, Neyland had a massive first national championships game against Vic Country, and was a little hit and miss throughout, but the Swans Academy star’s ability to play at either end is enormous. Her athleticism is elite, and her defensive pressure once the ball hits the deck means even if in the rare chance she doesn’t mark it, Neyland is on the case to battle for the ball.

8. Olivia Wolmarans​

Subiaco| Key Forward
height:180cm
D.O.B:02-09-2007

BIG GAME PLAYER:

Wolmarans boasts some of the highest upside in this year’s AFLW Draft class. An elite athlete who been an eye-catching player for a number of years, she won her side’s MVP at last year’s Under 17 Futures match – Baron won the other team’s best – and has not slowed down since then. She starred for Western Australia up forward from limited opportunities, and has been a huge feature for Subiaco’s WAFLW side in 2025.

Strengths:

Her athleticism and general mobility really comes to the fore in games, where if she doesn’t mark it, then she can burst away and beat smaller opponents at ground level. If the opposition does not have a tall and athletic defender to match up on her, then Wolmarans can do a stack of damage. She also has fantastic work rate for a key forward, and at 181cm has has stints in the ruck as well.

Question marks?

Her hands are very good aerially, but further work on her contested marking – particularly against equally strong opponents – as well as her off-ball work. The former has been building nicely throughout 2025, with the latter the next step.

Pre-National Championships: #6

Similar to Neyland, Wolmarans’ athleticism and upside is undeniable. She is a confidence player so will have some low games, but when she is at her best – as she showed in the second half against the Allies at the national championships – she is near-unbeatable. Has worked on her contested marking from the beginning of the year too, just a case of her off-ball work.

9. Mia Russo​

West Perth| Midfielder
height:162cm
D.O.B:06-08-2007

POWER PLAYER:

It might be easy to forget that the supremely talented Russo won the Under 16s MVP for the carnival two years ago, which is essentially saying the best player of this age group for that tournament. Two Rogers Cup best and fairests and a National Academy invite later – among other accolades – and Russo remains one of the top prospects despite an injury-interrupted bottom-age campaign that saw her miss the first two National Championships matches and still be rusty for the third. However her performances for West Perth over the last two seasons have been very impressive against senior opponents.

Strengths:

Russo has the need for speed, and her explosiveness out of the contest is the standout quality, behind perhaps only Usher in that regard. She throws herself at every contest and is a contested ball winning beast who can also spread to the outside and provide an avenue to goal. Usually clean at ground level and readymade to play in the big leagues, Russo will be one of the players who can make a more immediate impact.

Question marks?

Further working on her precision kicking is a main focus for Russo, as she possesses a powerful boot that is damaging in distance and when “on” can be lethal. While gaining greater consistency on that front, Russo’s defensive running is another element to continue developing, though it has improved this season from last.

Pre-National Championships: #8

When fully fit, Russo is right amongst the best players in the draft crop, and she showed that at Under 16s level, and throughout her junior career. She has all the eye-catching traits and leads by example. Will win a lot of clubs over with character references too. Retains a top 10 spot.

10. Chloe Baker-West​

Calder Cannons| Small Utility
height:165cm
D.O.B:02-02-2007

BALL MAGNET:

Few players can hold a candle to Baker-West’s sheer volume of ball-winning ways with the small midfielder consistently racking up 30 disposals per game and has incredibly averaged that figure across her past three seasons. One of the rare talents to make her debut as a triple bottom-ager in 2022 – where she played an incredible six games – since then Baker-West has averaged 31.4, 39.5 and now 34.5 disposals per match, along with stuffing the stats sheet across the board. She only managed two games last season due to injury but the two-time Vic Metro Under 16s MVP is fit and firing now.

Strengths:

The ridiculous production that Baker-West churns out every week is simply amazing, and she ticks most boxes. An underrated skill for a player of 165cm is her overhead marking, averaging 6.2 per game. That, along with her tackling and ground coverage – to win multiple possessions within a play – standout. She has the smarts and can use the ball well in transition with great vision going forward. Baker-West has also spent time in each third of the ground as well.

Question marks?

Her goalkicking is an element that can improve with the prospect still booting three majors in six games, but missing a few a player of her quality should nail. That, along with her composure at times under pressure to throw it on the boot and go for distance are ways she can refine her game, given she can be such a damaging kick turning defence into offence.

Pre-National Championships: #7

It has been a frustrating couple of years on the national stage for Baker-West who will be another that could easily go top five, or be around this mark or just outside the Top 10. She only spent 10 seconds on-field at the championships before having to come off after the first tackle of the game. Will be a consistent AFLW Fantasy player of the future and plug any hole in the team that drafts her.

11-30

AFLW Draft Power Rankings: September 2025

The Rookie Me Central 2025 AFLW Draft Power Rankings are in, with plenty of movement post-national championships and seasons ending.

central.rookieme.com

 

[toenail63]

With the Suns likely to receive either pick 1 or 2 and the rules around bidding where they have to use a pick within 18 selections from a bid, we may be able to trade a later pick with Suns who will have a possible 3 picks being bid early and will need at least 2 more x 2nd round picks than what they currently have.

I don't know if it would be worth trading out a player like Bec Miller for a 2nd rounder and trade our 2 x second rounders for their first round pick.

Melbourne did this with trading Mithen last year and in return received Molly O'Hehir with the pick 3 they got in return.

We could end up potentially with pick 1 & 2, also agree not to bid, and then Suns are taken care of for 3 of the 4 players they want, we could even swap a 3rd for a 4th.

We could guarantee getting Chloe Bown and Mia Russo as a two punch mid combination. Ellie Mac can then play that Kate Hore role and dominate outside of centre bounce across the field and up forward.

 

[TigermanM2]

With the Suns likely to receive either pick 1 or 2 and the rules around bidding where they have to use a pick within 18 selections from a bid, we may be able to trade a later pick with Suns who will have a possible 3 picks being bid early and will need at least 2 more x 2nd round picks than what they currently have.

I don't know if it would be worth trading out a player like Bec Miller for a 2nd rounder and trade our 2 x second rounders for their first round pick.

Melbourne did this with trading Mithen last year and in return received Molly O'Hehir with the pick 3 they got in return.

We could end up potentially with pick 1 & 2, also agree not to bid, and then Suns are taken care of for 3 of the 4 players they want, we could even swap a 3rd for a 4th.

We could guarantee getting Chloe Bown and Mia Russo as a two punch mid combination. Ellie Mac can then play that Kate Hore role and dominate outside of centre bounce across the field and up forward.

A mid/forward rotation of McKenzie and Brown would be something.

Russo's kicking an issue? We really need to draft players who can kick. It's killing us this year.

 

[toenail63]

A mid/forward rotation of McKenzie and Brown would be something.

Russo's kicking an issue? We really need to draft players who can kick. It's killing us this year.

Not that I'm aware of, at the Nats last year I probably would have said maybe, only because compared to Lily Paterson, and Zippy Fish and also Evie Cowcher another bottom ager who starred last year, all of them better kicks, especially Zippy. Wasn't a big body of work being a bottom ager coming back from injury, she played one game where she stood out as a contested player, a ball magnet at stoppage, in and under, and fierce tackler. This year her kicking was fine for someone so contested. You can't really say she's got too many weaknesses, she's a good mark and the way she reads the play reminds me a bit of Ash Ridell. Actually Ridell's kicking a few years ago wasn't that great but she's improved that every year.

Russo is very driven, has a winner mentality a little bit like a certain player that we drafted last year in Grieves.

If our centre bounce midfield next year was Montana McKinnon, Mon Conti, Sierra Grieves and Mia Russo, add in Ellie McKenzie and Chloe Bown into that mid rotation, resting forward, it would be a formidable mid forward combination for teams to match up on. You could even rest Conti and/or Grieves forward so lots of options to throw at other teams.

 

[toenail63]

Stats from Mia's WAFL games this year.

Not showing on here but was best on ground in Rd 3 vs Perth. 26 possessions, 3 tackles, 3 marks, 2 x goals, 8 clearances going at 80.8% efficiency. I know its State league comp but impressive all the same.

https://wafl.com.au/player/mia-russo

 

[TigermanM2]

Not that I'm aware of, at the Nats last year I probably would have said maybe, only because compared to Lily Paterson, and Zippy Fish and also Evie Cowcher another bottom ager who starred last year, all of them better kicks, especially Zippy. Wasn't a big body of work being a bottom ager coming back from injury, she played one game where she stood out as a contested player, a ball magnet at stoppage, in and under, and fierce tackler. This year her kicking was fine for someone so contested. You can't really say she's got too many weaknesses, she's a good mark and the way she reads the play reminds me a bit of Ash Ridell. Actually Ridell's kicking a few years ago wasn't that great but she's improved that every year.

Russo is very driven, has a winner mentality a little bit like a certain player that we drafted last year in Grieves.

If our centre bounce midfield next year was Montana McKinnon, Mon Conti, Sierra Grieves and Mia Russo, add in Ellie McKenzie and Chloe Bown into that mid rotation, resting forward, it would be a formidable mid forward combination for teams to match up on. You could even rest Conti and/or Grieves forward so lots of options to throw at other teams.

Thanks for the detailed response.

 

[toenail63]

All Australian Team nominated from National Championships U18 with Player Ranking Points and notes from Selection Panel. Anyone b. 07 draft eligible this draft.

Suns had a couple of injury affected players highly ranked in Ava Usher and Dekota Baron absent from Nats. Sunny Lappin (Suns Academy) also eligible to be drafted as father/daughter to Saints or Blues

Back Pocket: Mizuki Brothwell
Victoria Country
Date of Birth: 22/10/07; Height 174cm

Athletic defender who has a good balance on when to attack and when to defend. Was at her very best in the final game of the Championships against South Australia, with her four-bounce run before hitting her target forward of centre a real highlight. Averaged 16.3 disposals (eight contested), 2.8 marks and 3.8 rebound 50s and was an excellent performer against both the Allies and Victoria Metro, as well as against South Australia. Her twin sister Nalu also was impressive playing forward for Victoria Country. A member of the Marsh AFL National Academy. Player Ranking Points: 90.4

Full Back: Zara Neuwirth
Victoria Metro
Date of Birth: 06/02/07; Height 183cm

Tall defender who competes fiercely, excelling in one-on-one contests and knows when to mark and when to spoil. Always matched up on the opposition’s most dangerous tall forward and was rarely beaten. Used the ball well on the way out and was composed under pressure. Averaged 12.5 disposals, three tackles and four rebound 50s to be one of Victoria Metro’s most consistent players and was amongst her team’s best against South Australia, Western Australia and the Allies. Player Ranking Points: 72.9

Back Pocket: Maya Louvel-Finn
Western Australia
Date of Birth 20/02/07; Height 169cm

Defender who showed her ability to win one-on-one contests and negate the opposition’s most dangerous small and medium forwards. Was at her best in disciplined performance against the Allies then again played her role in the win over South Australia. Averaged 12.3 disposals at 68 percent efficiency and 3.8 rebound 50s to provide effective and consistent rebound for her team throughout the championships. Player Ranking Points: 96.0

Half Back Flank: Scarlett Johnson
Victoria Metro
Date of Birth: 26/11/07; Height: 175cm

Wing/defender whose ability to intercept, particularly with her overhead marking, was a realstrength of her game. Runs all day, getting from contest to contest and was a consistently good performer in the Championships, averaging 19.5 disposals (8.5 contested), 4.5 marks and 2.5 tackles. Her game against the Allies was her standout performance. Player Ranking Points: 99.8

Centre Half Back: Georja Davies
Queensland/Gold Coast Suns Academy
Date of Birth: 17/01/07; Height: 185cm

Tall defender who used her natural leap and strong overhead marking, as well as her mobility and clever ball use, to be an excellent rebounding defender throughout the Championships. An All Australian at both under 16 and under 18 levels in the previous two years as a ruck/tall forward, her versatility to play defence this campaign adds to her overall value as a player going forward. Averaged 17 disposals, 3.8 marks and 10 hitouts to be one of Queensland best players. Kicked a match-winning goal in the final seconds against Western Australia to secure a memorable victory. A member of the Marsh AFL National Academy. Player Ranking Points: 125.1

Half Back Flank: Rhianna Ingram
Queensland/Gold Coast Suns Academy
Date of Birth: 20/10/07; Height: 167cm

Rebounding small defender with dash and flair. Broke the lines regularly throughout the Championships and used the ball extremely well to set up many forward moves. Averaged 17.3 disposals at 76 percent efficiency, with 4.8 rebound 50s and was among Queensland’s best against South Australia, Western Australia and Victoria Country. Player Ranking Points: 89.1

Wing: Priya Bowering
Allies/Tasmania
Date of Birth: 02/01/07; Height: 167cm

Midfielder who is extremely strong in the contest. Excels at stoppages, attacking the ball with intent and uses her clean hands and vision to create for her team. Backed up her impressive performances in recent years for the Tasmania Devils to star for the Allies, averaging 19.5 disposals (9.8 contested), 4.2 clearances and five tackles to win the team’s MVP award. Her selection adds to her under 16s All Australian honours in 2023. A member of the Marsh AFL National Academy. Player Ranking Points: 121.7

Centre: Chloe Bown
Victoria Metro
Date of Birth: 20/12/07; Height: 173 cm

Classy midfielder who had an outstanding Championship, averaging 27.5 disposals (15.8 contested), 5.8 clearances and 5.5 tackles. Wins the ball at clearances with her clean hands and courage and gathers the loose ball with her footy nous. Also has amazing vision and quick hands to clear congestion and set up her teammates, which she did consistently to win the bestand fairest player award for the Championships, as well as being named All Australian captain and Victoria Metro’s MVP. A member of the Marsh AFL National Academy. Player Ranking Points: 136.6

Wing: Mikayla Nurse
Queensland/Gold Coast Suns Academy
Date of Birth: 19/09/07; Height: 168cm

Wingman with a scintillating turn of speed, which was on display in her best on ground performance against Victoria Country where she picked up 23 disposals in a match winning outing. Averaged 18 disposals with five inside 50s and 3.8 tackles to be one of Queensland’s most exciting prospects. Player Ranking Points: 106.8

Half Forward Flank: Mischa Barwin
Allies/Tasmania
Date of Birth: 04/12/07; Height: 164cm

Small forward who created numerous scoring opportunities for the Allies throughout the Championships. Swoops on the loose ball. as well as applying pressure on the opposition’s defence with her aggressive tackling. Quick and agile, she has numerous shots herself on goal in collecting an average of 17 possessions (five contested) and laying an average of 4.8 tackles to be a real energiser for her team inside 50. Member of the Marsh AFL National Academy. Player Ranking Points: 94.1

Centre Half Forward: Olivia Wolmarans
Western Australia
Date of Birth: 02/09/07; Height: 181cm

Exciting and athletic tall forward who attacks the ball with real intent in the air and at ground level and is very difficult for any opposition to contain. Capable of turning her opponent inside out with her agility, she is always dangerous around goals. Kicked four goals against the Allies in a match-winning performance. Overall averaged 12.5 disposals, 4.2 marks with 1.5 goals to become a back-to-back All Australian after winning honours last year. A member of the Marsh AFL National Academy. Player Ranking Points: 84.4

Half Forward Flank: Tayla McMillan
Victoria Metro
Date of Birth: 25/05/07; Height: 162cm

Small midfielder/forward with speed and excellent fundamental skills, including clean hands and a neat step through traffic. Was a consistent performer throughout the Championships, averaging 20 disposals (11.5 contested), 5.2 clearances and 4.8 tackles. Set elite standards for her team and was rewarded with All Australian honours after previously winning that accolade at under 16s level in 2023. A member of the Marsh AFL National Academy. Player Ranking Points: 119.2

Forward Pocket: Majella Day
Allies/GWS Giants Academy
Date of Birth: 11/05/08; Height: 176cm

Bottom-aged tall forward who is exciting in the air, as well as being dynamic around goals and provides defensive pressure to keep the ball in her team’s forward 50. Was at her best kicking three goals against both Victoria Metro and Queensland. Averaged 11.5 disposals at an impressive efficiency rate of 74%, as well as finishing with seven goals for the Championships. Player Ranking Points: 106

Full Forward: Bailee Martin
Victoria Metro
Date of Birth: 03/09/08; Height: 176cm

Bottom-aged forward who reads the cues extremely well with the ball in flight and is the first to move and strong in the marking contest. Her exciting talent was on full display kicking seven goals from seven marks and 15 disposals in a brilliant display of forward craft against Victoria Country, resulting in her leading the goal kicking across the Championships. Has already booted 39 goals in eight games in the Coates Talent League this season. Player Ranking Points: 79.4

Forward Pocket: Alannah Welsh
Queensland/Gold Coast Suns Academy
Date of Birth: 23/11/07; Height: 169cm

Powerful forward with the speed and strength to be a dangerous match up in one-on-one contests inside 50. Has good natural goal sense and was always threatening, averaging 1.7 goals and 10 disposals across three matches. A member of the Marsh AFL National Academy. Player Ranking Points: 115.4

Ruck: Cara Dziegielewski
Western Australia
Date of Birth: 19/04/08; Height: 181cm

Athletic bottom-aged ruck who uses her natural leap to give her team first use at stoppages and follows up her work with an aggressive attack on the ball at ground level. Led the hitouts in the Championships, as well as showing great courage and skill in the air for an emerging tall. Averaged 20.5 hitouts, 11 disposals and two marks after being a star at under 16s level last year to win All Australian honours. Player Ranking Points: 95.6

Ruck Rover: Sunny Lappin
Queensland/Gold Coast Suns Academy
Date of Birth: 28/11/07; Height: 170 cm

Creative midfielder/forward who is light on her feet and very composed with ball in hand, using the ball extremely well by hand and foot. She starred against both Western Australia, the Allies and South Australia and averaged 25.2 disposals (12.5 contested), 5.5 clearances and 4.2 tackles across the Championships. Is the daughter of former Carlton and St Kilda star Matthew Lappin

Matthew Lappin

Age

49

Ht

184cm

Wt

78kg

Pos.

Def

Career

Season

Last 5

D

16.7

4star

K

10.8

4star

HB

5.9

4star

M

4.5

4star

T

1.6

4star

No current season stats available

D

13.0

4star

K

8.4

4star

HB

4.6

4star

M

2.4

3star

T

0.6

3star

, making her eligible for the Blues and the Saints under father-daughter rules, as well as the Gold Coast Suns as a member of their Academy. Player Ranking Points: 166.5

Rover: Emma Charlton
South Australia
Date of Birth: 19/06/08; Height: 160cm

Pocket rocket who was a dynamic player for South Australia throughout the Championships, averaging 24.5 disposals at 67 percent efficiency, 6.5 clearances and 7.3 tackles. Fierce in the contest and with quick feet and slick decision-making, she dominated through the midfield in all four matches to win her team’s MVP award, as well as finishing third overall in the Championships best and fairest. Player Ranking Points: 144.3

Interchange: Josie Bamford
Victoria Metro
Date of Birth: 03/06/07; Height: 182cm

Ruck/forward who shared time in both positions and really developed as the Championships unfolded, averaging 12.5 disposals 14.5 hit outs and 4.2 tackles. Was among Victoria Metro’s best against both the Allies and Victoria Country. Mobile and very competitive by nature she also is a decisive decision maker and uses the ball effectively. Player Ranking Points: 120.1

Interchange: Carys D’Addario
Western Australia
Date of Birth: 01/03/07; Height: 168cm

Inside midfielder whose work at stoppages, as well as her ball use by hand and foot, made her a dominant force. Was among Western Australia’s best players against Queensland, South Australia and Victoria Metro to win her team’s MVP award. Averaged 21.8 disposals at 71 percent efficiency, emphasising her smart disposal. Her clean hands and vision were on display having an average of 6.2 clearances, with her sharp competitive edge highlighted by averaging 5.5 tackles. Player Ranking Points: 121.1

Interchange: Maggie Johnstone
Victoria Country
Date of Birth: 06/06/07; Height: 171cm

Midfielder who starred in the Victoria Country’s win over the Allies in the opening game of the Championships, finishing with 20 disposals and a goal to win best on the ground honours. Has a touch of class with her lateral movement and ball use. Overall, she averaged 15.3 disposals, 2.8 clearances and three tackles. Finished the Championships impressively to feature among her team’s best against South Australia and set up numerous forward moves. Player Ranking Points: 105.7

Interchange: Mia Russo
Western Australia
Date of Birth: 06/08/07; Height: 165cm

Midfielder/forward who is powerful and competitive, with her ability to shrug off opponents and exit congestion a real asset. Can also push forward and hit the scoreboard, which she did by kicking two of Western Australia’s four goals in trying conditions in the win over Victoria Metro. Is not unfamiliar with All Australia honours at National Championships, having received them at under 16s level in 2023 where she also won the Pool A best and fairest award. A member of the Marsh AFL National Academy. Player Ranking Points: 110.5

Interchange: Imogen Trengove
South Australia
Date of Birth: 25/04/07; Height: 164cm

Tenacious midfielder/forward who attacked the ball with real purpose, averaging 25.6 disposals (11 contested), 5.7 tackles and 10.7 handball receives in her three matches before injuring her ankle late against Queensland and missing the final match. Has an amazing work rate, clean hands and a sharp competitive edge to keep driving her team forward. Player Ranking Points: 111.7

SELECTORS

Kevin Sheehan (AFL Talent Ambassador – Chair), Paul Hamilton (AFL National Talent Development & Competitions Manager), Jess Smith (AFL Talent Pathways Operations Manager), Tarkyn Lockyer (AFL National Academy Manager) and AFL club representatives Trent Moseby (Richmond), Phoebe Carter (Sydney Swans), Jordan Loxley (West Coast Eagles) and Dan Fisher (Western Bulldogs)

 

[TigermanM2]

I’ll be pretty pissed if we beat Collingwood next week putting them lower than us in the ladder.

We need as high a draft pick as possible and it’s totally in our hands with Collingwood and Suns to come.

 

[toenail63]

I’ll be pretty pissed if we beat Collingwood next week putting them lower than us in the ladder.

We need as high a draft pick as possible and it’s totally in our hands with Collingwood and Suns to come.

We would have to finish bottom to ensure we can pick up Chloe Bown without finding another way to target her. She is the best accessible elite talent, Evie Cowcher is another one but more outside player, probably too outside. Georja Davies is another as a utility that you would love in your team but part of that strong Suns academy, interesting how internally they rate their players as are quite different players to their needs.

At least we should have a top 5 pick and because we have needs across all lines with taking the best available talent should net ourselves a similar talent to last years top 10, even if is a forward, or utility type, or mid. Second round you could pick up a Sophie Eaton, Mizuki Brothwell, Jade McLay, or Mischa Barwin as forward/mid, defender or utility types and be assured a very good Top 20 player as next level of depth is there at our 2nd round pick before it drops off after that.

 

[toenail63]

Stars of the future: 10 draft prospects to watch in 2025​

By Gemma Bastiani

Chloe Baker-West​

Midfielder
163cm
2/2/07
Strathmore/Calder Cannons/Victoria Metro

Although hampered by injury this year, clubs won't be deterred when it comes to ball magnet Baker-West. Catching the eye after racking up 49 disposals in a Coates Talent League game last year, she offers neat handballs out of the contest to set up teammates. She is just as adept in congestion as she is when out in space, and also has the capacity to go forward and play as a small if needed. Growing up a fan of the Western Bulldogs, they are just one club who would be keen to get their hands on Baker-West at the end of 2025.

Dekota Baron​

Key Forward
178cm
3/1/07
Southport/SUNS Academy/Queensland

In a strong batch of key position prospects, Baron is arguably the best. She plays with a fearlessness, with eye-catching skill in the air. Her forward craft is already at a high standard, balancing her capacity to lead up at the ball carrier, and strength in aerial contests, with a neat kick for goal. This year she won the QAFLW's mark of the year award for a high-flying effort for Southport, while also playing a vital role in the club's first ever QAFLW premiership, and balancing duties for the SUNS Academy and Queensland in the U18 Championships. Baron will be a priority for Gold Coast at next year's draft.

Priya Bowering​

Midfielder
167cm
2/1/07
Lauderdale/Tasmania Devils/Allies

Bowering strikes a wonderful balance between ball winning and defensive pressure as a midfielder. Hailing from Tasmania and looking up to recently drafted players from the Apple Isle in Brooke Barwick and Georgia Clark, she is a ball magnet around the footy, notably racking up 47 disposals against the Calder Cannons in the Coates Talent League earlier this year. Bowering is also willing to do the hard stuff, working defensively to create space for teammates, and when needed, she can sit forward and become a dangerous conduit to goal.

Chloe Bown​

Forward/midfielder
174cm
20/12/07
Kew Comets/Oakleigh Chargers/Victoria Metro

A poised player, Bown knows how to stand up on the big stage. Able to roll through both the midfield and forward line, her capacity both with and without the ball is impressive. She kicked 18 goals from 15 Coates Talent League games this year, while playing a starring role in the Oakleigh Chargers' second consecutive premiership, recording 24 disposals and 10 tackles, as well as five inside 50s. A sneaky chance to go in the top five at next year's Telstra AFLW Draft, Bown is one that recruiters around the country are particularly excited about.

Evie Cowcher​

Defender
173cm
3/8/07
Pinjarra/Peel Thunder/Western Australia

Cowcher has been named as Western Australia's best player in each of its last two U18 Championships campaigns, ahead of players like Zippy Fish and Molly O'Hehir. As an intercepting defender, she keeps a calm head behind play even under immense pressure, and typically rebounds the ball out with a sense of class. Her ability to read the play as it moves down the field and make quick decisions to impact is evident. She is strong in the air, but just as confident at ground level, and does a neat job of setting up teammates higher up the field.

Georja Davies​

Ruck/forward
183cm
17/1/07
Southport/SUNS Academy/Queensland

The youngest Davies sister behind Giselle (Sydney), Fleur (Greater Western Sydney), and Darcie (Gold Coast), Georja has had to bide her time to reach her draft year. As a highly skilled tall, Davies is equally talented in the air as she is on the ground. She showed that throughout the 2024 U18 Championships where she held up the No.1 ruck role, leaving Havana Harris the space to play more as a midfield/forward option. Throughout the campaign she averaged 23 disposals and 16 hitouts as one of Queensland's best performers. Davies was also a crucial part of Southport's maiden QAFLW flag this year.

Eloise Mackereth​

Forward/wing
173cm
27/7/07
Plympton/Glenelg/South Australia

With a desirable combination of height and athleticism, South Australian Mackereth can play as an aerial forward target, or as a dangerous runner on the wing, while she has also been thrown on the ball at times in her junior years. She showed her strength this year against big bodies in the SANFLW, playing 13 games for Glenelg and kicking 14 goals, and in the U18 Championships proved her capacity to take a game by the scruff of the neck, with four goals in South Australia's win over Western Australia back in August.

Ava Usher​

Midfielder
165cm
11/8/07
Burleigh/SUNS Academy/Queensland

Usher is a powerful runner through the midfield, with the confidence to take the game on, take a bounce, and propel the ball inside 50. A likely favourite for the No.1 pick in 2025, she missed all of this year with an ACL injury that she is on the tail end of rehabilitating. Her combination of strength and attack on the footy often sees opponents bounce off her, creating space for Usher in the process. As part of Gold Coast's Academy program, she is another who the Suns' will be keen to get through the door, and will arguably be their main target from a strong batch of Academy products.

Alannah Welsh​

Forward
170cm
23/11/07
Southport/SUNS Academy/Queensland

With an impressive goal sense and capacity to snap the footy from anywhere inside 50, Welsh turned some heads at the first Marsh AFLW Academy training camp. The lesser-discussed Academy product out of Gold Coast, her skill shouldn't be ignored in the coming year, as someone who can make something out of nothing, but is also a highly reliable set shot. Welsh kicked two goals in each of Queensland's three U18 Championships games this year, while averaging 11.3 disposals as a strong presence in the side's front half, playing as a bottom-ager.

Olivia Wolmarans​

Key Forward
180cm
2/9/07
Mt Hawthorn Cardinals/Subiaco/Western Australia

Wolmarans is a big-bodied key forward target who can offer a chop out through the ruck if needed. There is still a rawness to her, but her combination of height and athleticism can't be ignored. On top of it all, she has a booming boot, and just needs to tighten up her technique in front of goal to make the most of her opportunities. Her time in the national Academy will help refine her craft as she works toward being one of the best key position prospects in the 2025 draft crop.

 

[TigermanM2]

View attachment 2454071

We would have to finish bottom to ensure we can pick up Chloe Bown without finding another way to target her. She is the best accessible elite talent, Evie Cowcher is another one but more outside player, probably too outside. Georja Davies is another as a utility that you would love in your team but part of that strong Suns academy, interesting how internally they rate their players as are quite different players to their needs.

At least we should have a top 5 pick and because we have needs across all lines with taking the best available talent should net ourselves a similar talent to last years top 10, even if is a forward, or utility type, or mid. Second round you could pick up a Sophie Eaton, Mizuki Brothwell, Jade McLay, or Mischa Barwin as forward/mid, defender or utility types and be assured a very good Top 20 player as next level of depth is there at our 2nd round pick before it drops off after that.

As I said, finishing bottom is in our hands and gives us access to Chloe.

Chloe is undoubtedly very capable in the middle but her being able to switch forward and hit the scoreboard is a standout for me. Best available talent AND fills our needs. Perfect.

 

[toenail63]

As I said, finishing bottom is in our hands and gives us access to Chloe.

Chloe is undoubtedly very capable in the middle but her being able to switch forward and hit the scoreboard is a standout for me. Best available talent AND fills our needs. Perfect.

To your point about beating Collingwood, we're in a catch 22, ending the season strongly with a couple of wins benefits the team, and the club, finishing on an upward note, counter to that of accessing a player we are genuinely most in need of.

I'm speculating here however resting Sarah Hosking after she had had her best game for the year against the Crows, and looked unhindered by any injury concerns or soreness, and resting Sierra to aid her recovery between games is standard practice for new draftees, but the result being both players will be cherry ripe to go again by Sunday. It's the timing of these two outs that says we are aiming to go all in this week to get our second win.

 

[Stigmata]

We need speed across half back and wings and small forwards. One thing I have learned from the last two games is our key position is not super bad. But Dempsey, bacon, Yassir, ford, Egan and dellaway just too slow

 

[Phar Ace]

I’ll be pretty pissed if we beat Collingwood next week putting them lower than us in the ladder.

We need as high a draft pick as possible and it’s totally in our hands with Collingwood and Suns to come.

Will be the battle of the missed goal - who scores the most behinds wins!

 

[TigermanM2]

To your point about beating Collingwood, we're in a catch 22, ending the season strongly with a couple of wins benefits the team, and the club, finishing on an upward note, counter to that of accessing a player we are genuinely most in need of.

I'm speculating here however resting Sarah Hosking after she had had her best game for the year against the Crows, and looked unhindered by any injury concerns or soreness, and resting Sierra to aid her recovery between games is standard practice for new draftees, but the result being both players will be cherry ripe to go again by Sunday. It's the timing of these two outs that says we are aiming to go all in this week to get our second win.

The bigger problem is trying to convince the two players who have carried the side all year and who want to dominate every single game they play that perhaps its best if they don't.

 

[toenail63]

The bigger problem is trying to convince the two players who have carried the side all year and who want to dominate every single game they play that perhaps its best if they don't.

Good luck with that, they take getting beaten personally so that's not happening. Over to Ferg to play them as back pockets.

 

[Eraser]

We need speed across half back and wings and small forwards. One thing I have learned from the last two games is our key position is not super bad. But Dempsey, bacon, Yassir, ford, Egan and dellaway just too slow

Bacon and Ford for sure aren’t slow. Beruldsen also has pace, the problem seems to be the we can never get the ball to any of them in any kind of space they can work with.

 

[TigermanM2]

Bacon and Ford for sure aren’t slow. Beruldsen also has pace, the problem seems to be the we can never get the ball to any of them in any kind of space they can work with.

Bacon has also done a fair bit of one on one defending and both her and Ford are only new to AFLW so we need to give them some time. Beruldsen has been in the system for 3 years now with two clubs and has averaged 7 disposals a game which seems to indicate she may not get to the right spots herself as much as others failing to get the ball to her.

 

[Phar Ace]

Bacon and Ford for sure aren’t slow. Beruldsen also has pace, the problem seems to be the we can never get the ball to any of them in any kind of space they can work with.

It's called disposal to advantage side - not a Richmond concept.....

 

[toenail63]

Sunny Lappin staying on the Gold Coast nominating Suns over Blues and Saints, has had a great year this year rocketing up the rankings, and creating a headache or two now for Suns.

Future trading comes in this year so Suns will be looking at other clubs picks to trade for theirs.

2025 Suns Academy likely first and second rounders are now Sunny Lappin, Ava Usher, Georja Davies, Dekota Baron and Alannah Welsh.

 

[toenail63]

Is there a commission meeting between now and the draft? Suns may need some more special assistance governance on the run from the AFL as with future trading as it currently stands since the rule change a few months ago Suns can't trade a future 1st and 2nd in the same draft year. I've got a feeling Gold Coast will need to trade out more, or give up a player.

Suns may be looking to trade in the earliest possible 2nd rounders for this year's draft to maximise their hand, to meet the rule that they must give up a pick within 18 places after a bid comes in.

If we trade our first this years with theirs, say their pick 1 for our pick 3-5, this will cover them for a top 5 bid for Usher which will happen.

If we move up to get Bown, who they don't care about as they want Usher, a first round pick swap (pick 1 for pick 3-5) and then we trade out our 2nd round (pick 21-23) for Suns future 2nd and 3rd, then Suns can keep their next years 1st as will then go to draft, or trade down for, the picks needed to draft 2026 draft eligible academy players like Summer Browning.

Suns give their Pick 1, next years 2nd, next years 3rd.
We give our Pick 3-5, and this years 2nd.

We get Bown and 2 x 2nd rounders for next year alongside our next years first which will be a nice draft hand. Suns have picks to go to draft, or match bids, for pick 5, (Usher), pick 19, (Davies), pick 21-23 (Lappin), and pick 37 for Welsh.

If they want Dekota Baron as well they may have to trade out a decent enough player for another 2nd Rd pick. The way I see it they have Jac Dupuy, Havana Harris and will have Georja Davies, so are covered for tall forward/utility types.

 

[TigermanM2]

With one game to go in the 2025 season my attention turns to the draft.

Ladder positions as of now.



With all 3 immediately above us being rank outsiders to win, we could jump to 14th.

Its going to be an interesting week. What do you think toenail63 ? I have mixed thoughts. You still think Gold Coast may trade their #1?

 

[toenail63]

With one game to go in the 2025 season my attention turns to the draft.

Ladder positions as of now.

View attachment 2465516

With all 3 immediately above us being rank outsiders to win, we could jump to 14th.

Its going to be an interesting week. What do you think toenail63 ? I have mixed thoughts. You still think Gold Coast may trade their #1?

TigermanM2 I've also got mixed thoughts, it's one option they may look to. I believe club recruiters had a meet and greet recently so already discussions will be happening behind closed doors to how deals can get done for Suns to get in the academy players. Next years cohort is not as strong in talent or in numbers, unlikely to get bid on first round, which potentially helps with using their futures 2nd and 3rd rounders in trading to bring in picks.

All clubs would love to trade into Suns no. 1 pick so opens the door to discussions and will have multiple clubs having trade value to do this. Including us.

They may also look to trade out their future 1st for picks.

The other unknown is the new coach in Rhyce Shaw, and how their list is reviewed in the coming weeks it's going to get interesting, as may open up player trades as well for picks. They are a bit like West Coast last year, without yet having the large list changes etc occur. Having so many young talented players coming through that can be moulded with their new game plan they will rise quickly you'd expect, but this off season, and what happens, will tell us more.

 

[TigermanM2]

The other unknown is the new coach in Rhyce Shaw, and how their list is reviewed in the coming weeks it's going to get interesting, as may open up player trades as well for picks. They are a bit like West Coast last year, without yet having the large list changes etc occur. Having so many young talented players coming through that can be moulded with their new game plan they will rise quickly you'd expect, but this off season, and what happens, will tell us more.

I praised the Bris v Melb game but I thought the GCS v Coll game was the direct opposite. Atrocious. They'd want to get those talented players coming through in asap. Really poorly skilled ATM. Even Rowbottom who I rate looks like she is playing for herself at times.