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This draft was created with a combination of real life football vision, championships, TV and a LOT of talking to people who watch football in the players respective states. Most of the information on the players was taken from www.afl.com.au, no point reinventing the wheel. You can read up on certain players in Quigleys, Snoops, Chris’s, Knightmares...Phantom draft
There will be two parts to this thread, firstly is the top 50 ranked players and then a rough guess at how teams will draft in my phantom mock draft. I stopped at pick 50 as that was hard enough to complete. The KPP in this draft are going to be a little hit and miss, so they will shape the structure of the draft within the first 30 picks. I don’t mind the top 15 talent wise, this should see Brisbane and Fremantle obtain some good talent with two selections in the top 20.
1. Conigilio
2. Patton
3. Hoskin-Elliot
4. Tyson
5. Wingard
6. Buntine
7. Greene
8. Adams
9. Sumner
10. Tomlinson
11. Kavanagh
12. Longer
13. Ellis
14. Docherty
15. Kersten
16. Lockyer
17. Crozier
18. D. Smith
19. Sheridan
20. Forster
21. C Smith
22. Haynes
23. Murdoch
24. Markworth
25. Talia
26. Frost
27. McKenzie
28. Newman
29. Kerridge
30. Paine
31. Bolger
32. Woodward
33. Yeo
34. Downie
35. O'Hanlon
36. Dalgliesh
37. Blee
38. Grigg
39. Dale
40. Elton
41. Coleman
42. Ross
43. Kelly
44. Roberts
45. Dobosz
46. Schloithe
47. Schade
48. Manson
49. Newnes
50. Nelson
Pick 1 – 5 GWS
It does not massive matter which way these 5 picks get selected as they’re all heading to the same club. I would personally just drop Patton down one or two spots to reduce the pressure of expectations from the outside world on this KPP. Look at Watts for a player with insane levels of expectations for a young developing forward, simply because he was selected with the first pick.
Pick 1
The club has already flown him overseas to check his knee, lock him in for pick one.
Name: Stephen Coniglio
Club: Swan Districts, Western Australia
Date of birth: 15/12/93
Height: 182cm
Weight: 82kg
NAB AFL Draft Combine: Coniglio was hampered by knee tendonitis during his final under-age season and did not test at the combine. He did make the trip to Melbourne, however, and was generous with his time with the various media outlets that sought him out.
Jason Phelan says: Despite his injury concerns this year, Coniglio has still shown enough to confirm his status as one of the country's top junior footballers. The onballer has the sort of breakaway speed, ball-winning ability, classy disposal and nose for goal that reminds some of the Bulldogs' Adam Cooney. He kicked four goals in the same WAFL Grand Final that famously saw Andrew Krakouer thrown an AFL lifeline by Collingwood. WA didn't enjoy a great national carnival this year, but his leadership was evident throughout. He had a tough choice to make between AFL and cricket, but football lovers will be glad he chose to enter the draft.
Kevin Sheahan says: Coniglio was part of the 14th AIS-AFL Academy intake. Averaged 22.4 touches, 10.4 contested possessions and four tackles at the U18 championships. Has pace and goal kicking ability. Was an U18 All-Australian, was voted MVP for WA and won the Larke Medal. From Upper Swan JFC.
Pick 2
I keep attempting to find faults in this guy, but he reminds me a little of Ryan Griffen with his run and carry. A very good mark overhead and from reports he was a class above anyone else on the ground in the last few TAC matches.
Name: Will Hoskin-Elliott
Club: Western Jets, Victoria
Date of birth: 02/09/93
Height: 186cm
Weight: 73kg
Draft range: 3-7
NAB AFL Draft Combine: Hoskin-Elliott has rare endurance as evidenced by his 15.12 beep test at the combine. He backed that up with a 9:53 in the 3km time trial to show AFL recruiters he already possesses the required tank to play at the elite level.
Jason Phelan says: Hoskin-Elliott has a booming right-foot kick, which is complemented by his combination of endurance, poise and line-breaking ability. The winger is not afraid to have a bounce and take on an opponent or two with his loping stride making him deceptively quick. He has the ability to hit the scoreboard with goals from well outside 50, with his long bomb against WA during the U18 championships one of the highlights of the carnival. TAC Cup Team of the Year member.
Kevin Sheahan says: Hoskin-Elliot is an AIS-AFL Academy member. He averaged more than 14 disposals and seven inside-50s at the national Under-18 championships. Has endurance, pace and marking ability.
Pick 3
If GWS had the first pick and could not afford to miss out on one player, Patton would be your man. Players of his height, strength and skill levels are rare. He will be a player you can build a team around for years to come. Considering the rest of the KPP are not very attractive this year, lock this bug fella into your top 5.
Name: Jonathon Patton
Club: Eastern Ranges, Victoria
Date of birth: 20/5/93
Height: 197cm
Weight: 101kg
NAB AFL Draft Combine: Patton didn't take part in any physical testing at the combine.
Jason Phelan says: The potential No.1 draft pick is described by Eastern Ranges' coach Darren Bewick as a beast in everything he does, whether it be his attack on the ball, his preparation or his rehabilitation and it's an appropriate summation of the elite power forward of this draft. His strength overhead, ability below his knees and physical presence inside attacking 50 makes him a tantalising key position prospect for GWS, who are sure to snap him up. He carried a slight knee concern late in the championships that affected his kicking for goal, but he still finished the carnival with 18 majors. He often attracted two or three defenders in an Eastern team that had him as its primary attacking focus for most of the TAC Cup campaign, but still kicked 31 goals in 11 games while gaining invaluable experience operating in a crowded forward line.
Kevin Sheahan says: Patton was a member of the 13th intake in the AIS/AFL Academy. He represented Vic Metro at the Under 18 Championships, averaging nine marks and 3.6 goals per game, and winning All Australian honours. He is a true power forward, is very tall, athletic and good overhead
Pick 4
GWS - Dom Tyson (VIC - Mid)
Height: 186cm, Weight: 82kg
Tyson will probably be selected in the top 3 come draft day. Almost lock this kid away for a good solid 200 game season, players will love his inside work and you need these players in every team.
Pick 5
This is the point of the draft which will shape the first 15 or so picks in the draft and also the back end of the draft. There are stories that GWS are potentially going to risk allowing Longer to slide a little in the draft. If Longer slides in the draft, you have to ask yourself the next question, Wingard or Buntine? As most mocks seem to have Longer going here, I will allow him to slide. Personally I have Wingard ranked higher, but my VFL “amateur” recruiter has a man crush on Buntine, so I am backing his assessment on this selection. It is a team effort after all.
Name: Matthew Buntine
Club: Dandenong Stingrays, Victoria
Date of birth: 19/10/93
Height: 189cm
Weight: 84kg
Draft range: 3-7
NAB AFL Draft Combine: Buntine was restricted by injury at the combine and didn't participate in any endurance testing or the agility drill. However, he tested well in the vertical leaps and posted a time of 2.98s in the 20m sprint.
Jason Phelan says: Buntine is half-back flanker who is the best reader of the play in the draft. He won't go No.1, but at least one AFL recruiter believes he is worthy of that lofty consideration. His decision-making and creativity coming from the back half will be an asset to whichever club calls his name in November. He is very good overhead for his height. He played on likely No.1 draft pick Jonathon Patton late in the TAC Cup season, impressing his coach with his ability to play in front of the 197cm monster and curb his influence despite the height difference. Shin splints meant he had a slow start to the year, but the silver lining there was that he spent his recovery time in the gym where he developed the core strength to acquit himself well in the AFL very quickly.
Kevin Sheahan says: AIS-AFL Academy member who won the Ben Mitchell Medal. Injury curtailed his impact at the U18 championships, but he impressed against Vic Metro. Good size, strong overhead, has a good game feel and uses the ball well.
At this point GWS has managed to secure two solid inside midfielders, outside midfielder, KPF and a rebounding defender.
Pick 6 Port Adelaide
Chad Wingard (SA – Mid/Fwd)
Height: 181cm, Weight: 73kg, DOB: 29/07/1993
Even if Longer is around at this selection, Port need some midfield help and I would find it hard to ignore Wingard at this point in the draft. He almost has some of the highest upside in the draft. He could be anything, a little on the light side and may start forward and over time move into the midfield. The kind of player that can turn a game in the space of 10 minutes, a very exciting player and home grown.
Pick 7 GWS
This is a point in the draft where GWS would love to be able to read the minds of Brisbane and know which of these players could slide past their 8th selection in Longer and Tomlinson. If I was GWS, I think a semi decent ruck will still be around with one of their late picks, as for a KPP like Tomlinson, I doubt it very much. At this point, Tomlinson would be my selection.
Name: Adam Tomlinson
Club: Oakleigh Chargers, Victoria
Date of birth: 10/8/93
Height: 193cm
Weight: 88kg
Draft range: 7-14
NAB AFL Draft Combine: Tomlinson ran the 20m sprint in 2.98s and then showed off his elite endurance with a 15.1 beep test and a 10:32 in the 3km time trial. He also finished equal ninth in the Nathan Buckley kicking test.
Jason Phelan says: Behind prospective No.1 pick Jonathon Patton, Tomlinson is the most exciting key position prospect in this draft. Opinion is divided as to whether he's best suited to playing in defence or as a forward, but he's shown enough to convince many recruiters he has the ability to excel at either end at AFL level. His endurance and work rate will be a huge asset to him, whether he uses it to blow up defenders or to run off opposition forwards.
Kevin Sheahan says: Tomlinson was an AIS-AFL academy member and Vic Metro U18 representative. He is a good athlete with a great attitude, uses the ball well and takes a very strong mark whether down back or up forward. From Trinity Grammar.
Pick 8
I’ve been having a running conversation with Quigley about the potential of Brisbane skipping on Longer. Brisbane will have to ask themselves if Longer + Mid is better than selecting a midfielder here and a ruckman later in the draft. I personally think there are some fairly solid ruck options later in the draft, so I would let Longer slip in the draft.
I would not have minded allowing Brisbane to select a more ouside midfielder with speed, but Toby Greene is a very good selection at this pick. I think with Hanley potentially moving into the midfield, that should add some outside strength and maybe Banfield can also player higher up the ground.
Name: Toby Greene
Club: Oakleigh Chargers, Victoria
Date of birth: 25/09/93
Height: 181cm
Weight: 76kg
NAB AFL Draft Combine: Greene ranked just inside the top 20 per cent in the running vertical jump and showed off his excellent endurance with a 15.2 beep test and a time of 10:27 in the 3km time trial. His score of 24 out of 30 in the clean hands test ranked equal 13th at the combine.
Jason Phelan says: Greene is an inside midfielder who thrives in a contested situation. He reads the play well, has the strength to stand in a tackle and dish the ball off and is invariably a high possession winner. He's not a speedster, but he buys himself time and space with his quick hands that often put his opponent on the wrong foot. Greene is a highly effective run and carry player who should adapt to the pace of AFL football quickly. TAC Cup Team of the Year member.
Kevin Sheahan says: Greene is a great ball winner and decision-maker. He has evasive and defensive skills and endurance. Averaged 24.5 touches at the U18 titles, was All-Australian and Vic Metro MVP. From Wesley College.
Pick 9, 10 and 11.
If the draft feel this way, I am sure GWS would be very happy for themselves. There is a line of logic that states a KPP must be selected around this point, I have a different feeling about this concept. Maybe some short term pain, but GWS may have to search for more KPP in the following draft(s).
Longer, Docherty and Kavanagh would add some difference to their first 6 picks. Longer to be the obvious future ruckman, Docherty to take the kick ins and run and carry from the back half. Kavanagh with big upside assuming he recovers from his injured past.
Name: Billy Longer
Club: Northern Knights, Victoria
Date of birth: 12/5/93
Height: 201cm
Weight: 98kg
NAB AFL Draft Combine: Longer picked up an injury late in the season and did not take part in any testing at the combine.
Jason Phelan says: Longer is a natural leader who was the dominant tap ruckman at TAC Cup level and at the national championships this year. He can also pose a significant threat up forward. He's a right footer, but goes up with his left hand at most stoppages, which is rare. He's also more than capable with his right hand, which makes him a tricky proposition for opposition ruckmen. He doesn't get a heap of possessions around the ground just yet, but his combination of speed, endurance and footy smarts has him well placed to slowly bring that into his game. TAC Cup Team of the Year member.
Kevin Sheahan says: Longer was an All-Australian U18 ruckman who is mobile and excels at stoppages. Is also dangerous up forward with his marking and speed. Averaged 11.7 disposals and four marks for the Knights this year. From Macleod FC.
Name: Sam Docherty
Club: Gippsland Power, Victoria
Date of birth: 17/10/93
Height: 185cm
Weight: 83kg
NAB AFL Draft Combine: Docherty picked up a hip injury late in the season playing for Gippsland and was unable to test at the combine.
Jason Phelan says: Docherty missed out on the initial Vic Country squad, but the creative half-back flanker overcame that disappointment to force his way back in with a string of excellent performances for the Power. He made the most of his opportunity when he was brought in for the fourth game of the carnival with an eye-catching display across half-back against WA at Skilled Stadium. He often handled the kick-ins for Gippsland, thanks to his ability to find a target, and his kicking under pressure is a feature of his game. He's strong overhead and knows when to go at the ball or throw a block to create space for a teammate.
Kevin Sheahan says: Docherty was best on ground in the U18 championship game against WA. Reads the play well and dashes from defence. Is a good kick under pressure. From Phillip Island FC.
Name: Elliott Kavanagh
Club: Western Jets, Victoria
Date of birth: 19/05/93
Height: 185cm
Weight: 75kg
Draft range: 15-25
NAB AFL Draft Combine: Kavanagh topped the Matthew Lloyd clean hands test with a score of 28 out of 30 and ran a very respectable 10:37 in the 3km time trial.
Jason Phelan says: Kavanagh impressed as an underage player for Vic Metro and the Jets last season, but was hampered by a serious hamstring injury earlier this year that kept him out of the under-18 national championships. He returned to put in some eye-catching displays for the Jets late in the season and passed a thorough physical exam at the combine to allay fears over his durability. He's a classy midfielder with nice foot skills who could prove to be an excellent pick-up for a club later in the first round.
Kevin Sheahan says: Kavanagh was part of the 14th intake of the AIS/AFL Academy. He has excellent endurance and game sense. Had an injury-interrupted year but is now back on track. Uses the ball well, is a strong overhead mark and a good decision-maker. A real competitor who enjoys winning the contested ball. From PEGS
Pick 12 Brisbane
Based on my rankings and Brisbane needs, you would assume that Kersten would be a potential selection. There are whispers around the traps that Kersten is slipping down the order. I think the Lions need some speed in their team, Sumner is their man.
His inside game is not amazing, but the Lions have this covered. Sumner has a great combination of speed, decision making and attack on the ball. Just adds some X factor to the Lions solid non fuss midfield. I personally think the Lions would be happier with Greene + Sumner + late ruck v Longer + Sumner + late mid.
Name: Liam Sumner
Club: Sandringham Dragons, Victoria
Date of birth: 16/8/93
Height: 178cm
Weight: 71kg
NAB AFL Draft Combine: Sumner has an outstanding vertical leap, which saw him test inside the top 2 per cent off his right foot at the combine. He recorded a 2.90s in the 20m sprint and then showed off his endurance with a 24.35s time in the repeat sprint and a 10:41 in the 3km time trial.
Jason Phelan says: Sumner kicked six goals for Sandringham in April to earn a late call-up for the AIS-AFL Academy tour of Europe in place of the injured Jake Stringer. It gave his year a boost just at the right time and he hasn't looked back. The quick, elusive midfielder doesn't usually dominate the possession count, but his disposals are typically of a high standard. He is capable of doing the sensational, but has also worked tirelessly to add a hard edge to his game.
Kevin Sheahan says: Sumner was part of 14th AIS-AFL Academy intake. He also represented Vic Metro at NAB AFL Under-18 Championships, averaging 15 possessions. Quick and agile, he uses the ball well, breaks the lines and is ferocious at the contest. He is also good overhead, and a penetrating kick. From St Paul’s JFC.
Pick 13 and 14
Once again I am unsure if they will select talls here or add some more quality mids. One of my favourite players in the draft should go around this point. Adams could potentially be a future captain and I think you need leaders in a new team and this guy will give it in spades. The next player that could be on their radar is Haynes a little older than the rest of the kids and hopefully ready to play from day one. I may have taken Haynes a little higher than I hoped, but GWS have plenty of kids.
Name: Nick Haynes
Club: Dandenong Stingrays, Victoria
Date of birth: 18/05/92
Height: 192cm
Weight: 78kg
NAB AFL Draft Combine: Haynes excelled in the endurance disciplines, with a 14.13 beep test and a 10:16 3km time trial that saw him place inside the top 5 per cent at the combine.
Jason Phelan says: Haynes is a forward/winger who is exceptional overhead. He was lost to the game for a few years after suffering a broken elbow, but rekindled his passion for footy with the Frankston Bombers last year. He was an over-age player with the Stingrays this year and his competitiveness, nose for goal (he finished the season with 21) and endurance saw him rated in the Rays' best players in 10 of 13 TAC Cup matches. He eventually claimed the club's best and fairest award.
Kevin Sheahan says: Haynes represented Vic Country at the NAB AFL Under-18 Championships, playing three matches. He has great agility, takes a good overhead mark and has very good running ability and aerobic capacity. From Frankston Bombers FC
Name: Taylor Adams
Club: Geelong Falcons, Victoria
Date of birth: 20/09/93
Height: 179cm
Weight: 80kg
NAB AFL Draft Combine: Adams showed off his impressive endurance with a 15.1 beep test and a 10:39 in the 3km time trial. His 20m sprint time was a touch over three seconds, which shows he has some speed to go with his big tank.
Jason Phelan says: Adams is a classy midfielder who also has a hard edge to his game that has seen him likened to Geelong's Jimmy Bartel. He averaged 28 possessions per match with the Falcons this year with 10 of those contested. He is a strong tackler who is tough to shake loose once he latches on. He disposes of the ball well by hand in traffic and is an elite kick off his right boot. Adams has strong leadership credentials. He was one of many Falcons to have a quiet game against Oakleigh in the last round of the TAC Cup, but he maintained a strong voice despite the lopsided nature of the contest that ended with a 130-point margin.
Kevin Sheahan says: Averaged 18.8 disposals and four tackles at NAB AFL U18 Championships. Exceptional leader, is clean and strong around contest. U18 All-Australian. From St Joseph's FC
Pick 15 Richmond
Heard a little whisper a while ago that the Tigers were interested in recruiting Ellis. Ellis is a good fit for the Tigers, he will shut down those dangerous small forwards in the league and has the ability to move into the midfield. Could be a long term replacement for Newman.
Brandon Ellis (VIC – Def)
Height: 181cm, Weight: 83kg, DOB: 03/08/1993
Pick 16 Fremantle
The Dockers have tall midfielders, so they can afford to pick Devon Smith here, Balla and Smith can rotate between midfield and forward and create nightmares for the defenders. I feel that Smith will one day more into the midfield.
Name: Devon Smith
Club: Geelong Falcons, Victoria
Date of birth: 20/5/93
Height: 174cm
Weight: 76kg
Draft range: 10-20
NAB AFL Draft Combine: Smith tested inside the top 10 per cent at the combine in the vertical jump, showed excellent speed with a 2.91s in the 20m sprint and finished third overall in the 30m repeat sprint test. He also scored a 25 out of 30 in the Matthew Lloyd clean hands test, which ranked him equal ninth.
Jason Phelan says: Smith is one of the premier small forward-midfielder prospects in this draft. He reads the game exceptionally well and has a knack of finding space inside 50. He made his mark on the national carnival when he booted six goals against the Northern Territory at Visy Park, but also has a ferocious appetite for chasing and tackling in the forward half of the ground. He only played six games for the Falcons due to Vic Country and school commitments, but averaged 27 possessions and kicked 11 goals.
Kevin Sheahan says: Smith was part of the 14th AIS-AFL Academy intake. He averaged 19 disposals and four tackles at the Under-18 Championships. Has pace, agility and finds space. Rare decision-making ability and skills. From Lara FC
Pick 17 Bulldogs
The Doggies secured two solid midfielders last season, why not pick a big upside player in Crozier. Will take some time to develop and will sit forward with Jones and Panos and provide a difficult match up for defensive players.
Name: Hayden Crozier
Club: Eastern Ranges, Victoria
Date of birth: 24/12/93
Height: 185cm
Weight: 68kg
Draft range: 10-20
NAB AFL Draft Combine: Crozier was just shaded by SA's Chad Wingard in the running vertical jump, but his leap of 91cm was still very impressive. He ran a 2.89s 20m sprint, which is elite, and complements that with good endurance as shown by his 14.7 beep test.
Jason Phelan says: Crozier shot to prominence when he took that massive screamer against WA during the national championships, but there's more to his game than aerial artistry. Predominantly a half-forward flanker, he has a good footy brain to go with the x-factor he brings to the table and can also find his own footy. He kicked bags of four and five goals in a Ranges' team that didn't have a great year and even showed some promise when thrown down back late in the season. He's still very lightly framed and will take some time to develop, but he has a mountain of upside.
Kevin Sheahan says: Crozier was an U18 Vic Metro representative, and boasts an elite vertical leap and mark, is well balanced, and has a great left-foot kick. Averaged 18.7 disposals for the Ranges in 2011 at 67 per cent efficiency. From Rowville FC
Pick 18 North Melbourne
Most North fans are crying out for players that have good footskills, while they’re at it, I think endurance should be another key factor. McKenzie like Cunnington and Ziebell really needs to work on his endurance and hence I cannot select him here. Forster is very solid and another pet favourite of mine and think he suits the Kanga’s team.
Name: Alex Forster
Club: Norwood, South Australia
Date of birth: 14/07/93
Height: 189cm
Weight: 77kg
Draft range: 20-30
NAB AFL Draft Combine: Forster's time of 8.21s in the agility test was the highlight of his combine. That time ranked him inside the top 17 per cent of participants. His score of 24 out of 30 in the clean hands test ranked him equal 13th overall.
Jason Phelan says: Forster is a real 'Mr. Fixit', but is by no means a jack-of-all-trades and master of none. He had an outstanding championship for SA playing predominantly off a half-back flank, where he displayed the ability to shut down his opponent while still providing rebound with his clean disposal by foot a feature. He made his SANFL senior debut late in the season and kept his spot in the Redlegs' line-up right through their finals campaign.
Kevin Sheahan says: Forster averaged 15.4 disposals (84.4 per cent efficiency) at the U18 championships, winning All-Australian honours. He has clean hands, and always seems to be composed
Pick 19
Having conversations with my Melbourne scout and we discussed who Essendon should select at this pick and we ended up deciding on Sheridan. A little Watson about this kid, good use of the hands while his kicking is not amazing, it is solid. Will run all day and once again he will provide leadership to a young midfield group of the Bombers. This may allow Melksham, Colyer and Jetta to be used more on the outside.
Name: Tom Sheridan
Club: Calder Cannons, Victoria
Date of birth: 28/10/93
Height: 185cm
Weight: 76kg
Draft range: 18-30
NAB AFL Draft Combine: Sheridan showed off his big tank at the combine with a 15.7 beep test and a 9:57 effort in the 3km run, with both of those results ranking him inside the top 2 per cent. His score of 25 out of 30 in the Nathan Buckley kicking test placed him equal ninth.
Jason Phelan says: Sheridan is a really busy, team-oriented onballer with a healthy competitive streak. He has an elite endurance base and will run and carry on his own or link up with teammates. He's not the most penetrating kick, but he's very effective using his hands to bring teammates into the play. He also has good leadership potential having captained the Cannons for a period this year. Sheridan played 15 games for Calder and was named in the best players 11 times. TAC Cup Team of the Year member.
Kevin Sheahan says: Sheridan represented Vic Metro at the NAB AFL Under-18 Championships, averaging 14 possessions. He has good endurance and can bring others into the game by clever use of the ball. From Riddells Creek FC.
Pick 20 Fremantle
If the stories are true about Kersten dropping down the list are true, I am not sure he could fall past this pick. I wanted to allow Kersten to drop to Carlton’s pick, but I just cannot see him fall past pick 20, then again I thought Darling would not drop as low as he did. The Dockers need someone to help Pavlich out down forward. Kersten is slightly undersized but has great use of the body, reads the flight of the ball and takes a mark at the highest point. Good long kick for goal as well, which is important in modern day football.
Name: Shane Kersten
Club: South Fremantle, Western Australia
Date of birth: 15/3/93
Height: 191cm
Weight: 92kg
Draft range: 13-25
NAB AFL Draft Combine: Kersten's score of 25 out of 30 in the Matthew Lloyd clean hands test ranked him inside the top 10 at the combine. He showed good speed with a 2.98s in the 20m sprint, but was unable to take part in endurance testing due to injury.
Jason Phelan says: Kersten narrowly missed out on being taken by GWS as one of the club's 17-year-olds last year. He missed plenty of footy in 2011, including the national championships, with a severe elbow injury but the tall forward finished the season strongly with South Fremantle. He followed up bags of six and seven goals with a five-goal haul in the Bulldogs colts' Grand Final win against Claremont. His strong finish and elite kicking have seen his draft stocks rise considerably.
Kevin Sheahan says: Kersten is a tall forward who is strong on the lead and sound overhead. He is an accurate kick for goal and has represented WA at under-16 level in 2009 and under-18 level in 2010, kicking 15 goals in five matches. Made his senior debut in the WAFL last year.
21. Sydney Swans - Tom Mitchell (F/S)
I think this kid could have been a top 4-10 selection and is a super inside midfielder. Just demolished colts teams and would rack up possessions with no problems.
Name: Tom Mitchell
Club: Claremont, Western Australia
Date of birth: 31/5/93
Height: 180cm
Weight: 73kg
Draft range: Sydney Swans father/son selection (No.21 overall)
NAB AFL Draft Combine: Mitchell did not take part in any physical testing at the combine.
Jason Phelan says: The Swans have got themselves a contested ball, clearance specialist in Tom Mitchell. The hard-at-it onballer has battled injury at times this season, but he was among WA's best when he came into the team late in the national under-18 carnival. His ability to win the ball and distribute it efficiently by hand is outstanding and he is also a long kick off his left boot. He returned to play colts footy for Claremont late in the season and amassed 45 possessions in his first game back from an injury layoff.
Kevin Sheahan says: Mitchell was part of 13th AIS-AFL Academy intake. He is a left-footer with ball-winning ability. Starred late in the U18 championships, averaging 28 disposals. Signed as father-son to Swans. From Hale School
Pick 22 Carlton
Well this is my personal team and it is a strange position in the draft. It is almost a reach for some players and we don’t have massive holes in our list assuming some of our 2010 class improves to AFL standard. Lead up forward to take over from Waite and another inside midfielder would be nice additions to the team. There are a few names that I could almost select at this point in C Smith, Markworth, Lockyer and Murdoch.
I will go a little left field and pick Murdoch at this spot. Going for the big upside styled selection with a guy that has amazing levels of speed. 191cm tall with a 2.76second 20m sprint time, how the hell do you match up on that? Garlett, Walker, Hampson, Betts and a Gibbs in the forward 50m would just be a scary sight when added to Murdoch.
Jordan Murdoch (SA – Fwd/KPF)
Height: 190 cm, Weight: 81kg, DOB: 23/03/1992
Pick 23 West Coast
A guy that should have gone via a FS selection anyway, can play forward and back. I also don’t mind him as a taller midfielder adding some grunt. You know this guy will not die wondering about his talent levels. One Vic football watcher of mine completely disagrees with me on his talent levels, but I am willing to place this kid high. Could also consider Markworth and Clay Smith for this selection, I just think Markworth is a little too similar in style to Darling, so Smith would be the next viable option.
Name: Jordan Lockyer
Club: West Perth, Western Australia
Date of birth: 15/6/93
Height: 192cm
Weight: 86kg
NAB AFL Draft Combine: Lockyer impressed in vertical leap testing, ranking in the top 3 per cent off his left foot, while he clocked a blazing 2.89s in the 20m sprint. He displayed good repeat endurance with a time of 24.68s in the repeat sprints and finished off an excellent combine with an equal-second ranking in the Nathan Buckley kicking test.
Jason Phelan says: The versatile tall defender had his championships interrupted when he suffered a bad concussion against Vic Metro, but he finished the season strongly. He broke through for his senior WAFL debut with West Perth and didn't look out of place in two games. In a draft pool a little short on quality talls, Lockyer stands out as one of the better key/third tall prospects later in the first round.
Kevin Sheahan says: Averaged 75 per cent effectiveness at the national U18 championships. The son of former Eagle Andrew Lockyer., Jordan is a versatile type who reads the game well and uses the ball effectively.
Pick 24 Gold Coast
Gold coast have most areas of the field covered, so it would be a case of picking the best player to fall to their selection or go completely for upside. They have a few really tall key forwards, so a tackling, fast third tall would not hurt and I think Markworth could be their man.
Name: Daniel Markworth
Club: Calder Cannons, Victoria
Date of birth: 3/4/92
Height: 191cm
Weight: 78kg
NAB AFL Draft Combine: Markworth tested well in the vertical leap drills and put in a 2.89s 20m sprint which saw him ranked inside the top 10 per cent at the combine. His repeat sprint time of 24.31s was amongst the best of those tested, but he picked up an injury shortly before the combine that didn't allow him to complete endurance testing.
Jason Phelan says: Markworth was late to football, but what he's been able to show since joining Calder makes him a tantalising prospect for AFL recruiters. He has impressive speed and agility and possesses a creative flair sure to delight fans. At 191cm he's a tough match-up inside forward 50. He can also go into the middle and his ability to work in heavy traffic will improve as he spends time in an AFL club's system. TAC Cup Team of the Year member.
Kevin Sheahan says: Markworth was an under-18 Vic Metro rep (one game), having played as a 19-year-old in first year in TAC Cup. Enjoyed a great year with the Cannons, showing speed, clean hands and goal sense. From Macedon FC.
25. St Kilda
I think the Saints need a lot of fresh players, but I think they should just pick purely on talent levels. They have an aging midfield and this guy has drifted enough in this draft.
Clay Smith (VIC – Mid)
Height: 180cm, Weight: 78kg, DOB: 11/05/1993
Pick 26 Richmond
Having picked up Ellis with their first pick, this would be an interesting selection. I may take one of my personal favourites from W.A in Elliot Yeo. This guy has a heap of talent and there are some question marks on his physical nature, but I think the Tigers have some good inside players and Yeo has many dangerous tools to make it at AFL level. This week draft, does not hurt to look for upside and Yeo had a decent end to the year.
Elliot Yeo (WA - Mid)
Height: 188cm, Weight: 73kg, DOB: 01/10/1993
Pick 27 Adelaide
Well McKenzie for whatever reason kept on drifting in my mock draft, he could go anywhere from pick 17 onwards, but for my draft he ended up here. Hopefully he works on his tank because his kicking is a weapon at AFL level. Adelaide could do with a solid kick like this in their team. Nice that he is also a local boy, so looking good.
Name: Brad McKenzie
Club: Sturt, South Australia
Date of birth: 29/5/93
Height: 188cm
Weight: 76kg
NAB AFL Draft Combine: McKenzie's elite agility shone through at the combine, where he registered a time of 8.12s, which ranked him in the top 8 per cent of players tested.
Jason Phelan says: McKenzie's powerful and pinpoint left boot makes him one of the more sought after midfielders in this draft. His ability to pick apart a defence and deliver the ball to the advantage of his forwards is first class and he complements that with his willingness to go after the hard ball. He has some work to do on his endurance, but that will come with an AFL pre-season or two under his belt. He made his senior SANFL debut with Sturt this season and played three games.
Kevin Sheahan says: McKenzie is a classy left-footer who averaged 16.4 disposals and three tackles at the U18 championships. He is a good mark, and brings others into the game with his composure and creativity. From Marryatville HS.
Pick 28
Plenty of stories linking Newman to WCE. May start forward and then drift into the midfield. The Eagles have been looking for a solid small forward for a few drafts and have had problems with indigenous boys heading home after 1 or 2 seasons.
Murray Newman Swan Districts
Height: 179 Weight: 69kg
29. Fremantle
Sam Frost was smashed in the TAC final, that is not always a good sign. Still he has some big upside with his athletic ability. Just needs to learn to enjoy body contact a little more, but he has the tools to recover, in this draft, you have to look at the positives and work on the negatives.
Name: Sam Frost
Club: Sandringham Dragons, Victoria
Date of birth: 28/08/93
Height: 194cm
Weight: 84kg
NAB AFL Draft Combine: Frost picked up a hip injury in the TAC Cup Grand Final and was unable to take part in any physical testing at this year's combine.
Jason Phelan says: Frost is an intriguing draft prospect. Given his volleyball background and athleticism, he has plenty of upside and is already capable of some eye-catching displays in a key defensive post. Frost provided a tantalising glimpse of the future when playing for Vic Metro against Vic Country at Etihad Stadium - showing courage to gather the ball in traffic, then burstiong away from the pack and delivering by foot to a teammate further afield. He'll need to continue to work on his kicking, but Frost is a real diamond in the rough.
Kevin Sheahan says: Frost averaged 14 disposals at the national U18 championships. A hard runner who loves to back himself, he is very good overhead and has a huge leap. From Wesley College.
Pick 30 GC Compo – Brisbane
This is where they should pick a ruck, two main options stick out here. Bolger or Downie and I may go a little left field and selection Downie over Bolger, just due to the upside potential. Downie the basketball convert I think could be a very good player given time and has a nice size and height about him.
Tom Downie
Ht 204 Wt 94 DOB 27/4/93
Pick 31 Essendon
I know this pick has some romance to the selection being related to Watson, but I think he suits the requirements of the Bombers. Adds to their midfield rotations and has a nice size about him as well.
Sebastian Ross
Ht 187 Wt 82
Pick 32 Geelong
I think the Cats would not mind another tallish defender and I could see them selecting Schade here and allowing him to learn from Scarlett before taking over in two years or so. Schade has some raw potential. One of the best of the Tassie kids and should be a solid FB in years to come, maybe allowing Harry Taylor to be the third tall defender.
Henry Schade (TAS - KPD)
Height: 194cm, Weight: 81kg, DOB: 08/10/1993
Pick 33 Hawthorn
The hawks have a solid team, just maybe lacking one KPD and it would not hurt taking Talia at this point. His kicking is not amazing, but he is a solid defender and will take a good defensive mark and hand it off to the likes of Suckling and Gibson who are better kicks.
Name: Michael Talia
Club: Calder Cannons, Victoria
Date of birth: 11/2/93
Height: 192cm
Weight: 88kg
NAB AFL Draft Combine: Talia displayed good speed for a player his size in the 20m sprint and also showed he has a tank an AFL club can build on.
Jason Phelan says: The key defender had an excellent championships with Vic Metro that saw him receive All Australian honours. He is strong overhead and in one-on-one contests, but is also capable of providing run from defensive 50. He can be a little inconsistent by foot, but his proficiency in other areas makes him an excellent prospect for a team in need of a backman to develop for the future. He overcame a soft-tissue injury to play one of his best games of the season in the high stakes preliminary final against Sandringham. TAC Cup Team of the Year member.
Kevin Sheahan says: Talia is a tall and agile defender who can win plenty of the ball and take some quality pack marks. Brother of Adelaide Crows-listed player Daniel Talia. Played in the Calder Cannons' 2010 TAC Cup premiership team
Pick 34 Geelong
The Cats often pick up the drifting in the draft and Grigg could be this years drifter. Maybe has some attitude issues and is certainly is slow. I think the Cats can fix any attitude issues with their leadership and they will find a way to cover his weakness. His boot is lethal, so it is time to jump on this kid.
Name: Mitchell Grigg
Club: Norwood, South Australia
Date of birth: 02/01/93
Height: 182cm
Weight: 82kg
NAB AFL Draft Combine: Endurance is one of Grigg's stronger points, so it came as no surprise to see him register a 14.13 beep test and a 10:29 3km time trial at the combine.
Jason Phelan says: Grigg is a strongly built midfielder who can lay claim to being one of the elite kicks of this draft class. What he lacks in speed off the mark he makes up for with the length and accuracy he can achieve off his left boot. He's good in traffic and generally makes good decisions under pressure. Grigg made his senior SANFL debut late in the season and played in the Redlegs' preliminary final against the Eagles.
Kevin Sheahan says: Grigg is very good in close with his hands and uses the ball effectively from contested situations. He also has an extremely accurate left foot. Averaged 24.4 possessions at 69 per cent efficiency at NAB AFL Under-18 Championships, earning All-Australian honours. From Athelstone FC.
Pick 35 Saints
Just pick solid players should be the Saints concept, I think getting Clay Smith with their first pick may be a little wishful thinking in the real draft, but they should be happy. Now they pick another solid midfielder in Kerridge. A tall styled midfielder with good speed, hands and decent endurance. I would not be shocked to see this player also selected higher on draft day. May have to take some solid KPP with their later picks.
Sam Kerridge Bendigo
Height: 188 Weight: 83
Pick 36 Melbourne
Stoppage player and I think with the loss of Scully, the Demons need to add some more midfield talent, especially with Clarke being added to the forward line. Solid clearance player and works hard around the packs.
Alex Woodward (Sandringham Dragons
Height: 177 Weight: 78
Pick 37 Saints
This player divides thoughts and could go anywhere in this draft. I think the Saints need a ruck/forward replacement and Elton is their man. Has plenty of potential, just a little rough around the edges.
Name: Todd Elton
Club: Dandenong Stingrays, Victoria
Date of birth: 29/04/93
Height: 197cm
Weight: 92kg
NAB AFL Draft Combine: Elton tested very well in the vertical leap drills, with his 89cm jump off his left foot putting him in the top 2 per cent at the combine. His time of 2.93s in the 20m sprint is exceptional for a player of his height. He scored 25 out of 30 in the Matthew Lloyd clean hands test, which placed him equal ninth overall.
Jason Phelan says: Elton's draft stocks waned a little on the back of an average showing at the national carnival, but it was later revealed he was struggling to overcome an infected spider bite on an elbow. He was used in the ruck and up forward at TAC Cup level, but he will benefit from becoming a permanent forward at an AFL club. Elton has an excellent burst speed that can give him separation from a defender. He's still learning how to use his big frame in a one-on-one situation, but showed a glimpse of what he's capable of with nine contested marks against Bendigo in the last round of the TAC Cup season.
Kevin Sheahan says: Elton was an AIS-AFL Academy member and Vic Country U18 representative. He is good below the knees and disposes of the ball effectively. Shows great character and leadership, averaged 12.6 disposals and six marks for the Stingrays this year. From Somerville FC.
Pick 38 Hawks
Pick someone from left field and select this forward Gibson Turner.
Gibson Turner: From: (NT Thunder, Northern Territory)
Height: 180cm
Weight: 70Kg
DOB: 22/07/93
KEVIN SHEEHAN SAYS
"Represented NT at U18 champs, averaging two goals.
Fast, skilful, with good leap and goal sense. From Rovers FC."
Pick 39 Bulldogs
The Doggies could do with some more depth in the ruck department and Bolger is a solid option at this point in the draft.
Myles Bolger (WA - Ruck)
Height: 201cm, Weight: 90kg, DOB: 25/03/1993
Pick 40 North Melbourne
Dalgleish could be a good selection here adding some leg speed and a nice strong kick. Has not been massively impressive to date, but there is potential there and at this point in the draft he has more upside than most.
Lachlan Dalgleish North Ballarat
Height: 182cm Weight: 77kg
Pick 41 Adelaide
This has an Adelaide feeling, tall forward/midfielder and is good on the lead and strong kick for goal. Will be able to push into the midfield over time.
Brett O’Hanlon Dandenong
Height: 189cm Weight: 82kg
Pick 42 Saints.
This guy could go a hell of a lot higher, but I have him sliding down to this pick. Saints need some tall forward replacement and Paine is their man. Strong mark, good on the lead but just needs to improve his work rate at AFL level.
Jackson Paine Sandy Dragons
Height: 192cm Weight: 86kg
Pick 43 Sydney
Very solid player for the Cannons and my Vic football watcher has given me good reports on his year, so Sydney could do with some solid decision making and players with good footskills on their small ground.
Fraser Dale From: Calder Cannons, VIC
Date of birth: 10/11/93
Height: 186cm
Weight: 74kg
KEVIN SHEEHAN SAYS
Played one game for Vic Country at U18 champs, had great year at Cannons, ave. 18 disposals, five marks. Good decision-maker, foot skills and marking. From Myrtleford FC.
Pick 44 Carlton
With Carlton’s first pick, they secured a third tall forward/tall winger in Murdoch, it is time to get another forward. My player is Coleman, solid built player who will provide a contest and bring the ball to ground for the quick smalls that the Blues have in their team.
Jackson Coleman From: (Sandringham Dragons, Vic)
DOB: 18/12/91
Height: 196cm
Weight: 90Kg
KEVIN SHEEHAN SAYS
"Left-footed tall who is strong overhead and an accurate kick for goal. Promising cricketer who focussed on footy in 2011. Averaged 14 disposals, seven marks and has kicked 34 goals this year for Dragons."
Pick 45 Port Adelaide
Schloithe was second in the Souths BnF beating some solid players to this spot. His finals was very impressive and I think he has every right to be on an AFL list next year. Will provide some solid forward pressure, something the Power really needs.
Haiden Schloithe (WA - Fwd)
Height: 179cm, Weight: 72kg
Pick 46 Adelaide
I know they’ve selected talls in previous drafts but with the loss of Davis and Bock, they have to go tall again. This player is a gem and may get drafted higher. Solid one on one player and a strong tackler.
Jordan Kelly From: (Dandenong Stingrays, Vic)
Date of birth: 27/06/93
Height: 191cm
Weight: 81Kg
KEVIN SHEEHAN SAYS
"Averaged three tackles at U18 champs. Is a good size and
can win own ball. Has a good long kick and can play well
one-on-one. From Edithvale-Aspendale FC."
Pick 47 Brisbane
Brisbane need talls, so here goes a solid tall that some people view better than the likes of Elton, once again another player that on draft day could go higher.
Fletcher Roberts: From: (Sandringham Dragons, Vic)
DOB: 03/06/93
Height: 194cm
Weight: 84Kg
KEVIN SHEEHAN SAYS
"Tall, versatile, athletic player who reads the play and uses his body well and has good skills. Had 21 touches and kicked three goals in a TAC Cup final. From Melbourne Grammar."
Pick 48 Geelong
Solid mature aged player in Blee, had a very good year in the WAFL. Should have no trouble adjusting to the speed of AFL football and will play the role of third tall, which is his preferred style of game, he can also play in the midfield which could be handy.
Nathan Blee East Perth
Height: 192cm Weight: 82kg
Pick 49 Bulldogs
Josh Bootsma, is moving up the draft ratings. Personally he is not a favourite of mine, but a solid rebounding defender and can shut down his opponent.
Josh Bootsma (WA - Def)
Height: 191cm, Weight: 81kg
Pick 50 Collingwood
They could go in any direction, but I think Jack Newnes could be an option. Could move between wing and HBF and has some solid skills and a strong kick. The Pies did their draft on trade day, so this could be anyone.
Jack Newnes Northern Knights
Height: 184cm Weight:73kg
There will be two parts to this thread, firstly is the top 50 ranked players and then a rough guess at how teams will draft in my phantom mock draft. I stopped at pick 50 as that was hard enough to complete. The KPP in this draft are going to be a little hit and miss, so they will shape the structure of the draft within the first 30 picks. I don’t mind the top 15 talent wise, this should see Brisbane and Fremantle obtain some good talent with two selections in the top 20.
1. Conigilio
2. Patton
3. Hoskin-Elliot
4. Tyson
5. Wingard
6. Buntine
7. Greene
8. Adams
9. Sumner
10. Tomlinson
11. Kavanagh
12. Longer
13. Ellis
14. Docherty
15. Kersten
16. Lockyer
17. Crozier
18. D. Smith
19. Sheridan
20. Forster
21. C Smith
22. Haynes
23. Murdoch
24. Markworth
25. Talia
26. Frost
27. McKenzie
28. Newman
29. Kerridge
30. Paine
31. Bolger
32. Woodward
33. Yeo
34. Downie
35. O'Hanlon
36. Dalgliesh
37. Blee
38. Grigg
39. Dale
40. Elton
41. Coleman
42. Ross
43. Kelly
44. Roberts
45. Dobosz
46. Schloithe
47. Schade
48. Manson
49. Newnes
50. Nelson
Pick 1 – 5 GWS
It does not massive matter which way these 5 picks get selected as they’re all heading to the same club. I would personally just drop Patton down one or two spots to reduce the pressure of expectations from the outside world on this KPP. Look at Watts for a player with insane levels of expectations for a young developing forward, simply because he was selected with the first pick.
Pick 1
The club has already flown him overseas to check his knee, lock him in for pick one.
Name: Stephen Coniglio
Club: Swan Districts, Western Australia
Date of birth: 15/12/93
Height: 182cm
Weight: 82kg
NAB AFL Draft Combine: Coniglio was hampered by knee tendonitis during his final under-age season and did not test at the combine. He did make the trip to Melbourne, however, and was generous with his time with the various media outlets that sought him out.
Jason Phelan says: Despite his injury concerns this year, Coniglio has still shown enough to confirm his status as one of the country's top junior footballers. The onballer has the sort of breakaway speed, ball-winning ability, classy disposal and nose for goal that reminds some of the Bulldogs' Adam Cooney. He kicked four goals in the same WAFL Grand Final that famously saw Andrew Krakouer thrown an AFL lifeline by Collingwood. WA didn't enjoy a great national carnival this year, but his leadership was evident throughout. He had a tough choice to make between AFL and cricket, but football lovers will be glad he chose to enter the draft.
Kevin Sheahan says: Coniglio was part of the 14th AIS-AFL Academy intake. Averaged 22.4 touches, 10.4 contested possessions and four tackles at the U18 championships. Has pace and goal kicking ability. Was an U18 All-Australian, was voted MVP for WA and won the Larke Medal. From Upper Swan JFC.
Pick 2
I keep attempting to find faults in this guy, but he reminds me a little of Ryan Griffen with his run and carry. A very good mark overhead and from reports he was a class above anyone else on the ground in the last few TAC matches.
Name: Will Hoskin-Elliott
Club: Western Jets, Victoria
Date of birth: 02/09/93
Height: 186cm
Weight: 73kg
Draft range: 3-7
NAB AFL Draft Combine: Hoskin-Elliott has rare endurance as evidenced by his 15.12 beep test at the combine. He backed that up with a 9:53 in the 3km time trial to show AFL recruiters he already possesses the required tank to play at the elite level.
Jason Phelan says: Hoskin-Elliott has a booming right-foot kick, which is complemented by his combination of endurance, poise and line-breaking ability. The winger is not afraid to have a bounce and take on an opponent or two with his loping stride making him deceptively quick. He has the ability to hit the scoreboard with goals from well outside 50, with his long bomb against WA during the U18 championships one of the highlights of the carnival. TAC Cup Team of the Year member.
Kevin Sheahan says: Hoskin-Elliot is an AIS-AFL Academy member. He averaged more than 14 disposals and seven inside-50s at the national Under-18 championships. Has endurance, pace and marking ability.
Pick 3
If GWS had the first pick and could not afford to miss out on one player, Patton would be your man. Players of his height, strength and skill levels are rare. He will be a player you can build a team around for years to come. Considering the rest of the KPP are not very attractive this year, lock this bug fella into your top 5.
Name: Jonathon Patton
Club: Eastern Ranges, Victoria
Date of birth: 20/5/93
Height: 197cm
Weight: 101kg
NAB AFL Draft Combine: Patton didn't take part in any physical testing at the combine.
Jason Phelan says: The potential No.1 draft pick is described by Eastern Ranges' coach Darren Bewick as a beast in everything he does, whether it be his attack on the ball, his preparation or his rehabilitation and it's an appropriate summation of the elite power forward of this draft. His strength overhead, ability below his knees and physical presence inside attacking 50 makes him a tantalising key position prospect for GWS, who are sure to snap him up. He carried a slight knee concern late in the championships that affected his kicking for goal, but he still finished the carnival with 18 majors. He often attracted two or three defenders in an Eastern team that had him as its primary attacking focus for most of the TAC Cup campaign, but still kicked 31 goals in 11 games while gaining invaluable experience operating in a crowded forward line.
Kevin Sheahan says: Patton was a member of the 13th intake in the AIS/AFL Academy. He represented Vic Metro at the Under 18 Championships, averaging nine marks and 3.6 goals per game, and winning All Australian honours. He is a true power forward, is very tall, athletic and good overhead
Pick 4
GWS - Dom Tyson (VIC - Mid)
Height: 186cm, Weight: 82kg
Tyson will probably be selected in the top 3 come draft day. Almost lock this kid away for a good solid 200 game season, players will love his inside work and you need these players in every team.
Pick 5
This is the point of the draft which will shape the first 15 or so picks in the draft and also the back end of the draft. There are stories that GWS are potentially going to risk allowing Longer to slide a little in the draft. If Longer slides in the draft, you have to ask yourself the next question, Wingard or Buntine? As most mocks seem to have Longer going here, I will allow him to slide. Personally I have Wingard ranked higher, but my VFL “amateur” recruiter has a man crush on Buntine, so I am backing his assessment on this selection. It is a team effort after all.
Name: Matthew Buntine
Club: Dandenong Stingrays, Victoria
Date of birth: 19/10/93
Height: 189cm
Weight: 84kg
Draft range: 3-7
NAB AFL Draft Combine: Buntine was restricted by injury at the combine and didn't participate in any endurance testing or the agility drill. However, he tested well in the vertical leaps and posted a time of 2.98s in the 20m sprint.
Jason Phelan says: Buntine is half-back flanker who is the best reader of the play in the draft. He won't go No.1, but at least one AFL recruiter believes he is worthy of that lofty consideration. His decision-making and creativity coming from the back half will be an asset to whichever club calls his name in November. He is very good overhead for his height. He played on likely No.1 draft pick Jonathon Patton late in the TAC Cup season, impressing his coach with his ability to play in front of the 197cm monster and curb his influence despite the height difference. Shin splints meant he had a slow start to the year, but the silver lining there was that he spent his recovery time in the gym where he developed the core strength to acquit himself well in the AFL very quickly.
Kevin Sheahan says: AIS-AFL Academy member who won the Ben Mitchell Medal. Injury curtailed his impact at the U18 championships, but he impressed against Vic Metro. Good size, strong overhead, has a good game feel and uses the ball well.
At this point GWS has managed to secure two solid inside midfielders, outside midfielder, KPF and a rebounding defender.
Pick 6 Port Adelaide
Chad Wingard (SA – Mid/Fwd)
Height: 181cm, Weight: 73kg, DOB: 29/07/1993
Even if Longer is around at this selection, Port need some midfield help and I would find it hard to ignore Wingard at this point in the draft. He almost has some of the highest upside in the draft. He could be anything, a little on the light side and may start forward and over time move into the midfield. The kind of player that can turn a game in the space of 10 minutes, a very exciting player and home grown.
Pick 7 GWS
This is a point in the draft where GWS would love to be able to read the minds of Brisbane and know which of these players could slide past their 8th selection in Longer and Tomlinson. If I was GWS, I think a semi decent ruck will still be around with one of their late picks, as for a KPP like Tomlinson, I doubt it very much. At this point, Tomlinson would be my selection.
Name: Adam Tomlinson
Club: Oakleigh Chargers, Victoria
Date of birth: 10/8/93
Height: 193cm
Weight: 88kg
Draft range: 7-14
NAB AFL Draft Combine: Tomlinson ran the 20m sprint in 2.98s and then showed off his elite endurance with a 15.1 beep test and a 10:32 in the 3km time trial. He also finished equal ninth in the Nathan Buckley kicking test.
Jason Phelan says: Behind prospective No.1 pick Jonathon Patton, Tomlinson is the most exciting key position prospect in this draft. Opinion is divided as to whether he's best suited to playing in defence or as a forward, but he's shown enough to convince many recruiters he has the ability to excel at either end at AFL level. His endurance and work rate will be a huge asset to him, whether he uses it to blow up defenders or to run off opposition forwards.
Kevin Sheahan says: Tomlinson was an AIS-AFL academy member and Vic Metro U18 representative. He is a good athlete with a great attitude, uses the ball well and takes a very strong mark whether down back or up forward. From Trinity Grammar.
Pick 8
I’ve been having a running conversation with Quigley about the potential of Brisbane skipping on Longer. Brisbane will have to ask themselves if Longer + Mid is better than selecting a midfielder here and a ruckman later in the draft. I personally think there are some fairly solid ruck options later in the draft, so I would let Longer slip in the draft.
I would not have minded allowing Brisbane to select a more ouside midfielder with speed, but Toby Greene is a very good selection at this pick. I think with Hanley potentially moving into the midfield, that should add some outside strength and maybe Banfield can also player higher up the ground.
Name: Toby Greene
Club: Oakleigh Chargers, Victoria
Date of birth: 25/09/93
Height: 181cm
Weight: 76kg
NAB AFL Draft Combine: Greene ranked just inside the top 20 per cent in the running vertical jump and showed off his excellent endurance with a 15.2 beep test and a time of 10:27 in the 3km time trial. His score of 24 out of 30 in the clean hands test ranked equal 13th at the combine.
Jason Phelan says: Greene is an inside midfielder who thrives in a contested situation. He reads the play well, has the strength to stand in a tackle and dish the ball off and is invariably a high possession winner. He's not a speedster, but he buys himself time and space with his quick hands that often put his opponent on the wrong foot. Greene is a highly effective run and carry player who should adapt to the pace of AFL football quickly. TAC Cup Team of the Year member.
Kevin Sheahan says: Greene is a great ball winner and decision-maker. He has evasive and defensive skills and endurance. Averaged 24.5 touches at the U18 titles, was All-Australian and Vic Metro MVP. From Wesley College.
Pick 9, 10 and 11.
If the draft feel this way, I am sure GWS would be very happy for themselves. There is a line of logic that states a KPP must be selected around this point, I have a different feeling about this concept. Maybe some short term pain, but GWS may have to search for more KPP in the following draft(s).
Longer, Docherty and Kavanagh would add some difference to their first 6 picks. Longer to be the obvious future ruckman, Docherty to take the kick ins and run and carry from the back half. Kavanagh with big upside assuming he recovers from his injured past.
Name: Billy Longer
Club: Northern Knights, Victoria
Date of birth: 12/5/93
Height: 201cm
Weight: 98kg
NAB AFL Draft Combine: Longer picked up an injury late in the season and did not take part in any testing at the combine.
Jason Phelan says: Longer is a natural leader who was the dominant tap ruckman at TAC Cup level and at the national championships this year. He can also pose a significant threat up forward. He's a right footer, but goes up with his left hand at most stoppages, which is rare. He's also more than capable with his right hand, which makes him a tricky proposition for opposition ruckmen. He doesn't get a heap of possessions around the ground just yet, but his combination of speed, endurance and footy smarts has him well placed to slowly bring that into his game. TAC Cup Team of the Year member.
Kevin Sheahan says: Longer was an All-Australian U18 ruckman who is mobile and excels at stoppages. Is also dangerous up forward with his marking and speed. Averaged 11.7 disposals and four marks for the Knights this year. From Macleod FC.
Name: Sam Docherty
Club: Gippsland Power, Victoria
Date of birth: 17/10/93
Height: 185cm
Weight: 83kg
NAB AFL Draft Combine: Docherty picked up a hip injury late in the season playing for Gippsland and was unable to test at the combine.
Jason Phelan says: Docherty missed out on the initial Vic Country squad, but the creative half-back flanker overcame that disappointment to force his way back in with a string of excellent performances for the Power. He made the most of his opportunity when he was brought in for the fourth game of the carnival with an eye-catching display across half-back against WA at Skilled Stadium. He often handled the kick-ins for Gippsland, thanks to his ability to find a target, and his kicking under pressure is a feature of his game. He's strong overhead and knows when to go at the ball or throw a block to create space for a teammate.
Kevin Sheahan says: Docherty was best on ground in the U18 championship game against WA. Reads the play well and dashes from defence. Is a good kick under pressure. From Phillip Island FC.
Name: Elliott Kavanagh
Club: Western Jets, Victoria
Date of birth: 19/05/93
Height: 185cm
Weight: 75kg
Draft range: 15-25
NAB AFL Draft Combine: Kavanagh topped the Matthew Lloyd clean hands test with a score of 28 out of 30 and ran a very respectable 10:37 in the 3km time trial.
Jason Phelan says: Kavanagh impressed as an underage player for Vic Metro and the Jets last season, but was hampered by a serious hamstring injury earlier this year that kept him out of the under-18 national championships. He returned to put in some eye-catching displays for the Jets late in the season and passed a thorough physical exam at the combine to allay fears over his durability. He's a classy midfielder with nice foot skills who could prove to be an excellent pick-up for a club later in the first round.
Kevin Sheahan says: Kavanagh was part of the 14th intake of the AIS/AFL Academy. He has excellent endurance and game sense. Had an injury-interrupted year but is now back on track. Uses the ball well, is a strong overhead mark and a good decision-maker. A real competitor who enjoys winning the contested ball. From PEGS
Pick 12 Brisbane
Based on my rankings and Brisbane needs, you would assume that Kersten would be a potential selection. There are whispers around the traps that Kersten is slipping down the order. I think the Lions need some speed in their team, Sumner is their man.
His inside game is not amazing, but the Lions have this covered. Sumner has a great combination of speed, decision making and attack on the ball. Just adds some X factor to the Lions solid non fuss midfield. I personally think the Lions would be happier with Greene + Sumner + late ruck v Longer + Sumner + late mid.
Name: Liam Sumner
Club: Sandringham Dragons, Victoria
Date of birth: 16/8/93
Height: 178cm
Weight: 71kg
NAB AFL Draft Combine: Sumner has an outstanding vertical leap, which saw him test inside the top 2 per cent off his right foot at the combine. He recorded a 2.90s in the 20m sprint and then showed off his endurance with a 24.35s time in the repeat sprint and a 10:41 in the 3km time trial.
Jason Phelan says: Sumner kicked six goals for Sandringham in April to earn a late call-up for the AIS-AFL Academy tour of Europe in place of the injured Jake Stringer. It gave his year a boost just at the right time and he hasn't looked back. The quick, elusive midfielder doesn't usually dominate the possession count, but his disposals are typically of a high standard. He is capable of doing the sensational, but has also worked tirelessly to add a hard edge to his game.
Kevin Sheahan says: Sumner was part of 14th AIS-AFL Academy intake. He also represented Vic Metro at NAB AFL Under-18 Championships, averaging 15 possessions. Quick and agile, he uses the ball well, breaks the lines and is ferocious at the contest. He is also good overhead, and a penetrating kick. From St Paul’s JFC.
Pick 13 and 14
Once again I am unsure if they will select talls here or add some more quality mids. One of my favourite players in the draft should go around this point. Adams could potentially be a future captain and I think you need leaders in a new team and this guy will give it in spades. The next player that could be on their radar is Haynes a little older than the rest of the kids and hopefully ready to play from day one. I may have taken Haynes a little higher than I hoped, but GWS have plenty of kids.
Name: Nick Haynes
Club: Dandenong Stingrays, Victoria
Date of birth: 18/05/92
Height: 192cm
Weight: 78kg
NAB AFL Draft Combine: Haynes excelled in the endurance disciplines, with a 14.13 beep test and a 10:16 3km time trial that saw him place inside the top 5 per cent at the combine.
Jason Phelan says: Haynes is a forward/winger who is exceptional overhead. He was lost to the game for a few years after suffering a broken elbow, but rekindled his passion for footy with the Frankston Bombers last year. He was an over-age player with the Stingrays this year and his competitiveness, nose for goal (he finished the season with 21) and endurance saw him rated in the Rays' best players in 10 of 13 TAC Cup matches. He eventually claimed the club's best and fairest award.
Kevin Sheahan says: Haynes represented Vic Country at the NAB AFL Under-18 Championships, playing three matches. He has great agility, takes a good overhead mark and has very good running ability and aerobic capacity. From Frankston Bombers FC
Name: Taylor Adams
Club: Geelong Falcons, Victoria
Date of birth: 20/09/93
Height: 179cm
Weight: 80kg
NAB AFL Draft Combine: Adams showed off his impressive endurance with a 15.1 beep test and a 10:39 in the 3km time trial. His 20m sprint time was a touch over three seconds, which shows he has some speed to go with his big tank.
Jason Phelan says: Adams is a classy midfielder who also has a hard edge to his game that has seen him likened to Geelong's Jimmy Bartel. He averaged 28 possessions per match with the Falcons this year with 10 of those contested. He is a strong tackler who is tough to shake loose once he latches on. He disposes of the ball well by hand in traffic and is an elite kick off his right boot. Adams has strong leadership credentials. He was one of many Falcons to have a quiet game against Oakleigh in the last round of the TAC Cup, but he maintained a strong voice despite the lopsided nature of the contest that ended with a 130-point margin.
Kevin Sheahan says: Averaged 18.8 disposals and four tackles at NAB AFL U18 Championships. Exceptional leader, is clean and strong around contest. U18 All-Australian. From St Joseph's FC
Pick 15 Richmond
Heard a little whisper a while ago that the Tigers were interested in recruiting Ellis. Ellis is a good fit for the Tigers, he will shut down those dangerous small forwards in the league and has the ability to move into the midfield. Could be a long term replacement for Newman.
Brandon Ellis (VIC – Def)
Height: 181cm, Weight: 83kg, DOB: 03/08/1993
Pick 16 Fremantle
The Dockers have tall midfielders, so they can afford to pick Devon Smith here, Balla and Smith can rotate between midfield and forward and create nightmares for the defenders. I feel that Smith will one day more into the midfield.
Name: Devon Smith
Club: Geelong Falcons, Victoria
Date of birth: 20/5/93
Height: 174cm
Weight: 76kg
Draft range: 10-20
NAB AFL Draft Combine: Smith tested inside the top 10 per cent at the combine in the vertical jump, showed excellent speed with a 2.91s in the 20m sprint and finished third overall in the 30m repeat sprint test. He also scored a 25 out of 30 in the Matthew Lloyd clean hands test, which ranked him equal ninth.
Jason Phelan says: Smith is one of the premier small forward-midfielder prospects in this draft. He reads the game exceptionally well and has a knack of finding space inside 50. He made his mark on the national carnival when he booted six goals against the Northern Territory at Visy Park, but also has a ferocious appetite for chasing and tackling in the forward half of the ground. He only played six games for the Falcons due to Vic Country and school commitments, but averaged 27 possessions and kicked 11 goals.
Kevin Sheahan says: Smith was part of the 14th AIS-AFL Academy intake. He averaged 19 disposals and four tackles at the Under-18 Championships. Has pace, agility and finds space. Rare decision-making ability and skills. From Lara FC
Pick 17 Bulldogs
The Doggies secured two solid midfielders last season, why not pick a big upside player in Crozier. Will take some time to develop and will sit forward with Jones and Panos and provide a difficult match up for defensive players.
Name: Hayden Crozier
Club: Eastern Ranges, Victoria
Date of birth: 24/12/93
Height: 185cm
Weight: 68kg
Draft range: 10-20
NAB AFL Draft Combine: Crozier was just shaded by SA's Chad Wingard in the running vertical jump, but his leap of 91cm was still very impressive. He ran a 2.89s 20m sprint, which is elite, and complements that with good endurance as shown by his 14.7 beep test.
Jason Phelan says: Crozier shot to prominence when he took that massive screamer against WA during the national championships, but there's more to his game than aerial artistry. Predominantly a half-forward flanker, he has a good footy brain to go with the x-factor he brings to the table and can also find his own footy. He kicked bags of four and five goals in a Ranges' team that didn't have a great year and even showed some promise when thrown down back late in the season. He's still very lightly framed and will take some time to develop, but he has a mountain of upside.
Kevin Sheahan says: Crozier was an U18 Vic Metro representative, and boasts an elite vertical leap and mark, is well balanced, and has a great left-foot kick. Averaged 18.7 disposals for the Ranges in 2011 at 67 per cent efficiency. From Rowville FC
Pick 18 North Melbourne
Most North fans are crying out for players that have good footskills, while they’re at it, I think endurance should be another key factor. McKenzie like Cunnington and Ziebell really needs to work on his endurance and hence I cannot select him here. Forster is very solid and another pet favourite of mine and think he suits the Kanga’s team.
Name: Alex Forster
Club: Norwood, South Australia
Date of birth: 14/07/93
Height: 189cm
Weight: 77kg
Draft range: 20-30
NAB AFL Draft Combine: Forster's time of 8.21s in the agility test was the highlight of his combine. That time ranked him inside the top 17 per cent of participants. His score of 24 out of 30 in the clean hands test ranked him equal 13th overall.
Jason Phelan says: Forster is a real 'Mr. Fixit', but is by no means a jack-of-all-trades and master of none. He had an outstanding championship for SA playing predominantly off a half-back flank, where he displayed the ability to shut down his opponent while still providing rebound with his clean disposal by foot a feature. He made his SANFL senior debut late in the season and kept his spot in the Redlegs' line-up right through their finals campaign.
Kevin Sheahan says: Forster averaged 15.4 disposals (84.4 per cent efficiency) at the U18 championships, winning All-Australian honours. He has clean hands, and always seems to be composed
Pick 19
Having conversations with my Melbourne scout and we discussed who Essendon should select at this pick and we ended up deciding on Sheridan. A little Watson about this kid, good use of the hands while his kicking is not amazing, it is solid. Will run all day and once again he will provide leadership to a young midfield group of the Bombers. This may allow Melksham, Colyer and Jetta to be used more on the outside.
Name: Tom Sheridan
Club: Calder Cannons, Victoria
Date of birth: 28/10/93
Height: 185cm
Weight: 76kg
Draft range: 18-30
NAB AFL Draft Combine: Sheridan showed off his big tank at the combine with a 15.7 beep test and a 9:57 effort in the 3km run, with both of those results ranking him inside the top 2 per cent. His score of 25 out of 30 in the Nathan Buckley kicking test placed him equal ninth.
Jason Phelan says: Sheridan is a really busy, team-oriented onballer with a healthy competitive streak. He has an elite endurance base and will run and carry on his own or link up with teammates. He's not the most penetrating kick, but he's very effective using his hands to bring teammates into the play. He also has good leadership potential having captained the Cannons for a period this year. Sheridan played 15 games for Calder and was named in the best players 11 times. TAC Cup Team of the Year member.
Kevin Sheahan says: Sheridan represented Vic Metro at the NAB AFL Under-18 Championships, averaging 14 possessions. He has good endurance and can bring others into the game by clever use of the ball. From Riddells Creek FC.
Pick 20 Fremantle
If the stories are true about Kersten dropping down the list are true, I am not sure he could fall past this pick. I wanted to allow Kersten to drop to Carlton’s pick, but I just cannot see him fall past pick 20, then again I thought Darling would not drop as low as he did. The Dockers need someone to help Pavlich out down forward. Kersten is slightly undersized but has great use of the body, reads the flight of the ball and takes a mark at the highest point. Good long kick for goal as well, which is important in modern day football.
Name: Shane Kersten
Club: South Fremantle, Western Australia
Date of birth: 15/3/93
Height: 191cm
Weight: 92kg
Draft range: 13-25
NAB AFL Draft Combine: Kersten's score of 25 out of 30 in the Matthew Lloyd clean hands test ranked him inside the top 10 at the combine. He showed good speed with a 2.98s in the 20m sprint, but was unable to take part in endurance testing due to injury.
Jason Phelan says: Kersten narrowly missed out on being taken by GWS as one of the club's 17-year-olds last year. He missed plenty of footy in 2011, including the national championships, with a severe elbow injury but the tall forward finished the season strongly with South Fremantle. He followed up bags of six and seven goals with a five-goal haul in the Bulldogs colts' Grand Final win against Claremont. His strong finish and elite kicking have seen his draft stocks rise considerably.
Kevin Sheahan says: Kersten is a tall forward who is strong on the lead and sound overhead. He is an accurate kick for goal and has represented WA at under-16 level in 2009 and under-18 level in 2010, kicking 15 goals in five matches. Made his senior debut in the WAFL last year.
21. Sydney Swans - Tom Mitchell (F/S)
I think this kid could have been a top 4-10 selection and is a super inside midfielder. Just demolished colts teams and would rack up possessions with no problems.
Name: Tom Mitchell
Club: Claremont, Western Australia
Date of birth: 31/5/93
Height: 180cm
Weight: 73kg
Draft range: Sydney Swans father/son selection (No.21 overall)
NAB AFL Draft Combine: Mitchell did not take part in any physical testing at the combine.
Jason Phelan says: The Swans have got themselves a contested ball, clearance specialist in Tom Mitchell. The hard-at-it onballer has battled injury at times this season, but he was among WA's best when he came into the team late in the national under-18 carnival. His ability to win the ball and distribute it efficiently by hand is outstanding and he is also a long kick off his left boot. He returned to play colts footy for Claremont late in the season and amassed 45 possessions in his first game back from an injury layoff.
Kevin Sheahan says: Mitchell was part of 13th AIS-AFL Academy intake. He is a left-footer with ball-winning ability. Starred late in the U18 championships, averaging 28 disposals. Signed as father-son to Swans. From Hale School
Pick 22 Carlton
Well this is my personal team and it is a strange position in the draft. It is almost a reach for some players and we don’t have massive holes in our list assuming some of our 2010 class improves to AFL standard. Lead up forward to take over from Waite and another inside midfielder would be nice additions to the team. There are a few names that I could almost select at this point in C Smith, Markworth, Lockyer and Murdoch.
I will go a little left field and pick Murdoch at this spot. Going for the big upside styled selection with a guy that has amazing levels of speed. 191cm tall with a 2.76second 20m sprint time, how the hell do you match up on that? Garlett, Walker, Hampson, Betts and a Gibbs in the forward 50m would just be a scary sight when added to Murdoch.
Jordan Murdoch (SA – Fwd/KPF)
Height: 190 cm, Weight: 81kg, DOB: 23/03/1992
Pick 23 West Coast
A guy that should have gone via a FS selection anyway, can play forward and back. I also don’t mind him as a taller midfielder adding some grunt. You know this guy will not die wondering about his talent levels. One Vic football watcher of mine completely disagrees with me on his talent levels, but I am willing to place this kid high. Could also consider Markworth and Clay Smith for this selection, I just think Markworth is a little too similar in style to Darling, so Smith would be the next viable option.
Name: Jordan Lockyer
Club: West Perth, Western Australia
Date of birth: 15/6/93
Height: 192cm
Weight: 86kg
NAB AFL Draft Combine: Lockyer impressed in vertical leap testing, ranking in the top 3 per cent off his left foot, while he clocked a blazing 2.89s in the 20m sprint. He displayed good repeat endurance with a time of 24.68s in the repeat sprints and finished off an excellent combine with an equal-second ranking in the Nathan Buckley kicking test.
Jason Phelan says: The versatile tall defender had his championships interrupted when he suffered a bad concussion against Vic Metro, but he finished the season strongly. He broke through for his senior WAFL debut with West Perth and didn't look out of place in two games. In a draft pool a little short on quality talls, Lockyer stands out as one of the better key/third tall prospects later in the first round.
Kevin Sheahan says: Averaged 75 per cent effectiveness at the national U18 championships. The son of former Eagle Andrew Lockyer., Jordan is a versatile type who reads the game well and uses the ball effectively.
Pick 24 Gold Coast
Gold coast have most areas of the field covered, so it would be a case of picking the best player to fall to their selection or go completely for upside. They have a few really tall key forwards, so a tackling, fast third tall would not hurt and I think Markworth could be their man.
Name: Daniel Markworth
Club: Calder Cannons, Victoria
Date of birth: 3/4/92
Height: 191cm
Weight: 78kg
NAB AFL Draft Combine: Markworth tested well in the vertical leap drills and put in a 2.89s 20m sprint which saw him ranked inside the top 10 per cent at the combine. His repeat sprint time of 24.31s was amongst the best of those tested, but he picked up an injury shortly before the combine that didn't allow him to complete endurance testing.
Jason Phelan says: Markworth was late to football, but what he's been able to show since joining Calder makes him a tantalising prospect for AFL recruiters. He has impressive speed and agility and possesses a creative flair sure to delight fans. At 191cm he's a tough match-up inside forward 50. He can also go into the middle and his ability to work in heavy traffic will improve as he spends time in an AFL club's system. TAC Cup Team of the Year member.
Kevin Sheahan says: Markworth was an under-18 Vic Metro rep (one game), having played as a 19-year-old in first year in TAC Cup. Enjoyed a great year with the Cannons, showing speed, clean hands and goal sense. From Macedon FC.
25. St Kilda
I think the Saints need a lot of fresh players, but I think they should just pick purely on talent levels. They have an aging midfield and this guy has drifted enough in this draft.
Clay Smith (VIC – Mid)
Height: 180cm, Weight: 78kg, DOB: 11/05/1993
Pick 26 Richmond
Having picked up Ellis with their first pick, this would be an interesting selection. I may take one of my personal favourites from W.A in Elliot Yeo. This guy has a heap of talent and there are some question marks on his physical nature, but I think the Tigers have some good inside players and Yeo has many dangerous tools to make it at AFL level. This week draft, does not hurt to look for upside and Yeo had a decent end to the year.
Elliot Yeo (WA - Mid)
Height: 188cm, Weight: 73kg, DOB: 01/10/1993
Pick 27 Adelaide
Well McKenzie for whatever reason kept on drifting in my mock draft, he could go anywhere from pick 17 onwards, but for my draft he ended up here. Hopefully he works on his tank because his kicking is a weapon at AFL level. Adelaide could do with a solid kick like this in their team. Nice that he is also a local boy, so looking good.
Name: Brad McKenzie
Club: Sturt, South Australia
Date of birth: 29/5/93
Height: 188cm
Weight: 76kg
NAB AFL Draft Combine: McKenzie's elite agility shone through at the combine, where he registered a time of 8.12s, which ranked him in the top 8 per cent of players tested.
Jason Phelan says: McKenzie's powerful and pinpoint left boot makes him one of the more sought after midfielders in this draft. His ability to pick apart a defence and deliver the ball to the advantage of his forwards is first class and he complements that with his willingness to go after the hard ball. He has some work to do on his endurance, but that will come with an AFL pre-season or two under his belt. He made his senior SANFL debut with Sturt this season and played three games.
Kevin Sheahan says: McKenzie is a classy left-footer who averaged 16.4 disposals and three tackles at the U18 championships. He is a good mark, and brings others into the game with his composure and creativity. From Marryatville HS.
Pick 28
Plenty of stories linking Newman to WCE. May start forward and then drift into the midfield. The Eagles have been looking for a solid small forward for a few drafts and have had problems with indigenous boys heading home after 1 or 2 seasons.
Murray Newman Swan Districts
Height: 179 Weight: 69kg
29. Fremantle
Sam Frost was smashed in the TAC final, that is not always a good sign. Still he has some big upside with his athletic ability. Just needs to learn to enjoy body contact a little more, but he has the tools to recover, in this draft, you have to look at the positives and work on the negatives.
Name: Sam Frost
Club: Sandringham Dragons, Victoria
Date of birth: 28/08/93
Height: 194cm
Weight: 84kg
NAB AFL Draft Combine: Frost picked up a hip injury in the TAC Cup Grand Final and was unable to take part in any physical testing at this year's combine.
Jason Phelan says: Frost is an intriguing draft prospect. Given his volleyball background and athleticism, he has plenty of upside and is already capable of some eye-catching displays in a key defensive post. Frost provided a tantalising glimpse of the future when playing for Vic Metro against Vic Country at Etihad Stadium - showing courage to gather the ball in traffic, then burstiong away from the pack and delivering by foot to a teammate further afield. He'll need to continue to work on his kicking, but Frost is a real diamond in the rough.
Kevin Sheahan says: Frost averaged 14 disposals at the national U18 championships. A hard runner who loves to back himself, he is very good overhead and has a huge leap. From Wesley College.
Pick 30 GC Compo – Brisbane
This is where they should pick a ruck, two main options stick out here. Bolger or Downie and I may go a little left field and selection Downie over Bolger, just due to the upside potential. Downie the basketball convert I think could be a very good player given time and has a nice size and height about him.
Tom Downie
Ht 204 Wt 94 DOB 27/4/93
Pick 31 Essendon
I know this pick has some romance to the selection being related to Watson, but I think he suits the requirements of the Bombers. Adds to their midfield rotations and has a nice size about him as well.
Sebastian Ross
Ht 187 Wt 82
Pick 32 Geelong
I think the Cats would not mind another tallish defender and I could see them selecting Schade here and allowing him to learn from Scarlett before taking over in two years or so. Schade has some raw potential. One of the best of the Tassie kids and should be a solid FB in years to come, maybe allowing Harry Taylor to be the third tall defender.
Henry Schade (TAS - KPD)
Height: 194cm, Weight: 81kg, DOB: 08/10/1993
Pick 33 Hawthorn
The hawks have a solid team, just maybe lacking one KPD and it would not hurt taking Talia at this point. His kicking is not amazing, but he is a solid defender and will take a good defensive mark and hand it off to the likes of Suckling and Gibson who are better kicks.
Name: Michael Talia
Club: Calder Cannons, Victoria
Date of birth: 11/2/93
Height: 192cm
Weight: 88kg
NAB AFL Draft Combine: Talia displayed good speed for a player his size in the 20m sprint and also showed he has a tank an AFL club can build on.
Jason Phelan says: The key defender had an excellent championships with Vic Metro that saw him receive All Australian honours. He is strong overhead and in one-on-one contests, but is also capable of providing run from defensive 50. He can be a little inconsistent by foot, but his proficiency in other areas makes him an excellent prospect for a team in need of a backman to develop for the future. He overcame a soft-tissue injury to play one of his best games of the season in the high stakes preliminary final against Sandringham. TAC Cup Team of the Year member.
Kevin Sheahan says: Talia is a tall and agile defender who can win plenty of the ball and take some quality pack marks. Brother of Adelaide Crows-listed player Daniel Talia. Played in the Calder Cannons' 2010 TAC Cup premiership team
Pick 34 Geelong
The Cats often pick up the drifting in the draft and Grigg could be this years drifter. Maybe has some attitude issues and is certainly is slow. I think the Cats can fix any attitude issues with their leadership and they will find a way to cover his weakness. His boot is lethal, so it is time to jump on this kid.
Name: Mitchell Grigg
Club: Norwood, South Australia
Date of birth: 02/01/93
Height: 182cm
Weight: 82kg
NAB AFL Draft Combine: Endurance is one of Grigg's stronger points, so it came as no surprise to see him register a 14.13 beep test and a 10:29 3km time trial at the combine.
Jason Phelan says: Grigg is a strongly built midfielder who can lay claim to being one of the elite kicks of this draft class. What he lacks in speed off the mark he makes up for with the length and accuracy he can achieve off his left boot. He's good in traffic and generally makes good decisions under pressure. Grigg made his senior SANFL debut late in the season and played in the Redlegs' preliminary final against the Eagles.
Kevin Sheahan says: Grigg is very good in close with his hands and uses the ball effectively from contested situations. He also has an extremely accurate left foot. Averaged 24.4 possessions at 69 per cent efficiency at NAB AFL Under-18 Championships, earning All-Australian honours. From Athelstone FC.
Pick 35 Saints
Just pick solid players should be the Saints concept, I think getting Clay Smith with their first pick may be a little wishful thinking in the real draft, but they should be happy. Now they pick another solid midfielder in Kerridge. A tall styled midfielder with good speed, hands and decent endurance. I would not be shocked to see this player also selected higher on draft day. May have to take some solid KPP with their later picks.
Sam Kerridge Bendigo
Height: 188 Weight: 83
Pick 36 Melbourne
Stoppage player and I think with the loss of Scully, the Demons need to add some more midfield talent, especially with Clarke being added to the forward line. Solid clearance player and works hard around the packs.
Alex Woodward (Sandringham Dragons
Height: 177 Weight: 78
Pick 37 Saints
This player divides thoughts and could go anywhere in this draft. I think the Saints need a ruck/forward replacement and Elton is their man. Has plenty of potential, just a little rough around the edges.
Name: Todd Elton
Club: Dandenong Stingrays, Victoria
Date of birth: 29/04/93
Height: 197cm
Weight: 92kg
NAB AFL Draft Combine: Elton tested very well in the vertical leap drills, with his 89cm jump off his left foot putting him in the top 2 per cent at the combine. His time of 2.93s in the 20m sprint is exceptional for a player of his height. He scored 25 out of 30 in the Matthew Lloyd clean hands test, which placed him equal ninth overall.
Jason Phelan says: Elton's draft stocks waned a little on the back of an average showing at the national carnival, but it was later revealed he was struggling to overcome an infected spider bite on an elbow. He was used in the ruck and up forward at TAC Cup level, but he will benefit from becoming a permanent forward at an AFL club. Elton has an excellent burst speed that can give him separation from a defender. He's still learning how to use his big frame in a one-on-one situation, but showed a glimpse of what he's capable of with nine contested marks against Bendigo in the last round of the TAC Cup season.
Kevin Sheahan says: Elton was an AIS-AFL Academy member and Vic Country U18 representative. He is good below the knees and disposes of the ball effectively. Shows great character and leadership, averaged 12.6 disposals and six marks for the Stingrays this year. From Somerville FC.
Pick 38 Hawks
Pick someone from left field and select this forward Gibson Turner.
Gibson Turner: From: (NT Thunder, Northern Territory)
Height: 180cm
Weight: 70Kg
DOB: 22/07/93
KEVIN SHEEHAN SAYS
"Represented NT at U18 champs, averaging two goals.
Fast, skilful, with good leap and goal sense. From Rovers FC."
Pick 39 Bulldogs
The Doggies could do with some more depth in the ruck department and Bolger is a solid option at this point in the draft.
Myles Bolger (WA - Ruck)
Height: 201cm, Weight: 90kg, DOB: 25/03/1993
Pick 40 North Melbourne
Dalgleish could be a good selection here adding some leg speed and a nice strong kick. Has not been massively impressive to date, but there is potential there and at this point in the draft he has more upside than most.
Lachlan Dalgleish North Ballarat
Height: 182cm Weight: 77kg
Pick 41 Adelaide
This has an Adelaide feeling, tall forward/midfielder and is good on the lead and strong kick for goal. Will be able to push into the midfield over time.
Brett O’Hanlon Dandenong
Height: 189cm Weight: 82kg
Pick 42 Saints.
This guy could go a hell of a lot higher, but I have him sliding down to this pick. Saints need some tall forward replacement and Paine is their man. Strong mark, good on the lead but just needs to improve his work rate at AFL level.
Jackson Paine Sandy Dragons
Height: 192cm Weight: 86kg
Pick 43 Sydney
Very solid player for the Cannons and my Vic football watcher has given me good reports on his year, so Sydney could do with some solid decision making and players with good footskills on their small ground.
Fraser Dale From: Calder Cannons, VIC
Date of birth: 10/11/93
Height: 186cm
Weight: 74kg
KEVIN SHEEHAN SAYS
Played one game for Vic Country at U18 champs, had great year at Cannons, ave. 18 disposals, five marks. Good decision-maker, foot skills and marking. From Myrtleford FC.
Pick 44 Carlton
With Carlton’s first pick, they secured a third tall forward/tall winger in Murdoch, it is time to get another forward. My player is Coleman, solid built player who will provide a contest and bring the ball to ground for the quick smalls that the Blues have in their team.
Jackson Coleman From: (Sandringham Dragons, Vic)
DOB: 18/12/91
Height: 196cm
Weight: 90Kg
KEVIN SHEEHAN SAYS
"Left-footed tall who is strong overhead and an accurate kick for goal. Promising cricketer who focussed on footy in 2011. Averaged 14 disposals, seven marks and has kicked 34 goals this year for Dragons."
Pick 45 Port Adelaide
Schloithe was second in the Souths BnF beating some solid players to this spot. His finals was very impressive and I think he has every right to be on an AFL list next year. Will provide some solid forward pressure, something the Power really needs.
Haiden Schloithe (WA - Fwd)
Height: 179cm, Weight: 72kg
Pick 46 Adelaide
I know they’ve selected talls in previous drafts but with the loss of Davis and Bock, they have to go tall again. This player is a gem and may get drafted higher. Solid one on one player and a strong tackler.
Jordan Kelly From: (Dandenong Stingrays, Vic)
Date of birth: 27/06/93
Height: 191cm
Weight: 81Kg
KEVIN SHEEHAN SAYS
"Averaged three tackles at U18 champs. Is a good size and
can win own ball. Has a good long kick and can play well
one-on-one. From Edithvale-Aspendale FC."
Pick 47 Brisbane
Brisbane need talls, so here goes a solid tall that some people view better than the likes of Elton, once again another player that on draft day could go higher.
Fletcher Roberts: From: (Sandringham Dragons, Vic)
DOB: 03/06/93
Height: 194cm
Weight: 84Kg
KEVIN SHEEHAN SAYS
"Tall, versatile, athletic player who reads the play and uses his body well and has good skills. Had 21 touches and kicked three goals in a TAC Cup final. From Melbourne Grammar."
Pick 48 Geelong
Solid mature aged player in Blee, had a very good year in the WAFL. Should have no trouble adjusting to the speed of AFL football and will play the role of third tall, which is his preferred style of game, he can also play in the midfield which could be handy.
Nathan Blee East Perth
Height: 192cm Weight: 82kg
Pick 49 Bulldogs
Josh Bootsma, is moving up the draft ratings. Personally he is not a favourite of mine, but a solid rebounding defender and can shut down his opponent.
Josh Bootsma (WA - Def)
Height: 191cm, Weight: 81kg
Pick 50 Collingwood
They could go in any direction, but I think Jack Newnes could be an option. Could move between wing and HBF and has some solid skills and a strong kick. The Pies did their draft on trade day, so this could be anyone.
Jack Newnes Northern Knights
Height: 184cm Weight:73kg

