Pre-season 2022.

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Geez Josh Rachelle looks good. Hope we didn’t make a boo-boo taking Andrew instead. Time will tell.

Yeah. However Rachele will play for the SUNS one day. Give it time
 
Moyle is a bit of a forgotten player on our list. At least I forget about him. But he has all the traits required to be a ruck at league level. His arms are just so long. Hope we hang onto him for as long as possible.

Casboult isn't a ruck whatsoever. You'd prefer Burgess in there, but he at least proves to be a big body for Moyle to wrestle around.
Burgess did OK against backup rucks but got absolutely destroyed by strong physical ruckmen. Round 19, 2nd half against BigO still gives me shivers. I agree Casboult is not a great ruck option but would probably do better against BigO just because of his size and body strength. Hopefully, Moyle can step in if Witts is not ready early but I doubt. He probably needs 1-2 more years to develop.

I think ruck is still potentially a big issue for us in 2022 although nowhere near as bad as in 2021. In some cases, it takes playing out a season to come back fully from ACL. Chol does not give me a great confidence in the ruck either. He appears soft sometimes, only 94kg. Could Conroy surprise us after 3 years in the system? He sure has a proper body now.
 
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Pre-season practice matches
Essendon v Western Bulldogs
North Melbourne v Melbourne
Sydney v GWS Giants
Carlton v St Kilda
Collingwood v Hawthorn
Geelong v Richmond
Brisbane v Gold Coast
West Coast v Adelaide
Fremantle v Port Adelaide

AAMI Community Series

Monday, March 7


Gold Coast v Geelong at Metricon Stadium, 6.40pm AEST
 

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Pre-season practice matches
Essendon v Western Bulldogs
North Melbourne v Melbourne
Sydney v GWS Giants
Carlton v St Kilda
Collingwood v Hawthorn
Geelong v Richmond
Brisbane v Gold Coast
West Coast v Adelaide
Fremantle v Port Adelaide

AAMI Community Series

Monday, March 7


Gold Coast v Geelong at Metricon Stadium, 6.40pm AEST
Nice of the AFL to not send us interstate during the preseason when we have a trip west in round 1. Staying in South East Queensland until the week of round 1 could end up being a big boost for our young list. for I don't believe the new Michael Voss Oval in Springfield is ready at this stage so it's probably safe to assume the Lions game will be played in Burpengary. The Gabba definitely won't be available.

The Geelong game at Metricon feels winnable to me and could fill our guys with the confidence they need to do a job in Perth 13 days later. Let's get it!
 
Nice of the AFL to not send us interstate during the preseason when we have a trip west in round 1. Staying in South East Queensland until the week of round 1 could end up being a big boost for our young list. for I don't believe the new Michael Voss Oval in Springfield is ready at this stage so it's probably safe to assume the Lions game will be played in Burpengary. The Gabba definitely won't be available.

The Geelong game at Metricon feels winnable to me and could fill our guys with the confidence they need to do a job in Perth 13 days later. Let's get it!
We have a good track record vs Geelong at Metricon in both PS and H&A
 
Nice of the AFL to not send us interstate during the preseason when we have a trip west in round 1. Staying in South East Queensland until the week of round 1 could end up being a big boost for our young list. for I don't believe the new Michael Voss Oval in Springfield is ready at this stage so it's probably safe to assume the Lions game will be played in Burpengary. The Gabba definitely won't be available.

The Geelong game at Metricon feels winnable to me and could fill our guys with the confidence they need to do a job in Perth 13 days later. Let's get it!
I would hope the Lions v Suns preseason game is anywhere bar Metricon. We’re getting to the point of Metricon becoming a voodoo injury ground.
 
The 26-year-old was solid in the three by 10 minutes of match simulation playing as a forward, and then excelled as the team underwent a torturous running block in hot conditions


Seems like his first session went well.

And in post 116 said he was leading every run.


Sent from my iPhone using BigFooty.com
 

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I'm surprised not much more talk about Fiorini? the last 8 games were huge and with Greenwood gone I expect him to continue getting big numbers.

GC supporters not a fan?
 
I'm surprised not much more talk about Fiorini? the last 8 games were huge and with Greenwood gone I expect him to continue getting big numbers.

GC supporters not a fan?
I'm a fan of him; young leader who provides a bigger body, plays to his strengths which is to accumulate the football by getting into good positions.

He couldn't get a game before because he was too slow and was only an inside midfielder, he wasn't flexible in other positions like Swallow, Weller, Greenwood, Anderson, Miller who could all push forward. That is why Brodie didn't get a chance in our midfield, he was turned into a half forward but just never got the chance again. Some fans do not like his loopy kicking penetration either.

Brodie & Fiorini were notoriously getting 40 touches in the VFL and only until Weller & Greenwood were out was there an opening.

For myself i see Touk leading our midfield with Bowes, Fiorini & Weller stepping up to be that next A/B grade midfielder to relieve some pressure of Rowell, Anderson, Rankine & Hollands.

Ironically Fiorini needs to put up Jarryd Lyons numbers to get to that next level, we got rid of Lyons to give time to our younger mids...... This is now that time
 
I'm a fan of him; young leader who provides a bigger body, plays to his strengths which is to accumulate the football by getting into good positions.

He couldn't get a game before because he was too slow and was only an inside midfielder, he wasn't flexible in other positions like Swallow, Weller, Greenwood, Anderson, Miller who could all push forward. That is why Brodie didn't get a chance in our midfield, he was turned into a half forward but just never got the chance again. Some fans do not like his loopy kicking penetration either.

Brodie & Fiorini were notoriously getting 40 touches in the VFL and only until Weller & Greenwood were out was there an opening.

For myself i see Touk leading our midfield with Bowes, Fiorini & Weller stepping up to be that next A/B grade midfielder to relieve some pressure of Rowell, Anderson, Rankine & Hollands.

Ironically Fiorini needs to put up Jarryd Lyons numbers to get to that next level, we got rid of Lyons to give time to our younger mids...... This is now that time

He’s still slow and still has those loopy kicks that lack penetration. Other than that he’s a good player, a good link man who can find the ball through the midfield.
 
He’s still slow and still has those loopy kicks that lack penetration. Other than that he’s a good player, a good link man who can find the ball through the midfield.

Luckily those two things anyone can improve on
 
WHO IS TRAINING AT YOUR CLUB?

Gold Coast (1 spot): Nathan Freeman (Frankston VFL), Morgan Ferres (Sturt SANFL), Lewis Rayson (Glenelg SANFL), James Tsitas (Woodville-West Torrens SANFL

Dumped Lion looks for lifeline at West Coast (afl.com.au)
 
Morgan Ferres
Sturt, SANFL / St. Peter's College
State: South Australia
Height: 190cm
Weight: 80kg
Date of Birth: 13/03/03

Medium forward who uses his acceleration, natural leap and aerial skills to present as a target for his team. Strong contested ball winner, particularly one on one. Played predominantly at Reserves level at Sturt after dominating Under-18s when not representing St Peter's College. Also showed slices of his potential in three matches for South Australia at U19 level with his 15 disposals and three goals against the Allies his best performance putting him among his state's best players.
 
Lewis Rayson
Height: 183cm
Weight: 69kg
D.O.B: 14-01-2003
Leagues: SANFL Reserves, SANFL Under 18s
Image Credit: Glenelg FC

POSITION: Medium Defender/Outside Midfielder

SNAPSHOT: “Rayson is a dashing half-back who turns defence into attack through line-breaking run and carry and penetrating kicking. A capable intercept mark, he has also shown promise through the midfield."

Lewis Rayson produced a strong season for Glenelg’s Under 18s and performed admirably for South Australia to solidify himself as one of his state's best half-back prospects. Rayson entered the year having already proven himself at SANFL Under 18 level, finishing eighth in the McCallum-Tomkins Medal count as a bottom-aged talent. The vice-captain of this year's state Under 19 team, Rayson earned the opportunity to lead the side in the second match against Western Australia, with captain Jason Horne-Francis required to represent South Adelaide in the League preliminary final. The Kenilworth product’s strong leadership has been a highlight of his junior career so far, having previously been named a leader of the state Under 16 side in 2019. Regarded for his line-breaking speed and penetrating foot skills, Rayson was a key pillar in the success of the Tigers' Under 18s this season, who claimed the minor premiership before falling to Woodville-West Torrens in the decider. Despite being handed various roles by Bays coach Darren Trevena, including stints on the wing and as an inside midfielder, Rayson displayed remarkable consistency, gathering 20 or more possessions every game. He broke through for two Reserves games, gathering 13 and 21 possessions across rounds 16 and 17. Having finished year 12 at Sacred Heart College last year, Rayson’s availability at Glenelg was vital to the club’s success.

STRENGTHS:
+ Speed
+ Breaking the lines
+ Intercept marking
+ Kick penetration
+ Versatility
+ Leadership

IMPROVEMENTS:
+ Strength
+ Midfield craft

Rayson was a model of consistency for the Bays in 2021, averaging 26.7 disposals, 6.6 marks and 4.7 inside 50s in 14 Under 18 matches. He started the season on fire, gathering 30 or more disposals in four of the opening five games, and continued to finish games with at-least 20 disposals for the remainder of the season. His standout match came in round six against Sturt, where Rayson dominated in the midfield to finish with 35 disposals, seven marks, four tackles and five clearances in the Bays' 79-point victory.

Rayson was also one of Glenelg’s best on grand final day, registering 27 disposals and five tackles. He continued this strong form into the meetings with Western Australia, where Rayson featured among SA’s best players in both matches. His ability to find the ball in various positions will have certainly caught the eye of AFL recruiters. Rayson’s leadership will also be noted, having been included in the state leadership group at both Under 16 and Under 19 level. On the field, he demonstrated strong leadership and a high football IQ, particularly with regard to structural positioning in defence and at stoppages.

The dashing utility’s ability to break opposition lines with speed is perhaps his most noticeable athletic strength, and one which should allow him to play a number of roles at the next level. When stationed down back and on the wing in-particular, Rayson repeatedly looks to take the game on by using his burst to accelerate away from opponents. Alongside line-breaking speed, Rayson also possesses good agility, which is particularly evident when played in an on-ball role where he is capable of spinning his way through traffic. Rayson also has a high vertical leap which allows him to compete in the air with taller opponents.

The 18-year-old played some of his best football at half-back, where his intercept marking was often a feature. He knows when to peel off his direct opponent and help out in the air, proving clean overhead and then using clean skills to help turn defence into attack. Kick penetration is another of Rayson's strengths. A clean, fluent action is paired with good vision and sound decision making. He can hit long-range targets further down the field by foot, when others wouldn't have the skill to execute effectively. Rayson's skills, combined with his strong all-round athletic profile and ability to find the football has allowed him to play a number of roles this season. His versatility is one of several promising traits which will appeal to AFL recruiting staff and provide immediate mid-sized depth to a senior list.

When used in an on-ball capacity, Rayson has shown some good contested ball winning skills, without being overly dominant. Although he would add speed and clean kicking to a midfield rotation, Rayson's skillset and smaller build is perhaps better suited to an outside-leaning role. Like almost all draftees, Rayson will be afforded plenty of time across a number of pre-season's to add some size to his frame, and that may help his midfield craft development. At 183cm, he is a good size but is still slim and will add muscle when involved in an elite level program.

DRAFT PROJECTION: 30-50

SUMMARY:
Lewis Rayson shapes as one of the leading South Australian prospects ahead of the 2021 National Draft. A strong leader, he has been on the radar of scouts and recruiters since impressing with SA at Under 16 level. A well-rounded prospect with few glaring weaknesses, Rayson boasts line-breaking speed and is a strong intercept mark. His versatility has seen him play as a half-back who can quickly turn defence-into-attack, a wingman who can cut through opposition lines with a penetrating kick and as a dynamic inside midfielder who has provided something different to the on-ball rotation at both club and state level. After a terrific season with Glenelg, the SA Under 19 vice-captain was one of South Australia's best in both of their matches against Western Australia in Perth. Whilst clubs will need to add some size to his frame, Rayson's strong athleticism, neat skills and handy versatility should see him come into consideration during the second round of the national draft.
 
Lewis Rayson
Height: 183cm
Weight: 69kg
D.O.B: 14-01-2003
Leagues: SANFL Reserves, SANFL Under 18s
Image Credit: Glenelg FC

POSITION: Medium Defender/Outside Midfielder

SNAPSHOT: “Rayson is a dashing half-back who turns defence into attack through line-breaking run and carry and penetrating kicking. A capable intercept mark, he has also shown promise through the midfield."

Lewis Rayson produced a strong season for Glenelg’s Under 18s and performed admirably for South Australia to solidify himself as one of his state's best half-back prospects. Rayson entered the year having already proven himself at SANFL Under 18 level, finishing eighth in the McCallum-Tomkins Medal count as a bottom-aged talent. The vice-captain of this year's state Under 19 team, Rayson earned the opportunity to lead the side in the second match against Western Australia, with captain Jason Horne-Francis required to represent South Adelaide in the League preliminary final. The Kenilworth product’s strong leadership has been a highlight of his junior career so far, having previously been named a leader of the state Under 16 side in 2019. Regarded for his line-breaking speed and penetrating foot skills, Rayson was a key pillar in the success of the Tigers' Under 18s this season, who claimed the minor premiership before falling to Woodville-West Torrens in the decider. Despite being handed various roles by Bays coach Darren Trevena, including stints on the wing and as an inside midfielder, Rayson displayed remarkable consistency, gathering 20 or more possessions every game. He broke through for two Reserves games, gathering 13 and 21 possessions across rounds 16 and 17. Having finished year 12 at Sacred Heart College last year, Rayson’s availability at Glenelg was vital to the club’s success.

STRENGTHS:
+ Speed
+ Breaking the lines
+ Intercept marking
+ Kick penetration
+ Versatility
+ Leadership

IMPROVEMENTS:
+ Strength
+ Midfield craft

Rayson was a model of consistency for the Bays in 2021, averaging 26.7 disposals, 6.6 marks and 4.7 inside 50s in 14 Under 18 matches. He started the season on fire, gathering 30 or more disposals in four of the opening five games, and continued to finish games with at-least 20 disposals for the remainder of the season. His standout match came in round six against Sturt, where Rayson dominated in the midfield to finish with 35 disposals, seven marks, four tackles and five clearances in the Bays' 79-point victory.

Rayson was also one of Glenelg’s best on grand final day, registering 27 disposals and five tackles. He continued this strong form into the meetings with Western Australia, where Rayson featured among SA’s best players in both matches. His ability to find the ball in various positions will have certainly caught the eye of AFL recruiters. Rayson’s leadership will also be noted, having been included in the state leadership group at both Under 16 and Under 19 level. On the field, he demonstrated strong leadership and a high football IQ, particularly with regard to structural positioning in defence and at stoppages.

The dashing utility’s ability to break opposition lines with speed is perhaps his most noticeable athletic strength, and one which should allow him to play a number of roles at the next level. When stationed down back and on the wing in-particular, Rayson repeatedly looks to take the game on by using his burst to accelerate away from opponents. Alongside line-breaking speed, Rayson also possesses good agility, which is particularly evident when played in an on-ball role where he is capable of spinning his way through traffic. Rayson also has a high vertical leap which allows him to compete in the air with taller opponents.

The 18-year-old played some of his best football at half-back, where his intercept marking was often a feature. He knows when to peel off his direct opponent and help out in the air, proving clean overhead and then using clean skills to help turn defence into attack. Kick penetration is another of Rayson's strengths. A clean, fluent action is paired with good vision and sound decision making. He can hit long-range targets further down the field by foot, when others wouldn't have the skill to execute effectively. Rayson's skills, combined with his strong all-round athletic profile and ability to find the football has allowed him to play a number of roles this season. His versatility is one of several promising traits which will appeal to AFL recruiting staff and provide immediate mid-sized depth to a senior list.

When used in an on-ball capacity, Rayson has shown some good contested ball winning skills, without being overly dominant. Although he would add speed and clean kicking to a midfield rotation, Rayson's skillset and smaller build is perhaps better suited to an outside-leaning role. Like almost all draftees, Rayson will be afforded plenty of time across a number of pre-season's to add some size to his frame, and that may help his midfield craft development. At 183cm, he is a good size but is still slim and will add muscle when involved in an elite level program.

DRAFT PROJECTION: 30-50

SUMMARY:
Lewis Rayson shapes as one of the leading South Australian prospects ahead of the 2021 National Draft. A strong leader, he has been on the radar of scouts and recruiters since impressing with SA at Under 16 level. A well-rounded prospect with few glaring weaknesses, Rayson boasts line-breaking speed and is a strong intercept mark. His versatility has seen him play as a half-back who can quickly turn defence-into-attack, a wingman who can cut through opposition lines with a penetrating kick and as a dynamic inside midfielder who has provided something different to the on-ball rotation at both club and state level. After a terrific season with Glenelg, the SA Under 19 vice-captain was one of South Australia's best in both of their matches against Western Australia in Perth. Whilst clubs will need to add some size to his frame, Rayson's strong athleticism, neat skills and handy versatility should see him come into consideration during the second round of the national draft.

I would like to see more attacking half backs in our squad especially if McLennan can’t get a gig. I would all for Rayson
 

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