#13 Oliver Hannaford (Pick 18, 2024 National Draft)

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A huge welcome to this year's draft bolter ...​

Oliver Hannaford​

GWV Rebels / Victorian Country
Height: 180cm
D.O.B: 01-09-2006
Leagues: AFL U18 Championships, Coates Talent League Boys

STRENGTHS:

• Agility
• Defensive acts
• Power
• Speed
• Toughness
• Versatility

IMPROVEMENTS:

• Endurance
• Polish

Oliver Hannaford's big-game performances towards the end of the season have him pegged as one of this year's biggest draft bolters. The Greater Western Victoria (GWV) Rebels prospect was a key factor in the region making its first Grand Final appearance in 27 years, playing 17 games with contributions in each third of the ground.

He was the Rebels' top ball winner (24 disposals, one goal) in a tough Grand Final loss, but perhaps his crowning performance was the six-goal haul against minor premier, Geelong in an upset quarter final victory. Hannaford had burst onto the scene with five majors against Oakleigh just three weeks prior having been overlooked for a National Draft Combine invite.

Instead, he turned out at the state event, placing first in the agility test with a scintillating time of. 7.922 seconds. Such results were part of the reason why Hannaford has rocketed into top 30 considerations. His powerful athletic attributes do justice to a high-intensity style, whereby he attacks the ball hard and leaves a mark on opponents with punishing defensive pressure.

Hannaford had originally cut his teeth as a small defender whose daring run-and-carry, and lockdown acumen provided great balance. He was also trialled in midfield but could perhaps enhance his running capacity before finding a home there long-term, as he did in the CTL Grand Final. Hannaford's best work, though, came up forward where his big-game ability came to the fore.

In terms of improvement areas, the all-action prospect can look to add a touch of polish to his game. His kicking on the run can sometimes waver, though he is quite sharp in front of goal and seems to thrive on significant moments. Endurance is another, as he has all the relevant explosive attributes but ran a 7:26 2km time trial at the state combine.

 

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What GIANTS Head of Talent Adrian Caruso says: “Ollie shifted forward in the second half of the season and became a genuine threat with his athletic package mixed with a genuine desire to compete. He suits the way we want to play with his aggressive and attacking nature coupled with strong speed and power traits.”

 

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Making a difference in the community too:

MSN

 

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