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I didn't realise Sam McClarty's father played 100+ games here
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Didn't need to if the younger one's the gun! Look, I know nothing about the younger McLarty, just saying....we've done it before!
manicpie
Brownlow Medallist
- Jul 19, 2019
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Hayes would ideal for us. Van Es and Northam would both be worth picking up if they are there in the 40's, I like them both, don't know much about the others
TradeDraft
Post-Human
Intresting to see Bassirou Faye in this Tweet from the Club
- Aug 3, 2020
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Has he been playing anywhere? Would love to see if there's any recent footage of him.
- Aug 3, 2020
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Ta! He's certainly a tall kid.
AFL Draft 2022: Kevin Sheehan’s early top-30 draft prospects
Who is powering up the draft rankings for 2022? One of the country’s big talent judges has named his top 30. See who made the list.
Kevin Sheehan
and
Chris Cavanagh
14 min read
August 4, 2022 - 10:19AM
With just three rounds remaining in the AFL home-and-away season, attention is already quickly turning towards November’s national draft for clubs outside of the finals mix.
Most of the under-18 national championships are done and dusted, with only one game left to be played between Vic Metro and Vic Country in AFL Grand Final week.
That means clubs are beginning to get their draft boards in order ahead of the first round of the national draft on November 28.
AFL talent ambassador Kevin Sheehan has picked his early top 30 draft prospects — in no particular order — exclusively for News Corp.
Sheehan’s selections have been ranked based on their SuperCoach ranking points during the national championships.
1. Will Ashcroft
Avg. Ranking Points in U18 National Championships: 166 points (3 games)
Sandringham Dragons/Old Brighton VAFA
H: 183cm, W: 79kg, DOB: 08/04/04
A medium midfielder who is an elite ball winner with clean hands, Ashcroft is just as good whether playing inside or outside. He’s a fine emerging leader who handles pressure well. Ashcroft has been the dominant player at underage level over the past two years and has carried that form into some stunning football this year. He captained the Australian under-18 team in its match against Collingwood’s VFL side in May and has also played for Brisbane at VFL level. Across three national championships games with Vic Metro, Ashcroft has averaged 33.3 disposals, 10 clearances, 6.7 inside 50s, 6.7 tackles and 9.3 score involvements. He is eligible as a father-son to the Lions, where his father Marcus played over 300 games.
2. Jhye Clark
Avg. Ranking Points in U18 National Championships: 133 points (3 games)
Geelong Falcons/Queenscliff FC
H: 180cm, W: 77kg, DOB: 23/07/04
A small midfielder who attacks the ball aggressively, Clark distributes it neatly by both hand and foot on either side of his body. He is an aggressive tackler who runs hard both ways and has performed consistently at a high level. In May, he played in the Australian under 18 team against Collingwood’s VFL side and was one of his country’s best as he gathered 19 possessions. He has been ultra-consistent for the Falcons in the NAB League and averaged 24.7 disposals, nine marks and 4.3 clearances across three national championships games for Vic Country.
3. Adam D’Aloia
Avg. Ranking Points in U18 National Championships: 133 points (4 games)
Woodville/West Torrens/Henley FC/St Michaels
H: 186cm, W: 86kg, DOB: 09/4/04
A medium midfielder, D’Aloia was a standout player last year first at under 17s level, then at under 19s level for South Australia in its matches against Western Australia. He is a player who is very strong in the contest, has one-touch hands and good vision which helps him excel around stoppages. He finished off last year by winning the Allan Stewart Medal as best on ground in the SANFL under 18s Grand Final as a bottom-aged player. D’Aloia has averaged 23.5 disposals and 7.3 clearances across four national championships games for South Australia this year, winning their MVP award.
4. Mitch Szybkowski
Avg. Ranking Points in U18 National Championships: 120 points (3 games)
Dandenong Stingrays/Beaconsfield FC
H: 186cm, W: 84kg, DOB: 09/01/04
A medium midfielder with a sharp competitive edge, Szybkowski attacks the ball aggressively and lays strong tackles on the opposition. A good ball-winner with clean hands and great vision, he creates for his team with smart ball use. A member of the NAB AFL Academy, Szybkowski played some good footy for the Stingrays earlier in the season. He has gone on to average 27.3 disposals, 3.7 clearances, six marks and four tackles across three national championships matches for Vic Country.
5. Cameron Mackenzie
Avg. Ranking Points in U18 National Championships: 112 points (3 games)
Sandringham Dragons/Beaumaris FC/Brighton Grammar
H: 187cm, W: 80kg, DOB: 21/01/04
A medium midfielder or defender, Mackenzie was an early draft bolter this year after starting the season in outstanding form with the Dragons in the NAB League, as well as playing some good school football with Brighton Grammar. Part of St Kilda’s Next Generation Academy, he has great speed and composure, while also being a neat disposer of the ball. Across three national championships games for Vic Metro, Mackenzie averaged 26.3 disposals, 6.3 score involvements and four clearances.
6. Harry Rowston
Avg. Ranking Points in U18 National Championships: 107 points (4 games)
GWS Giants Academy/Griffith Swans FC/Assumption College
H: 182cm, W: 78kg, DOB: 12/08/04
A medium midfielder who has good game sense and can find the footy, Rowston is an excellent stoppage player and can be dangerous around goals when forward. One of the GWS Giants Academy’s most consistent in their four NAB League matches earlier in the year, he averaged 19.8 disposals (11.5 contested). A boarder at Assumption College, Rowston also played all four games for the Allies in the national championships, averaging 23 disposals, 5.8 inside-50s, five clearances and 5.5 score involvements, winning the Allies’ MVP award.
7. Oliver Hollands
Avg. Ranking Points in U18 National Championships: 106 points (3 games)
Murray Bushrangers/Wodonga FC/Geelong Grammar
H: 183cm, W: 73kg, DOB: 16/01/04
A medium midfielder, Hollands uses his elite aerobic running ability to win the ball both on the inside and outside. He is a prolific ball winner who impressed in two games at Under 17s level for Vic Country last year. Hollands is composed with the ball in hand and makes good decisions. A boarder at Geelong Grammar, he is the brother to Gold Coast Suns’ Elijah, who was Drafted at pick 7 in 2020. Hollands is a member of the NAB AFL Academy and averaged 23.7 disposals, 6.3 marks and 5.3 score involvements across three national championships matches for Vic Country.
8. Jaspa Fletcher
Avg. Ranking Points in U18 National Championships: 105 points (3 games)
Brisbane Lions Academy/Sherwood FC
H: 184cm, W: 73kg, DOB: 24/02/04
A medium midfielder who can play on both the inside and outside, Fletcher was a shining light for the Lions Academy side in its three NAB League matches at the start of the season, averaging 19 disposals and kicking five goals from the midfield. A smooth mover who has clean hands and excellent disposal skills, he also showed his class across three national championships matches for the Allies, averaging 22.7 disposals, 3.7 clearances and 354 metres gained. He missed Game 2 due to health and safety protocols. Able to play inside or outside roles, Fletcher is the son of former AFL star Adrian Fletcher, who played 246 AFL games for Geelong, St Kilda, Brisbane and Fremantle. Fletcher is eligible to join the Lions as a father-son.
9. Harry Sheezel
Avg. Ranking Points in U18 National Championships: 103 points (3 games)
Sandringham Dragons/Ajax FC
H: 183cm, W: 74kg, DOB: 13/10/04
A medium forward, Sheezel has a special ability to make something out of nothing around the goals. He has the ability to read the cues ahead of others with his footy smarts, often crumbing and goaling in the one action. A strong one-on-one mark, he has impressed in the NAB League with the Dragons this year. Sheezel has also played three national championships games with Vic Metro, averaging 15.7 disposals, 3.3 marks and two goals.
10. Henry Hustwaite
Avg. Ranking Points in U18 National Championships: 103 points (3 games)
Dandenong Stingrays/ Rosebud FC
H: 194cm, W: 84kg, DOB: 20/07/04
A left-footed tall defender or midfielder who is extremely composed with the ball in hand, Hustwaite is an efficient ball user by hand and foot. He has good vision and footy nous and was one of four players who were added to the Australian under 18 team that faced Collingwood’s VFL side in May, on the back of some strong early-season form. Hustwaite performed soundly in that match and has been a consistent ball-winner for the Stingrays in the NAB League. In three national championships games with Vic Country, he has averaged 21.7 disposals, 4.3 marks and 4.3 tackles.
11. Mattaes Phillipou
Avg. Ranking Points in U18 National Championships: 102 points (4 games)
Woodville/West Torrens/PHOS Camden/Henley High
H: 191cm, W: 83kg, DOB: 27/12/04
A tall midfielder who has been in dominant form in SANFL under 18s for the Eagles this year, Phillipou has also had a taste of football at the reserves level to further his development. He has gone on to play all four games for South Australia in the national championships, averaging 16.5 disposals, 4.8 inside-50s, four tackles and one goal – including a dominant best-on-ground display in the first match. Phillipou’s father Sam played in the AFL with the Western Bulldogs and was a prominent player in the SANFL, so he has plenty of football knowledge and experience in the family.
12. Olli Hotton
Avg. Ranking Points in U18 National Championships: 102 points (3 games)
Sandringham Dragons/Hampton Rovers/Haileybury
H: 181cm, W: 77kg, DOB: 06/09/04
A crafty small forward with great footy smarts, Hotton has emerged as a top-30 draft prospect after a strong national championships campaign for Vic Metro. Hotton did not start the NAB League season on fire for the Dragons by any stretch, but showed a few glimpses of his potential. He is clean around stoppages and has good speed. Hotton has averaged 19.3 disposals, 3.3 marks, 6.3 score involvements and two goals across three national championships matches, including 24 disposals and 3.2 in the third of those games against South Australia. He is the son of former Collingwood and Carlton forward Trent Hotton, who played 78 AFL games in the 1990s and early 2000s.
13. Lewis Hayes
Avg. Ranking Points in U18 National Championships: 101 points (3 games)
Eastern Ranges/Lysterfield/Rowville Secondary College
H: 197cm, W: 81kg, DOB: 12/12/04
A tall intercepting defender, Hayes has developed nicely this year. He has good endurance, is a good mark above his head and reads the ball well. Hayes played some good footy with the Ranges in the NAB League earlier this year to earn a Vic Metro opportunity, which he took with both hands. He has played three national championships games, averaging 15.7 disposals, 7.3 intercept possessions, 5.3 rebound 50s and five marks. Hayes is the brother of Port Adelaide ruckman Sam Hayes.
14. Lachie Cowan
Avg. Ranking Points in U18 National Championships: 100 points (4 games)
Tasmanian Devils/North Launceston FC
H: 188cm, W: 81kg, DOB: 01/12/04
A strong and powerful medium defender who intercepts extremely well and provides run from defence, Cowan has great decision making and impressive skill execution. The AFL Academy member has played some good football for the Tasmanian Devils in the NAB League this year and caught the eye with the Allies in the national championships. Across four games for the Allies, Cowan averaged 22.2 disposals, 5.5 rebound 50s, 3.5 marks and 4.3 tackles, showing off his speed and composure across half back and through the midfield.
15. Elijah Hewett
Avg. Ranking Points in U18 National Championships: 99 points (4 games)
Swan Districts/Caversham JFC/Scotch College
H: 186cm, W: 82kg, DOB: 27/05/04
A highly-rated medium midfielder, Hewett uses his explosive power to break the lines or burst from stoppage. A standout performer for Western Australia at under 17s level against South Australia last year, he finished his 2021 campaign by starring in the Swans’ Grand Final win at under 18s level in the WAFL. Hewitt progressed to play senior football in the WAFL this year and was named vice-captain of the Australian Under 18s team, recognising his leadership potential. Across four national championships games for his state, he averaged 19.5 disposals, 4.5 clearances, 4.5 tackles and 4.3 score involvements.
16. Jedd Busslinger
Ave. Ranking Points in U18 National Championships: 97 points (2 games)
East Perth/Coolbinia JFC/Trinity College
H: 190cm, W: 83kg, DOB: 11/03/04
A tall defender, Busslinger’s intercept marking was a feature of his game in representative matches against South Australia last year. In those two matches he averaged 23.5 disposals and 13 marks. Named as a member of the NAB AFL Academy this year, he performed soundly for the Australian Under 18 team against Collingwood’s VFL side in May, logging 12 disposals and a team-high 11 one-percenters. Busslinger has played some senior football in the WAFL this year after some strong under-18s form early in the season. He has gone on to play two games for his state in the national championships, averaging 22 disposals, seven marks, 5.5 intercept possessions and 4.5 rebound 50s. Busslinger was ruled out for the rest of the season after shoulder surgery in July.
17. Jaxon Binns
Avg. Ranking Points in U18 National Championships: 94 points (3 games)
Dandenong Stingrays/Berwick FC/Caulfield Grammar
H: 182cm, W: 72kg, DOB: 29/10/04
A medium midfielder or forward, Binns is a running machine but also has excellent vision and awareness using the ball efficiently by hand and foot. A dangerous player around goals, he impressed at under 17 level for Vic Country last year in a two-match series against Vic Metro due to a Covid-modified championship schedule. Across four matches for the Stingrays at the start of the year, Binns averaged 21 disposals. He has backed up that form in the national championships with Vic Country, averaging 27.3 disposals, 7.3 marks and seven score involvements across three matches.
18. Reuben Ginbey
Avg. Ranking Points in U18 National Championships: 93 points (4 games)
East Perth/Wesley College
H: 188cm, W: 81kg, DOB: 10/09/04
A medium defender or midfielder with elite speed and endurance, Ginbey is already well developed physically which has enabled him to have played senior state league football with East Perth. He caught the eyes of recruiters during the national championships as a consistent performer for Western Australia across four games, averaging 20.8 disposals, 2.8 clearances, 5.5 score involvements and four tackles winning their MVP award.
19. Matthew Jefferson
Avg. Ranking Points in U18 National Championships: 92 points (3 games)
Oakleigh Chargers/Ashburton FC/Wesley College
H: 195cm, W: 78kg, DOB: 08/03/04
A tall forward whose marking both on the lead and in a contested situation is his weapon, Jefferson is quick off the mark and presents exceptionally well as a target up forward. He has a strong basketball background and won a Victorian Championship at under 16 level but has dedicated himself to football over the past two years. A member of the NAB AFL Academy, Jefferson kicked six goals in four NAB League matches to start the year for the Chargers, before a breakout national championships with Vic Metro. Jefferson kicked five goals in a quarter against Western Australia on his way to seven majors from eight kicks for the game. He also kicked two goals against the Allies and three against South Australia.
20. Aaron Cadman
Avg. Ranking Points in U18 National Championships: 91 points (3 games)
GWV Rebels/Darley FC/Emmanuel College
H: 194cm, W: 88kg, DOB: 03/03/04
A left-footed tall forward with a vice-like grip overhead, Cadman is also incredibly clean below the knees for a big man. He presents well as a target forward with his repeat leading and an aggressive approach to the ball is a feature of his game. Cadman has progressed in his development after showing potential in representing Victoria Country at Under 17s level. He was a late call up to the Australian Under 18 team after a promising start to the NAB League season with the Rebels, which saw him draw comparisons to Geelong’s Jeremy Cameron. Cadman has averaged 13.7 disposals, 6.7 marks, 2.3 goals and 7.3 score involvements from three national championships games for Vic Country.
21. Blake Drury
Avg. Ranking Points in U18 National Championships: 90 points (3 games)
Oakleigh Chargers/ Vermont FC/Caulfield Grammar
H: 178cm, W: 74kg, DOB: 11/01/04
A prolific ball winning small midfielder or high half-forward, Drury has a wonderful combination of speed and endurance which together with his game sense and composure has him in the centre of the action at all times. A star for Victoria Metro at Under 17s level last year has continued that level of performance into Under 18s level this year. He has averaged 21 disposals, 3.3 marks, 8.7 score involvements and kicked three goals from three national championships matches for Vic Metro.
22. Sam Gilbey
Avg. Ranking Points in U18 National Championships: 83 points (3 games)
Claremont/Wembley Downs JFC/Hale
H: 185cm, W: 72kg, DOB: 14/05/04
A medium defender or midfielder, Gilbey was eye-catching at under 17s level for Western Australia last year in two matches against South Australia. In those games he showed off his speed and penetrating left-foot kick as he averaged 18.5 disposals. Selected in the NAB AFL Academy this year, Gilbey unfortunately suffered glandular fever after playing only one game at under 18 level for Claremont and consequently missed the Australian under 18 team match in May. However, he returned for the last three matches of the national championships and averaged 16.3 disposals, 6.7 marks and three tackles.
23. Billy Dowling
Avg. Ranking Points in U18 National Championships: 80 points (4 games)
North Adelaide/St Peters
H: 187cm, W: 79kg, DOB: 01/07/04
A medium midfielder, Dowling can play on the inside or outside and have an impact. A real stoppage star, he has great hands and creativity setting up his teammates with his smart decision making. He has averaged an impressive 31 disposals in nine matches at under 18s level this year and backed up that form in the national championships for South Australia, averaging 24.8 disposals, 5.3 marks and 3.8 clearances across four games.
24. Josh Weddle
Avg. Ranking Points in U18 National Championships: 79 points (3 games)
Oakleigh Chargers/Eltham/Carey Grammar
H: 191cm, W: 87kg, DOB: 25/05/04
A defender, Weddle has risen into top-30 calculations on the back of a strong national championships showing with Vic Metro. Weddle is a good interceptor as a third-tall down back and generally uses the ball well when he wins it back. He has averaged 14.7 disposals, 4.7 marks and 6.7 intercept possessions across three championships games. His best performance came against Western Australia, when Weddle logged 20 disposals and seven marks.
25. Harry Barnett
Avg. Ranking Points in U18 National Championships: 78 points (3 games)
West Adelaide/Goodwood FC
H: 202cm, W: 93kg, DOB: 22/01/04
A strong marking ruckman or tall forward, Barnett is still developing his ruck craft but already has a real physical presence around the ball. He follows up impressively at ground level – supporting his smaller teammates – and can take contested marks up forward. Barnett wins plenty of the football for a player of his size. He has averaged 18.8 disposals and 24 hit-outs in the SANFL under-18s this year, while also being exposed to senior football for West Adelaide. Across three national championships games, Barnett averaged 11.7 disposals, 14.7 hitouts and 2.3 clearances.
26. Darcy Edmends
Avg. Ranking Points in U18 National Championships: 71 points (3 games)
Northern Knights/Heidelberg FC/Marcellin College
H: 183cm, W: 74kg, DOB: 28/05/04
A medium midfielder who is a really smooth mover on the wing, Edmends covers the ground particularly well and has a smart step through traffic. He is a creative player with his neat disposal by hand and foot, but an injury setback early in the season has hampered his progress. However, Edmends has since returned to fitness and showed some good signs in three national championships matches for Vic Metro, averaging 17 disposals, 6.7 marks and 4.7 score involvements.
27. Max Michalanney
Avg. Ranking Points in U18 National Championships: 68 points (4 games)
Norwood/ Glenunga FC
H: 192cm, W: 78kg, DOB: 26/02/04
A mobile defender capable of playing on talls or smalls, Michalanney uses his reach and speed to negate the effectiveness of his opponents. A member of the NAB AFL Academy, his ability to intercept and rebound is another feature of his play. He is very composed and effective with his disposal and averaged 12.5 disposals, 3.5 intercept possessions, 2.3 spoils and three rebound 50s across four national championships games for South Australia. Michalanney is the son of Norwood legend Jim Michalanney, who played 211 SANFL matches. That connection makes Max eligible to join Adelaide under father-son rules.
28. Jason Gillbee
Avg. Ranking Points in U18 National Championships: 61 points (3 games)
Bendigo Pioneers/Balranald, NSW
H: 192cm, W: 77kg, DOB: 15/05/04
A rangy and versatile player who can play on the wing or off half back, Gillbee has been a prolific ball winner for the Pioneers this season. He has relocated from NSW to Bendigo and averaged 22.2 disposals across his first nine NAB League matches. A strong player in one-on-one contests, he is prepared to take the game on with his dash with the ball. All these qualities were on display in an outstanding first up game for the Allies in the Under 18 national championships, where Gillbee logged 20 disposals, six marks and five rebound 50s to be one of his team’s best. However, he suffered a concussion in game two after being prominent in the first quarter – which hurts his overall ranking points – before returning to log 18 disposals in game three against Western Australia.
29. Elijah Tsatas
Avg. Ranking Points in U18 National Championships: N/A
Oakleigh Chargers/Surrey Hills FC/Wesley College
H: 188cm, W: 80kg, DOB: 18/11/04
A medium midfielder with elite ball winning ability and line-breaking speed, Tsatas started the NAB League season on fire as he averaged 32 disposals across the opening four rounds for the Chargers. However, a persistent foot injury required rehabilitation after the Australian under 18s match in May and has sidelined him since, meaning he has missed Vic Metro’s three national championships matches so far. Tsatas was, however, a standout player for Vic Metro at under-17s level last year and is still considered a potential top-five draft pick this year.
30. George Wardlaw
Avg. Ranking Points in U18 National Championships: N/A
Oakleigh Chargers/St Peters FC/ St Kevin’s College
H: 182cm, W: 82kg, DOB: 18/07/04
A medium midfielder who is a real competitive beast, Wardlaw is a point of difference with his attack on the ball in dispute, whether it be in the air or at ground level. He made a strong start to the NAB League season with the Chargers, averaging 20.7 disposals and 5.7 tackles from his first three games. Wardlaw was then outstanding for the Australia’s under 18s in May, being crowned his side’s best player against Collingwood’s VFL team. He recorded 18 disposals in that match, with his overhead marking and bursts from stoppages features of his game on the day. Wardlaw has missed Vic Metro’s three national championships matches so far due to a hamstring injury, but is still considered a top-five draft prospect this year.
Who is powering up the draft rankings for 2022? One of the country’s big talent judges has named his top 30. See who made the list.
Kevin Sheehan
and
Chris Cavanagh
14 min read
August 4, 2022 - 10:19AM
With just three rounds remaining in the AFL home-and-away season, attention is already quickly turning towards November’s national draft for clubs outside of the finals mix.
Most of the under-18 national championships are done and dusted, with only one game left to be played between Vic Metro and Vic Country in AFL Grand Final week.
That means clubs are beginning to get their draft boards in order ahead of the first round of the national draft on November 28.
AFL talent ambassador Kevin Sheehan has picked his early top 30 draft prospects — in no particular order — exclusively for News Corp.
Sheehan’s selections have been ranked based on their SuperCoach ranking points during the national championships.
1. Will Ashcroft
Avg. Ranking Points in U18 National Championships: 166 points (3 games)
Sandringham Dragons/Old Brighton VAFA
H: 183cm, W: 79kg, DOB: 08/04/04
A medium midfielder who is an elite ball winner with clean hands, Ashcroft is just as good whether playing inside or outside. He’s a fine emerging leader who handles pressure well. Ashcroft has been the dominant player at underage level over the past two years and has carried that form into some stunning football this year. He captained the Australian under-18 team in its match against Collingwood’s VFL side in May and has also played for Brisbane at VFL level. Across three national championships games with Vic Metro, Ashcroft has averaged 33.3 disposals, 10 clearances, 6.7 inside 50s, 6.7 tackles and 9.3 score involvements. He is eligible as a father-son to the Lions, where his father Marcus played over 300 games.
2. Jhye Clark
Avg. Ranking Points in U18 National Championships: 133 points (3 games)
Geelong Falcons/Queenscliff FC
H: 180cm, W: 77kg, DOB: 23/07/04
A small midfielder who attacks the ball aggressively, Clark distributes it neatly by both hand and foot on either side of his body. He is an aggressive tackler who runs hard both ways and has performed consistently at a high level. In May, he played in the Australian under 18 team against Collingwood’s VFL side and was one of his country’s best as he gathered 19 possessions. He has been ultra-consistent for the Falcons in the NAB League and averaged 24.7 disposals, nine marks and 4.3 clearances across three national championships games for Vic Country.
3. Adam D’Aloia
Avg. Ranking Points in U18 National Championships: 133 points (4 games)
Woodville/West Torrens/Henley FC/St Michaels
H: 186cm, W: 86kg, DOB: 09/4/04
A medium midfielder, D’Aloia was a standout player last year first at under 17s level, then at under 19s level for South Australia in its matches against Western Australia. He is a player who is very strong in the contest, has one-touch hands and good vision which helps him excel around stoppages. He finished off last year by winning the Allan Stewart Medal as best on ground in the SANFL under 18s Grand Final as a bottom-aged player. D’Aloia has averaged 23.5 disposals and 7.3 clearances across four national championships games for South Australia this year, winning their MVP award.
4. Mitch Szybkowski
Avg. Ranking Points in U18 National Championships: 120 points (3 games)
Dandenong Stingrays/Beaconsfield FC
H: 186cm, W: 84kg, DOB: 09/01/04
A medium midfielder with a sharp competitive edge, Szybkowski attacks the ball aggressively and lays strong tackles on the opposition. A good ball-winner with clean hands and great vision, he creates for his team with smart ball use. A member of the NAB AFL Academy, Szybkowski played some good footy for the Stingrays earlier in the season. He has gone on to average 27.3 disposals, 3.7 clearances, six marks and four tackles across three national championships matches for Vic Country.
5. Cameron Mackenzie
Avg. Ranking Points in U18 National Championships: 112 points (3 games)
Sandringham Dragons/Beaumaris FC/Brighton Grammar
H: 187cm, W: 80kg, DOB: 21/01/04
A medium midfielder or defender, Mackenzie was an early draft bolter this year after starting the season in outstanding form with the Dragons in the NAB League, as well as playing some good school football with Brighton Grammar. Part of St Kilda’s Next Generation Academy, he has great speed and composure, while also being a neat disposer of the ball. Across three national championships games for Vic Metro, Mackenzie averaged 26.3 disposals, 6.3 score involvements and four clearances.
6. Harry Rowston
Avg. Ranking Points in U18 National Championships: 107 points (4 games)
GWS Giants Academy/Griffith Swans FC/Assumption College
H: 182cm, W: 78kg, DOB: 12/08/04
A medium midfielder who has good game sense and can find the footy, Rowston is an excellent stoppage player and can be dangerous around goals when forward. One of the GWS Giants Academy’s most consistent in their four NAB League matches earlier in the year, he averaged 19.8 disposals (11.5 contested). A boarder at Assumption College, Rowston also played all four games for the Allies in the national championships, averaging 23 disposals, 5.8 inside-50s, five clearances and 5.5 score involvements, winning the Allies’ MVP award.
7. Oliver Hollands
Avg. Ranking Points in U18 National Championships: 106 points (3 games)
Murray Bushrangers/Wodonga FC/Geelong Grammar
H: 183cm, W: 73kg, DOB: 16/01/04
A medium midfielder, Hollands uses his elite aerobic running ability to win the ball both on the inside and outside. He is a prolific ball winner who impressed in two games at Under 17s level for Vic Country last year. Hollands is composed with the ball in hand and makes good decisions. A boarder at Geelong Grammar, he is the brother to Gold Coast Suns’ Elijah, who was Drafted at pick 7 in 2020. Hollands is a member of the NAB AFL Academy and averaged 23.7 disposals, 6.3 marks and 5.3 score involvements across three national championships matches for Vic Country.
8. Jaspa Fletcher
Avg. Ranking Points in U18 National Championships: 105 points (3 games)
Brisbane Lions Academy/Sherwood FC
H: 184cm, W: 73kg, DOB: 24/02/04
A medium midfielder who can play on both the inside and outside, Fletcher was a shining light for the Lions Academy side in its three NAB League matches at the start of the season, averaging 19 disposals and kicking five goals from the midfield. A smooth mover who has clean hands and excellent disposal skills, he also showed his class across three national championships matches for the Allies, averaging 22.7 disposals, 3.7 clearances and 354 metres gained. He missed Game 2 due to health and safety protocols. Able to play inside or outside roles, Fletcher is the son of former AFL star Adrian Fletcher, who played 246 AFL games for Geelong, St Kilda, Brisbane and Fremantle. Fletcher is eligible to join the Lions as a father-son.
9. Harry Sheezel
Avg. Ranking Points in U18 National Championships: 103 points (3 games)
Sandringham Dragons/Ajax FC
H: 183cm, W: 74kg, DOB: 13/10/04
A medium forward, Sheezel has a special ability to make something out of nothing around the goals. He has the ability to read the cues ahead of others with his footy smarts, often crumbing and goaling in the one action. A strong one-on-one mark, he has impressed in the NAB League with the Dragons this year. Sheezel has also played three national championships games with Vic Metro, averaging 15.7 disposals, 3.3 marks and two goals.
10. Henry Hustwaite
Avg. Ranking Points in U18 National Championships: 103 points (3 games)
Dandenong Stingrays/ Rosebud FC
H: 194cm, W: 84kg, DOB: 20/07/04
A left-footed tall defender or midfielder who is extremely composed with the ball in hand, Hustwaite is an efficient ball user by hand and foot. He has good vision and footy nous and was one of four players who were added to the Australian under 18 team that faced Collingwood’s VFL side in May, on the back of some strong early-season form. Hustwaite performed soundly in that match and has been a consistent ball-winner for the Stingrays in the NAB League. In three national championships games with Vic Country, he has averaged 21.7 disposals, 4.3 marks and 4.3 tackles.
11. Mattaes Phillipou
Avg. Ranking Points in U18 National Championships: 102 points (4 games)
Woodville/West Torrens/PHOS Camden/Henley High
H: 191cm, W: 83kg, DOB: 27/12/04
A tall midfielder who has been in dominant form in SANFL under 18s for the Eagles this year, Phillipou has also had a taste of football at the reserves level to further his development. He has gone on to play all four games for South Australia in the national championships, averaging 16.5 disposals, 4.8 inside-50s, four tackles and one goal – including a dominant best-on-ground display in the first match. Phillipou’s father Sam played in the AFL with the Western Bulldogs and was a prominent player in the SANFL, so he has plenty of football knowledge and experience in the family.
12. Olli Hotton
Avg. Ranking Points in U18 National Championships: 102 points (3 games)
Sandringham Dragons/Hampton Rovers/Haileybury
H: 181cm, W: 77kg, DOB: 06/09/04
A crafty small forward with great footy smarts, Hotton has emerged as a top-30 draft prospect after a strong national championships campaign for Vic Metro. Hotton did not start the NAB League season on fire for the Dragons by any stretch, but showed a few glimpses of his potential. He is clean around stoppages and has good speed. Hotton has averaged 19.3 disposals, 3.3 marks, 6.3 score involvements and two goals across three national championships matches, including 24 disposals and 3.2 in the third of those games against South Australia. He is the son of former Collingwood and Carlton forward Trent Hotton, who played 78 AFL games in the 1990s and early 2000s.
13. Lewis Hayes
Avg. Ranking Points in U18 National Championships: 101 points (3 games)
Eastern Ranges/Lysterfield/Rowville Secondary College
H: 197cm, W: 81kg, DOB: 12/12/04
A tall intercepting defender, Hayes has developed nicely this year. He has good endurance, is a good mark above his head and reads the ball well. Hayes played some good footy with the Ranges in the NAB League earlier this year to earn a Vic Metro opportunity, which he took with both hands. He has played three national championships games, averaging 15.7 disposals, 7.3 intercept possessions, 5.3 rebound 50s and five marks. Hayes is the brother of Port Adelaide ruckman Sam Hayes.
14. Lachie Cowan
Avg. Ranking Points in U18 National Championships: 100 points (4 games)
Tasmanian Devils/North Launceston FC
H: 188cm, W: 81kg, DOB: 01/12/04
A strong and powerful medium defender who intercepts extremely well and provides run from defence, Cowan has great decision making and impressive skill execution. The AFL Academy member has played some good football for the Tasmanian Devils in the NAB League this year and caught the eye with the Allies in the national championships. Across four games for the Allies, Cowan averaged 22.2 disposals, 5.5 rebound 50s, 3.5 marks and 4.3 tackles, showing off his speed and composure across half back and through the midfield.
15. Elijah Hewett
Avg. Ranking Points in U18 National Championships: 99 points (4 games)
Swan Districts/Caversham JFC/Scotch College
H: 186cm, W: 82kg, DOB: 27/05/04
A highly-rated medium midfielder, Hewett uses his explosive power to break the lines or burst from stoppage. A standout performer for Western Australia at under 17s level against South Australia last year, he finished his 2021 campaign by starring in the Swans’ Grand Final win at under 18s level in the WAFL. Hewitt progressed to play senior football in the WAFL this year and was named vice-captain of the Australian Under 18s team, recognising his leadership potential. Across four national championships games for his state, he averaged 19.5 disposals, 4.5 clearances, 4.5 tackles and 4.3 score involvements.
16. Jedd Busslinger
Ave. Ranking Points in U18 National Championships: 97 points (2 games)
East Perth/Coolbinia JFC/Trinity College
H: 190cm, W: 83kg, DOB: 11/03/04
A tall defender, Busslinger’s intercept marking was a feature of his game in representative matches against South Australia last year. In those two matches he averaged 23.5 disposals and 13 marks. Named as a member of the NAB AFL Academy this year, he performed soundly for the Australian Under 18 team against Collingwood’s VFL side in May, logging 12 disposals and a team-high 11 one-percenters. Busslinger has played some senior football in the WAFL this year after some strong under-18s form early in the season. He has gone on to play two games for his state in the national championships, averaging 22 disposals, seven marks, 5.5 intercept possessions and 4.5 rebound 50s. Busslinger was ruled out for the rest of the season after shoulder surgery in July.
17. Jaxon Binns
Avg. Ranking Points in U18 National Championships: 94 points (3 games)
Dandenong Stingrays/Berwick FC/Caulfield Grammar
H: 182cm, W: 72kg, DOB: 29/10/04
A medium midfielder or forward, Binns is a running machine but also has excellent vision and awareness using the ball efficiently by hand and foot. A dangerous player around goals, he impressed at under 17 level for Vic Country last year in a two-match series against Vic Metro due to a Covid-modified championship schedule. Across four matches for the Stingrays at the start of the year, Binns averaged 21 disposals. He has backed up that form in the national championships with Vic Country, averaging 27.3 disposals, 7.3 marks and seven score involvements across three matches.
18. Reuben Ginbey
Avg. Ranking Points in U18 National Championships: 93 points (4 games)
East Perth/Wesley College
H: 188cm, W: 81kg, DOB: 10/09/04
A medium defender or midfielder with elite speed and endurance, Ginbey is already well developed physically which has enabled him to have played senior state league football with East Perth. He caught the eyes of recruiters during the national championships as a consistent performer for Western Australia across four games, averaging 20.8 disposals, 2.8 clearances, 5.5 score involvements and four tackles winning their MVP award.
19. Matthew Jefferson
Avg. Ranking Points in U18 National Championships: 92 points (3 games)
Oakleigh Chargers/Ashburton FC/Wesley College
H: 195cm, W: 78kg, DOB: 08/03/04
A tall forward whose marking both on the lead and in a contested situation is his weapon, Jefferson is quick off the mark and presents exceptionally well as a target up forward. He has a strong basketball background and won a Victorian Championship at under 16 level but has dedicated himself to football over the past two years. A member of the NAB AFL Academy, Jefferson kicked six goals in four NAB League matches to start the year for the Chargers, before a breakout national championships with Vic Metro. Jefferson kicked five goals in a quarter against Western Australia on his way to seven majors from eight kicks for the game. He also kicked two goals against the Allies and three against South Australia.
20. Aaron Cadman
Avg. Ranking Points in U18 National Championships: 91 points (3 games)
GWV Rebels/Darley FC/Emmanuel College
H: 194cm, W: 88kg, DOB: 03/03/04
A left-footed tall forward with a vice-like grip overhead, Cadman is also incredibly clean below the knees for a big man. He presents well as a target forward with his repeat leading and an aggressive approach to the ball is a feature of his game. Cadman has progressed in his development after showing potential in representing Victoria Country at Under 17s level. He was a late call up to the Australian Under 18 team after a promising start to the NAB League season with the Rebels, which saw him draw comparisons to Geelong’s Jeremy Cameron. Cadman has averaged 13.7 disposals, 6.7 marks, 2.3 goals and 7.3 score involvements from three national championships games for Vic Country.
21. Blake Drury
Avg. Ranking Points in U18 National Championships: 90 points (3 games)
Oakleigh Chargers/ Vermont FC/Caulfield Grammar
H: 178cm, W: 74kg, DOB: 11/01/04
A prolific ball winning small midfielder or high half-forward, Drury has a wonderful combination of speed and endurance which together with his game sense and composure has him in the centre of the action at all times. A star for Victoria Metro at Under 17s level last year has continued that level of performance into Under 18s level this year. He has averaged 21 disposals, 3.3 marks, 8.7 score involvements and kicked three goals from three national championships matches for Vic Metro.
22. Sam Gilbey
Avg. Ranking Points in U18 National Championships: 83 points (3 games)
Claremont/Wembley Downs JFC/Hale
H: 185cm, W: 72kg, DOB: 14/05/04
A medium defender or midfielder, Gilbey was eye-catching at under 17s level for Western Australia last year in two matches against South Australia. In those games he showed off his speed and penetrating left-foot kick as he averaged 18.5 disposals. Selected in the NAB AFL Academy this year, Gilbey unfortunately suffered glandular fever after playing only one game at under 18 level for Claremont and consequently missed the Australian under 18 team match in May. However, he returned for the last three matches of the national championships and averaged 16.3 disposals, 6.7 marks and three tackles.
23. Billy Dowling
Avg. Ranking Points in U18 National Championships: 80 points (4 games)
North Adelaide/St Peters
H: 187cm, W: 79kg, DOB: 01/07/04
A medium midfielder, Dowling can play on the inside or outside and have an impact. A real stoppage star, he has great hands and creativity setting up his teammates with his smart decision making. He has averaged an impressive 31 disposals in nine matches at under 18s level this year and backed up that form in the national championships for South Australia, averaging 24.8 disposals, 5.3 marks and 3.8 clearances across four games.
24. Josh Weddle
Avg. Ranking Points in U18 National Championships: 79 points (3 games)
Oakleigh Chargers/Eltham/Carey Grammar
H: 191cm, W: 87kg, DOB: 25/05/04
A defender, Weddle has risen into top-30 calculations on the back of a strong national championships showing with Vic Metro. Weddle is a good interceptor as a third-tall down back and generally uses the ball well when he wins it back. He has averaged 14.7 disposals, 4.7 marks and 6.7 intercept possessions across three championships games. His best performance came against Western Australia, when Weddle logged 20 disposals and seven marks.
25. Harry Barnett
Avg. Ranking Points in U18 National Championships: 78 points (3 games)
West Adelaide/Goodwood FC
H: 202cm, W: 93kg, DOB: 22/01/04
A strong marking ruckman or tall forward, Barnett is still developing his ruck craft but already has a real physical presence around the ball. He follows up impressively at ground level – supporting his smaller teammates – and can take contested marks up forward. Barnett wins plenty of the football for a player of his size. He has averaged 18.8 disposals and 24 hit-outs in the SANFL under-18s this year, while also being exposed to senior football for West Adelaide. Across three national championships games, Barnett averaged 11.7 disposals, 14.7 hitouts and 2.3 clearances.
26. Darcy Edmends
Avg. Ranking Points in U18 National Championships: 71 points (3 games)
Northern Knights/Heidelberg FC/Marcellin College
H: 183cm, W: 74kg, DOB: 28/05/04
A medium midfielder who is a really smooth mover on the wing, Edmends covers the ground particularly well and has a smart step through traffic. He is a creative player with his neat disposal by hand and foot, but an injury setback early in the season has hampered his progress. However, Edmends has since returned to fitness and showed some good signs in three national championships matches for Vic Metro, averaging 17 disposals, 6.7 marks and 4.7 score involvements.
27. Max Michalanney
Avg. Ranking Points in U18 National Championships: 68 points (4 games)
Norwood/ Glenunga FC
H: 192cm, W: 78kg, DOB: 26/02/04
A mobile defender capable of playing on talls or smalls, Michalanney uses his reach and speed to negate the effectiveness of his opponents. A member of the NAB AFL Academy, his ability to intercept and rebound is another feature of his play. He is very composed and effective with his disposal and averaged 12.5 disposals, 3.5 intercept possessions, 2.3 spoils and three rebound 50s across four national championships games for South Australia. Michalanney is the son of Norwood legend Jim Michalanney, who played 211 SANFL matches. That connection makes Max eligible to join Adelaide under father-son rules.
28. Jason Gillbee
Avg. Ranking Points in U18 National Championships: 61 points (3 games)
Bendigo Pioneers/Balranald, NSW
H: 192cm, W: 77kg, DOB: 15/05/04
A rangy and versatile player who can play on the wing or off half back, Gillbee has been a prolific ball winner for the Pioneers this season. He has relocated from NSW to Bendigo and averaged 22.2 disposals across his first nine NAB League matches. A strong player in one-on-one contests, he is prepared to take the game on with his dash with the ball. All these qualities were on display in an outstanding first up game for the Allies in the Under 18 national championships, where Gillbee logged 20 disposals, six marks and five rebound 50s to be one of his team’s best. However, he suffered a concussion in game two after being prominent in the first quarter – which hurts his overall ranking points – before returning to log 18 disposals in game three against Western Australia.
29. Elijah Tsatas
Avg. Ranking Points in U18 National Championships: N/A
Oakleigh Chargers/Surrey Hills FC/Wesley College
H: 188cm, W: 80kg, DOB: 18/11/04
A medium midfielder with elite ball winning ability and line-breaking speed, Tsatas started the NAB League season on fire as he averaged 32 disposals across the opening four rounds for the Chargers. However, a persistent foot injury required rehabilitation after the Australian under 18s match in May and has sidelined him since, meaning he has missed Vic Metro’s three national championships matches so far. Tsatas was, however, a standout player for Vic Metro at under-17s level last year and is still considered a potential top-five draft pick this year.
30. George Wardlaw
Avg. Ranking Points in U18 National Championships: N/A
Oakleigh Chargers/St Peters FC/ St Kevin’s College
H: 182cm, W: 82kg, DOB: 18/07/04
A medium midfielder who is a real competitive beast, Wardlaw is a point of difference with his attack on the ball in dispute, whether it be in the air or at ground level. He made a strong start to the NAB League season with the Chargers, averaging 20.7 disposals and 5.7 tackles from his first three games. Wardlaw was then outstanding for the Australia’s under 18s in May, being crowned his side’s best player against Collingwood’s VFL team. He recorded 18 disposals in that match, with his overhead marking and bursts from stoppages features of his game on the day. Wardlaw has missed Vic Metro’s three national championships matches so far due to a hamstring injury, but is still considered a top-five draft prospect this year.
Apex36
Hall of Famer
- Mar 26, 2014
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Weird rankings. No talls in the top 10, Jefferson and Cadman at 19 and 20, and none of the SA talls in the top 30.
Imagine grabbing Cadman with our first and then being able to access Lemmey or Keeler…
manicpie
Brownlow Medallist
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They are in no particular order, just his best 30 players
- Aug 3, 2020
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- AFL Club
- Collingwood
- Other Teams
- Boston Celtics, Liverpool
Yeah, it's odd. It's his top 30, but they've been automatically ranked based on their SuperCoach score
2022 NAB AFL DRAFT COMBINE INVITE LIST
Vic Country
Jaxon Binns (Dandenong Stingrays)
Hugh Bond (GWV Rebels)
Coby Burgiel (Gippsland Power)
Aaron Cadman (GWV Rebels)
Jhye Clark (Geelong Falcons)
Brayden George (Murray Bushrangers)
Oliver Hollands (Murray Bushrangers)
Bailey Humphrey (Gippsland Power)
Henry Hustwaite (Dandenong Stingrays)
Max Knobel (Gippsland Power)
Jacob Konstanty (Gippsland Power)
Noah Long (Bendigo Pioneers)
Toby McMullin (Sandringham Dragons)
Caleb Mitchell (Murray Bushrangers)
Olivier Northam (Geelong Falcons)
Jack O'Sullivan (Oakleigh Chargers)
Mitch Szybkowski (Dandenong Stingrays)
Cooper Vickery (Gippsland Power)
James Van Es (GWV Rebels)
Vic Metro
Will Ashcroft (Sandringham Dragons)
Charlie Clarke (Sandringham Dragons)
Alwyn Davey (Oakleigh Chargers)
Blake Drury (Oakleigh Chargers)
Max Gruzewski (Oakleigh Chargers)
Lewis Hayes (Eastern Ranges)
Olli Hotton (Sandringham Dragons)
Matthew Jefferson (Oakleigh Chargers)
Cameron Mackenzie (Sandringham Dragons)
Harry Sheezel (Sandringham Dragons)
Luke Teal (Oakleigh Chargers)
Elijah Tsatas (Oakleigh Chargers)
George Wardlaw (Oakleigh Chargers)
Josh Weddle (Oakleigh Chargers)
South Australia
Harry Barnett (West Adelaide)
Adam D'Aloia (Woodville-West Torrens)
Will Dowling (North Adelaide)
Phoenix Foster (Norwood)
Isaac Keeler (North Adelaide)
Harry Lemmey (West Adelaide)
Jaiden Magor (South Adelaide)
Max Michalanney (Norwood)
Mattaes Phillipou (Woodville-West Torrens)
Jakob Ryan (Glenelg)
Nick Sadler (Sturt)
Tom Scully (West Adelaide)
Will Verrall (South Adelaide)
Western Australia
Jed Adams (Peel Thunder)
Edward Allan (Claremont)
Jedd Busslinger (East Perth)
Harry Cole (Claremont)
Hugh Davies (Claremont)
Tyrell Dewar (Subiaco)
Sam Gilbey (Claremont)
Reuben Ginbey (East Perth)
Steely Green (South Fremantle)
Jed Hagan (East Fremantle)
Elijah Hewett (Swan Districts)
Darcy Jones (Swan Districts)
New South Wales
Jason Gillbee (Bendigo Pioneers)
Nick Madden (GWS Academy)
Harry Rowston (GWS Academy)
Northern Territory
Lloyd Johnston (NT Thunder)
Anthony Munkara (NT/West Adelaide)
Queensland
Shadeau Brain (Brisbane Academy)
Jaspa Fletcher (Brisbane Academy)
Tasmania
Lachlan Cowan (Tasmania Devils)
Tom McCallum (Tasmania Devils)
Vic Country
Jaxon Binns (Dandenong Stingrays)
Hugh Bond (GWV Rebels)
Coby Burgiel (Gippsland Power)
Aaron Cadman (GWV Rebels)
Jhye Clark (Geelong Falcons)
Brayden George (Murray Bushrangers)
Oliver Hollands (Murray Bushrangers)
Bailey Humphrey (Gippsland Power)
Henry Hustwaite (Dandenong Stingrays)
Max Knobel (Gippsland Power)
Jacob Konstanty (Gippsland Power)
Noah Long (Bendigo Pioneers)
Toby McMullin (Sandringham Dragons)
Caleb Mitchell (Murray Bushrangers)
Olivier Northam (Geelong Falcons)
Jack O'Sullivan (Oakleigh Chargers)
Mitch Szybkowski (Dandenong Stingrays)
Cooper Vickery (Gippsland Power)
James Van Es (GWV Rebels)
Vic Metro
Will Ashcroft (Sandringham Dragons)
Charlie Clarke (Sandringham Dragons)
Alwyn Davey (Oakleigh Chargers)
Blake Drury (Oakleigh Chargers)
Max Gruzewski (Oakleigh Chargers)
Lewis Hayes (Eastern Ranges)
Olli Hotton (Sandringham Dragons)
Matthew Jefferson (Oakleigh Chargers)
Cameron Mackenzie (Sandringham Dragons)
Harry Sheezel (Sandringham Dragons)
Luke Teal (Oakleigh Chargers)
Elijah Tsatas (Oakleigh Chargers)
George Wardlaw (Oakleigh Chargers)
Josh Weddle (Oakleigh Chargers)
South Australia
Harry Barnett (West Adelaide)
Adam D'Aloia (Woodville-West Torrens)
Will Dowling (North Adelaide)
Phoenix Foster (Norwood)
Isaac Keeler (North Adelaide)
Harry Lemmey (West Adelaide)
Jaiden Magor (South Adelaide)
Max Michalanney (Norwood)
Mattaes Phillipou (Woodville-West Torrens)
Jakob Ryan (Glenelg)
Nick Sadler (Sturt)
Tom Scully (West Adelaide)
Will Verrall (South Adelaide)
Western Australia
Jed Adams (Peel Thunder)
Edward Allan (Claremont)
Jedd Busslinger (East Perth)
Harry Cole (Claremont)
Hugh Davies (Claremont)
Tyrell Dewar (Subiaco)
Sam Gilbey (Claremont)
Reuben Ginbey (East Perth)
Steely Green (South Fremantle)
Jed Hagan (East Fremantle)
Elijah Hewett (Swan Districts)
Darcy Jones (Swan Districts)
New South Wales
Jason Gillbee (Bendigo Pioneers)
Nick Madden (GWS Academy)
Harry Rowston (GWS Academy)
Northern Territory
Lloyd Johnston (NT Thunder)
Anthony Munkara (NT/West Adelaide)
Queensland
Shadeau Brain (Brisbane Academy)
Jaspa Fletcher (Brisbane Academy)
Tasmania
Lachlan Cowan (Tasmania Devils)
Tom McCallum (Tasmania Devils)
Jen2310
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CLIMBERS
Lewis Hayes (Vic Metro/Eastern Ranges)
A 197cm intercepting defender, Hayes hit some red-hot form at the right time of year during the national championships. A finger injury on the eve of Round 1 meant he had a slow start to the NAB League season, but AFL clubs had kept a close eye on him over the past two years and were excited by what they saw when Hayes lined up for Vic Metro. The younger brother of Port Adelaide ruckman Sam Hayes, he was particularly impressive against Western Australia in Vic Metro’s second game, when he logged 19 disposals, five marks, eight rebound 50s and six intercepts. Across three championship matches so far, he has averaged 15.7 disposals, 5.3 rebound 50s, five marks and 7.3 intercept possessions.
Matthew Jefferson flies to take a big mark. Picture: Dylan Burns/AFL Photos via Getty Images
Jefferson of celebrates one of his seven goals against Western Australia. Picture: Dylan Burns/AFL Photos via Getty Images
Matthew Jefferson (Vic Metro/Oakleigh Chargers)
Jefferson was marked as a promising draft prospect late last year when he was included in the initial NAB AFL Academy squad. However, the 194cm key forward has pushed himself up into top-10 calculations after a sizzling national championships campaign with Vic Metro. Jefferson has drawn comparisons to young Essendon forward Harrison Jones – who is an AFL player that he looks up to. His marking ability in the air has been a feature of his year, while his goal kicking has also improved and recruiters have been impressed with his ability to keep himself in games. Jefferson has averaged 10.3 disposals, four marks and kicked 12 goals from three national championships games.
South Australian Mattaes Phillipou has climbed up draft boards after a strong national championships. Picture: Getty Images
Mattaes Phillipou (South Australia/Woodville-West Torrens)
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A damaging midfielder-forward who stands 191cm, Phillipou stamped himself as a first-round draft prospect after he was one of South Australia’s top performers in the national championships. Phillipou was best-on-ground in his state’s first match against the Allies, logging 23 disposals, six marks, five clearances, six tackles and two goals to catch the eyes of recruiters. The son of Sam Phillipou – who played with the Western Bulldogs and was a prominent player in the SANFL – he is a strong contest player and good overhead mark. Phillipou is viewed as South Australia’s best prospect in this year’s draft pool.
Aaron Cadman (Vic Country/GWV Rebels)
A lead-up key forward who has drawn comparisons to Geelong’s Jeremy Cameron, the Darley product made an up and down start to the year in the NAB League but showed what he is capable of on the big stage in the national championships. He logged 19 disposals, took eight marks and kicked 3.3 among nine score involvements in Vic Country’s third game against Western Australia. Standing 194cm tall, Cadman is a strong runner with good speed, marks the ball well and has a damaging left-foot kick. Some recruiters have Cadman pinned as the best key position prospect in this year’s draft and a potential top-five selection in a pool stacked with midfielders but short on talls.
Josh Weddle (Vic Metro/Oakleigh Chargers)
A 191cm defender, a significant growth spurt over the past 18 months has seen Weddle jump into the frame as a potential top-30 draft prospect this year. He is a good interceptor down back – generally used as a third-tall – and uses the ball well when he wins it back. Weddle is athletically very strong, has explosive speed and can play on talls or smalls. He has also shown an ability to play forward and even have a run through the midfield. Weddle has averaged 14.7 disposals, 4.7 marks and 6.7 intercept possessions across three under-18 national championships games.
Olli Hotton has emerged as a strong draft prospect this year. Picture: Getty Images
Olli Hotton (Vic Metro/Sandringham Dragons)
A 181cm small forward, Hotton has great footy smarts and has emerged as a top-30 draft prospect after a strong national championships campaign for Vic Metro. Hotton did not start the NAB League season on fire for the Dragons by any stretch, but showed a few glimpses of his potential. He is clean around stoppages and has good speed. Hotton has averaged 19.3 disposals, 3.3 marks, 6.3 score involvements and two goals across three national championships matches, including 24 disposals and 3.2 in the third of those games against South Australia. He is the son of former Collingwood and Carlton forward Trent Hotton, who played 78 AFL games in the 1990s and early 2000s.
Reuben Ginbey (Western Australia/East Perth)
One of Western Australia’s top draft prospects, Ginbey had primarily been a medium-sized defender before being used through the midfield during the under-18 national championships. Recruiters were excited by what he was able to show as a big-bodied onballer. Standing 188cm, he is a player with elite speed and endurance but is also a bull in the content. Across four national championships games, he averaged 20.8 disposals, 2.8 clearances, 5.5 score involvements and four tackles to win his state’s most valuable player award and stamp himself as a first-round draft prospect.
Tom McCullum (Allies/Clarence)
A 192cm defender, McCullum shot up the rankings in the eyes of recruiters with what he was able to do down back for the Allies during the under-18 national championships. Known for his intercept marking, the Tasmanian averaged 7.3 marks including 3.8 intercept marks across his four matches. He also showed great composure with ball in hand when he won it back, rarely wasting a disposal by hand or foot. An elite runner, McCullum also has the ability to break the lines with bursts of speed and averaged four rebound 16.8 disposals and four rebound 50s during the tournament. He sits as one of Tasmania’s top draft prospects, alongside fellow defender Lachie Cowan.
SLIDERS
Harry Lemmey (South Australia/West Adelaide)
A 199cm key forward, Lemmey was a strong performer for West Adelaide as a bottom-age player in the SANFL under 18s last year and made a good start to this season which included a taste of senior football. However, he did not perform as he would have liked for South Australia in the under-18 national championships. Across three games, the AFL Academy member averaged only 5.3 disposals and kicked one goal. Recruiters are still confident Lemmey will find a home in November’s national draft, but just not as the top-30 selection he might have been earmarked for at the start of the year. At the end of the day, though, where you are picked is just a number.
![South Australian key forward [PLAYERCARD]Tom Scully[/PLAYERCARD] is still expected to be drafted, but not as high in the order as he had been tipped at the start of the year. Picture: Dean Martin](/forum/proxy.php?image=https%3A%2F%2Fcontent.api.news%2Fv3%2Fimages%2Fbin%2F37810270ce495c675fcd4b51de9f4bc8&hash=85eb83614cd27c43e45dc245c10635c8 "South Australian key forward [PLAYERCARD]Tom Scully[/PLAYERCARD] is still expected to be drafted, but not as high in the order as he had been tipped at the start of the year. Picture: Dean Martin")
South Australian key forward Tom Scully is still expected to be drafted, but not as high in the order as he had been tipped at the start of the year. Picture: Dean Martin
Tom Scully (South Australia/West Adelaide)
A 202cm key forward, Scully was added to the AFL Academy squad in May after a super start to the season in the SANFL under 18s which saw him kick 22 goals from his first four games. However, his form has not been quite so good since and he was picked for only one of South Australia’s four games in the under-18 national championships. Scully managed just eight disposals, two marks and two behinds in that match. Big men take time and there is no doubt there is some talent there. Like Lemmey, recruiters are still confident Scully will be picked up in the national draft, but just not as high in the order as he was tracking early in the year.
Jackson Broadbent (Western Australia/Peel Thunder)
There was a bit of excitement about the 204cm ruckman leading into the under-18 national championships, but unfortunately he was picked for only two games for Western Australia and didn’t produce the kind of performances he is capable of. Broadbent averaged only eight disposals and 11 hitouts from his two matches, well short of his eye-catching efforts in the WAFL Colts competition this year. Broadbent was, however, a strong performer for the Australian under-18 team in its match against Collingwood’s VFL side in May, recording 17 disposals and 15 hitouts. That match won’t be forgotten by recruiters when they sit down to assess where he stands in the order.
The Sidelined Stars (Various)
Injuries robbed a number of players of the opportunity to show what they’ve got against the country’s best in the under-18 national championships.
But many might not be too greatly affected by their absences.
Vic Metro pair Elijah Tsatas (foot) and George Wardlaw (hamstring) are still in calculations to be top-three picks in the national draft.
However, recruiters are keen to see some more of other highly-rated prospects including Luke Teal (collarbone), Jack O’Sullivan (collarbone), Brayden George (knee) and Bailey Humphrey (knee) to assist in working out where they sit in the draft order.
Jazny
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Good to see McCallum getting some love!
Jen2310
Premium Platinum
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Ashwin amongst those invited to state combine
www.afl.com.au
Father-sons, mature age prospects make the cut for Draft Combine
Players from across the country have been invited to test in front of recruiters at this year's Draft Combine
www.afl.com.au
manicpie
Brownlow Medallist
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Not that it means much, but I was told yesterday that we have had scouts looking at Bailey Humphrey and Ollie Hollands
The big key position players we are after
manicpie
Brownlow Medallist
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I know, it's really strangeThe big key position players we are after
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Dekka mentioned Humphrey when chatting to Twomey.
Some talk he is a late chance to climb in to top 10 territory
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Hine confirmed as much on the podcast last week, Best available we will go and we won't necessarily be drafting a key fwd
manicpie
Brownlow Medallist
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Bugger, there goes any chance of getting him
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Lose our next 2 and we won’t be far off that range
