List Mgmt. Future NGA's or Father Sons

[ScrappyDo]

Great post.
Is there a Mackenzie next year? Brother of Cameron?

On Pixel 6a using BigFooty.com mobile app

2026. Read carefully.

 

[Tommy Wigs]

For my BigFooty debut, I would like to provide an update on St Kilda’s Next Generation Academy.

There is reason to be optimistic about the talent coming through – did you know the Saints Under-15 NGA side was the best performed at this year’s Victorian tournament?

Alongside Carlton as the only undefeated team, St Kilda demolished Essendon 96-0, beat North Melbourne comfortably 68-6 and got over the top of Melbourne 38-21. By comparison, the Blues defeated the Demons 31-18.

But let’s start with this season, as we have some exciting prospects.

I’ve tiered each player in our academy to give a guide to the likeliness of each being drafted.

2024

*** (played in Under 18 National Championships)

Adrian Cole, Sandringham
Lenny Hoffman, Sandringham & Brighton Grammar

** (U18 Coates League)

Sam Linder, Sandringham & Brighton Grammar

*(Hasn’t played any representative games this season)

Jacob Duryea, Frankston
Kento Hikima, Hampton
Jet DiSanto, Langwarrin
Anthony Colacino, St Kilda City
Roanin Jackson, East Brighton
Zac Bowen, Beaumaris
Baxter Kam, Prahran

Potential draftees

Adrian Cole - 197cm full back
Cole is an old school full back who just doesn’t get beaten often. He has played on all of the highly touted key forwards this season, aside from teammate Harry Armstong, and hasn’t had a bag kicked on him.

He is limited offensively - his intercepting has improved as the year has gone on but in general play he tries to avoid getting in the way/involved. Be prepared for an awkward kicking style, especially on his opposite.

It was his one on one work though that impressed the St Kilda coaching hierarchy after he participated in a couple of weeks of pre season training. He is a “reverse Phillipou”, born in the first week of January, so he might have finished his growing at 197cm.

Range: Pick 40-60.
Don’t be surprised to see Sydney bid on him. The Swans love to bid and Kinnear Beatson will be keen to get one back on new St Kilda list boss Simon Dalrymple after he left Sydney.

Lenny Hofmann - 190cm third defender
Hofmann is described by Brighton Grammar’s head of football as a “rebounding freak”, and by teammates as “super quick”.

The versatile defender produced his best performances for Brighton, where he was named in their best two players three times. Impressively, he was named best on ground against Caulfield - one of the top sides - and was prominent in the decider against Haileybury where he took the points, in favourable conditions, on Harry Armstrong who is looming as the first key forward selected in the draft.

Hofmann and arguably the best player in the draft, Levi Ashcroft, were the only two players to play in the title winning Sandringham, Brighton and Vic Metro sides this season. Such is the quality of the teams Hofmann represented, he played 24 matches in 2024…and lost just once.

Hofmann, who debuted for Brighton Grammar in Year 10, is the second oldest of four brothers with Quentin next draft eligible in 2026.

Range: Rookie draft
Hofmann is very highly rated internally at Brighton & Sandringham but was quiet at the National Championships. He has attributes that could turn him into a long term Josh Battle replacement.

Sam Linder - 178cm back pocket
Linder has had a consistent season with Sandringham, averaging 20 touches. Though this in inflated by regularly taking the kick ins. For a player his size, he intercepts well.

He’s been the man that the Dragons have sent to the opposition’s best small forward, such as top 15 fancy Isaac Kako (Linder was named in the best). He had five goals kicked on him by Waylon Davey-Motlop in round 12 of the Coates League and this was from Linder running off and being out of position on turnover, rather than being beaten one on one.

Linder, who is the most impressive speaker I’ve heard for a junior footballer, is deputy vice captain of Sandringham and captain of Brighton Grammar, where he saved his best performance of the season for the “grand final” against Haileybury. He was named best on ground with two late defensive efforts crucial in securing the one point victory.

Linder has been a star junior his whole career. In 2019, he won the Under-13 SMJFL Division 1 League Best and Fairest. That year, the Under-15 award was claimed by George Wardlaw and the Under-16 Marcus Windhager.

Range: Rookie draft
There hasn’t been a lot of talk about Linder but if the Saints miss out in the national draft on a small defender such as Harrison Oliver, I could see them taking Linder with a rookie pick. Finding a Jimmy Webster replacement is crucial.

2024 summary
Matching a bid for defenders Adrian Cole and Lenny Hofmann, if it comes, bolsters an area of the ground the Saints are weak in for depth.

With three list spots already needed for Max Hall, Elwood Peckett and the Sandringham rookie, things will get tight on whether there is room for Linder.

2025

*** (Vic Metro Under-17)

Kye Fincher, Sandringham & Brighton Grammar

** (U18 Coates League)

Jack Karthigesu, Frankston Dolphins

*(Hasn’t played any representative games)

James Mikhael, Murrumbeena & St Kevin’s
Nicky Robertson, Old Brighton
Rio Barry, Glen Iris
Kendyn Brown, South Melbourne Dist
Lucas Hornblower, Brighton Beach
Phoenix Smith, Frankston YCW
Mangok Lok ?

Potential draftees

Kye Fincher - 185cm half back
After playing for Vic Metro in the Under 16 National Championships in 2023, Fincher had limited opportunities to impress this year.

Like Lenny Hofmann and Sam Linder, he is part of the successful Sandringham and Brighton Grammar programs.

He is a bit timid defensively but moves well and wants the ball in his hands - he loves taking a kick out. I’ve seen him run from beyond the 50 metre mark just to take the kick in.

He averaged 13 touches in his three matches for the Dragons in 2024 off half back.

Fingers crossed we see Fincher pushed up the ground onto the wing or midfield in 2025 as he does have some potential.

Range: Rookie draft
Fincher recently missed out on being named in the Futures squad of the best 46 prospects.

2026

*** (U16 National Championships)

Kyle Harrison, Edithvale & Dandenong U16

** (U16 Talent League)

Quentin Hoffmann, Beaumaris & Sandringham U16

*(Hasn’t played any representative games)

Luke Mahimarajan, Brighton Bears (2024 B&F)
Aidan Tremsal, Seaford
Archer Francis, Carrum
Rowan Mackenzie, Beaumaris

Potential draftees

Kyle Harrison - 175cm back pocket

Harrison played back pocket in all three matches for Vic Metro at the recent Under 16 National Championships but wasn’t named in the best. With the game and tournament on the line, Harrison was the one taking the kick outs deep in the final quarter, as his side won by a point.

He has played representative footy for Dandenong earlier this year and for his league (Frankston & District) in 2022 & 2023.

Luke Mahimarajan - ?

Though not selected in any representative football in 2024, he won the SJMFL Under 16 Division 1 Best and Fairest. The recent form line of that award is solid, with Murphy Reid second in 2022, and Marcus Windhager claiming the medal from Finn Callaghan in 2019.

2026 summary
If the draft was today, Harrison would be in the rookie range.

There’s also a couple of brothers to keep an eye on in this crop - Rowan Mackenzie, the brother of the one that got away, Cam, and Quentin Hofmann, brother of 2024 NGA hopeful Lenny.

2027

*** (U15 All Star Indigenous v NGA game)

Ruben Nagar, Dingley (2024 B&F)
Findlay Johnston, Prahran
Ben Nish, Beaumaris
Erik Hennequin, Caulfield Bears

** (U15 Division 2 Metro Championships)

Billy Blazey, East Brighton
Eric Michel, Carrum Patterson Lakes
James Cassar, Langwarrin

*(Hasn’t played any representative games, other than St Kilda NGA side)

Tanish Singh, Caulfield Bears

2027 summary

We had four players make the Under-15 Indigenous v NGA match played in July. Eric Michel and James Cassar recently played in the VLine Cup - the regional U15 tournament - for the South East (Dandenong) Stingrays’ Division 2 side. Cassar was named in the best in both games. Ruben Nagar won the SMJFL Div 2 Best and Fairest this year.

2028

*** (U15 All Star Indigenous v NGA game or U14 Division 1 Metro Championships)

Nevon Eshwara, Edithvale Aspendale
Jai Gunasekera, Edithvale Aspendale
Zac Alter, Ajax
Aidan Rawack, East Brighton
Tyrone Nesbitt, Mount Eliza

** (U14 Division 2 Metro Championships)

Zach Mahimarajan, Murrumbeena
Max Brook, East Sandringham
Taj Davey, Frankston YCW
Robert Chong, East Brighton

*(Hasn’t played any representative games, other than St Kilda NGA side)

Ben Montgomery, Hampton (2024 B&F 3rd)
Aidan Teo, St Paul’s (2023 B&F)
Krishanth Devanesen, Mordialloc Braeside
Dom Monga, Bonbeach
Jimi Windust, ?

2028 summary

Alongside 2024 as our most exciting crop. Early days obviously, but Nevon Eshwara is the most promising player in our Academy alongside Adrian Cole and Lenny Hoffman.

Next week, I’ll have a look at our father son prospects - is the curse about to be lifted?

Wow, great post

 

[Sarcoidevo]

For my BigFooty debut, I would like to provide an update on St Kilda’s Next Generation Academy.

There is reason to be optimistic about the talent coming through – did you know the Saints Under-15 NGA side was the best performed at this year’s Victorian tournament?

Alongside Carlton as the only undefeated team, St Kilda demolished Essendon 96-0, beat North Melbourne comfortably 68-6 and got over the top of Melbourne 38-21. By comparison, the Blues defeated the Demons 31-18.

But let’s start with this season, as we have some exciting prospects.

I’ve tiered each player in our academy to give a guide to the likeliness of each being drafted.

2024

*** (played in Under 18 National Championships)

Adrian Cole, Sandringham
Lenny Hoffman, Sandringham & Brighton Grammar

** (U18 Coates League)

Sam Linder, Sandringham & Brighton Grammar

*(Hasn’t played any representative games this season)

Jacob Duryea, Frankston
Kento Hikima, Hampton
Jet DiSanto, Langwarrin
Anthony Colacino, St Kilda City
Roanin Jackson, East Brighton
Zac Bowen, Beaumaris
Baxter Kam, Prahran

Potential draftees

Adrian Cole - 197cm full back
Cole is an old school full back who just doesn’t get beaten often. He has played on all of the highly touted key forwards this season, aside from teammate Harry Armstong, and hasn’t had a bag kicked on him.

He is limited offensively - his intercepting has improved as the year has gone on but in general play he tries to avoid getting in the way/involved. Be prepared for an awkward kicking style, especially on his opposite.

It was his one on one work though that impressed the St Kilda coaching hierarchy after he participated in a couple of weeks of pre season training. He is a “reverse Phillipou”, born in the first week of January, so he might have finished his growing at 197cm.

Range: Pick 40-60.
Don’t be surprised to see Sydney bid on him. The Swans love to bid and Kinnear Beatson will be keen to get one back on new St Kilda list boss Simon Dalrymple after he left Sydney.

Lenny Hofmann - 190cm third defender
Hofmann is described by Brighton Grammar’s head of football as a “rebounding freak”, and by teammates as “super quick”.

The versatile defender produced his best performances for Brighton, where he was named in their best two players three times. Impressively, he was named best on ground against Caulfield - one of the top sides - and was prominent in the decider against Haileybury where he took the points, in favourable conditions, on Harry Armstrong who is looming as the first key forward selected in the draft.

Hofmann and arguably the best player in the draft, Levi Ashcroft, were the only two players to play in the title winning Sandringham, Brighton and Vic Metro sides this season. Such is the quality of the teams Hofmann represented, he played 24 matches in 2024…and lost just once.

Hofmann, who debuted for Brighton Grammar in Year 10, is the second oldest of four brothers with Quentin next draft eligible in 2026.

Range: Rookie draft
Hofmann is very highly rated internally at Brighton & Sandringham but was quiet at the National Championships. He has attributes that could turn him into a long term Josh Battle replacement.

Sam Linder - 178cm back pocket
Linder has had a consistent season with Sandringham, averaging 20 touches. Though this in inflated by regularly taking the kick ins. For a player his size, he intercepts well.

He’s been the man that the Dragons have sent to the opposition’s best small forward, such as top 15 fancy Isaac Kako (Linder was named in the best). He had five goals kicked on him by Waylon Davey-Motlop in round 12 of the Coates League and this was from Linder running off and being out of position on turnover, rather than being beaten one on one.

Linder, who is the most impressive speaker I’ve heard for a junior footballer, is deputy vice captain of Sandringham and captain of Brighton Grammar, where he saved his best performance of the season for the “grand final” against Haileybury. He was named best on ground with two late defensive efforts crucial in securing the one point victory.

Linder has been a star junior his whole career. In 2019, he won the Under-13 SMJFL Division 1 League Best and Fairest. That year, the Under-15 award was claimed by George Wardlaw and the Under-16 Marcus Windhager.

Range: Rookie draft
There hasn’t been a lot of talk about Linder but if the Saints miss out in the national draft on a small defender such as Harrison Oliver, I could see them taking Linder with a rookie pick. Finding a Jimmy Webster replacement is crucial.

2024 summary
Matching a bid for defenders Adrian Cole and Lenny Hofmann, if it comes, bolsters an area of the ground the Saints are weak in for depth.

With three list spots already needed for Max Hall, Elwood Peckett and the Sandringham rookie, things will get tight on whether there is room for Linder.

2025

*** (Vic Metro Under-17)

Kye Fincher, Sandringham & Brighton Grammar

** (U18 Coates League)

Jack Karthigesu, Frankston Dolphins

*(Hasn’t played any representative games)

James Mikhael, Murrumbeena & St Kevin’s
Nicky Robertson, Old Brighton
Rio Barry, Glen Iris
Kendyn Brown, South Melbourne Dist
Lucas Hornblower, Brighton Beach
Phoenix Smith, Frankston YCW
Mangok Lok ?

Potential draftees

Kye Fincher - 185cm half back
After playing for Vic Metro in the Under 16 National Championships in 2023, Fincher had limited opportunities to impress this year.

Like Lenny Hofmann and Sam Linder, he is part of the successful Sandringham and Brighton Grammar programs.

He is a bit timid defensively but moves well and wants the ball in his hands - he loves taking a kick out. I’ve seen him run from beyond the 50 metre mark just to take the kick in.

He averaged 13 touches in his three matches for the Dragons in 2024 off half back.

Fingers crossed we see Fincher pushed up the ground onto the wing or midfield in 2025 as he does have some potential.

Range: Rookie draft
Fincher recently missed out on being named in the Futures squad of the best 46 prospects.

2026

*** (U16 National Championships)

Kyle Harrison, Edithvale & Dandenong U16

** (U16 Talent League)

Quentin Hoffmann, Beaumaris & Sandringham U16

*(Hasn’t played any representative games)

Luke Mahimarajan, Brighton Bears (2024 B&F)
Aidan Tremsal, Seaford
Archer Francis, Carrum
Rowan Mackenzie, Beaumaris

Potential draftees

Kyle Harrison - 175cm back pocket

Harrison played back pocket in all three matches for Vic Metro at the recent Under 16 National Championships but wasn’t named in the best. With the game and tournament on the line, Harrison was the one taking the kick outs deep in the final quarter, as his side won by a point.

He has played representative footy for Dandenong earlier this year and for his league (Frankston & District) in 2022 & 2023.

Luke Mahimarajan - ?

Though not selected in any representative football in 2024, he won the SJMFL Under 16 Division 1 Best and Fairest. The recent form line of that award is solid, with Murphy Reid second in 2022, and Marcus Windhager claiming the medal from Finn Callaghan in 2019.

2026 summary
If the draft was today, Harrison would be in the rookie range.

There’s also a couple of brothers to keep an eye on in this crop - Rowan Mackenzie, the brother of the one that got away, Cam, and Quentin Hofmann, brother of 2024 NGA hopeful Lenny.

2027

*** (U15 All Star Indigenous v NGA game)

Ruben Nagar, Dingley (2024 B&F)
Findlay Johnston, Prahran
Ben Nish, Beaumaris
Erik Hennequin, Caulfield Bears

** (U15 Division 2 Metro Championships)

Billy Blazey, East Brighton
Eric Michel, Carrum Patterson Lakes
James Cassar, Langwarrin

*(Hasn’t played any representative games, other than St Kilda NGA side)

Tanish Singh, Caulfield Bears

2027 summary

We had four players make the Under-15 Indigenous v NGA match played in July. Eric Michel and James Cassar recently played in the VLine Cup - the regional U15 tournament - for the South East (Dandenong) Stingrays’ Division 2 side. Cassar was named in the best in both games. Ruben Nagar won the SMJFL Div 2 Best and Fairest this year.

2028

*** (U15 All Star Indigenous v NGA game or U14 Division 1 Metro Championships)

Nevon Eshwara, Edithvale Aspendale
Jai Gunasekera, Edithvale Aspendale
Zac Alter, Ajax
Aidan Rawack, East Brighton
Tyrone Nesbitt, Mount Eliza

** (U14 Division 2 Metro Championships)

Zach Mahimarajan, Murrumbeena
Max Brook, East Sandringham
Taj Davey, Frankston YCW
Robert Chong, East Brighton

*(Hasn’t played any representative games, other than St Kilda NGA side)

Ben Montgomery, Hampton (2024 B&F 3rd)
Aidan Teo, St Paul’s (2023 B&F)
Krishanth Devanesen, Mordialloc Braeside
Dom Monga, Bonbeach
Jimi Windust, ?

2028 summary

Alongside 2024 as our most exciting crop. Early days obviously, but Nevon Eshwara is the most promising player in our Academy alongside Adrian Cole and Lenny Hoffman.

Next week, I’ll have a look at our father son prospects - is the curse about to be lifted?

Yes ... I guess it was an admirable first post

Next time more photos & videos and you missed 2029 to 2035

6/10 ... an OK pass ... so well done!

 

[MOLTEN GANGLANDS]

Yes ... I guess it was an admirable first post

Next time more photos & videos and you missed 2029 to 2035

6/10 ... an OK pass ... so well done!

no reference list either

 

[Sarcoidevo]

no reference list either

Good point .... 5.5/10

 

[Sol Goodman]

Gwilts son got some crazy stare down look about him. Early call, but this kids going to be a weapon! Got that look about him.

 

[gubby88]

View attachment 2123735
Gwilts son got some crazy stare down look about him. Early call, but this kids going to be a weapon! Got that look about him.

can see he has already been to the Hugo Garcia school of ice cold stares

 

[austinnn]

Noah Montagna
Ollie Gwilt
Hunter Hayes ?
Jude Dal Santo
The Riewoldt brothers

Any more FS littluns in the pipeline?

About time fellas

 

[Tommy Wigs]

View attachment 2123735
Gwilts son got some crazy stare down look about him. Early call, but this kids going to be a weapon! Got that look about him.

Gee, he became a jet for a period.

 

[hangdog]

Noah Montagna
Ollie Gwilt
Hunter Hayes ?
Jude Dal Santo
The Riewoldt brothers

Any more FS littluns in the pipeline?

About time fellas

This has sent me down a rabbit hole of looking for Saints players 100+ games, within the age range of having kids 18 and under.
First name: Xavier Clarke - 2 daughters

(They receive a mention in this article https://www.richmondfc.com.au/news/1326865/clarke-family-designs-richmonds-2023-dreamtime-jumper)

 

[hangdog]

Noah Montagna
Ollie Gwilt
Hunter Hayes ?
Jude Dal Santo
The Riewoldt brothers

Any more FS littluns in the pipeline?

About time fellas

Shane Savage (109 games) looks to have 1 boy (youngest is a daughter, Willow)

When one becomes two

The dynamics have changed inside the households of two St Kilda backmen since the end of last season.

www.saints.com.au

Classic Geary with a daughter first up.

 

[botts]

Noah Montagna
Ollie Gwilt
Hunter Hayes ?
Jude Dal Santo
The Riewoldt brothers

Any more FS littluns in the pipeline?

About time fellas

Kosy had a boy, grams got a little boy. I think there is one more peckett to

 

[hangdog]

Jayson Daniels hasa 19yo son, and two older daughters. Anyone know if he's into footy?

Blast from the Past – Jayson Daniels

Former St Kilda and Sydney player Jason Daniels catches up with aflplayers.com.

www.aflplayers.com.au

 

[hangdog]

Steven Sziller's son James ultimately didn't make the cut.

Adam Schneider has 2 sons, Koby and Beau, plus a daughter Maya. Koby must be close to draft age (about 15-16 yo) (https://www.playhq.com/public/profile/6a8fe9b1-04f8-42cc-92c5-8368ec2097b6/statistics?tenant=afl)

Jackson, son of Brett Voss, is going alright at Frankston (https://vfl.aflmstats.com/player/Jackson_Voss)
Luke Ball has 3 daughters. The women's side should dominate for the next 20 years once all these father/daughters come through!) (https://www.pwg.com.au/our-team/luke-ball)
Jason Gram has a couple of sons, roughly 11 and 2.

 

[botts]

Steven Sziller's son James ultimately didn't make the cut.

Adam Schneider has 2 sons, Koby and Beau, plus a daughter Maya. Koby must be close to draft age (about 15-16 yo) (https://www.playhq.com/public/profile/6a8fe9b1-04f8-42cc-92c5-8368ec2097b6/statistics?tenant=afl)

Jackson, son of Brett Voss, is going alright at Frankston (https://vfl.aflmstats.com/player/Jackson_Voss)
Luke Ball has 3 daughters. The women's side should dominate for the next 20 years once all these father/daughters come through!) (https://www.pwg.com.au/our-team/luke-ball)
Jason Gram has a couple of sons, roughly 11 and 2.

Milney got another one I think. He’s about 15

 

[saint66au]

Jayson Daniels hasa 19yo son, and two older daughters. Anyone know if he's into footy?

Blast from the Past – Jayson Daniels

Former St Kilda and Sydney player Jason Daniels catches up with aflplayers.com.

www.aflplayers.com.au

If hes 19 and not on the radar, IM gonna say that horse has bolted lol

 

[snails13]

Noah Montagna
Ollie Gwilt
Hunter Hayes ?
Jude Dal Santo
The Riewoldt brothers

Any more FS littluns in the pipelin

If hes 19 and not on the radar, IM gonna say that horse has bolted lol

One of the Wakelin Twins has a son who is available for both St.kilda and Port.
At this point in time his son is favouring the Saints
If it's not next year it's the following year

 

[St Neil]

One of the Wakelin Twins has a son who is available for both St.kilda and Port.
At this point in time his son is favouring the Saints
If it's not next year it's the following year

Darryl Wakelin. Played 146 games for Port and 115 for Saints.

He played in Port’s Flag team in 2004 and our losing 1997 team in the GF.

Apparently Saints have been actively in contact with Darryl’s lad for a long while via the club’s Father-Son academy. Doing the ground work. Maybe an emotional bond has been developed.

Wouldn’t it be wonderful if he chose us and became a jet.

 

[SaintsSeptember]

Darryl Wakelin. Played 146 games for Port and 115 for Saints.

He played in Port’s Flag team in 2004 and our losing 1997 team in the GF.

Apparently Saints have been actively in contact with Darryl’s lad for a long while via the club’s Father-Son academy. Doing the ground work. Maybe an emotional bond has been developed.

Wouldn’t it be wonderful if he chose us and became a jet.

Jet Peckett plays for Frankston and isn't so great.
Can't he be a Garry Jr?

 

[jwikked]

Steven Sziller's son James ultimately didn't make the cut.

Adam Schneider has 2 sons, Koby and Beau, plus a daughter Maya. Koby must be close to draft age (about 15-16 yo) (https://www.playhq.com/public/profile/6a8fe9b1-04f8-42cc-92c5-8368ec2097b6/statistics?tenant=afl)

Jackson, son of Brett Voss, is going alright at Frankston (https://vfl.aflmstats.com/player/Jackson_Voss)
Luke Ball has 3 daughters. The women's side should dominate for the next 20 years once all these father/daughters come through!) (https://www.pwg.com.au/our-team/luke-ball)
Jason Gram has a couple of sons, roughly 11 and 2.

Schneiders kids are 100% GWS lol. Perhaps it wouldn't matter when it comes down to it, but I don't think they know about St Kilda

 

[Imtellingya]

Schneiders kids are 100% GWS lol. Perhaps it wouldn't matter when it comes down to it, but I don't think they know about St Kilda

Seb Ross - twin sons, Brad Hill had a son recently.

 

[SteeleSaints]

For my BigFooty debut, I would like to provide an update on St Kilda’s Next Generation Academy.

There is reason to be optimistic about the talent coming through – did you know the Saints Under-15 NGA side was the best performed at this year’s Victorian tournament?

Alongside Carlton as the only undefeated team, St Kilda demolished Essendon 96-0, beat North Melbourne comfortably 68-6 and got over the top of Melbourne 38-21. By comparison, the Blues defeated the Demons 31-18.

But let’s start with this season, as we have some exciting prospects.

I’ve tiered each player in our academy to give a guide to the likeliness of each being drafted.

2024

*** (played in Under 18 National Championships)

Adrian Cole, Sandringham
Lenny Hoffman, Sandringham & Brighton Grammar

** (U18 Coates League)

Sam Linder, Sandringham & Brighton Grammar

*(Hasn’t played any representative games this season)

Jacob Duryea, Frankston
Kento Hikima, Hampton
Jet DiSanto, Langwarrin
Anthony Colacino, St Kilda City
Roanin Jackson, East Brighton
Zac Bowen, Beaumaris
Baxter Kam, Prahran

Potential draftees

Adrian Cole - 197cm full back
Cole is an old school full back who just doesn’t get beaten often. He has played on all of the highly touted key forwards this season, aside from teammate Harry Armstong, and hasn’t had a bag kicked on him.

He is limited offensively - his intercepting has improved as the year has gone on but in general play he tries to avoid getting in the way/involved. Be prepared for an awkward kicking style, especially on his opposite.

It was his one on one work though that impressed the St Kilda coaching hierarchy after he participated in a couple of weeks of pre season training. He is a “reverse Phillipou”, born in the first week of January, so he might have finished his growing at 197cm.

Range: Pick 40-60.
Don’t be surprised to see Sydney bid on him. The Swans love to bid and Kinnear Beatson will be keen to get one back on new St Kilda list boss Simon Dalrymple after he left Sydney.

Lenny Hofmann - 190cm third defender
Hofmann is described by Brighton Grammar’s head of football as a “rebounding freak”, and by teammates as “super quick”.

The versatile defender produced his best performances for Brighton, where he was named in their best two players three times. Impressively, he was named best on ground against Caulfield - one of the top sides - and was prominent in the decider against Haileybury where he took the points, in favourable conditions, on Harry Armstrong who is looming as the first key forward selected in the draft.

Hofmann and arguably the best player in the draft, Levi Ashcroft, were the only two players to play in the title winning Sandringham, Brighton and Vic Metro sides this season. Such is the quality of the teams Hofmann represented, he played 24 matches in 2024…and lost just once.

Hofmann, who debuted for Brighton Grammar in Year 10, is the second oldest of four brothers with Quentin next draft eligible in 2026.

Range: Rookie draft
Hofmann is very highly rated internally at Brighton & Sandringham but was quiet at the National Championships. He has attributes that could turn him into a long term Josh Battle replacement.

Sam Linder - 178cm back pocket
Linder has had a consistent season with Sandringham, averaging 20 touches. Though this in inflated by regularly taking the kick ins. For a player his size, he intercepts well.

He’s been the man that the Dragons have sent to the opposition’s best small forward, such as top 15 fancy Isaac Kako (Linder was named in the best). He had five goals kicked on him by Waylon Davey-Motlop in round 12 of the Coates League and this was from Linder running off and being out of position on turnover, rather than being beaten one on one.

Linder, who is the most impressive speaker I’ve heard for a junior footballer, is deputy vice captain of Sandringham and captain of Brighton Grammar, where he saved his best performance of the season for the “grand final” against Haileybury. He was named best on ground with two late defensive efforts crucial in securing the one point victory.

Linder has been a star junior his whole career. In 2019, he won the Under-13 SMJFL Division 1 League Best and Fairest. That year, the Under-15 award was claimed by George Wardlaw and the Under-16 Marcus Windhager.

Range: Rookie draft
There hasn’t been a lot of talk about Linder but if the Saints miss out in the national draft on a small defender such as Harrison Oliver, I could see them taking Linder with a rookie pick. Finding a Jimmy Webster replacement is crucial.

2024 summary
Matching a bid for defenders Adrian Cole and Lenny Hofmann, if it comes, bolsters an area of the ground the Saints are weak in for depth.

With three list spots already needed for Max Hall, Elwood Peckett and the Sandringham rookie, things will get tight on whether there is room for Linder.

2025

*** (Vic Metro Under-17)

Kye Fincher, Sandringham & Brighton Grammar

** (U18 Coates League)

Jack Karthigesu, Frankston Dolphins

*(Hasn’t played any representative games)

James Mikhael, Murrumbeena & St Kevin’s
Nicky Robertson, Old Brighton
Rio Barry, Glen Iris
Kendyn Brown, South Melbourne Dist
Lucas Hornblower, Brighton Beach
Phoenix Smith, Frankston YCW
Mangok Lok ?

Potential draftees

Kye Fincher - 185cm half back
After playing for Vic Metro in the Under 16 National Championships in 2023, Fincher had limited opportunities to impress this year.

Like Lenny Hofmann and Sam Linder, he is part of the successful Sandringham and Brighton Grammar programs.

He is a bit timid defensively but moves well and wants the ball in his hands - he loves taking a kick out. I’ve seen him run from beyond the 50 metre mark just to take the kick in.

He averaged 13 touches in his three matches for the Dragons in 2024 off half back.

Fingers crossed we see Fincher pushed up the ground onto the wing or midfield in 2025 as he does have some potential.

Range: Rookie draft
Fincher recently missed out on being named in the Futures squad of the best 46 prospects.

2026

*** (U16 National Championships)

Kyle Harrison, Edithvale & Dandenong U16

** (U16 Talent League)

Quentin Hoffmann, Beaumaris & Sandringham U16

*(Hasn’t played any representative games)

Luke Mahimarajan, Brighton Bears (2024 B&F)
Aidan Tremsal, Seaford
Archer Francis, Carrum
Rowan Mackenzie, Beaumaris

Potential draftees

Kyle Harrison - 175cm back pocket

Harrison played back pocket in all three matches for Vic Metro at the recent Under 16 National Championships but wasn’t named in the best. With the game and tournament on the line, Harrison was the one taking the kick outs deep in the final quarter, as his side won by a point.

He has played representative footy for Dandenong earlier this year and for his league (Frankston & District) in 2022 & 2023.

Luke Mahimarajan - ?

Though not selected in any representative football in 2024, he won the SJMFL Under 16 Division 1 Best and Fairest. The recent form line of that award is solid, with Murphy Reid second in 2022, and Marcus Windhager claiming the medal from Finn Callaghan in 2019.

2026 summary
If the draft was today, Harrison would be in the rookie range.

There’s also a couple of brothers to keep an eye on in this crop - Rowan Mackenzie, the brother of the one that got away, Cam, and Quentin Hofmann, brother of 2024 NGA hopeful Lenny.

2027

*** (U15 All Star Indigenous v NGA game)

Ruben Nagar, Dingley (2024 B&F)
Findlay Johnston, Prahran
Ben Nish, Beaumaris
Erik Hennequin, Caulfield Bears

** (U15 Division 2 Metro Championships)

Billy Blazey, East Brighton
Eric Michel, Carrum Patterson Lakes
James Cassar, Langwarrin

*(Hasn’t played any representative games, other than St Kilda NGA side)

Tanish Singh, Caulfield Bears

2027 summary

We had four players make the Under-15 Indigenous v NGA match played in July. Eric Michel and James Cassar recently played in the VLine Cup - the regional U15 tournament - for the South East (Dandenong) Stingrays’ Division 2 side. Cassar was named in the best in both games. Ruben Nagar won the SMJFL Div 2 Best and Fairest this year.

2028

*** (U15 All Star Indigenous v NGA game or U14 Division 1 Metro Championships)

Nevon Eshwara, Edithvale Aspendale
Jai Gunasekera, Edithvale Aspendale
Zac Alter, Ajax
Aidan Rawack, East Brighton
Tyrone Nesbitt, Mount Eliza

** (U14 Division 2 Metro Championships)

Zach Mahimarajan, Murrumbeena
Max Brook, East Sandringham
Taj Davey, Frankston YCW
Robert Chong, East Brighton

*(Hasn’t played any representative games, other than St Kilda NGA side)

Ben Montgomery, Hampton (2024 B&F 3rd)
Aidan Teo, St Paul’s (2023 B&F)
Krishanth Devanesen, Mordialloc Braeside
Dom Monga, Bonbeach
Jimi Windust, ?

2028 summary

Alongside 2024 as our most exciting crop. Early days obviously, but Nevon Eshwara is the most promising player in our Academy alongside Adrian Cole and Lenny Hoffman.

Next week, I’ll have a look at our father son prospects - is the curse about to be lifted?

What a sensational contribution thanks heaps P28! How good is it to see our club identifying 14 year olds and contribuiting to their development. Finally the penny has dropped that if you put development into kids in their formative years you reap the rewards ten fold.

 

[Bill Crouse]

What a sensational contribution thanks heaps P28! How good is it to see our club identifying 14 year olds and contribuiting to their development. Finally the penny has dropped that if you put development into kids in their formative years you reap the rewards ten fold.

There has been no real benefit to do it until the NGA rules changed this year. If not for covid, there is no way that Owens or Windhager would wear red, white and black.

 

[Tommy Wigs]

One of the Wakelin Twins has a son who is available for both St.kilda and Port.
At this point in time his son is favouring the Saints
If it's not next year it's the following year

Yep, next year. Missed the Futures game selection yesterday and he seems to be a little way back at the moment. Hopefully he can grow a few cms.

 

[gringo2011]

Said he projects to be a bit smaller than dad and uncle (190cm) but a much better runner. Third tall?

From the bits of footage from Sturt he looks like a third tall back who seemed to be in the right spots to take marks. Kicked a couple of goals in one.