Footy Tragic

KRISTIAN’S 2011 PHANTOM DRAFT

It was a very late decision to write one up, but I thought why not? This Phantom Draft is based on what I think will happen and on little snippets I’ve heard, not particularly where I rate the players.

Due to me deciding so late that I’ll do one, the summaries for each player won’t be as in depth as what I’d like them to be, otherwise I would’ve struggled to have it written up in time for Thursday, where it would be basically pointless.

I’ve also used the depth charts that Dan and I created to help me select appropriate players for clubs regarding list needs.

If you have any questions or queries, don’t hesitate to ask, or give me a mouthful. I’m also on Twitter, ‘@KristianPisano’.

So let’s not waste anymore time…..

 

PICK 1 (GWS) – STEPHEN CONIGLIO

Height: 183cm, Weight: 79kg, DOB: 15/12/1993
Recruited from: Swan Districts Football Club

I think GWS will go down this path for their first pick in the draft. Not that it really means anything, but I think Coniglio would be able to handle the pressure a little better than Patton. You don’t need a key forward having so much pressure on him straight up, as they really need a good three to four years in the system before they excel. Coniglio is a high quality midfielder that possesses all the assets to become a star of the AFL. Speed, skills, and awareness are all qualities he has, and he displayed how good he actually is in the National Championships.

 

PICK 2 (GWS) – JONATHON PATTON

Height: 197cm, Weight: 95kg, DOB: 20/05/1993
Recruited from: Eastern Ranges

If he doesn’t go number one, he’ll go number two. Patton is the best key position player in the draft by far, let alone the best key forward. He is a super strong mark of the football, crashes packs, reads the play well and kicks the ball nicely. I suspect he will play some games next year, but I still don’t think he’s quite ready, even taking into account his size.

 

PICK 3 (GWS) – DOM TYSON

Height: 186cm, Weight: 82kg, DOB: 08/06/1993
Recruited from: Oakleigh Chargers

Personally my favourite player in the draft, and I would not be surprised if in ten years we acknowledge him as the best player out of this crop. He’s an inside midfielder that possesses a brilliant outside game as well, very much in the mould of Simon Black or Scott Pendlebury. He has a precise left foot kick and has a decent short burst of speed without being overly quick. He’s not slow, but it doesn’t matter anyway. He’s ten times quicker in the mind than anyone else out there.

 

PICK 4 (GWS) – WILL HOSKIN-ELLIOT

Height: 182cm, Weight: 73kg, DOB: 02/09/1993
Recruited from: Western Jets

Will is the ultimate X-Factor type pick here. He is a game breaker capable of turning a game on its head with his blistering speed and long kicking. He is prone to running just one way and not helping out defensively, but he’ll pick that up in an AFL environment. He tested very well at the Combine for endurance, so he has a great tank too.

 

PICK 5 (GWS) – MATTHEW BUNTINE

Height: 188cm, Weight: 83kg, DOB: 19/10/1993
Recruited from: Dandenong Stingrays

Matthew Buntine is the real surprise pick here for me. I’d have no problem taking him at pick seven, but it looks like the Giants are going to over look Chad Wingard for him. Buntine is a very nice player though, who is extremely adaptable and can play a whole variety of positions. I liken him to Bryce Gibbs. He already has a big body, so he should be able to play straight away. I think he’ll start off his career at a half-back flank and do very well.

PICK 6 (PORT ADELAIDE) – CHAD WINGARD

Height: 181cm, Weight: 73kg, DOB: 29/07/1993
Recruited from: Sturt

Amazingly, in my opinion anyway, it looks like the Giants will over look Chad Wingard. Chad has the ability to be the best player out of this draft and Port Adelaide will be absolutely rapt to have the local boy fall right into their arms. Wingard is a match winning midfielder who only needs 20 possessions to have a major impact on a game. All his disposals are extremely damaging. The only knock on Wingard, is the fact he hasn’t strung a full season together yet. He has been concussed quite a few times, including most recently in the National Champs, so that is a major worry, especially with all the talk about head injuries these days. Port Adelaide get a major bargain here, period.

 

PICK 7 (GWS) – ADAM TOMLINSON

Height: 194cm, Weight: 90kg, DOB: 10/08/1993
Recruited from: Oakleigh Chargers

I think this is much too high for Tomlinson, but this is way it looks like panning out. I would definitely be taking Longer here, as Brisbane will swoop on him with pick eight. Hopefully some type of sanity prevails. Tomlinson is possibly the most promising tall outside of Patton though. He is a genuine utility who can play at both key ends of the ground. Adam will play games next year, most likely as a half-back flanker or third tall as he reads the play very nicely. Long term I don’t see him being a stopping defender, I think he’ll play much like Sam Fisher and he also has the scope to spend a bit of time in the midfield.

PICK 8 (BRISBANE) – BILLY LONGER

Height: 202cm, Weight: 95kg, DOB: 12/05/1993
Recruited from: Northern Knights

I don’t think the Lions will let this opportunity slip. They only have two ruckman on their list currently, and as good as Matty Leuenberger is, he needs some support long-term. Longer is by far the most promising ruckman in this year’s draft. He is a very good tap ruckman but is also very capable up forward. He is pretty much the ideal replacement for Mitch Clark, if not better. He’ll take his fair share of time though, as there is a still lot of development in the tank, and I also have a few qualms about his disposal, but that’ll come with time and an AFL environment.

PICK 9 (GWS) – TAYLOR ADAMS

Height: 181cm, Weight: 80kg, DOB: 20/09/1993
Recruited from: Geelong Falcons

There is lots of talk about Adams falling outside the top 14, but I can’t see that happening. From what I’m hearing, GWS have been dead keen on Adams from day one, and if Longer wasn’t available at pick eight, I think he would’ve gone to the Lions. Adams is a genuine inside midfielder, who isn’t overly quick, but he’s definitely not slow either. His coaches have been talking up his leadership qualities and will to succeed to make himself the best possible player he can be. His kicking is very solid, but sometimes his decision making can be a little astray. He’ll be a very solid AFL player.

PICK 10 (GWS) – NICK HAYNES

Height: 191cm, Weight: 70kg, DOB: 18/05/1992
Recruited from: Dandenong Stingrays

Haynes is a genuine bolter of this draft. He’s at a very nice height, but as you can see from his weight, he needs to put on a bit of size. I like Haynes following the football. For his height his not exactly purely outside and when he has to, he’ll go in and win his own ball. Haynes doesn’t have elite disposal, but it’s solid and generally hits his targets. His main attribute is his overhead ability and that’s why I’ve heard people likening him to Fremantle’s Nathan Fyfe. Haynes to GWS is pretty much a done deal, if Brisbane doesn’t interfere.

PICK 11 (GWS) – DEVON SMITH

Height: 175cm, Weight: 73kg, DOB: 20/05/1993
Recruited from: Geelong Falcons

I’ve seen a lot of Phantom Drafts with Devon Smith not getting picked until around the 30’s. Like Haynes, I think he’s a certainty to land at the Giants. Smith is a genuine goal kicking, ball winning inside midfielder. He’s quite small in height and his kicking is somewhat questionable but he ran a 15 beep at the Combine and tested a 2.91 second 20 metre sprint, outlining his endurance and speed. He’s ready to play next season, and will most likely start at half-forward.

PICK 12 (BRISBANE) – TOBY GREENE

Height: 181cm, Weight: 78kg, DOB: 15/09/1993
Recruited from: Oakleigh Chargers

You can lock in Toby Greene to land at the Lions unless there’s another slider that they cannot resist, like Billy Longer. Toby honestly looks like a child running around, but he’s an excellent inside midfielder. He’s not overly quick, but he does everything quite well. His disposal is very solid and he likes to kick a goal as well. He reads the ruckman’s taps very well, and he’ll become a clearance king at AFL level once he develops physically. I seem him playing games next year, most likely up forward to begin with though.

PICK 13 (GWS) – SAM DOCHERTY

Height: 183cm, Weight: 85kg, DOB: 17/10/1993
Recruited from: Gippsland Power

I haven’t heard much at all concerning Sam Docherty, so this pick is based purely on where I think he should go. Sam is arguably the best kick in this draft and he’ll be clearing the defence with sixty metre penetrating bombs from day one. He’s not exactly a stopping defender, but he can do a job when asked. Sam is very much in a similar mould to Shannon Hurn at the Eagles. He has a big build, and is at his damaging best when he is released. I think long-term Sam can become an outside midfielder.

PICK 14 (GWS) – LIAM SUMNER

Height: 178cm, Weight: 71kg, DOB: 16/08/1993
Recruited from: Sandringham Dragons

Much like Sam Docherty, I’m really assuming the Giants take Sumner here based on his talent. There hasn’t been much talk concerning him, and I wouldn’t be surprised if he fell through a little bit as you couldn’t blame GWS for going for another tall at this pick. Sumner is personally one of my favourites from this draft. He’s really small but he has all the qualities to make him a top quality footballer. Sumner is super quick and he has outstanding skills. For his size, I think he’s one of the best tacklers in the draft as well. Again, like many midfielders in this draft, I think he’ll make his name as a small forward initially. A good player comparison in my opinion is Dale Thomas.

PICK 15 (RICHMOND) – ELLIOT KAVANAGH

Height: 187cm, Weight: 78kg, DOB: 19/05/1993
Recruited from: Western Jets

The Tigers need another class midfielder to compliment Dustin Martin and Trent Cotchin, and I don’t think they’ll pass up the opportunity to draft one of the most talented players in this crop in Elliot Kavanagh. Personally, I think this is a slide. On pure talent, I rate Kavanagh in the top five, and I think if it wasn’t for his injury interrupted season, he’d be drafted around there. You have to dig up games from 2010 to find Kavanagh’s best form, but there was a reason everyone in the industry rated him highly. Kavanagh possesses great speed, awareness and skills, and if his hamstring injuries don’t debilitate him, he’ll turn out to be a very good AFL player.

PICK 16 (FREMANTLE) – SHANE KERSTEN

Height: 190cm, Weight: 88kg, DOB: 15/03/1993
Recruited from: South Fremantle

From what I’ve heard, there isn’t much interest in Kersten, so it looks like he’ll fall to Fremantle who are crying out for a player like him. In a much similar mould to Jack Darling, Kersten is a very good leading forward, with a big presence and long right foot kick. He is a very good mark even though he’s a little under sized, but with his speed he creates good separation on his opponents. He’s also very good at ground level. I think too much fuss is made over a few centimetres. Kersten is typically a little under sized yes, but give me the genuine footballer any day of the week. He could also be a smoky for Richmond at pick 15, depending on the quality of midfielders available.

PICK 17 (WESTERN BULLDOGS) – ALEX FORSTER

Height: 189cm, Weight: 81kg, DOB: 14/07/1993
Recruited from: Norwood

I was really baffled by what the Bulldogs would come up with here. Their first round draft picks traditionally are a bit obscure so I went with someone who would fit their bill in my opinion. Forster has a nice height, and is an elite disposer of the footy. He’ll start his career down back but I envision he’ll become an AFL wingman once he matures physically. He made the All-Australian team in the National Champs in the backline for his rebounding and good roles on the opposition’s dangerous medium to tall forwards.

PICK 18 (NORTH MELBOURNE) – BRANDON ELLIS

Height: 181cm, Weight: 83kg, DOB: 03/08/1993
Recruited from: Calder Cannons

North Melbourne need outside players who can use the football well and can run. While Ellis isn’t particularly that, he uses it very well, knows how to find the football and a quality that is high on Brad Scott’s list, is the fact he’s a quality guy. Brandon probably best suited down back but can push up the ground. I find him as a very similar player to Heath Shaw. He’ll lead from the front and bust his guts out for his team mates.

PICK 19 (ESSENDON) – CLAY SMITH

Height: 180cm, Weight: 78kg, DOB: 11/05/1993
Recruited from: Gippsland Power

Essendon are particularly keen on Clay Smith, and I think if they want him desperately, they’ll have to use pick 19. The Bombers are crying out for a genuine inside midfielder, and Clay Smith is exactly that. He already has a big body, and he really cracks in to get his hands first on the ball. His efficiency by foot is OK, without being outstanding. He is an on field leader, and I can really see why Hird would like him.

PICK 20 (FREMANTLE) – HAYDEN CROZIER

Height: 185cm, Weight: 68kg, DOB: 24/12/1993
Recruited from: Eastern Ranges

The Dockers will really complete their forward line here with Kersten and now Crozier. Hayden won’t go down the order too much, and I also considered him for the Bulldogs at pick 17. Hayden is a high flying, skilful half forward that could become a genuine star of the AFL with his athleticism. He is as skinny as a rake though, so there is still a fair bit of development to be had. I think the expansive spaces of Subiaco will suit his game though.

PICK 21 (SYDNEY) – TOM MITCHELL (FATHER-SON)

Height: 181cm, Weight: 79kg, DOB: 31/05/1993
Recruited from: Claremont Football Club

Sydney has got a bargain here. Mitchell is a clear top ten draft pick this year in my opinion, so they’ll be rapt the father-son system means they can get their man at pick 21. Mitchell suits the Sydney style to a tee, and he’ll add to their already outstanding list of young, genuine inside midfielders. He’s like a bull at the gate. He loves to win clearances, tackle and kick long. He’s ready to go, and could play straight away.

PICK 22 (CARLTON) – ZYRUS MANSON

Height: 195cm, Weight: 84kg, DOB: 24/04/1993
Recruited from: Claremont

I think the big question of this draft is where Manson will go. His scope is between pick 12 and pick 70. To be honest, I think Carlton is the perfect fit. Manson is an outstanding talent who often makes football look easy. He can kick a big of goals and make it look effortless, but I think what will decide where he falls is what he does when things aren’t going his way, and the ‘go home’ factor. Manson can disappear in games, and he doesn’t really offer a lot defensively. The reason I think Carlton is the perfect fit here is because he’s worth the risk. Manson could be the key forward they’re looking for to win a premiership soon. The other reason I like Carlton is because of Yarran, Betts and Garlett. I think they’ll be good role models and mates for Manson, and they could definitely make the transition from bush football to AFL much easier for him.

PICK 23 (WEST COAST) – JORDAN MURDOCH

Height: 188cm, Weight: 81kg, DOB: 23/03/1992
Recruited from: Glenelg

There has been talk of interest by West Coast in Murdoch, and I think it’s a great fit. Murdoch played for South Australia in the National Champs as a leading forward, but I think his best position is on a wing where he played a fair bit for Glenelg reserves. He wasn’t prominent but I guess he showed signs of a future in that position. I liken him to Isaac Smith. He has ridiculous break away speed from a contest and is a nice disposer of the footy. Popular opinion is he’ll make it as a forward, but I don’t see it. He’ll love playing at Subiaco.

PICK 24 (GOLD COAST) – DANIEL MARKWORTH

Height: 189cm, Weight: 78kg, DOB: 03/04/1992
Recruited from: Calder Cannons

It’s anyone’s guess as to what the Suns are up to here, so I went with the best available method. I really rate Markworth, and considering he’s fairly new to the game, he had a really good season for the Cannons playing as a leading half-forward. Daniel has a lot of things to work on to become a good AFL player, but the scope is there. Athletically you don’t get many better, and his skills are quite good. He’s got a great height, and eventually I can see him playing an outside midfield role, which could be handy for the Suns.

PICK 25 (ST KILDA) – TODD ELTON

Height: 197cm, Weight: 90kg, DOB: 29/04/1993
Recruited from: Dandenong Stingrays

I have a feeling Saints supporters won’t be too pleased with this pick, but this is what the word is. Elton athletically is very gifted. He had a very disappointing season for the Rays, which is why he is a genuine unknown in this draft, and it will not be all that surprising if he’s taken in the 60’s or even not at all in the real thing. Thing is, he tested awesome at the Combine, and that fact can’t be ignored, especially at his height. The potential is there to be a very good key forward, but this is a highly speculative pick.

PICK 26 (RICHMOND) – MARLEY WILLIAMS

Height: 181cm, Weight: 85kg, DOB: 22/07/1993
Recruited from: Claremont Football Club

The Tigers need a skilful half-forward/wingman. Williams fills this hole and he is another one of my favourites from the draft. Williams has a lethal left foot roost, is big bodied, is extremely quick and has a bit of the ‘Jake Kings’ about him. He’s definitely ready to play a role up forward in round one and he could have a serious impact. The thing I love about him is that he is fierce and takes no crap. He is ultra competitive and I think this is a trait Damien Hardwick would love. Don’t be surprised if the Tigers go for Marley on Thursday.

PICK 27 (ADELAIDE) – JUSTIN CLARKE

Height: 193cm, Weight: 78kg, DOB:
Recruited from: North Adelaide

Clarke has been plucked from obscurity after playing a few senior games for North Adelaide. He wasn’t in the South Australian squad for the National Championships and all of the sudden he’s a genuine chance for the top thirty. I don’t see him getting past Geelong at pick 34. Clarke has had quite a bit of interest from at least six AFL clubs. He is a genuine centre-half back, and locals say he is quite the outstanding talent. I can’t say I’ve seen him play, so I’ll keep my description at that.

PICK 28 (WEST COAST) – JORDAN LOCKYER

Height: 191cm, Weight: 85kg, DOB: 15/06/1993
Recruited from: West Perth Football Club

I think the Eagles will go for the local boy here. Lockyer is a genuine utility that will make a name for himself at either end of the ground. Jordan loves the physical contest, which makes him remind me of Chad Cornes. He has very neat disposal as well. I don’t think the Eagles can lose here; Lockyer is a very safe pick.

PICK 29 (FREMANTLE) – JOSH BOOTSMA

Height: 191cm, Weight: 81kg, DOB: 22/02/1993
Recruited from: South Fremantle

Bootsma looks a certainty to go to Fremantle, and it looks like it’ll be here. I can’t say I’ve seen a whole lot of him, but from all reports he’s had a very solid season playing as a rebounding defender. He has pretty good speed and knows how to play a role. I think he fills a list need as well, and could be the one to eventually release Duffield and Broughton into the middle.

PICK 30 (BRISBANE) – FRASER MCINESS

Height: 194cm, Weight: 91kg, DOB: 19/07/1993
Recruited from: Perth Football Club

McIness is a bit a of a bargain for the Lions here. He doesn’t have much exposed form this season due to injuries, but he has shown what he can do. Another utility player in this draft, but it fills another list need for the Lions. His best position right now is probably as a key forward, but he’ll certainly make a handy defender as well. I like his hands over head and he seems to read the play pretty well. This would be a really good get for the Lions.

PICK 31 (ESSENDON) – SEBASTIAN ROSS

Height: 187cm, Weight: 82kg, DOB: 07/05/1993
Recruited from: North Ballarat Rebels

I find it hard to see how Ross will fall much further than this. Essendon will surely go down this path if in fact he’s available, and if not I think they’ll snap up Mitch Grigg. Ross is one of those players that have no major flaws in their game. He can inside and outside, kicks well, tackles as well as anyone and he’s worked really hard on improving his endurance. He’s one of those players that the coach will pick first every week. He should at least be a very solid AFL player. The Bombers would be rapt if they can get Smith and Ross with their two picks as that’ll bolster their young inside midfield stocks considerably.

PICK 32 (GEELONG) – HENRY SCHADE

Height: 194cm, Weight: 81kg, DOB: 08/10/1993
Recruited from: North Hobart

Personally, Schade is my favourite key position defender in the draft. Tasmanians tend to get a little over looked but this guy is a serious talent. He has a little bit of development to go, strength wise, but that’ll come, and he’ll have time to do that at Geelong. Schade does lots of things well. He’s athletic, spoils well, and uses the ball well without too much fuss. His left foot boot is really good but he can be a little suspect when put under pressure. The talk is Geelong will go for a key defender here and Schade, Nathan Blee and Andrew Boseley would all be in the running.

PICK 33 (HAWTHORN) – MYLES BOLGER

Height: 201cm, Weight: 90kg, DOB: 25/03/1993
Recruited from: South Fremantle Football Club

I suspect the Hawks will go tall here, either with a ruckman or a key defender. I don’t think they can pass up the opportunity to draft Bolger, as I think he’s the clear second best ruckman in the draft, and to be honest, in a few years, I don’t think the gap will be that wide between him and Billy Longer. He’s had some injuries issues with his foot, so that is slightly concerning, especially for a ruckman, which is why he’ll most likely get picked around this mark. Bolger is a genuine old fashioned ruckman. He gives his midfielders first use with brilliant tap work and moves around the ground very nicely.

PICK 34 (GEELONG) – MURRAY NEWMAN

Height: 179cm, Weight: 67kg, DOB: 18/11/1993
Recruited from: Swan Districts Football Club

Newman doesn’t really fill a list need for the Cats, but they’re in a position where they can just select best available. Newman is on the small side, but he is extremely dangerous forward/midfielder that could be an ideal replacement for Paul Chapman in a couple years.

PICK 35 (ST KILDA) – SAM KERRIDGE

Height: 188cm, Weight: 84kg, DOB: 26/04/1993
Recruited from: Bendigo Pioneers

The Saints have loaded up on draft picks, so I’ve decided I’m going to fill some list needs. I think they’ll go with at least one midfielder with their two picks in the 30’s, maybe two, depending on who’s available, because let’s face it, Montagna, Hayes and the like aren’t getting any younger. Kerridge is a great get here. He wasn’t exposed at National level as he didn’t get picked for Vic Country, but he had an outstanding season for Bendigo. At 188cm and 84kg he’s ready to go. He’s a real clearance machine with great burst speed and can kick goals. His foot skills are solid, but are not his main attribute.

PICK 36 (MELBOURNE) – JACKSON PAINE

Height: 194cm, Weight: 87kg, DOB: 21/06/1993
Recruited from: Sandringham Dragons

I think Melbourne can’t afford to let Paine go past, even though I think Grigg would be mighty tempting. I’ve been on record saying I don’t think Mitch Clark is the answer to their forward line, and I stand by that. Paine is a genuine forward who marks well and moves well. This is the type of player they need, even though he’s inconsistent. I must say, he’s a gamble, but there definitely is a very good future at AFL if he works hard at it, and Melbourne would be a good fit.

PICK 37 (ST KILDA) – MITCHELL GRIGG

Height: 183cm, Weight: 85kg, DOB: 02/01/1993
Recruited from: Norwood

The Saints have to bite here. I think Grigg will go a bit higher in the real thing, but I don’t know where. Grigg is one of the best kicks in the draft, but much has been made about his lack of pace. I still think he’ll become a pretty good AFL player, because his kicking skills are just so good, and he really is great at reading the ruckman’s palms and winning clearances. St Kilda will get a big win here if he falls this far, and they’d be rapt with landing two genuine inside midfielders.

PICK 38 (HAWTHORN) – JULIAN DOBOSZ

Height: 191cm, Weight: 85kg, DOB: 17/11/1992
Recruited from: North Hobart

When I was picking for GWS in the footytragic.com Phantom Draft, I very speculatively took Dobosz at pick 14. I just like him. Obviously I know he won’t go that high in the real thing, but I think he’s a great full forward. He has exposed form, in the Tasmanian league, and in the National Champs, showing that he knows how to kick big bags of goals. He’s not as tall as most key forward, but as I said with Kersten, so what? He’s quick, a good mark, and vitally, he can read the play! I know a key forward isn’t exactly what Hawthorn need, but they really don’t have many holes and you can’t have too many of them as their trade currency is massive.

 

PICK 39 (WESTERN BULLDOGS) – MICHAEL TALIA

Height: 192cm, Weight: 88kg, DOB: 11/02/1993
Recruited from: Calder Cannons

I’m not the biggest fan of Talia to be 100% honest, but I think this is where the draft is at now. I’ll start with the positives; he’s a bit stronger than his brother (likes the one on one more), and he’s a really good defensive mark. The reasons why I’m not a fan is because his speed is a bit of a concern, and he worries me when the ball is in his hands. The Bulldogs need another big body down back, so I’m suspecting they’ll be interested in one of Talia, Boseley, or Bussey.

 

PICK 40 (NORTH MELBOURNE) – SHANE NELSON

Height: 179cm, Weight: 73kg, DOB: 11/05/1993
Recruited from: West Perth Football Club

Nelson was the third string to WA’s bow in the midfield behind Stephen Coniglio and Jaeger O’Meara. He really has me scratching my head. My scope for him is as early as Fremantle’s pick 20 onwards. Nelson, somewhat surprisingly got the best results at the Combine for the kicking test. I’m not sure his kicking is as good as what that test suggests, because especially during the National’s he seemed to rush his disposals and just tend to bomb away against the higher intensity. What he can do is find the footy, really easily. Thirty possession games are his go and he does it regularly. He has great endurance and good speed as well. I haven’t seen a whole lot of his WAFL performances, so maybe I just caught him on bad days, but if his kicking is better than what I’ve seen, then I have him way too low.

PICK 41 (ADELAIDE) – BRAD MCKENZIE

Height: 188cm, Weight: 75kg, DOB: 29/05/1993
Recruited from: Sturt

Brad McKenzie’s my tip to be the big slider. I’m really just not sure about him. His lack of pace worries me but he is a great kick of the footy. I don’t think he’ll past Adelaide though, as the local boy but he could go as high as Richmond’s pick 15. I’m not sure where his best position on the ground is to be honest. I don’t think he’s a midfielder because of his pace, and he doesn’t really have much of an inside game to nullify that. I guess I just don’t see what everyone else sees in him, and that’s the beauty of the pre-draft banter!

PICK 42 (ST KILDA) – NATHAN BLEE

Height: 192cm, Weight: 91kg, DOB: 07/09/1990
Recruited from: East Perth

The Saints desperately need a key defender now with the departure of Zac Dawson, and they’ll get a ready made one here in Nathan Blee. He enjoyed a great season in the WAFL and was also prominent in the Foxtel Cup. Playing in defence is pretty new to him, but he has a break out season, and is on the radar of a lot of clubs, having been invited to the Combine. He is just a solid citizen; rarely beaten one on one, has good speed a decent skill set. He could go as high as pick 32 to the Cats, as well as in the running for the Hawks pick 33 and a couple of the Saints earlier picks.

PICK 43 (SYDNEY) – LACHIE NEALE

Height: 177cm, Weight: 73kg, DOB: 22/10/1993
Recruited from: Glenelg

Here’s another inside midfielder to add to Sydney’s plethora of them. Neale is a bit under rated. He does all the right things; wins the hard ball, has good speed, uses it well. The only qualms about him are his size, but I think he’ll at least be a very solid AFL player.

PICK 44 (CARLTON) – SAM FROST

Height: 194cm, Weight: 87kg, DOB: 28/08/1993
Recruited from: Sandringham Dragons

I’ve gone tall again here for the Blues. They really need that one key forward that they’re missing, so why not try and get at least one to work by taking two of them? Frost is outstanding athletically. He comes from a basketball and volleyball background, but his kicking is pretty average to put it politely. He’s a genuine prospect, and at this time of the draft, it won’t hurt too much to try these types of guys out.

PICK 45 (PORT ADELAIDE) – BEN BROWN

Height: 199cm, Weight: 90kg, DOB: 20/11/1992
Recruited from: Devonport

Port Adelaide has flagged their interest in securing at least one more ruckman in the draft. This is probably a bit of a reach, but I’ve heard a few clubs are quite keen on him around this mark. Brown is more a key forward than a ruck, but he can do both. He didn’t get drafted last season due to a knee injury, but he’s shown rapid improvement again this season. He’s really co-ordinated for a big bloke and is great below his knees and around the ground. Get around the Tasmanians!

PICK 46 (ADELAIDE) – THOMAS SHERIDAN

Height: 185cm, Weight: 76kg, DOB: 28/10/1993
Recruited from: Calder Cannons

Adelaide will be stoked to land Sheridan here. He’s a really solid contributor in the midfield that always delivered solid numbers during the TAC Cup season. He tested extremely well at the Combine for endurance. Skill level is pretty good but lacks a bit of pace, so that’s why I have him a bit down the order.

PICK 47 (BRISBANE) – HAIDEN SCHLOITHE

Height: 179cm, Weight: 72kg, DOB: 16/06/1993
Recruited from: South Fremantle Football Club

Schloithe is a player I can see appealing to the Lions here. He ran a 2.8 second 20 metre sprint at the Combine and he’s a brilliant tackler. His 12 games in the WAFL Colts this season produced an average of 20 disposals and 8 tackles.

PICK 48 (GEELONG) – FLETCHER ROBERTS

Height: 197cm, Weight: 84kg, DOB: 03/06/1993
Recruited from: Sandringham Dragons

Again, if there’s a team that can take a risk on a speculative player it’s the Cats. Roberts will be remembered for his match winning five goals in the TAC Cup Grand Final to get Sandringham over the line. While he’s not the most athletic player out there, he does know what he’s doing as he shows he can run to the right spots. With some solid development put into him, he could become a decent player.

PICK 49 (WESTERN BULLDOGS) – STEVEN VERRIER

Height: 185cm, Weight: 80kg, DOB: 24/06/1993
Recruited from: South Fremantle Football Club

Another speculative pick here, but I like what I see from Verrier. It’s hard for the other Western Australian midfielders to stand out when Coniglio, O’Meara and Nelson are dominating, but when Verrier got his chance, he delivered. He’s a very nice size, can break the lines, use the ball really well and really cracks in hard when he has to. I think he’s the type of player that would appeal to the Bulldogs.

PICK 50 (COLLINGWOOD) – KYAL HORSLEY

Height: 182cm, Weight: 88kg, DOB: 02/09/1987
Recruited from: Subiaco

This is the word. Collingwood are right into him and he could have an immediate impact in 2012. He finished second in the Sandover medal this year after an outstanding season for Subiaco. He is clearly a class above WAFL level. I think his ideal position is off a wing, using his raking left foot boot and creativity but with the departure of Leon Davis, he could easily slot in on to the half-back flank.

PICK 51 (PORT ADELAIDE) – JACKSON MERRETT

Height: 187cm, Weight: 70kg, DOB: 27/02/1993
Recruited from: Geelong Falcons

Port Adelaide needs some good outside users of the footy and Merrett will provide that. The reason he slips this far is because he is very, very skinny and doesn’t really possess an inside game. He plays totally outside, but if he can develop physically he could be really damaging with his pace and kicking skills.

PICK 52 (MELBOURNE) – SAM GORDON

Height: 197cm, Weight: 87kg, DOB: 31/03/1993
Recruited from: Geelong Falcons

I’ve gone tall again for the Dees. Gordon is another great project tall for them who, if he works on a few deficiencies could be a great key forward. His marking game is outstanding, and with his extra height makes him hard to stop when in full flight. I think a pick around the 50’s is about his mark as his set shot kicking is definitely a bit wayward and he’s still pretty inconsistent.

PICK 53 (HAWTHORN) – JOHN MCKENZIE

Height: 177cm, Weight: 80kg, DOB: 03/06/1993
Recruited from: South Launceston

Here’s another very under rated Tasmanian! He was the captain of the Tassie side in the National Champs and he completed a very nice carnival personally. His height and lack of genuine athleticism will hurt his draft chances, but other than that, you can’t fault him. He wins the ball, is a good leader and can use it very well for a player that is playing inside the majority of the time.

PICK 54 (MELBOURNE) – JACK NEWNES

Height: 184cm, Weight: 74kg, DOB: 24/02/1993
Recruited from: Northern Knights

With the loss of Scully, Melbourne needs a midfielder, and Newnes is a really solid customer. He is mostly an outside player but he can really find the footy, link up well, run to the right spots and then deliver with ultimate precision. Newnes is no Tom Scully, but the foot skills are definitely replaced here.

PICK 55 (RICHMOND) – ADDAM MARIC

Height: 176cm, Weight: 77kg, DOB: 18/04/1990

Recruited from: Melbourne Demons

I think the Tigers will use this pick, and then make another list change in order to obtain a Pre-Season Draft pick to secure John McCarthy. Maric adds to the depth the Tigers are trying to build, and a second club is most likely what he needs to make the most of his AFL career. He has skills to burn, but he lacked application at the Demons. He can play as an outside midfielder, and that’s what the Tigers need. I have a feeling this pick won’t be too popular with the Tiger fans.

PICK 56 (GWS) – JOEL HAMLING

Height: 194cm, Weight: 78kg, DOB: 09/04/1993
Recruited from: Claremont Football Club

This pick is really speculative as Hamling is no where near AFL ready. I thought GWS need size though, and he’s possibly the best of the rest. He knows how to play the game, and leads to the right spots. He marks very well over head as well. He lacks endurance and doesn’t have great speed. If he can get much more fit and put on size, his lack of speed won’t be a major issue, because as I said, he leads to the right areas.

PICK 57 (WESTERN BULLDOGS) – JIMMY WEBSTER

Height: 186cm, Weight: 71kg, DOB: 28/06/1993
Recruited from: Glenorchy

Here’s another Tasmanian! Webster is the kind of player I can see the Dogs going for. He’s an outside midfielder that has great pace and long, penetrating left foot kick. He had a disappointing National Champs, but went home and put in some really solid performances locally.

PICK 58 (FREMANTLE) – BRETT O’HANLON

Height: 189cm, Weight: 82kg, DOB: 17/07/1993
Recruited from: Dandenong Stingrays

O’Hanlon is a medium forward who had a really good season for the Rays. He’s one of the strongest players in the draft in the air, with his vice like hands. He has a very long left foot kick on him and has kicked a few big bags this season. The knock on him is he might be a bit one dimensional as he lacks a bit athletically.

PICK 59 (ESSENDON) – TOM DOWNIE

Height: 205cm, Weight: 95kg, DOB: 27/04/1993
Recruited from: North Ballarat Rebels

The Bombers have expressed interest in adding a fourth ruckman to their list, and Downie looks like a perfect fit. He is 205cm giant who comes from a basketball background. He didn’t play much footy this year, but in the games he played, he was very good. He tested pretty well in the beep test at Draft Camp, but he still has a long way to go football wise. The Bombers can afford to take a project ruckman like Downie.

PICK 60 (ST KILDA) – LEE SPURR

Height: 183cm, Weight: 80kg, DOB: 27/07/1987
Recruited from: Central District

I know for a fact the Saints are keen on Spurr, as well as a few other clubs, and at pick 60 in a draft like this, it’s a bargain. He’s been a late bloomer to footy but his year in the SANFL has been fantastic, especially his Grand Final efforts. He is a really versatile player, capable of playing all positions. Spurr has a fantastic work ethic, has great hands aerially, and is a solid ball user.

PICK 61 (SYDNEY) – MICHAEL BUSSEY

Height: 196cm, Weight: 81kg, DOB: 05/07/1993
Recruited from: Eastern Ranges

The Swans need a project key defender and Bussey’s possibly been a bit of a slider in my draft. I’ve seen many drafts where he’s gone as high as the 20’s but I was really disappointed in his TAC Cup season. I don’t think he’ll make it as a key forward, where he’s played most, so I’ve selected him with the view of him playing as a defender. He has got genuine height, and can read the play well, so I think that’s where he’s best suited.

PICK 62 (CARLTON) – DYLAN BUCKLEY (FATHER-SON)

Height: 179cm, Weight: 70kg, DOB: 16/03/93
Recruited from: Northern Knights

I can’t say I’ve seen a whole lot of Buckley, because he’s been injured so much, but there was lots of optimism heading into the season, and lots of people thought Carlton got themselves a bargain. He is really skilful and quick, but he’s extremely skinny as well. He’s got lots of time in the gym to be had, but the raw talent is there.

PICK 63 (WEST COAST) – ASHTOM HAMS (PROMOTED ROOKIE)

PICK 64 (ADELAIDE) – JOSH WALDHUTER

Height: 184cm, Weight: 83kg, DOB: 15/03/1993
Recruited from: Central District

Adelaide possibly gets the bargain of the draft right here. They get another local boy, who had a pretty disappointing National Champs, but I know the talent is there. Mitchell Grigg and Chad Wingard played brilliantly but Josh just didn’t the midfield minutes. When he gets the opportunity he doesn’t die wondering. His attack on the footy is crazy. If someone gives him a chance to play full time midfield, I think he will flourish.

PICK 65 (COLLINGWOOD) – KYLE HARTIGAN

Height: 194cm, Weight: 93kg, DOB: 1991
Recruited from: Werribee (VFL)

Hartigan was really highly rated in last season’s draft, but his lack of speed meant he didn’t get picked up. He went back and completed a great season for Werribee in the VFL, continually winning one on one contests. He rarely gets beaten as he’s so strong but he can get done on the lead. I think he deserves the chance, and I think the Pies will pick up a key defender somewhere along the lines.

PICK 66 (GEELONG) – JOSH TYNAN

Height: 185cm, Weight: 76kg, DOB: 06/11/1993
Recruited from: Gippsland Power

Tynan is a very solid player and this seems like a ‘Geelong’ pick to me. I like him down back as he’s great one on one and has pretty good speed. He could be a really good replacement for David Wojcinski or Josh Hunt once they’re gone.

PICK 67 (COLLINGWOOD) – JARROD WITTS (SCHOLARSHIP PLAYER)

Height: 209cm, Weight: 115kg, DOB: 13/09/1992
Recruited from: Sydney Uni

This kid’s ridiculous. Collingwood have plucked an ‘A’ grade ruckman out of no where and he’s an absolute monster of a man. Nothing more needs to be said. Bye Jolly, enter Witts.

PICK 68 (ST KILDA) – ANDREW BOSELEY

Height: 194cm, Weight: 80kg, DOB: 04/09/1992
Recruited from: Geelong Falcons

Boseley’s a big slider here, but St Kilda will still be pretty happy to have him at pick 68. Look, he’s OK, but I think he’s very much over rated. He tries to play a rebounding game, when in actual fact he’s not very good at it. He does read the play well, and seems to get a punch in a lot of the time, but he should not be given the ball. I try to close my eyes when he kicks it. There have been very solid defenders who aren’t great disposers of the footy, but they need help from team mates. These days, these players get exposed, that’s why I have him sliding.

PICK 69 (BRISBANE) – MITCH GOLBY (PROMOTED ROOKIE)

PICK 70 (WESTERN BULLDOGS) – MATTHEW PANOS (PROMOTED ROOKIE)

PICK 71 (FREMANTLE) – CALLUM WILSON

Height: 191cm, Weight: 194kg, DOB: 09/06/1988

Recruited from: West Coast Eagles

I think Wilson is worthy of a second chance. The knock on him is the fact he’s a very good WAFL player, but not much else. The signs I’ve seen from him at AFL level from the few games he’s played have been positive. I think Fremantle could do much worse here, and he fills a list need.

PICK 72 (FREMANTLE) – PASS

I suspect they’ll pass here to take Zac Dawson in the pre-season draft.

PICK 73 (WESTERN BULLDOGS) – LUKE DALHAUS (PROMOTED ROOKIE)

PICK 74 (NORTH MELBOURNE) – CAMERON PEDERSEN (PROMOTED ROOKIE)

PICK 75 (ESSENDON) – STEWART CRAMERI (PROMOTED ROOKIE)

PICK 76 (ST KILDA) – JASON BLAKE (RE-LISTED)

PICK 77 (HAWTHORN) – LUKE BRUEST (PROMOTED ROOKIE)

PICK 78 (GEELONG) – ALEX WOODWARD

Height: 179cm, Weight: 79kg, DOB: 11/06/1993
Recruited from: Sandringham Dragons

I was disappointed with his National Champs, so I think he’ll slide a bit. There’s nothing really that makes Woodward stand out of the pack but he does tackle very well, and he loves to win the hard ball. He isn’t athletically gifted, nor does he have brilliant skills.

PICK 79 (GWS) – DANIEL CURRIE

Height: 200cm, Weight: 97kg, DOB: 15/02/1989
Recruited from: Sydney Swans

GWS missed out on a ruckman. They could do much worse than Daniel Currie though, and if it isn’t with the Giants, I think he’ll get another go somewhere else.

PICK 80 (GOLD COAST) – ALIK MAGIN (PROMOTED ROOKIE)

PICK 81 (PORT ADELAIDE) – PASS

PICK 82 (ADELAIDE) – AIDEN RILEY (PROMOTED ROOKIE)

PICK 83 (FREMANTLE) – NICK LOWER (PROMOTED ROOKIE)

PICK 84 (NORTH MELBOURNE) – LUKE DELANEY (PROMOTED ROOKIE)

PICK 85 (SYDNEY) – NATHAN GORDON (PROMOTED ROOKIE)

PICK 86 (GEELONG) – JED BEWS (FATHER-SON)

Height: 186cm, Weight: 78kg, DOB: 14/12/1993
Recruited from: Geelong Falcons

Bews had a really good season with Geelong after missing out on Vic Country honours. He’s a medium defender that has really good skills and moves quite nicely. I think he could be a decent AFL player in the future, and the Cats have done well to only have to use pick 86 on him.

PICK 87 (GWS) – XAVIER RICHARDS

Height: 194cm, Weight: 81kg, DOB: 25/04/1993
Recruited from: Sandringham Dragons

Xavier is Ted Richard’s brother. They’re very much a similar type of player. Xavier moves very well for his size but his got some physical development to do. He could hold down a key post in the future for the Giants. Realistically, I think he’ll be taken in the rookie draft.

PICK 88 (GOLD COAST) – ALEX SEXTON (ZONE SELECTION)

PICK 89 (ADELAIDE) – MATTHEW WRIGHT (PROMOTED ROOKIE)

PICK 90 (GWS) – PASS

PICK 91 (GOLD COAST) – JACKSON ALLEN (ZONE SELECTION)

 

So, with our phantom draft now complete, we thought it best to start a new thread with just the picks (and none of our diatribes and 200+ comments). Feel free to let us know what you think – which players do you like, which clubs picked the best, and what do you think of the boys drafted for your own club?

And of course, a huge thanks to everyone involved in this draft – it was a heap of fun and we really appreciate the time you all gave into writing the detailed summaries, etc.

If you are keen to see the original thread (with all 200+ comments), then here is the link: http://www.footytragic.com/blog/2011-phantom-draft/2011-phantom-draft/

So without further ado, here is the draft as it played out for us:

#1 – GWS: DOM TYSON

Height: 186cm, Weight: 82kg, DOB: 08/06/1993
Recruited from: Oakleigh Chargers

Some might think this pick is a bit of a surprise, but as of right now I think Dom Tyson is the best player in this year’s draft. Dom possesses all the attributes that will make him a 15 year player in the AFL. I liken him to a young Simon Black or Scott Pendlebury. He plays as an inside midfielder, but don’t be fooled as he has an outstanding left foot kick. He doesn’t do anything amazing athletically, but he’s a pure footballer who uses his smarts and skills to work his through awkward situations.

#2 GWS: STEPHEN CONIGLIO

Height: 183cm, Weight: 79kg, DOB: 15/12/1993
Recruited from: Swan Districts Football Club

Coniglio has been dominating WAFL for a couple of years now, and his National Champs confirmed his status as a top two pick. He has pace, a high quality skill level and is a clearance machine. He also loves to kick a goal. He is the definition of a complete midfielder, who along with Scully, Tyson, Ward and Shiel, will prove to be a dominant force as a midfield for Greater Western Sydney.

#3 GWS: JONATHON PATTON

Height: 197cm, Weight: 95kg, DOB: 20/05/1993
Recruited from: Eastern Ranges

GWS now have a centre half forward for the next ten years. Patton plays in the mould of his namesake in Jonathon Brown. He’s a monster of a lad who is an incredible mark and great kick for goal. He has courage, crashes packs and leads well. He will play next year and impress.

#4 GWS: CHAD WINGARD

Height: 181cm, Weight: 73kg, DOB: 29/07/1993
Recruited from: Sturt

The best player out of South Australia and this pick is a ‘no-brainer’. Another left footed midfielder who has elite skills. He can play both inside and outside, is quick and does have a great leap on him. The GWS midfield is starting to look really scary now.

#5 GWS: BILLY LONGER

Height: 202cm, Weight: 95kg, DOB: 12/05/1993
Recruited from: Northern Knights

Very tough pick this one, but we could not take the risk of potentially letting the best ruckman in the draft go to another club. There was another player in mind, who I actually rate higher than Longer, but we hope he’ll be there at pick 7. Having said that, we would’ve taken Longer at pick 7, so hopefully it works out. Longer is clearly the standout ruck in the draft. Stands tall, great leader and likes to push forward and have an impact. Dominates hitouts, but around the ground he needs a little more work. Kicking can be suspect and endurance will have to be worked on. He’ll have time to be developed as we have Giles and Brogan, and hope to snaffle a mature age ruckman later in the draft.

#6 PORT ADELAIDE: WILL HOSKIN-ELLIOT

Height: 182cm, Weight: 73kg, DOB: 02/09/1993
Recruited from: Western Jets

Plenty of impressive highlights filled with run, carry, grabs and goals. Long kicking and exciting. Something to try and help bring fans through the gate as Port builds an excitment machine in the midfield with Gray and Boak in the middle with Hartlett and Hoskin on the wings. Could become a superstar in the Goddard mould however could also become the next Cale Morton. Exeptional draft camp testing however gets him the nod. Welcome to Port Will Two-Dads.

#7 GWS: ELLIOT KAVANAGH

Height: 187cm, Weight: 78kg, DOB: 19/05/1993
Recruited from: Western Jets

Greater Western Sydney are rapt to see Elliot at pick #7. It was between Kavanagh and Longer at pick 5, but we thought it would be more likely that Port Adelaide would snatch the ruckman from us. Elliot has the potential to be the best player in the draft. He missed the National Champs through injury and has missed quite a bit of footy, but we’re more than happy to take the punt here as he has plenty of time to overcome those hiccups. Kavanagh is just such a smooth mover, has elite skills, makes good decisions and can find the pill. He also is a very nice size as well. The Giants could not be happier right now.

#8 BRISBANE: MATTHEW BUNTINE

Height: 188cm, Weight: 83kg, DOB: 19/10/1993
Recruited from: Dandenong Stingrays

Buntine is a great size for playing senior this year. Will add another gem to the future lions midfield gold. See if he can stay injury free. Vossy will probably start him at half-back to grow into the pace of the game. Especially when he will want to give Polec and Bartlett and Banfield midfield time. Great inside/outside player to add to the engine room.

#9 GWS: TAYLOR ADAMS

Height: 181cm, Weight: 80kg, DOB: 20/09/1993
Recruited from: Geelong Falcons

Greater Western Sydney continue to add to their midfield depth, this time welcoming Taylor Adams. Adams is a pure inside midfielder who possesses great speed, awesome awareness in traffic and a good set of hands. Taylor is a great kid who we see as being a leader of our club one day.

#10 GWS: SAM DOCHERTY

Height: 183cm, Weight: 83kg, DOB: 7/10/93 
Recruited from: Gippsland Power

Some may think this is a bit of a stretch, but we feel currently we lack some quality running defenders. Sam possesses one of, if not the best kicks in this draft, and foot skills are something value quite highly. Sam will play immediately out of a back pocket or half back flank and give us outstanding run from defence as well as shutting down an opponent.

#11 GWS: LIAM SUMNER

Height: 182cm, Weight: 70kg, DOB: 16/08/1993
Recruited from: Sandringham Dragons

It was a nervous decision to let Liam slip this late, but we got our man. One of our favourites in this draft and have kept a close eye on him all season. We see Liam playing immediately, probably starting as a half-forward in a role in which he is very good at. Liam will eventually become an outside midfielder, but for now we’ll let him develop. Sumner is someone who we see developing in the Dale Thomas mould, with a very skill level, exciting game style and great tackling game.

#12 BRISBANE: ADAM TOMLINSON

Height: 194cm, Weight: 90kg, DOB: 10/08/1993
Recruited from: Oakleigh Chargers

With the Key defending stakes at an all time low, Brisbane cannot afford to loose Daniel Merrett for an extended stint. Adam would fill the gaping hole in CHB for Brisbane, but also ensure a quality succession for ol’ ROG. Great strength and size. A really tough choice between him and Talia – but his skills give him the edge.

#13 GWS: ALEX FORSTER

Height: 189cm, Weight: 81kg, DOB: 14/07/1993
Recruited from: Norwood

Alex Forster was the only player in consideration for this pick. He is a medium back that can run through the midfield. He performs great stopping roles, but will also prove to be a devastating rebounding player for us in the future. He is a beautiful disposer either side of the boot, which continues on with our focus on foot skills with our draftees. We think Forster and Docherty will be a force to be reckoned with off our half back line for a long time.

#14 GWS: JULIAN DOBOSZ

Height: 193cm, Weight: 85kg, DOB: 17/11/1992
Recruited from: North Hobart

We’ve been fairly safe so far, so it’s time for a bit of a gamble. Dobosz has been a goal kicking machine down in Tasmania and in the U/18 National Champs. He is a genuine full forward with great speed and a great reader of the play. Julian will take a bit of development, but we see a genuine future for he and Patton in our forward line down the track.

#16 FREMANTLE – TOBY GREENE
Height: 180cm Weight: 78kg DOB: 15/09/1993. Recruited from: Oakleigh Chargers

Tough, inside midfielder with a huge tank. Racks up possessions but is not just an accumulator, often winning clearances and displaying the footy smarts to make good decisions by hand and then keep moving without the ball to put himself in better position for the next play, and has shown the ability to run forward and put points on the board.

As mentioned by Mr Guts, Greene does possess “sub ideal disposal” by foot but is an excellent user by hand, and when he does have to kick it he just sticks to the basics and doesn’t try to do too much, so he rarely makes terrible decisions. I think this will make him a good pick for Freo, as he has plenty of good outside ball users to handball to and gives them a bit of depth is Mundy or Barlow are lost for long stretches of time (like last year)

I liken him a lot to players like Priddis, Swallow and Joel Selwood and I think his hard attack at the ball and tough-as-nails approach to the game (does enjoy the odd onfield scrap) is something Freo really needs, as I do think they lack a bit of toughness overall (sorry Freo fans)

He’s also a good perseverance story, basically worked his ass off to get where he is so considering how much Freo fans love Barlow and his backstory i’m sure the Freo faithful will welcome this guy with open arms

#18 NORTH MELBOURNE – BRANDON ELLIS
Height-182cm, Weight-83kg, DOB 3/8/93
Recruited from- Calder Cannons

North are crying out for an elite half back player and it was a toss up between Ellis & McKenzie. The choice was made for me with Western Bulldog’s taking McKenzie at pick 17, so Let’s take a look at what Ellis offers North Melbourne.

Ellis is a tough and skillful medium-sized defender, who had a a standout NAB AFL Under-18 Championships with Vic Metro where he averaged 18.2 disposals at 75.8% effectiveness. This saw him named in the All-Australian Under-18 team.

His NAB AFL Draft Combine results were very good. His standing vertical jump of 70cm put him in the top 11 per cent of those tested, and his running vertical jump (83cm) rocketed him into the top 4 per cent. He ran 3.05 seconds over 20m, 8.14 seconds for the agility test, and scored 15.4 in the shuttle run, placing him in the top 4 per cent.

He’s efficient with his ball use, and courageous when a ball needs to be won. He’s also a playmaker, equally as capable shutting down a dangerous opponent as setting up attack. But best of all he’s strong enough to jump straight into AFL footy.

#19 ESSENDON – SEB ROSS

A bit of a romance selection being the cousin of Jobe, but with that aside Ross is exactly the type of player Essendon need.  Hard working inside/outside midfielder who wins the ball averaging 25 possessions a game for the Rebels in the TAC cup.
Likely to start out off half back as a link up man or as a hard working half forward before transitioning to the  midfield. A great size at 187cm, and a lovely kick of the ball. Will need to work on his Endurance, and will really benefit from being in and AFL environment. Happy with this selection.

#20 FREMANTLE: JACKSON PAINE

Height: 194cm, Weight: 87kg, DOB: 21/06/1993, Recruited from: Sandringham Dragons

I thought he would go a lot earlier than this so I feel compelled to take him. Key forward with good straight line speed for getting out on the lead, decent leaping ability and has also has gotten into the habit of marking the ball at it’s highest point, highly desirable. He also positions himself well in marking contests and is strong overhead

Possesses a superior work rate and has pushed into the midfield for stretches and is a surprisingly good user by foot (sounds a bit like Mr Pavlich no?). He also played well in the U18′s playing second fiddle to Jon Patton so playing a similar role with Pav in the forward line could be a good way to start his development.

#21 SYDNEY: TOM MITCHELL (Father-Son)

Tom is a courageous and smart footy player who has a great left foot kick. He reads the play well and can tackle hard. He will be a great replacement for an ageing Jude Bolton. The Swans will be stoked with him and he will likely even be a future captain.

#22 CARLTON: FRASER McINNES

CHB/CHF WA

This was a tough call, I really wanted an inside midfielder, but two players dropped down to this pick. He is a tall key position player very athletic and showed in the WAFL he has a good football brain. Like Henderson, can play back and forward. I rate him higher than virtually all the talls taken before him and Happy to jump at this player.

#23 WEST COAST: HAYDEN CROZIER

Height: 184cm, Weight: 68kg, DOB: 24/12/1993

#24 GOLD COAST: DEVON SMITH
Height: 175cm, Weight: 73kg, DOB: 20/05/1993 (Geelong Falcons)

Gold Coast were in the need of a more defensive forward and in my opinion Devon Smith is the the best available option. He is a strong tackler, with good defensive pressure. Smith is a Fantastic Midfielder/Forward.

He is not big in stature, at 175cm. However he is very quick and agile with great endurance and has a Strong overhead mark for size.

Can rack up the possessions while kicking plenty of goals. As seen In round two, of the U18 Championships where he kicked six goals amongst his 27 disposals.

He is a ready made Small forward that will fit right into Gold Coasts best 22. Smith is an exciting midfielder/forward which can Burst from the packs which often beats his opponent. In a few years he could be as good as Gary Ablett Jnr.

#25 ST.KILDA: DANIEL MARKWORTH
Height: 189cm, Weight: 78kg, DOB: 03/04/1992
Recruited from: Calder Cannons

My intentions were always to take a tall forward with this pick, but the few I had my eye on for this pick have already been snaffled up. Instead I will get more talls later with some of my three 2nd round picks.

Markworth is another ‘project’ player in this draft, but has shown us the right attributes to make us think he will make it. His pace is sensational, especially off the mark – a trait we are craving at St.Kilda. He also has a decent kick on him with good accuracy and penetration. He has only been in the system for four years, so there is plenty of potential there, and he has continued to get better and better with each season.
Drafting Markworth could really kill two birds with one stone for the Saints – he has the ability to either play on a HFF, or as an inside midfielder – two positions which the Saints are lacking in. Hence, he could be groomed for either pretty easily.
Whilst he has a long way to go before playing seniors, I am going to back in our new youth development program, as well as the fact he has a good head on his shoulders (studying biomedicine after a very high VCE score) and seems determined to succeed. Has all the right attributes to make it as a footballer, and if he continues the same progression over the coming years, could well be one of the best selections in this draft.

#26 RICHMOND: TODD ELTON
Height: 197cm, Weight: 90kg, DOB: 29/04/1993
Recruited from: Dandenong Stingrays

Brad Miller is getting games at Richmond. The emergence of Vickery is great, but few would regard him as principally a long term forward as we have hopes he will end up as almost our first ruck. Ben Griffiths hasn’t done much even when his shoulders allow him to get on the park, although as ever with us Tigers, hope springs eternal. We have to plan for the possibility that inside a year or 2 Jack could again be our only pure tall fwd.

JR8 is obviously fantastic when fit, but he does, has and will struggle to kick us a winning score every week when he attracts the attention of multiple defenders as he did in 2011. I also think Hardwick would like to play him further out from the square.

Which brings us to Todd Elton. An excellent size, though talk of him being a ruckman as well as a key forward is a little fanciful. Fine hands, very good below the waist and enjoys the contest, he should enable Richmond to enter 2012 trade week, draft and free agency focused solely on a premium mid or back ala Goddard.

Hasn’t dominated consistently at his current level, but he has the tools, including a fine kick, and is apparently a quality individual – something I know helped Conca get to Tigerland last year. I pick him in the rational hope, rather than absolute expectation, that he will evolve into a fine, if not sensational, key forward at AFL level, and not just be the next Adam Pattison (whom I loved, but ultimately just wasn’t good enough).

#27 ADELAIDE: SHANE KERSTEN

Height: 191cm, Weight: 91kg, DOB: 15/03/1993
Recruited from: South Fremantle

Shane Kersten is good ol’ fashioned full forward. He is a superb mark with a brilliant set of hands. Has a natural ability to find the goals from anywhere and is well balanced, confident and accurate with the set shot, even from outside 50. Finished the season with 24 goals in his last 5 games. There’s quite a bit of Fevola about the way he plays if you’re looking for an AFL comparison.

However, his height is the obvious concern. While he can dominate at junior level, there’s a risk he’ll struggle at AFL, but (and i say this tongue firmly in cheek), remember Tony Modra?!

Interestingly, Gold Coast threw everything at us for pick 24 as they tried to move up the draft, giving us pick 27, 31 (traded for Josh Jenkins) and 68.

This has cost us Todd Elton today. So hopefully Kersten makes the grade…

#28 – WEST COAST– ZYRUS (WAYLEN) MANSON

Height: 195cm, Weight: 84kg, DOB: 24/04/1993

If picking Crozier was a bit of a punt then picking Manson is like putting a month’s pay on a number at the roulette table; more likely than not you’re going to get nothing, but if you win you’re the richest man in the house.

Manson is quite possibly the most talented player in this draft, he can do absolutely anything and is certainly capable of turning a game off his own boot. He really burst onto the scene when Claremont finally coaxed him down from the Kimberly to play and had 30 touches, 12 goals, and 9 behinds in his only two colts games this year. On the other hand there is a huge go-home factor, (which is why it is almost certain an eastern states club will not take him) even from Perth, as evidenced by the struggle Claremont had to get him down to play. Furthermore, as he has foregone the traditional pathways he has very little experience in a highly disciplined team environment, and his ability to adapt to team structures is largely unknown. The obvious AFL comparison is Liam Jurrah, and Manson has the potential to be even better than that, it all depends on how well he adapts to life at an AFL club.

As far as the West Coast perspective goes, I was much more reluctant to take Manson after taking another risk with Crozier at pick 23. However, as I mentioned earlier, I think the eagles can afford the risk with where their list is at and that logic still holds with Manson (though somewhat more tenuously). Given Josh Kennedy’s relative youth the eagles can afford to have a go with Manson and still have time to draft another young KPF in a couple of years time if he doesn’t work out.

#29 FREMANTLE: SAM FROST
Height: 194cm, Weight: 87kg, DOB: 28/08/1993, Recruited from: Sandringham Dragons

Key position player, able to play forward and back, although I think he’s more suited to playing in defence for at least the beginning of his career. An AIS graduate, formerly played volleyball and basketball and is incredibly quick for a guy his size. Got injured in the TAC cup grand final and couldn’t participate in the Combine so there aren’t any numbers on his speed and jumping ability but any highlights video of this kid will show you that he’s got some dash, and the boy gots hops.

As I said, very athletic and uses that athleticism to beat his man, often backing himself to either outjump his opponent in the air or just run around him at ground level. He is very inconsistent however, and has an ordinary kick on him. I think the consistency can be ironed out once he gets to the afl, and hopefully he can get some consitency in his kicking as well but i’m a little less optimistic about that. Ultimately tho I reckon he’d excel on the larger Subiaco/Pattersons oval and his speed and run and carry out of defence could be a very handy weapon for Freo

#30 BRISBANE: CLAY SMITH

With the tall stocks looking average by now the shock slider so far has to be smith. Played with crouch all year and dominated together. Left footer who is dripping with leadership. Can play inside or out, but looks best when in the middle of a pack. Picked in the all Australian squad, and was touted as a mid 1st round pick. So the lions are delighted to pick him up to join the young brigade.

#31 ESSENDON: SHANE NELSON

We were absolutely stoked to see Shane Nelson still available at our 2^nd selection. Along with Devon Smith, he was strongly considered at pick 19, where we very nearly pulled the trigger before deciding on a bigger bodied player in Sebastian Ross.
Nelson is a super competitive; ball winning midfielder that had a terrific under 18’s carnival averaging 22 disposals representing WA.
An ultra-reliable player that mixes a strong inside game, with hard running link up work to regularly rack up huge possession counts.
Nelson has a real ability to win the clearance. He attack’s contest hard, slips out of tackles and uses quick hands to feed the ball out to a team mate. He has a high hurt factor, always looking to move the ball forward into a dangerous area.

Nelson compliments his clearance work with a huge work ethic and real speed (2.83secs/ 20m) to break the lines. He pushes hard across the ground providing a link up option, and gets forward to kick goals. Is a strong mark for someone his size, and a solid kick on both sides of the body.  A really solid player with no stand out weakness in his game.
Will likely start out playing predominantly as an outside midfielder before moving into the middle with added body size. Capped off a strong year with an impressive showing at the Draft combine where he equalled the record score in the kicking test (29/30), finished 3^rdin the 20m sprint and 10^th in the agility run (8.13secs). We think Nelson is a great addition to our developing midfield group.

#32 GEELONG: MYLES BOLGER
Height: 201cm, Weight: 90kg, DOB: 25/03/1993
Recruited from: South Fremantle Football Club

Wells & co would be absolutely stoked with this result. Not only have the Cats selected best available, but in the process they’ve managed to fill a large hole in the list due to the recent retirement of Brad Ottens. At this point in time, Geelong only have three ruckman on it’s list (West, Simpson & Vardy) and only one listed player taller than 198cm (Dawson Simpson). Add to this the apparent serious hip injury to Nathan Vardy and all of a sudden the ruck stocks aren’t anywhere is as plentiful as 1-2 months ago. So there was never a doubt as to whether a ruckman would be selected, it was more the question “who and where?”. There is actually room for a second ruck on the list, but that will depend whether the right ruck, at the right price, is available later in the draft.

Myles Bolger is a very well rounded ruckman. He has great skills, is a strong mark around the ground and has all the attributes to be able to have an impact resting forward. But his real strength is his tapwork, which I’m happy to describe as elite. He has an amazing knack of hitting the ball into areas that create space for his midfielders. It takes a very smart footballer to be able to read a ruck contest and its surrounds and then finish it off with precision tap work. He pulls it off regularly.

The only issue is that he has missed a bit of footy due to a foot injury. Never a good sign seeing a teenage ruckman with ongoing feet problems, but I’m willing to risk it due to the potential high reward on offer. I rank him in the top 15 of this draft and I’m fairly confident he won’t get to Geelong in the real draft unfortunately.

#33 HAWTHORN: ANDREW BOSELEY
Height: 194cm, Weight: 80kg, DOB: 4.9.92
Recruited from: Geelong Falcons

With the suprising departure of Renouf, a ruckman is a priority for the Hawks but we believe the young talent is thin in the ruck category and we have a couple of options up our sleeve later in the draft for a mature age ruckman.

However, we are realistic and the opportunity to select Andrew Boseley was too good to ignore. Boseley is a key defender and has been likened to Dustin Fletcher with his closing speed and ability to make up ground to get in the prime position to spoil his opponent. He is also in the Ben Reid mould in that he loves taking marks from opposition kicks and thrives in the 1:1 contest. He also has incredible closing speed for a player of his height.

Boseley showed terrific form as a 19yo for the Geelong Falcons in 2011, which saw him earn selection in defence in the TAC Cup Team of the Year. He ranked equal first in rebound 50′s for the Falcons and ranked 4th overall for marks from opposition kicks.

The Hawks were cruelled by injury to their key defenders in Stratton and Gilham in 2011, and by adding Boseley to their list, gives the defence added depth and allows Roughead to stay forward and combine with Franklin to form a formidable forward line with Rioli. Gibson had a standout 2011, but we cannot bank on another season like this one so Boseley will add poise and class to a Hawks defence ready to compete in 2012

#34 GEELONG: SAM KERRIDGE
Height: 188cm, Weight: 84kg, DOB: 26/04/1993
Recruited from: Bendigo Pioneers/Bendigo Bombers

Geelong go the Stephen Wells prototype 6 foot plus athletic midfielder. With the retirement of Ling and Joel Corey not getting any younger, the Mildura teenager will be a welcome addition. He will eventually develop into a big bodied clearance specialist. I could have quite easily gone a KPD here, but with what is left, I’m confident there will be something of similar talent later that I rate. There was one KPD in particular that I almost went with, but hopefully he slips.

Sam Kerridge is one of my favourites. He is a tall, athletic midfielder who has a great mix of endurance and pace. He is also very good overhead and has the flexibility to push forward, take big marks and kick multiple goals. He averaged just under 24 touches a game for the Bendigo Pioneers (who he captained) and was extremely unlucky not to play a game for Vic Country throughout the Championships despite being in the squad. But it was his late season form that really made me take notice. He ended up playing a couple of games late for the Bendigo Bombers and performed so well that he earned a spot in the Elimination Final against the Bullants. On the big stage, he showed composure and proved that he could really stand up against the bigger bodies in a quality standard. It was an eye catching performance.

When I saw his Bendigo final, I was sure it would push him up towards a 1st round selection, but there still hasn’t been much talk. He has now gone on to have a great combine, especially showing off his great motor where he posted 10.02(min.sec) in the 3km trial and a 15.5 beep test. Yet he still seems to be underrated. There is a slight concern about his kicking but from I’ve seen, his technique is fine and I haven’t seen any evidence that he is a consistent Kane Tenace type shanker. Maybe his output is down played due to playing for the lowly Pioneers? Either way, I’m happy to back my judgement here as I believe he will be a ripper.

#35 ST.KILDA: NICK HAYNES

Height: 192cm, Weight: 78kg, DOB: 15.5.92
Recruited from: Dandenong Stingrays

Haynes is a tall, athletic forward, capable of pushing up through the middle. As I have mentioned before, the Saints will certainly be targeting some key forwards in this draft, and whilst Haynes doesn’t project as a tall key forward, his athleticism (he ran a 14.13 in the beep test at this year’s draft combine), height and fantastic marking strength overhead will all be great assets up forward. Think of him as a forward version of Sam Gilbert. Honestly, I simply couldn’t let him slip any further down the order – considered him very closely for my first pick, so stoked to see him land here.

Haynes is a little older than most of the other draftees and took some time off from football after a pretty significant elbow injury. He won the Dandenong Stingray’s B&F this year in a season that saw him poll in 10 of 13 games. He is still developing and certainly wouldn’t be as AFL ready as some other draftees, but he certainly possesses many of the right attributes to make him a very good project player. If our future forward line of Rhys Stanley, Arryn Siposs and Aamed Saad all develop as hoped, the addition of Haynes would certainly make it very exciting, possibly being able to take up CHF in a number of years if he can hit the gym enough and fill out his wirery frame.

#36 MELBOURNE: JOSH WALDHUNTER

Height: 184cms Weight: 83kgs DOB: 15.03.93
Recruited from: Central Districts
Position: Midfielder
Reason: Best Available

With the loss of Scully we really need to bolster our midfield stocks. Josh is the hard at, hard bodied midfielder we need. Hasn’t been the greatest accumulator at junior level but we see him as developing into a power midfielder because of his crazy attack on the ball and acceleration away from the stoppages. Similar to Patrick Dangerfield, Josh should compliment our midfield nicely, especially Jack Trengove with the two Croweaters set to become two of the most mispronounced and mis-spelt names in the competition. Waldhuter should be ready to go next year and a round 1 spot in the side is his to lose after Colin Sylvia’s internal suspension.

#37 ST.KILDA: MICHAEL TALIA

Height: 192cm, Weight: 87kg, DOB: 11.2.93
Recruited from: Calder Cannons

Talia, the brother of Adelaide’s Daniel, is probably the best pure full-back prospect from this year’s draft. His strength is his ability to read the play, always knowing when to spoil and when to attempt to outmark his opponent – something he is certainly not afraid to do. He is also quite good at rebounding the ball from defence, often taking the right options, however can sometimes be let down by his average foot skills – probably one of the bigger flaws in his game. Fortunately though, as a future full-back, foot-skills is not something I put at the top of my priority list.

He still needs to get better at winning his one-on-one battles (he loves to drift away from his opponent, ala Matthew Scarlett), but it has been something he has clearly worked on throughout the year. He will be very good for the Saints – we currently have no other full-back apart for Dawson, and if the talk is true that he wants to move to Fremantle, we may need Talia to step up sooner than he may be ready – this is the extent which we need a developing key defender on our list. Stoked I was still able to get him with this pick.

#38 HAWTHORN: TOM SHERIDAN

Summary to come…

#39 WESTERN BULLDOGS: JORDAN LOCKYER

Height: 191cm, Weight: 85kg, DOB: 15/06/1993
Recruited from: West Perth FC

With an aging backline (Lake, Hargrave and Morris) and with injuries, to the aforementioned three, ravaging the club last season, it was no secret that a KPD was going to be looked at in this draft. And we are absolutely wrapped to be picking up Jordan with pick #39.

Although Lockyer is a little undersized as a KPD, his determination, attack at the football and physical presence more than makes up for any height conceded. Ideally I’d like to see Lockyer develop into a 3rd tall defender for the Doggies, but Jordan also has the versatility to swing forward. This will afford the Bulldogs, in future seasons, the luxury of exploiting match ups or an ability to curtail top heavy sides.

Jordan has decent skill levels for a player of his size and I wouldn’t be shocked to see him playing a handful of games in 2012

#40 NORTH MELBOURNE: BRODY MIHOCEK

191cms, 86kgs.

Mihocek can play at both ends of the ground and is a strong marking player who made the All Australian squad at U18 championships. He’s pacy and a powerful kick of the footy.  Can play tall or small.

In defense he loves the one on one contest and often out marks his opponent or wins the footy when it hits ground level.  He’s also capable of going forward as a second or third tall, where he usually has an impact due to his appetite for the contest and quality disposal.

He’s not tall enough to mix it with the big boys of the AFL as yet so he will start his AFL career as a third tall/utility player before moving into a more key position role down the track.

#41 ADELAIDE: TOM DOWNIE
205cm, 95kg. North Ballarat Rebels.

Crows have delisted or traded their entire ruck contingent over the past 2 years – Griffin, Moran, Maric, Craig. Jacobs fortunately has been a terrific recruit, Jenkins has joined also but he’s not ready. Downie won’t be ready for a while either – this ex u17 Australian basketball representative has only played the 2 TAC games for the Rebels, but he’s absolutely gifted with natural ability, is a giant of a boy and has all the attributes needed to develop into a first class ruckman one day. I’ll select him here, and predict in the real draft he’ll be picked in this round also with several teams here needing rucks.

#42 ST KILDA: JACKSON MERRETT

Height: 187cm, Weight: 70kg, DOB: 27.2.93
Recruited from: Geelong Falcons

Merrett answers another big need for the Saints – outside speed – as well as fitting under the ‘best available’ umbrella for this selection. If we are going to draft any midfielders early in this draft, the main two qualities we will chase is speed and ball use – two of Merrett’s bigger assets (we already have Steven, Armo and Ledger as decent inside mids under 23). He is still very slight at 70kgs, and has improved his inside game through 2011, however is still very much an outside player, capable of making pretty decent decisions whilst going inside-50.

He is one of the key carers for his Mum, who is suffering from MS, which hasn’t allowed him nearly as much time around the footy club as some of his teammates. He is a good kid, and with a proper AFL development system around him we should be able to see a decent amount of improvement from Jackson over his first couple of seasons.

#43 SYDNEY: TOM CURRAN

195cm, 86kg. Oakleigh Chargers

Really rate this kid and he is a super size for a key position player. Certainly has the physical want to hit a contest, strong hands, lovely kick. Also Did Pretty Well at the Combine for a Big Fella So the Swans would Be Excited With the Prospect of Picking him Up at A Cheap Price

#44 CARLTON: ALEX WOODWARD

After taking a tall in the first round, really needed to gain an inside midfielder. Not the tallest player, so that is a little disappointing. Good hands in close and wins the clearance. Was good delivering the ball into the 50m, forces players to lead to where he wants. Captain, so shows leadership qualities and is a typical in and under player.

His kicking is not wonderful when kicking with some heat and his height is not the best. He is also does not have the best ability to create spread from a contest, but that is something you can teach I think, especially from all reports this kid likes to learn.

#45 PORT ADELAIDE: CAMERON ELLIS-YOLMEN

191cm, 88kg.

Following on the hyphen theme that started with Hoskin-Elliot, Ellis-Yolmen is a 191cm 88kg big bodied clearance machine. With Ports midfield lacking in size Ellis-Yolmen will hopefully fill that role and potentially turn into a Josh Kennedy style ram-rod clearance winner to release some resposibility from the likes of Boak and allow them to run free. The fact that he is a SA local lifted him above a few other candidates that we considered for this pick.

#46 ADELAIDE: HENRY SCHADE

Pick 46 – Crows – Henry Schade
196 cm, 80 kg. North Hobart.

After the loss of Phil Davis to GWS, and Bock to GC last year, it will come as no surprise to see the Crows draft a key defender this year, despite Luke Thompson and Talia still developing.

Schade is a lanky defender who has a great left foot, reads the play really well and has good closing speed. Needs to hit the protein powder over summer. Feels strange to be replacing someone on our list who looks like he can play in Will Young, with a speculative pick like this, but Young’s been ruined by injury – plus he may end up on the rookie list. So welcome aboard Hank.

#47 BRISBANE: CALLUM SINCLAIR

A tall forward/mobile ruck potentially fills two future needs at the lions. Brown only has a few years left and if retzlaf or Cornelius don’t take huge leaps in those years, we.are.in.trouble. Gives leuy a long term backup and a centre half forward when we get Tippett next year with free agency.

#48 GEELONG: MURRAY NEWMAN (MIDFIELDER/FORWARD)

Height: 179cm, Weight: 67kg, DOB: 18/11/1993
Recruited from: Swan Districts

I was going to use this selection on a KPD, but Murray Newman being around so late in the draft is very difficult to say no too. The decision was made easier with three of my favourite tall defenders (Mihocek, Curran and Schade) all being taken within the last ten picks. I’m still quite confident there will be KPD’s available that I rate high enough to use either of the last two live selections on.

Geelong have an abundance of midfield/small forwards including Chapman, Stokes, Varcoe, Byrnes, Christensen, Motlop and Schroder, so it obviously isn’t a depleted area of the list. But Murray Newman is a jet who in my opinion will become a line breaking midfielder after starting his career as a small forward and you can’t have too many of that particular type. His disposal is immaculate and he seems to make good decisions a lot of the time. He is the type of guy who only needs to touch the footy 15-20 times to have a major impact on the game. But in saying that, he is capable of racking up big numbers and averaged 20 possessions a game in the Champsionships.

The knock is probably his size, which is unfair considering that at 179cm there are numerous elite contributors running around in the AFL with the same height or lower. He will take a few seasons to develop his light frame but he did play senior footy most of the year for Swan Districts after playing only the one Colts game early and completely tearing it up with 6 goals plus a stack of possessions. So there is a chance he could play AFL senior football earlier than expected.

I expect one of the WA clubs to snatch him up somewhere in the twenties. I would be very excited if he was still around at this point on November 24th.

#49 WESTERN BULLDOGS: BRAD HILL

Height: 180cm, Weight: 60kg, DOB: 09/07/1993
Recruited from: West Perth

Really a project player that will take a while to develop. To be honest, he is probably someone you would pick up as a rookie, but given Brad’s combine results, it is unlikely the Dogs would get a sniff.

Brother to Stephen, and similar to when his brother was drafted, he is all skin and bones with super speed and amazing endurance. Brad has good skills, not in the same league as his brother, but can hold his own. His inside game is improving and as he bulks up he will get more confidence. This pick was swayed basically on his combine results alone, here is a quick summary:

- Fastest 3km time trial: 9:52
- Record breaking beep test: 16.1
- Quickest over 5m
- 5th in 20m sprint
- 10th in 30m repeat sprint test
- 88th percentile for agility test
- 78th percentile for running vertical jump right foot

Although he won’t play senior for 3 years, given the results above, no matter how the game evolves in that time, he has the attributes to adapt. And because of this I’m willing to take a risk in a shallow draft year.

#50 COLLINGWOOD – MICHAEL BUSSEY (KPD/KPF)

Height: 196cm Weight: 81kg DOB: 05/07/1993

Recruited from: Eastern Ranges

Tall and athletic key position player who can play up forward, down back and even play minutes in the ruck if required, although I believe it is in defence where Bussey will be best suited at an AFL level. Likened to Ben Reid when he was first drafted.

Bussey has good pace and agility for a player of his size and covers the ground quite well, allowing him to push into the midfield/ruck at times. He is also quite strong below the knees for a player of his size. Has good ability in reading the play, making him suited to playing as a key position defender. Bussey has a strong mark overhead and on the lead, and perhaps could be used as a utility or the ‘Leigh Brown role’ (sorry Kristian) once developed.

While undersize and weight at the moment to be playing as a key position player immediately at AFL level, a few preseasons and some extra kg’s will boost his size and strength.

The major knocks against Bussey are his attitude and intensity. He can be inconsistent and has been knocked for his ‘lazy’ work ethic, but nonetheless Bussey is a talented player and at his best he is a very impressive. If Nathan Buckley and co. can push Bussey to work hard, then Collingwood can get the very best out of Michael Bussey who has the ability to become a high quality key defender at AFL level.

#51 PORT ADELAIDE: DYLAN ORVAL

192cm 81kg

A bit of a left field selection here taking Dylan Orval the tall forward from Oakleigh Chargers. Having missed the past year with an ACL, Orval has slid off most peoples radars and would be considered a massive risk. He has talent with a lovely long kick, a great leap and contested grab he would be considered a long term replacement for Shultz and could compliment Butcher nicely. His father Mark played 7 games for collingwood before his career was shot down by injury which is a worry however at this late a pick its worth the risk.

#52 MELBOURNE: MARLEY WILLIAMS (MID/FWD)

H: 181cms W: 85kgs DOB: 22/07/1993 Recruited from: Claremont

Was hoping Murray Newman might slip to this selection and was also considering Josh Tynan and Haiden Schloithe. However, am rapt to select Marley Williams who is a thumping kick of the footy and has a bit of the proverbial about him. As previously stated the loss of Scully has diminished our already struggling midfield and with a couple of preseasons under his belt “Bob” could become a more permanent fixture there if he works on his endurance. We see him mainly as a small forward in 2012, with his strong build, decent pace and passion for defensive pressure which will fill a gaping hole left on the list by Wonaeamirri and Maric’s (presence and subsequent) axings. Will be a bit of soul brother for Luke Tapscott and Dees fans should look forward to seeing both filling posts at either end of the ground and making cameo appearances in the centre in 2012.

#53 HAWTHORN: LUKE BRUEST (Rookie Upgrade)

#54 MELBOURNE: JORDAN KELLY (DEFENDER)

H: 191cms W: 81kgs DOB: 27/06/93 Recruited from: Dandenong Stingrays

We were hoping for another tall with this pick but with Bussey and Curran gone and the opportunity to pick up another project key forward as a rookie, we felt Jordan Kelly would be the best fit with an eye to the future. Rivers will probably be gone in the next 2-3 years, ditto Joel Macdonald, Warnock has already departed and James Strauss will take a while to recover from a horrific leg break. Jordan can fill a role as another versatile defender on our list, with good pace and skill he can play shutdown and rebounding roles from the backline. We will be hoping to develop him in a similar mould to Colin Garland.

#55 RICHMOND: BRETT O’HANLON

Height: 189cm; Weight: 82kg Recruited from: Stingrays DOB: 17/7/93

A highly desirable lead-up forward with vice-like hands who hits the pass with aplomb and is not only a fine left-footed goal kicker (when his radar is on – can be 0.5 or 5.0) but an excellent deliverer of the ball inside 50. Even another few cm wouldn’t, hopefully change this focus of O’Hanlon’s game.

Not at all skinny, but a couple of preseasons in the gym (not just for size, but for hardness) and some super-urgency to what looks a talented and gifted player should assist. Needs to kick through it a bit more and not caress, but a lovely action and can see him kicking bags when on. Potentially a very good AFL player, if it clicks.

Wouldn’t surprise to see him go earlier, and Richmond should be thrilled to secure him with probably its last pick of the ND. I am.

#58 FREMANTLE: HAIDEN SCHLOITHE
Height: 179cm, Weight: 72kg, DOB: 16/06/1993
Recruited from: South Fremantle Football Club

Classy small forward type who has a good nose for the uprights. Always seems to be dangerous when he has the ball in his, but also shows good forward pressure and good tackling ability when he doesn’t have it. was given the coaches choice for WAFL Colts players of the year and tallied an equal amount of votes to Brad Hill in the WAFL best and fairest (Colts).

Played mostly in the WAFL Colts and Reserves but did grab some senior games late in the year and wasn’t overwhelmed which tells me that he should be able to cope with the transition to AFL, and after a few years in an AFL level system I’m pretty confident he could, at least, be getting regular games

Was considering another mid for Freo here but I feel like they’ve got quite a few midfielders now (if you count Fyfe) and I’ve talked to quite a few Freo fans who aren’t satisfied with Mayne up forward but concede his forward pressure is necessary, so I figured Schloithe could be part of a long term plan to eventually succeed Mayne at that position.

#59 ESSENDON: STEWART CRAMERI (Rookie Upgrade)

#60 ST.KILDA: DANIEL CURRIE

Height: 200cm, Weight: 97kg, DOB: 15/02/1989
Recruited from: Sydney Swans

Currie will be the first ruckman I take in this draft. Unfortunately, I wasn’t willing to use #25 on a ruckman and I subsequently missed out on my next choice ruck over the next few picks. Therefore I am willing to pay slight overs for Currie. At the end of the day, the Saints need a potential 2nd ruckman NOW. Not in 3/4 years when our newly drafted tall finally develops. Therefore we were keen to go down the mature-aged path and draft Currie.

Currie has been on Sydney’s list for 5 years – a current AFL record for a player never to play a senior game. He missed out on chances early on due to injuries and the fact he was still developing. Then the past couple of years he has struggled to break into the seniors thanks to the form of Mumford, Pyke and to a lesser extent, Seaby. Now after five years of development, he finds himself in the draft. Despite being delisted by the Swans, there is no doubting Currie has some value for the Saints – he is still young but has a good size to play in the ruck or even up forward, providing good insurance for McEvoy, or even ruck as the 2nd big man if Watters so chooses. He is actually a very good tap ruckman and pretty decent around the ground too. He also has the ability to drop forward and kick some goals – a fantastic trait to have for a 2nd ruckman. Still has plenty of development potential, but also the ability to step in now if needed – a perfect choice for the Saints with where their list is at. I will then likely draft a younger project ruckman with an early rookie pick.

#61 SWANS: FLETCHER ROBERTS

Tall player who can play forward or ruck and possesses great skills.
Roberts would suit the Swans well because of his big frame.
Also, had 21 touches and kicked 4 final quarter goals in the TAC CUP Grand Final.
This will probably be a steal for the Swans after GWS showed interest.
Will go Well with the Reid, White, Walsh combo up forward.

#62 CARLTON: DYLAN BUCKLEY (F/S)

#63 WEST COAST: ASHTON HAMS (ROOKIE UPGRADE)

#64 ADELAIDE: GIBSON TURNER

Height: 180cm. Weight: 70kg
DOB: 22/7/93
Recruited from: Glenelg (and represented NT at u18 champs)

Gibson Turner’s a lightfooted forward pocket, who has that “elusiveness” which might see him succeed in the big time. Has good foot skills, is quick, and at times reminds me of Andrew Krakouer. The Crows lack this sort of x factor player up forward so I see him as a good fit, although in a rebuilding side the forward pocket often becomes a maligned position so will need to develop his wider game/defensive skills in the coming years.

In reality, Crows will pass on this pick for the PSD instead. unless there’s a slider they can’t resist. Turner is more likely to be rookie drafted, but I liked him at this stage from the choices left. Dan Currie was considered too but Saints nabbed him first and no other mature rucks interest me. Sam Jacobs will need to rely on Jenkins, a re-rookied Craig, young Tom Downie and the “makeshifts” for support in 2012. Turner can help spark the forwards over coming years.

#65 COLLINGWOOD: TOM SUNDBERG (MID/UTILITY)

Height: 183cm Weight: 84kg DOB: 22/12/1988

Recruited from: Collingwood VFL

Had an outstanding year in the Collingwood VFL side, which was capped off with the Joseph Wren Trophy for the Collingwood VFL best and fairest, despite only managing 13 games due to injury.

Sundberg is versatile player who is played predominantly as a midfielder, but can be swung up forward or down back if need be. Highly effective user of the ball, particualry on his left. Great ability to hit up targets.

Averages for the 2011 VFL season:
- 23.6 disposals
- 11.5 contested possessions
- 6.2 tackles
- 4.4 clearances

A mature age player who already has the size and experience to play at a senior level, and proved this season that he has the skills and class to play at an AFL level.

#66 GEELONG: NATHAN BLEE (DEFENDER)

Height: 192cm, Weight: 91kg, DOB: 07/09/1990
Recruited from: East Perth

The Cats select their third Western Australian for the draft (no, I’m not from WA and have no bias toward it) and get the KPD they require. I think it will be important to recruit a mature aged player as the only ready made back up to Scarlett, Taylor and Lonergan is Tom Gillies. Any injuries and the stocks are far too thin. Ryan Bathie and Josh Walker are promising KPD’s developing on the rookie list, but having to rely on them as alternatives to potential injuries isn’t an ideal situation. Having drafted All Australians Matthew Egan and Harry Taylor, Geelong has a proven and successful recent history of selecting mature aged KPD from the State Leagues, I can’t see Blee being an exception.

Blee has really shot up to prominence this year, so much so that this will be the first time he has ever nominated for the draft. Had he nominated previous years, I’m sure GWS would have pre-selected and traded him over to one of the WA clubs. I’ve only seen him a couple of times on TV via the Foxtel Cup, but he looked more than capable one on one and had good closing speed. There are doubts as to whether he is big enough to play KPD at AFL level, but there were similar doubts about Harry Taylor and Ben Stratton and we have all seen what they have been able to achieve. He has obviously impressed many by being invited to the Draft Combine and named in the WAFL Team of the Year. I consider him a certainty to get drafted, despite quite possibly being this late.

I almost went with Jarrod Dalton from Port Melbourne as the Cats were very interested last year. The issue with Dalton is that he turns 26 in January and Blee has an extra 4 and ¾ years on him. Those extra five seasons got him across the line.

#67 COLLINGWOOD: JOEL HOUGHTON

Height: 194cm Weight: 83kg DOB: 26/11/1991

Recruited from: Fremantle

Drafted pick #36 in the 2009 National Draft to Fremantle as a key position forward. Selected to play for the WA U/18 side in the 2009 national championship where he managed 10 goals from all 5 games. Has outstanding endurance for a player of his size, running 15.1 in the beep test at the WA state screening.

Houghton who turns 20 just after the national draft, didnt manage a game for Freo after two injury riddled years at the club. Has only managed 19 games over the past two years in the WAFL.

As mentioned Houghton has great endurance for a key position player, and has shown in the WAFL that he is a very skillful player who still needs time to develop. Still very undersized for a KPF (only 83kg and built like a rake), partly due to the fact he suffered a broken forearm this January, limiting his ability to ‘hit the gym’ and add some size.

Houghton is a very promising young KPF, who still needs another two or so years to develop and add size to become a strong KPF. He has the ability to play the roaming CHF role with his large tank, allowing him to push up the ground.

I’d be very happy to see Houghton land at Collingwood, and it is beyond me as to why he was delisted by Fremantle when they are in need of key forwards.

#68 ST KILDA: SAM GORDON

Height: 197cm, Weight: 87kg, DOB: 31/03/1993
Recruited from: Geelong Falcons

Gordon is a true full-forward, and just the type of player the Saints should have their sights set firmly on. We have recently delisted a number of key talls, however, with many of them only around 190-192 cm, it will be great to finally add a 195cm plus guy we can sit in the goalsquare all game. We have already recruited Haynes (192cm), who we plan to use up forward, so it will be great to add two forwards with plenty of potential to our list.

Gordon had somewhat of an inconsistent season, however has been playing for Geelong Grammar all year, meaning he simply hasn’t been training nearly as much of some of the other guys in the system. He has a good sized frame and looks capable of filling out quite well for a full-forward (Jon Brown size would be the aim, and the likely outcome). He didn’t get invited to the draft combine, which was a bit surprising, so we don’t really know how he rates as far as speed and agility, etc, however he has good pace of the mark and is pretty good physically in contests. He is also a very good competitor, which is a good sign for a late-ish pick. Pretty decent field kick too, which can easily travel 60 metres. One of his flaws is his set-shot kicking, having a pretty average year in front of the sticks. He also has very little exposed form, and what he did show was inconsistent, which in part could be attributed to the lack of time he spent in a professional AFL environment. That said, there is plenty of upside in this kid, so we are going to back in our newly opened youth academy to turn this boy into a star… or at least give it our best shot!

#69 BRISBANE: MITCH GOLBY (Rookie Upgrade)

#70 W.BULLDOGS: MATTHEW PANOS (Rookie Upgrade)

#71 FREMANTLE: ELLIOT YEO

Height: 188, Weight: 82kg, DOB: 01/10/1993
Recruited from: East Fremantle

Tall outside midfielder who tested incredibly well at the combine, finishing no.1 in vertical leap and agility. Has a good all around skill set and can make some pretty incredible kicks if he has enough time. This was more a value pick than a needs pick, I reckon this kid is a bit better than pick 71

#72 FREMANTLE: BRENDON AHCHEE

Height: 190, Weight: 83kg, DOB: 21/12/1993
Recruited from: South Fremantle
Forward who played a bit of ruck in the WAFL Colts because of his big leap, moves really well and has a great kick and is strong overhead. Won the South Freo (Colts) best and fairest on a team that, at times, included players like Shane Kersten and Myles Bolger so pretty stoked to grab him at 72 (was even considering him at 58). Will probably play at CHF but I would like to see him run the wings a bit for Freo. Really though he can play anwhere so I wouldn’t be that surprised if he ended up at CHB. Is one of the youngest players in the draft so there’s a lot of upside here

#73 W BULLDOGS: LUKE DAHLHAUS (Rookie Upgrade)

#74 NORTH MELBOURNE: LUKE DELANEY (Rookie upgrade)

#75 ST.KILDA: BEN BROWN
Height: 199cm, Weight: 89kg, DOB: 16/03/1993
Recruited from: Glenorchy

Ben Brown rounds out St.Kilda’s draft and we are very happy to snare the big guy this late. Brown is a ruckman, just as capable of playing forward. His big strength is his work below his knees, which is fantastic for a guy of his size. He is also a decent mark, has reasonable foot skills and a very good game sense and leadership ability. Still a bean-pole of a lad, so will need a few years in the gym before he is ready to go. He suffered for OP early in the year, which is a worry, and also a knee injury the year before which prevented him from being drafted in 2010. At his size, and limited form to go on, he is again very much a project player. The hope is that at least one of Gordon or Brown will develop into a decent player for the Saints.

#76 COLLINGWOOD: JARROD WITTS (NSW Scholarship)

#77 GEELONG: JACKSON COLEMAN (FWD/RUC)

Height: 196cm, Weight: 88kg, DOB: 18/12/1991
Recruited from: Sandringham Dragons

With the sub rule seemingly staying around for a while, the tall forward who can relieve in the ruck has now become a very important type. Especially with the loss of Ottens and some potential long term injury concerns with Nathan Vardy’s hip, it surely can’t hurt to have a development forward/ruck on the list.

While Jackson Coleman is a little older than your typical TAC Cup graduate, he has a heap of upside due to only recently deciding to give football a real crack. He is a gun cricketer who has actually represented Australia at U19 level. To have given up such a promising cricket career, he must think or has been told that he has plenty to offer an AFL club. He kicked 37 goals for the Dragons, which is a great result, although he did dine out on a lot of the lower teams (including 13 goals in two games against Bendigo). He is quite athletic and is very strong overhead. His rucking probably still needs quite a bit of work, but there appears to be scope for improvment.

There still appears to be plenty of talent left this late in the draft. I was actually split between players including Jack Crisp, Jack Frost, Jai Sheahan, Jack Newnes and Danny Butcher, who I would all happily draft. Perhaps this draft is a little deeper than everyone is making out?

#78 GWS: CALLUM WILSON

We tried to sure up our key position forward stocks here and decided to give de-listed West Coast player, Callum Wilson a second crack at the big smoke. He’s a full forward that is a bit too good for WAFL, but can’t get a game ahead of Darling, Kennedy and Lynch. We think Callum could play immediately to ease the pressure off Jon Patton.

#79 GOLD COAST: ALEX SEXTON (QLD Zone Selection)

#80 PORT ADELAIDE: LEON DAVIS (In Pre-season Draft)

#81 ADELAIDE: AIDAN RILEY (Rookie Upgrade)

#82 FREMANTLE: NICK LOWER (Rookie Upgrade)

#83 NORTH MELBOURNE: CAMERON PEDERSON (Rookie Upgrade)

#84 SYDNEY: XAVIER RICHARDS

Tall Forward Who is the Brother of Ted Richards If he Is Still around by 84 The Swans will Grab Him, Also a Hard Worker, Has a Decent Tank and In future Years will Develop into a Monster after he Puts a Few more KGS On.

#85 GEELONG: JED BEWS (Father/Son)

#86 GOLD COAST: JACKSON ALLEN (QLD Zone Selection)

#87 ADELAIDE: MATT WRIGHT (Rookie Upgrade)

#88 SYDNEY: NATHAN GORDON (Rookie Upgrade)

 

Whilst it may be a month until the draft, here at Footy Tragic we will be running our own Phantom Draft, beginning tonight.

The participants of this draft are:

Adelaide: DIG

Brisbane: Ben Sowden

Carlton: Lemming

Collingwood: Toooovs

Essendon: James Miller

Fremantle: Jdthursty

Geelong: Budda230

Gold Coast: Maanco

GWS: Kristian Pisano

Hawthorn: Willow

Melbourne: James Clarke

North Melbourne: Neenie21

Port Adelaide: Gravy Train

Richmond: UpTheGuts

St.Kilda: Toby Brocklehurst

Sydney: Gholizadeh_9

West Coast: Browns13

Western Bulldogs: Gghippo

Now, we obviously don’t want this draft to go FOREVER, so please be as quick as you can with each pick. If it starts getting much past the 24hr mark, we may need to make the selection for you.

Please give a brief description of the player you selected and why – as each pick happens, it will be added to the post body so that we can keep track of the picks. Please also begin your comment with ‘PICK 10, etc…;” so that we know it is an official pick.

All other comments are welcomed and encouraged, but please remember that no participants are claiming to be recruiters or know everything about the kids in this draft. Therefore, feel free to provide constructive criticism, but abuse won’t be tolerated.

For a full list of when your club has it’s pick, visit here.

Also, if you have any questions about the draft, or need help picking a player, feel free to seek advice from our writers on twitter:

@KristianPisano

@FootyTragicDan

@TobyBrocky

Thanks everyone, Have fun!

Now to kick things off…

The 2011 Footy Tragic Phantom Draft:

#1 – GWS: DOM TYSON

Height: 186cm, Weight: 82kg, DOB: 08/06/1993
Recruited from: Oakleigh Chargers

Some might think this pick is a bit of a surprise, but as of right now I think Dom Tyson is the best player in this year’s draft. Dom possesses all the attributes that will make him a 15 year player in the AFL. I liken him to a young Simon Black or Scott Pendlebury. He plays as an inside midfielder, but don’t be fooled as he has an outstanding left foot kick. He doesn’t do anything amazing athletically, but he’s a pure footballer who uses his smarts and skills to work his through awkward situations.

#2 GWS: STEPHEN CONIGLIO

Height: 183cm, Weight: 79kg, DOB: 15/12/1993
Recruited from: Swan Districts Football Club

Coniglio has been dominating WAFL for a couple of years now, and his National Champs confirmed his status as a top two pick. He has pace, a high quality skill level and is a clearance machine. He also loves to kick a goal. He is the definition of a complete midfielder, who along with Scully, Tyson, Ward and Shiel, will prove to be a dominant force as a midfield for Greater Western Sydney.

#3 GWS: JONATHON PATTON

Height: 197cm, Weight: 95kg, DOB: 20/05/1993
Recruited from: Eastern Ranges

GWS now have a centre half forward for the next ten years. Patton plays in the mould of his namesake in Jonathon Brown. He’s a monster of a lad who is an incredible mark and great kick for goal. He has courage, crashes packs and leads well. He will play next year and impress.

#4 GWS: CHAD WINGARD

Height: 181cm, Weight: 73kg, DOB: 29/07/1993
Recruited from: Sturt

The best player out of South Australia and this pick is a ‘no-brainer’. Another left footed midfielder who has elite skills. He can play both inside and outside, is quick and does have a great leap on him. The GWS midfield is starting to look really scary now.

#5 GWS: BILLY LONGER

Height: 202cm, Weight: 95kg, DOB: 12/05/1993
Recruited from: Northern Knights

Very tough pick this one, but we could not take the risk of potentially letting the best ruckman in the draft go to another club. There was another player in mind, who I actually rate higher than Longer, but we hope he’ll be there at pick 7. Having said that, we would’ve taken Longer at pick 7, so hopefully it works out. Longer is clearly the standout ruck in the draft. Stands tall, great leader and likes to push forward and have an impact. Dominates hitouts, but around the ground he needs a little more work. Kicking can be suspect and endurance will have to be worked on. He’ll have time to be developed as we have Giles and Brogan, and hope to snaffle a mature age ruckman later in the draft.

#6 PORT ADELAIDE: WILL HOSKIN-ELLIOT

Height: 182cm, Weight: 73kg, DOB: 02/09/1993
Recruited from: Western Jets

Plenty of impressive highlights filled with run, carry, grabs and goals. Long kicking and exciting. Something to try and help bring fans through the gate as Port builds an excitment machine in the midfield with Gray and Boak in the middle with Hartlett and Hoskin on the wings. Could become a superstar in the Goddard mould however could also become the next Cale Morton. Exeptional draft camp testing however gets him the nod. Welcome to Port Will Two-Dads.

#7 GWS: ELLIOT KAVANAGH

Height: 187cm, Weight: 78kg, DOB: 19/05/1993
Recruited from: Western Jets

Greater Western Sydney are rapt to see Elliot at pick #7. It was between Kavanagh and Longer at pick 5, but we thought it would be more likely that Port Adelaide would snatch the ruckman from us. Elliot has the potential to be the best player in the draft. He missed the National Champs through injury and has missed quite a bit of footy, but we’re more than happy to take the punt here as he has plenty of time to overcome those hiccups. Kavanagh is just such a smooth mover, has elite skills, makes good decisions and can find the pill. He also is a very nice size as well. The Giants could not be happier right now.

#8 BRISBANE: MATTHEW BUNTINE

Height: 188cm, Weight: 83kg, DOB: 19/10/1993
Recruited from: Dandenong Stingrays

Buntine is a great size for playing senior this year. Will add another gem to the future lions midfield gold. See if he can stay injury free. Vossy will probably start him at half-back to grow into the pace of the game. Especially when he will want to give Polec and Bartlett and Banfield midfield time. Great inside/outside player to add to the engine room.

#9 GWS: TAYLOR ADAMS

Height: 181cm, Weight: 80kg, DOB: 20/09/1993
Recruited from: Geelong Falcons

Greater Western Sydney continue to add to their midfield depth, this time welcoming Taylor Adams. Adams is a pure inside midfielder who possesses great speed, awesome awareness in traffic and a good set of hands. Taylor is a great kid who we see as being a leader of our club one day.

#10 GWS: SAM DOCHERTY

Height: 183cm, Weight: 83kg, DOB: 7/10/93
Recruited from: Gippsland Power

Some may think this is a bit of a stretch, but we feel currently we lack some quality running defenders. Sam possesses one of, if not the best kicks in this draft, and foot skills are something value quite highly. Sam will play immediately out of a back pocket or half back flank and give us outstanding run from defence as well as shutting down an opponent.

#11 GWS: LIAM SUMNER

Height: 182cm, Weight: 70kg, DOB: 16/08/1993
Recruited from: Sandringham Dragons

It was a nervous decision to let Liam slip this late, but we got our man. One of our favourites in this draft and have kept a close eye on him all season. We see Liam playing immediately, probably starting as a half-forward in a role in which he is very good at. Liam will eventually become an outside midfielder, but for now we’ll let him develop. Sumner is someone who we see developing in the Dale Thomas mould, with a very skill level, exciting game style and great tackling game.

#12 BRISBANE: ADAM TOMLINSON

Height: 194cm, Weight: 90kg, DOB: 10/08/1993
Recruited from: Oakleigh Chargers

With the Key defending stakes at an all time low, Brisbane cannot afford to loose Daniel Merrett for an extended stint. Adam would fill the gaping hole in CHB for Brisbane, but also ensure a quality succession for ol’ ROG. Great strength and size. A really tough choice between him and Talia – but his skills give him the edge.

#13 GWS: ALEX FORSTER

Height: 189cm, Weight: 81kg, DOB: 14/07/1993
Recruited from: Norwood

Alex Forster was the only player in consideration for this pick. He is a medium back that can run through the midfield. He performs great stopping roles, but will also prove to be a devastating rebounding player for us in the future. He is a beautiful disposer either side of the boot, which continues on with our focus on foot skills with our draftees. We think Forster and Docherty will be a force to be reckoned with off our half back line for a long time.

#14 GWS: JULIAN DOBOSZ

Height: 193cm, Weight: 85kg, DOB: 17/11/1992
Recruited from: North Hobart

We’ve been fairly safe so far, so it’s time for a bit of a gamble. Dobosz has been a goal kicking machine down in Tasmania and in the U/18 National Champs. He is a genuine full forward with great speed and a great reader of the play. Julian will take a bit of development, but we see a genuine future for he and Patton in our forward line down the track.

#16 FREMANTLE – TOBY GREENE
Height: 180cm Weight: 78kg DOB: 15/09/1993. Recruited from: Oakleigh Chargers

Tough, inside midfielder with a huge tank. Racks up possessions but is not just an accumulator, often winning clearances and displaying the footy smarts to make good decisions by hand and then keep moving without the ball to put himself in better position for the next play, and has shown the ability to run forward and put points on the board.

As mentioned by Mr Guts, Greene does possess “sub ideal disposal” by foot but is an excellent user by hand, and when he does have to kick it he just sticks to the basics and doesn’t try to do too much, so he rarely makes terrible decisions. I think this will make him a good pick for Freo, as he has plenty of good outside ball users to handball to and gives them a bit of depth is Mundy or Barlow are lost for long stretches of time (like last year)

I liken him a lot to players like Priddis, Swallow and Joel Selwood and I think his hard attack at the ball and tough-as-nails approach to the game (does enjoy the odd onfield scrap) is something Freo really needs, as I do think they lack a bit of toughness overall (sorry Freo fans)

He’s also a good perseverance story, basically worked his ass off to get where he is so considering how much Freo fans love Barlow and his backstory i’m sure the Freo faithful will welcome this guy with open arms

#18 NORTH MELBOURNE – BRANDON ELLIS
Height-182cm, Weight-83kg, DOB 3/8/93
Recruited from- Calder Cannons

North are crying out for an elite half back player and it was a toss up between Ellis & McKenzie. The choice was made for me with Western Bulldog’s taking McKenzie at pick 17, so Let’s take a look at what Ellis offers North Melbourne.

Ellis is a tough and skillful medium-sized defender, who had a a standout NAB AFL Under-18 Championships with Vic Metro where he averaged 18.2 disposals at 75.8% effectiveness. This saw him named in the All-Australian Under-18 team.

His NAB AFL Draft Combine results were very good. His standing vertical jump of 70cm put him in the top 11 per cent of those tested, and his running vertical jump (83cm) rocketed him into the top 4 per cent. He ran 3.05 seconds over 20m, 8.14 seconds for the agility test, and scored 15.4 in the shuttle run, placing him in the top 4 per cent.

He’s efficient with his ball use, and courageous when a ball needs to be won. He’s also a playmaker, equally as capable shutting down a dangerous opponent as setting up attack. But best of all he’s strong enough to jump straight into AFL footy.

#19 ESSENDON – SEB ROSS

A bit of a romance selection being the cousin of Jobe, but with that aside Ross is exactly the type of player Essendon need.  Hard working inside/outside midfielder who wins the ball averaging 25 possessions a game for the Rebels in the TAC cup.
Likely to start out off half back as a link up man or as a hard working half forward before transitioning to the  midfield. A great size at 187cm, and a lovely kick of the ball. Will need to work on his Endurance, and will really benefit from being in and AFL environment. Happy with this selection.

#20 FREMANTLE: JACKSON PAINE

Height: 194cm, Weight: 87kg, DOB: 21/06/1993, Recruited from: Sandringham Dragons

I thought he would go a lot earlier than this so I feel compelled to take him. Key forward with good straight line speed for getting out on the lead, decent leaping ability and has also has gotten into the habit of marking the ball at it’s highest point, highly desirable. He also positions himself well in marking contests and is strong overhead

Possesses a superior work rate and has pushed into the midfield for stretches and is a surprisingly good user by foot (sounds a bit like Mr Pavlich no?). He also played well in the U18′s playing second fiddle to Jon Patton so playing a similar role with Pav in the forward line could be a good way to start his development.

#21 SYDNEY: TOM MITCHELL (Father-Son)

Tom is a courageous and smart footy player who has a great left foot kick. He reads the play well and can tackle hard. He will be a great replacement for an ageing Jude Bolton. The Swans will be stoked with him and he will likely even be a future captain.

#22 CARLTON: FRASER McINNES

CHB/CHF WA

This was a tough call, I really wanted an inside midfielder, but two players dropped down to this pick. He is a tall key position player very athletic and showed in the WAFL he has a good football brain. Like Henderson, can play back and forward. I rate him higher than virtually all the talls taken before him and Happy to jump at this player.

#23 WEST COAST: HAYDEN CROZIER

Height: 184cm, Weight: 68kg, DOB: 24/12/1993

#24 GOLD COAST: DEVON SMITH
Height: 175cm, Weight: 73kg, DOB: 20/05/1993 (Geelong Falcons)

Gold Coast were in the need of a more defensive forward and in my opinion Devon Smith is the the best available option. He is a strong tackler, with good defensive pressure. Smith is a Fantastic Midfielder/Forward.

He is not big in stature, at 175cm. However he is very quick and agile with great endurance and has a Strong overhead mark for size.

Can rack up the possessions while kicking plenty of goals. As seen In round two, of the U18 Championships where he kicked six goals amongst his 27 disposals.

He is a ready made Small forward that will fit right into Gold Coasts best 22. Smith is an exciting midfielder/forward which can Burst from the packs which often beats his opponent. In a few years he could be as good as Gary Ablett Jnr.

#25 ST.KILDA: DANIEL MARKWORTH
Height: 189cm, Weight: 78kg, DOB: 03/04/1992
Recruited from: Calder Cannons

My intentions were always to take a tall forward with this pick, but the few I had my eye on for this pick have already been snaffled up. Instead I will get more talls later with some of my three 2nd round picks.

Markworth is another ‘project’ player in this draft, but has shown us the right attributes to make us think he will make it. His pace is sensational, especially off the mark – a trait we are craving at St.Kilda. He also has a decent kick on him with good accuracy and penetration. He has only been in the system for four years, so there is plenty of potential there, and he has continued to get better and better with each season.
Drafting Markworth could really kill two birds with one stone for the Saints – he has the ability to either play on a HFF, or as an inside midfielder – two positions which the Saints are lacking in. Hence, he could be groomed for either pretty easily.
Whilst he has a long way to go before playing seniors, I am going to back in our new youth development program, as well as the fact he has a good head on his shoulders (studying biomedicine after a very high VCE score) and seems determined to succeed. Has all the right attributes to make it as a footballer, and if he continues the same progression over the coming years, could well be one of the best selections in this draft.

#26 RICHMOND: TODD ELTON
Height: 197cm, Weight: 90kg, DOB: 29/04/1993
Recruited from: Dandenong Stingrays

Brad Miller is getting games at Richmond. The emergence of Vickery is great, but few would regard him as principally a long term forward as we have hopes he will end up as almost our first ruck. Ben Griffiths hasn’t done much even when his shoulders allow him to get on the park, although as ever with us Tigers, hope springs eternal. We have to plan for the possibility that inside a year or 2 Jack could again be our only pure tall fwd.

JR8 is obviously fantastic when fit, but he does, has and will struggle to kick us a winning score every week when he attracts the attention of multiple defenders as he did in 2011. I also think Hardwick would like to play him further out from the square.

Which brings us to Todd Elton. An excellent size, though talk of him being a ruckman as well as a key forward is a little fanciful. Fine hands, very good below the waist and enjoys the contest, he should enable Richmond to enter 2012 trade week, draft and free agency focused solely on a premium mid or back ala Goddard.

Hasn’t dominated consistently at his current level, but he has the tools, including a fine kick, and is apparently a quality individual – something I know helped Conca get to Tigerland last year. I pick him in the rational hope, rather than absolute expectation, that he will evolve into a fine, if not sensational, key forward at AFL level, and not just be the next Adam Pattison (whom I loved, but ultimately just wasn’t good enough).

#27 ADELAIDE: SHANE KERSTEN

Height: 191cm, Weight: 91kg, DOB: 15/03/1993
Recruited from: South Fremantle

Shane Kersten is good ol’ fashioned full forward. He is a superb mark with a brilliant set of hands. Has a natural ability to find the goals from anywhere and is well balanced, confident and accurate with the set shot, even from outside 50. Finished the season with 24 goals in his last 5 games. There’s quite a bit of Fevola about the way he plays if you’re looking for an AFL comparison.

However, his height is the obvious concern. While he can dominate at junior level, there’s a risk he’ll struggle at AFL, but (and i say this tongue firmly in cheek), remember Tony Modra?!

Interestingly, Gold Coast threw everything at us for pick 24 as they tried to move up the draft, giving us pick 27, 31 (traded for Josh Jenkins) and 68.

This has cost us Todd Elton today. So hopefully Kersten makes the grade…

#28 – WEST COAST– ZYRUS (WAYLEN) MANSON

Height: 195cm, Weight: 84kg, DOB: 24/04/1993

If picking Crozier was a bit of a punt then picking Manson is like putting a month’s pay on a number at the roulette table; more likely than not you’re going to get nothing, but if you win you’re the richest man in the house.

Manson is quite possibly the most talented player in this draft, he can do absolutely anything and is certainly capable of turning a game off his own boot. He really burst onto the scene when Claremont finally coaxed him down from the Kimberly to play and had 30 touches, 12 goals, and 9 behinds in his only two colts games this year. On the other hand there is a huge go-home factor, (which is why it is almost certain an eastern states club will not take him) even from Perth, as evidenced by the struggle Claremont had to get him down to play. Furthermore, as he has foregone the traditional pathways he has very little experience in a highly disciplined team environment, and his ability to adapt to team structures is largely unknown. The obvious AFL comparison is Liam Jurrah, and Manson has the potential to be even better than that, it all depends on how well he adapts to life at an AFL club.

As far as the West Coast perspective goes, I was much more reluctant to take Manson after taking another risk with Crozier at pick 23. However, as I mentioned earlier, I think the eagles can afford the risk with where their list is at and that logic still holds with Manson (though somewhat more tenuously). Given Josh Kennedy’s relative youth the eagles can afford to have a go with Manson and still have time to draft another young KPF in a couple of years time if he doesn’t work out.

#29 FREMANTLE: SAM FROST
Height: 194cm, Weight: 87kg, DOB: 28/08/1993, Recruited from: Sandringham Dragons

Key position player, able to play forward and back, although I think he’s more suited to playing in defence for at least the beginning of his career. An AIS graduate, formerly played volleyball and basketball and is incredibly quick for a guy his size. Got injured in the TAC cup grand final and couldn’t participate in the Combine so there aren’t any numbers on his speed and jumping ability but any highlights video of this kid will show you that he’s got some dash, and the boy gots hops.

As I said, very athletic and uses that athleticism to beat his man, often backing himself to either outjump his opponent in the air or just run around him at ground level. He is very inconsistent however, and has an ordinary kick on him. I think the consistency can be ironed out once he gets to the afl, and hopefully he can get some consitency in his kicking as well but i’m a little less optimistic about that. Ultimately tho I reckon he’d excel on the larger Subiaco/Pattersons oval and his speed and run and carry out of defence could be a very handy weapon for Freo

#30 BRISBANE: CLAY SMITH

With the tall stocks looking average by now the shock slider so far has to be smith. Played with crouch all year and dominated together. Left footer who is dripping with leadership. Can play inside or out, but looks best when in the middle of a pack. Picked in the all Australian squad, and was touted as a mid 1st round pick. So the lions are delighted to pick him up to join the young brigade.

#31 ESSENDON: SHANE NELSON

We were absolutely stoked to see Shane Nelson still available at our 2^nd selection. Along with Devon Smith, he was strongly considered at pick 19, where we very nearly pulled the trigger before deciding on a bigger bodied player in Sebastian Ross.
Nelson is a super competitive; ball winning midfielder that had a terrific under 18’s carnival averaging 22 disposals representing WA.
An ultra-reliable player that mixes a strong inside game, with hard running link up work to regularly rack up huge possession counts.
Nelson has a real ability to win the clearance. He attack’s contest hard, slips out of tackles and uses quick hands to feed the ball out to a team mate. He has a high hurt factor, always looking to move the ball forward into a dangerous area.

Nelson compliments his clearance work with a huge work ethic and real speed (2.83secs/ 20m) to break the lines. He pushes hard across the ground providing a link up option, and gets forward to kick goals. Is a strong mark for someone his size, and a solid kick on both sides of the body.  A really solid player with no stand out weakness in his game.
Will likely start out playing predominantly as an outside midfielder before moving into the middle with added body size. Capped off a strong year with an impressive showing at the Draft combine where he equalled the record score in the kicking test (29/30), finished 3^rd in the 20m sprint and 10^th in the agility run (8.13secs). We think Nelson is a great addition to our developing midfield group.

#32 GEELONG: MYLES BOLGER
Height: 201cm, Weight: 90kg, DOB: 25/03/1993
Recruited from: South Fremantle Football Club

Wells & co would be absolutely stoked with this result. Not only have the Cats selected best available, but in the process they’ve managed to fill a large hole in the list due to the recent retirement of Brad Ottens. At this point in time, Geelong only have three ruckman on it’s list (West, Simpson & Vardy) and only one listed player taller than 198cm (Dawson Simpson). Add to this the apparent serious hip injury to Nathan Vardy and all of a sudden the ruck stocks aren’t anywhere is as plentiful as 1-2 months ago. So there was never a doubt as to whether a ruckman would be selected, it was more the question “who and where?”. There is actually room for a second ruck on the list, but that will depend whether the right ruck, at the right price, is available later in the draft.

Myles Bolger is a very well rounded ruckman. He has great skills, is a strong mark around the ground and has all the attributes to be able to have an impact resting forward. But his real strength is his tapwork, which I’m happy to describe as elite. He has an amazing knack of hitting the ball into areas that create space for his midfielders. It takes a very smart footballer to be able to read a ruck contest and its surrounds and then finish it off with precision tap work. He pulls it off regularly.

The only issue is that he has missed a bit of footy due to a foot injury. Never a good sign seeing a teenage ruckman with ongoing feet problems, but I’m willing to risk it due to the potential high reward on offer. I rank him in the top 15 of this draft and I’m fairly confident he won’t get to Geelong in the real draft unfortunately.

#33 HAWTHORN: ANDREW BOSELEY
Height: 194cm, Weight: 80kg, DOB: 4.9.92
Recruited from: Geelong Falcons

With the suprising departure of Renouf, a ruckman is a priority for the Hawks but we believe the young talent is thin in the ruck category and we have a couple of options up our sleeve later in the draft for a mature age ruckman.

However, we are realistic and the opportunity to select Andrew Boseley was too good to ignore. Boseley is a key defender and has been likened to Dustin Fletcher with his closing speed and ability to make up ground to get in the prime position to spoil his opponent. He is also in the Ben Reid mould in that he loves taking marks from opposition kicks and thrives in the 1:1 contest. He also has incredible closing speed for a player of his height.

Boseley showed terrific form as a 19yo for the Geelong Falcons in 2011, which saw him earn selection in defence in the TAC Cup Team of the Year. He ranked equal first in rebound 50′s for the Falcons and ranked 4th overall for marks from opposition kicks.

The Hawks were cruelled by injury to their key defenders in Stratton and Gilham in 2011, and by adding Boseley to their list, gives the defence added depth and allows Roughead to stay forward and combine with Franklin to form a formidable forward line with Rioli. Gibson had a standout 2011, but we cannot bank on another season like this one so Boseley will add poise and class to a Hawks defence ready to compete in 2012

#34 GEELONG: SAM KERRIDGE
Height: 188cm, Weight: 84kg, DOB: 26/04/1993
Recruited from: Bendigo Pioneers/Bendigo Bombers

Geelong go the Stephen Wells prototype 6 foot plus athletic midfielder. With the retirement of Ling and Joel Corey not getting any younger, the Mildura teenager will be a welcome addition. He will eventually develop into a big bodied clearance specialist. I could have quite easily gone a KPD here, but with what is left, I’m confident there will be something of similar talent later that I rate. There was one KPD in particular that I almost went with, but hopefully he slips.

Sam Kerridge is one of my favourites. He is a tall, athletic midfielder who has a great mix of endurance and pace. He is also very good overhead and has the flexibility to push forward, take big marks and kick multiple goals. He averaged just under 24 touches a game for the Bendigo Pioneers (who he captained) and was extremely unlucky not to play a game for Vic Country throughout the Championships despite being in the squad. But it was his late season form that really made me take notice. He ended up playing a couple of games late for the Bendigo Bombers and performed so well that he earned a spot in the Elimination Final against the Bullants. On the big stage, he showed composure and proved that he could really stand up against the bigger bodies in a quality standard. It was an eye catching performance.

When I saw his Bendigo final, I was sure it would push him up towards a 1st round selection, but there still hasn’t been much talk. He has now gone on to have a great combine, especially showing off his great motor where he posted 10.02(min.sec) in the 3km trial and a 15.5 beep test. Yet he still seems to be underrated. There is a slight concern about his kicking but from I’ve seen, his technique is fine and I haven’t seen any evidence that he is a consistent Kane Tenace type shanker. Maybe his output is down played due to playing for the lowly Pioneers? Either way, I’m happy to back my judgement here as I believe he will be a ripper.

#35 ST.KILDA: NICK HAYNES

Height: 192cm, Weight: 78kg, DOB: 15.5.92
Recruited from: Dandenong Stingrays

Haynes is a tall, athletic forward, capable of pushing up through the middle. As I have mentioned before, the Saints will certainly be targeting some key forwards in this draft, and whilst Haynes doesn’t project as a tall key forward, his athleticism (he ran a 14.13 in the beep test at this year’s draft combine), height and fantastic marking strength overhead will all be great assets up forward. Think of him as a forward version of Sam Gilbert. Honestly, I simply couldn’t let him slip any further down the order – considered him very closely for my first pick, so stoked to see him land here.

Haynes is a little older than most of the other draftees and took some time off from football after a pretty significant elbow injury. He won the Dandenong Stingray’s B&F this year in a season that saw him poll in 10 of 13 games. He is still developing and certainly wouldn’t be as AFL ready as some other draftees, but he certainly possesses many of the right attributes to make him a very good project player. If our future forward line of Rhys Stanley, Arryn Siposs and Aamed Saad all develop as hoped, the addition of Haynes would certainly make it very exciting, possibly being able to take up CHF in a number of years if he can hit the gym enough and fill out his wirery frame.

#36 MELBOURNE: JOSH WALDHUNTER

Height: 184cms Weight: 83kgs DOB: 15.03.93
Recruited from: Central Districts
Position: Midfielder
Reason: Best Available

With the loss of Scully we really need to bolster our midfield stocks. Josh is the hard at, hard bodied midfielder we need. Hasn’t been the greatest accumulator at junior level but we see him as developing into a power midfielder because of his crazy attack on the ball and acceleration away from the stoppages. Similar to Patrick Dangerfield, Josh should compliment our midfield nicely, especially Jack Trengove with the two Croweaters set to become two of the most mispronounced and mis-spelt names in the competition. Waldhuter should be ready to go next year and a round 1 spot in the side is his to lose after Colin Sylvia’s internal suspension.

#37 ST.KILDA: MICHAEL TALIA

Height: 192cm, Weight: 87kg, DOB: 11.2.93
Recruited from: Calder Cannons

Talia, the brother of Adelaide’s Daniel, is probably the best pure full-back prospect from this year’s draft. His strength is his ability to read the play, always knowing when to spoil and when to attempt to outmark his opponent – something he is certainly not afraid to do. He is also quite good at rebounding the ball from defence, often taking the right options, however can sometimes be let down by his average foot skills – probably one of the bigger flaws in his game. Fortunately though, as a future full-back, foot-skills is not something I put at the top of my priority list.

He still needs to get better at winning his one-on-one battles (he loves to drift away from his opponent, ala Matthew Scarlett), but it has been something he has clearly worked on throughout the year. He will be very good for the Saints – we currently have no other full-back apart for Dawson, and if the talk is true that he wants to move to Fremantle, we may need Talia to step up sooner than he may be ready – this is the extent which we need a developing key defender on our list. Stoked I was still able to get him with this pick.

#38 HAWTHORN: TOM SHERIDAN

Summary to come…

#39 WESTERN BULLDOGS: JORDAN LOCKYER

Height: 191cm, Weight: 85kg, DOB: 15/06/1993
Recruited from: West Perth FC

With an aging backline (Lake, Hargrave and Morris) and with injuries, to the aforementioned three, ravaging the club last season, it was no secret that a KPD was going to be looked at in this draft. And we are absolutely wrapped to be picking up Jordan with pick #39.

Although Lockyer is a little undersized as a KPD, his determination, attack at the football and physical presence more than makes up for any height conceded. Ideally I’d like to see Lockyer develop into a 3rd tall defender for the Doggies, but Jordan also has the versatility to swing forward. This will afford the Bulldogs, in future seasons, the luxury of exploiting match ups or an ability to curtail top heavy sides.

Jordan has decent skill levels for a player of his size and I wouldn’t be shocked to see him playing a handful of games in 2012

#40 NORTH MELBOURNE: BRODY MIHOCEK

191cms, 86kgs.

Mihocek can play at both ends of the ground and is a strong marking player who made the All Australian squad at U18 championships. He’s pacy and a powerful kick of the footy.  Can play tall or small.

In defense he loves the one on one contest and often out marks his opponent or wins the footy when it hits ground level.  He’s also capable of going forward as a second or third tall, where he usually has an impact due to his appetite for the contest and quality disposal.

He’s not tall enough to mix it with the big boys of the AFL as yet so he will start his AFL career as a third tall/utility player before moving into a more key position role down the track.

#41 ADELAIDE: TOM DOWNIE
205cm, 95kg. North Ballarat Rebels.

Crows have delisted or traded their entire ruck contingent over the past 2 years – Griffin, Moran, Maric, Craig. Jacobs fortunately has been a terrific recruit, Jenkins has joined also but he’s not ready. Downie won’t be ready for a while either – this ex u17 Australian basketball representative has only played the 2 TAC games for the Rebels, but he’s absolutely gifted with natural ability, is a giant of a boy and has all the attributes needed to develop into a first class ruckman one day. I’ll select him here, and predict in the real draft he’ll be picked in this round also with several teams here needing rucks.

#42 ST KILDA: JACKSON MERRETT

Height: 187cm, Weight: 70kg, DOB: 27.2.93
Recruited from: Geelong Falcons

Merrett answers another big need for the Saints – outside speed – as well as fitting under the ‘best available’ umbrella for this selection. If we are going to draft any midfielders early in this draft, the main two qualities we will chase is speed and ball use – two of Merrett’s bigger assets (we already have Steven, Armo and Ledger as decent inside mids under 23). He is still very slight at 70kgs, and has improved his inside game through 2011, however is still very much an outside player, capable of making pretty decent decisions whilst going inside-50.

He is one of the key carers for his Mum, who is suffering from MS, which hasn’t allowed him nearly as much time around the footy club as some of his teammates. He is a good kid, and with a proper AFL development system around him we should be able to see a decent amount of improvement from Jackson over his first couple of seasons.

#43 SYDNEY: TOM CURRAN

195cm, 86kg. Oakleigh Chargers

Really rate this kid and he is a super size for a key position player. Certainly has the physical want to hit a contest, strong hands, lovely kick. Also Did Pretty Well at the Combine for a Big Fella So the Swans would Be Excited With the Prospect of Picking him Up at A Cheap Price

#44 CARLTON: ALEX WOODWARD

After taking a tall in the first round, really needed to gain an inside midfielder. Not the tallest player, so that is a little disappointing. Good hands in close and wins the clearance. Was good delivering the ball into the 50m, forces players to lead to where he wants. Captain, so shows leadership qualities and is a typical in and under player.

His kicking is not wonderful when kicking with some heat and his height is not the best. He is also does not have the best ability to create spread from a contest, but that is something you can teach I think, especially from all reports this kid likes to learn.

#45 PORT ADELAIDE: CAMERON ELLIS-YOLMEN

191cm, 88kg.

Following on the hyphen theme that started with Hoskin-Elliot, Ellis-Yolmen is a 191cm 88kg big bodied clearance machine. With Ports midfield lacking in size Ellis-Yolmen will hopefully fill that role and potentially turn into a Josh Kennedy style ram-rod clearance winner to release some resposibility from the likes of Boak and allow them to run free. The fact that he is a SA local lifted him above a few other candidates that we considered for this pick.

#46 ADELAIDE: HENRY SCHADE

Pick 46 – Crows – Henry Schade
196 cm, 80 kg. North Hobart.

After the loss of Phil Davis to GWS, and Bock to GC last year, it will come as no surprise to see the Crows draft a key defender this year, despite Luke Thompson and Talia still developing.

Schade is a lanky defender who has a great left foot, reads the play really well and has good closing speed. Needs to hit the protein powder over summer. Feels strange to be replacing someone on our list who looks like he can play in Will Young, with a speculative pick like this, but Young’s been ruined by injury – plus he may end up on the rookie list. So welcome aboard Hank.

#47 BRISBANE: CALLUM SINCLAIR

A tall forward/mobile ruck potentially fills two future needs at the lions. Brown only has a few years left and if retzlaf or Cornelius don’t take huge leaps in those years, we.are.in.trouble. Gives leuy a long term backup and a centre half forward when we get Tippett next year with free agency.

#48 GEELONG: MURRAY NEWMAN (MIDFIELDER/FORWARD)

Height: 179cm, Weight: 67kg, DOB: 18/11/1993
Recruited from: Swan Districts

I was going to use this selection on a KPD, but Murray Newman being around so late in the draft is very difficult to say no too. The decision was made easier with three of my favourite tall defenders (Mihocek, Curran and Schade) all being taken within the last ten picks. I’m still quite confident there will be KPD’s available that I rate high enough to use either of the last two live selections on.

Geelong have an abundance of midfield/small forwards including Chapman, Stokes, Varcoe, Byrnes, Christensen, Motlop and Schroder, so it obviously isn’t a depleted area of the list. But Murray Newman is a jet who in my opinion will become a line breaking midfielder after starting his career as a small forward and you can’t have too many of that particular type. His disposal is immaculate and he seems to make good decisions a lot of the time. He is the type of guy who only needs to touch the footy 15-20 times to have a major impact on the game. But in saying that, he is capable of racking up big numbers and averaged 20 possessions a game in the Champsionships.

The knock is probably his size, which is unfair considering that at 179cm there are numerous elite contributors running around in the AFL with the same height or lower. He will take a few seasons to develop his light frame but he did play senior footy most of the year for Swan Districts after playing only the one Colts game early and completely tearing it up with 6 goals plus a stack of possessions. So there is a chance he could play AFL senior football earlier than expected.

I expect one of the WA clubs to snatch him up somewhere in the twenties. I would be very excited if he was still around at this point on November 24th.

#49 WESTERN BULLDOGS: BRAD HILL

Height: 180cm, Weight: 60kg, DOB: 09/07/1993
Recruited from: West Perth

Really a project player that will take a while to develop. To be honest, he is probably someone you would pick up as a rookie, but given Brad’s combine results, it is unlikely the Dogs would get a sniff.

Brother to Stephen, and similar to when his brother was drafted, he is all skin and bones with super speed and amazing endurance. Brad has good skills, not in the same league as his brother, but can hold his own. His inside game is improving and as he bulks up he will get more confidence. This pick was swayed basically on his combine results alone, here is a quick summary:

- Fastest 3km time trial: 9:52
- Record breaking beep test: 16.1
- Quickest over 5m
- 5th in 20m sprint
- 10th in 30m repeat sprint test
- 88th percentile for agility test
- 78th percentile for running vertical jump right foot

Although he won’t play senior for 3 years, given the results above, no matter how the game evolves in that time, he has the attributes to adapt. And because of this I’m willing to take a risk in a shallow draft year.

#50 COLLINGWOOD – MICHAEL BUSSEY (KPD/KPF)

Height: 196cm Weight: 81kg DOB: 05/07/1993

Recruited from: Eastern Ranges

Tall and athletic key position player who can play up forward, down back and even play minutes in the ruck if required, although I believe it is in defence where Bussey will be best suited at an AFL level. Likened to Ben Reid when he was first drafted.

Bussey has good pace and agility for a player of his size and covers the ground quite well, allowing him to push into the midfield/ruck at times. He is also quite strong below the knees for a player of his size. Has good ability in reading the play, making him suited to playing as a key position defender. Bussey has a strong mark overhead and on the lead, and perhaps could be used as a utility or the ‘Leigh Brown role’ (sorry Kristian) once developed.

While undersize and weight at the moment to be playing as a key position player immediately at AFL level, a few preseasons and some extra kg’s will boost his size and strength.

The major knocks against Bussey are his attitude and intensity. He can be inconsistent and has been knocked for his ‘lazy’ work ethic, but nonetheless Bussey is a talented player and at his best he is a very impressive. If Nathan Buckley and co. can push Bussey to work hard, then Collingwood can get the very best out of Michael Bussey who has the ability to become a high quality key defender at AFL level.

#51 PORT ADELAIDE: DYLAN ORVAL

192cm 81kg

A bit of a left field selection here taking Dylan Orval the tall forward from Oakleigh Chargers. Having missed the past year with an ACL, Orval has slid off most peoples radars and would be considered a massive risk. He has talent with a lovely long kick, a great leap and contested grab he would be considered a long term replacement for Shultz and could compliment Butcher nicely. His father Mark played 7 games for collingwood before his career was shot down by injury which is a worry however at this late a pick its worth the risk.

#52 MELBOURNE: MARLEY WILLIAMS (MID/FWD)

H: 181cms W: 85kgs DOB: 22/07/1993 Recruited from: Claremont

Was hoping Murray Newman might slip to this selection and was also considering Josh Tynan and Haiden Schloithe. However, am rapt to select Marley Williams who is a thumping kick of the footy and has a bit of the proverbial about him. As previously stated the loss of Scully has diminished our already struggling midfield and with a couple of preseasons under his belt “Bob” could become a more permanent fixture there if he works on his endurance. We see him mainly as a small forward in 2012, with his strong build, decent pace and passion for defensive pressure which will fill a gaping hole left on the list by Wonaeamirri and Maric’s (presence and subsequent) axings. Will be a bit of soul brother for Luke Tapscott and Dees fans should look forward to seeing both filling posts at either end of the ground and making cameo appearances in the centre in 2012.

#53 HAWTHORN: LUKE BRUEST (Rookie Upgrade)

#54 MELBOURNE: JORDAN KELLY (DEFENDER)

H: 191cms W: 81kgs DOB: 27/06/93 Recruited from: Dandenong Stingrays

We were hoping for another tall with this pick but with Bussey and Curran gone and the opportunity to pick up another project key forward as a rookie, we felt Jordan Kelly would be the best fit with an eye to the future. Rivers will probably be gone in the next 2-3 years, ditto Joel Macdonald, Warnock has already departed and James Strauss will take a while to recover from a horrific leg break. Jordan can fill a role as another versatile defender on our list, with good pace and skill he can play shutdown and rebounding roles from the backline. We will be hoping to develop him in a similar mould to Colin Garland.

#55 RICHMOND: BRETT O’HANLON

Height: 189cm; Weight: 82kg Recruited from: Stingrays DOB: 17/7/93

A highly desirable lead-up forward with vice-like hands who hits the pass with aplomb and is not only a fine left-footed goal kicker (when his radar is on – can be 0.5 or 5.0) but an excellent deliverer of the ball inside 50. Even another few cm wouldn’t, hopefully change this focus of O’Hanlon’s game.

Not at all skinny, but a couple of preseasons in the gym (not just for size, but for hardness) and some super-urgency to what looks a talented and gifted player should assist. Needs to kick through it a bit more and not caress, but a lovely action and can see him kicking bags when on. Potentially a very good AFL player, if it clicks.

Wouldn’t surprise to see him go earlier, and Richmond should be thrilled to secure him with probably its last pick of the ND. I am.

#58 FREMANTLE: HAIDEN SCHLOITHE
Height: 179cm, Weight: 72kg, DOB: 16/06/1993
Recruited from: South Fremantle Football Club

Classy small forward type who has a good nose for the uprights. Always seems to be dangerous when he has the ball in his, but also shows good forward pressure and good tackling ability when he doesn’t have it. was given the coaches choice for WAFL Colts players of the year and tallied an equal amount of votes to Brad Hill in the WAFL best and fairest (Colts).

Played mostly in the WAFL Colts and Reserves but did grab some senior games late in the year and wasn’t overwhelmed which tells me that he should be able to cope with the transition to AFL, and after a few years in an AFL level system I’m pretty confident he could, at least, be getting regular games

Was considering another mid for Freo here but I feel like they’ve got quite a few midfielders now (if you count Fyfe) and I’ve talked to quite a few Freo fans who aren’t satisfied with Mayne up forward but concede his forward pressure is necessary, so I figured Schloithe could be part of a long term plan to eventually succeed Mayne at that position.

#59 ESSENDON: STEWART CRAMERI (Rookie Upgrade)

#60 ST.KILDA: DANIEL CURRIE

Height: 200cm, Weight: 97kg, DOB: 15/02/1989
Recruited from: Sydney Swans

Currie will be the first ruckman I take in this draft. Unfortunately, I wasn’t willing to use #25 on a ruckman and I subsequently missed out on my next choice ruck over the next few picks. Therefore I am willing to pay slight overs for Currie. At the end of the day, the Saints need a potential 2nd ruckman NOW. Not in 3/4 years when our newly drafted tall finally develops. Therefore we were keen to go down the mature-aged path and draft Currie.

Currie has been on Sydney’s list for 5 years – a current AFL record for a player never to play a senior game. He missed out on chances early on due to injuries and the fact he was still developing. Then the past couple of years he has struggled to break into the seniors thanks to the form of Mumford, Pyke and to a lesser extent, Seaby. Now after five years of development, he finds himself in the draft. Despite being delisted by the Swans, there is no doubting Currie has some value for the Saints – he is still young but has a good size to play in the ruck or even up forward, providing good insurance for McEvoy, or even ruck as the 2nd big man if Watters so chooses. He is actually a very good tap ruckman and pretty decent around the ground too. He also has the ability to drop forward and kick some goals – a fantastic trait to have for a 2nd ruckman. Still has plenty of development potential, but also the ability to step in now if needed – a perfect choice for the Saints with where their list is at. I will then likely draft a younger project ruckman with an early rookie pick.

#61 SWANS: FLETCHER ROBERTS

Tall player who can play forward or ruck and possesses great skills.
Roberts would suit the Swans well because of his big frame.
Also, had 21 touches and kicked 4 final quarter goals in the TAC CUP Grand Final.
This will probably be a steal for the Swans after GWS showed interest.
Will go Well with the Reid, White, Walsh combo up forward.

#62 CARLTON: DYLAN BUCKLEY (F/S)

#63 WEST COAST: ASHTON HAMS (ROOKIE UPGRADE)

#64 ADELAIDE: GIBSON TURNER

Height: 180cm. Weight: 70kg
DOB: 22/7/93
Recruited from: Glenelg (and represented NT at u18 champs)

Gibson Turner’s a lightfooted forward pocket, who has that “elusiveness” which might see him succeed in the big time. Has good foot skills, is quick, and at times reminds me of Andrew Krakouer. The Crows lack this sort of x factor player up forward so I see him as a good fit, although in a rebuilding side the forward pocket often becomes a maligned position so will need to develop his wider game/defensive skills in the coming years.

In reality, Crows will pass on this pick for the PSD instead. unless there’s a slider they can’t resist. Turner is more likely to be rookie drafted, but I liked him at this stage from the choices left. Dan Currie was considered too but Saints nabbed him first and no other mature rucks interest me. Sam Jacobs will need to rely on Jenkins, a re-rookied Craig, young Tom Downie and the “makeshifts” for support in 2012. Turner can help spark the forwards over coming years.

#65 COLLINGWOOD: TOM SUNDBERG (MID/UTILITY)

Height: 183cm Weight: 84kg DOB: 22/12/1988

Recruited from: Collingwood VFL

Had an outstanding year in the Collingwood VFL side, which was capped off with the Joseph Wren Trophy for the Collingwood VFL best and fairest, despite only managing 13 games due to injury.

Sundberg is versatile player who is played predominantly as a midfielder, but can be swung up forward or down back if need be. Highly effective user of the ball, particualry on his left. Great ability to hit up targets.

Averages for the 2011 VFL season:
- 23.6 disposals
- 11.5 contested possessions
- 6.2 tackles
- 4.4 clearances

A mature age player who already has the size and experience to play at a senior level, and proved this season that he has the skills and class to play at an AFL level.

#66 GEELONG: NATHAN BLEE (DEFENDER)

Height: 192cm, Weight: 91kg, DOB: 07/09/1990
Recruited from: East Perth

The Cats select their third Western Australian for the draft (no, I’m not from WA and have no bias toward it) and get the KPD they require. I think it will be important to recruit a mature aged player as the only ready made back up to Scarlett, Taylor and Lonergan is Tom Gillies. Any injuries and the stocks are far too thin. Ryan Bathie and Josh Walker are promising KPD’s developing on the rookie list, but having to rely on them as alternatives to potential injuries isn’t an ideal situation. Having drafted All Australians Matthew Egan and Harry Taylor, Geelong has a proven and successful recent history of selecting mature aged KPD from the State Leagues, I can’t see Blee being an exception.

Blee has really shot up to prominence this year, so much so that this will be the first time he has ever nominated for the draft. Had he nominated previous years, I’m sure GWS would have pre-selected and traded him over to one of the WA clubs. I’ve only seen him a couple of times on TV via the Foxtel Cup, but he looked more than capable one on one and had good closing speed. There are doubts as to whether he is big enough to play KPD at AFL level, but there were similar doubts about Harry Taylor and Ben Stratton and we have all seen what they have been able to achieve. He has obviously impressed many by being invited to the Draft Combine and named in the WAFL Team of the Year. I consider him a certainty to get drafted, despite quite possibly being this late.

I almost went with Jarrod Dalton from Port Melbourne as the Cats were very interested last year. The issue with Dalton is that he turns 26 in January and Blee has an extra 4 and ¾ years on him. Those extra five seasons got him across the line.

#67 COLLINGWOOD: JOEL HOUGHTON

Height: 194cm Weight: 83kg DOB: 26/11/1991

Recruited from: Fremantle

Drafted pick #36 in the 2009 National Draft to Fremantle as a key position forward. Selected to play for the WA U/18 side in the 2009 national championship where he managed 10 goals from all 5 games. Has outstanding endurance for a player of his size, running 15.1 in the beep test at the WA state screening.

Houghton who turns 20 just after the national draft, didnt manage a game for Freo after two injury riddled years at the club. Has only managed 19 games over the past two years in the WAFL.

As mentioned Houghton has great endurance for a key position player, and has shown in the WAFL that he is a very skillful player who still needs time to develop. Still very undersized for a KPF (only 83kg and built like a rake), partly due to the fact he suffered a broken forearm this January, limiting his ability to ‘hit the gym’ and add some size.

Houghton is a very promising young KPF, who still needs another two or so years to develop and add size to become a strong KPF. He has the ability to play the roaming CHF role with his large tank, allowing him to push up the ground.

I’d be very happy to see Houghton land at Collingwood, and it is beyond me as to why he was delisted by Fremantle when they are in need of key forwards.

#68 ST KILDA: SAM GORDON

Height: 197cm, Weight: 87kg, DOB: 31/03/1993
Recruited from: Geelong Falcons

Gordon is a true full-forward, and just the type of player the Saints should have their sights set firmly on. We have recently delisted a number of key talls, however, with many of them only around 190-192 cm, it will be great to finally add a 195cm plus guy we can sit in the goalsquare all game. We have already recruited Haynes (192cm), who we plan to use up forward, so it will be great to add two forwards with plenty of potential to our list.

Gordon had somewhat of an inconsistent season, however has been playing for Geelong Grammar all year, meaning he simply hasn’t been training nearly as much of some of the other guys in the system. He has a good sized frame and looks capable of filling out quite well for a full-forward (Jon Brown size would be the aim, and the likely outcome). He didn’t get invited to the draft combine, which was a bit surprising, so we don’t really know how he rates as far as speed and agility, etc, however he has good pace of the mark and is pretty good physically in contests. He is also a very good competitor, which is a good sign for a late-ish pick. Pretty decent field kick too, which can easily travel 60 metres. One of his flaws is his set-shot kicking, having a pretty average year in front of the sticks. He also has very little exposed form, and what he did show was inconsistent, which in part could be attributed to the lack of time he spent in a professional AFL environment. That said, there is plenty of upside in this kid, so we are going to back in our newly opened youth academy to turn this boy into a star… or at least give it our best shot!

#69 BRISBANE: MITCH GOLBY (Rookie Upgrade)

#70 W.BULLDOGS: MATTHEW PANOS (Rookie Upgrade)

#71 FREMANTLE: ELLIOT YEO

Height: 188, Weight: 82kg, DOB: 01/10/1993
Recruited from: East Fremantle

Tall outside midfielder who tested incredibly well at the combine, finishing no.1 in vertical leap and agility. Has a good all around skill set and can make some pretty incredible kicks if he has enough time. This was more a value pick than a needs pick, I reckon this kid is a bit better than pick 71

#72 FREMANTLE: BRENDON AHCHEE

Height: 190, Weight: 83kg, DOB: 21/12/1993
Recruited from: South Fremantle
Forward who played a bit of ruck in the WAFL Colts because of his big leap, moves really well and has a great kick and is strong overhead. Won the South Freo (Colts) best and fairest on a team that, at times, included players like Shane Kersten and Myles Bolger so pretty stoked to grab him at 72 (was even considering him at 58). Will probably play at CHF but I would like to see him run the wings a bit for Freo. Really though he can play anwhere so I wouldn’t be that surprised if he ended up at CHB. Is one of the youngest players in the draft so there’s a lot of upside here

#73 W BULLDOGS: LUKE DAHLHAUS (Rookie Upgrade)

#74 NORTH MELBOURNE: LUKE DELANEY (Rookie upgrade)

#75 ST.KILDA: BEN BROWN
Height: 199cm, Weight: 89kg, DOB: 16/03/1993
Recruited from: Glenorchy

Ben Brown rounds out St.Kilda’s draft and we are very happy to snare the big guy this late. Brown is a ruckman, just as capable of playing forward. His big strength is his work below his knees, which is fantastic for a guy of his size. He is also a decent mark, has reasonable foot skills and a very good game sense and leadership ability. Still a bean-pole of a lad, so will need a few years in the gym before he is ready to go. He suffered for OP early in the year, which is a worry, and also a knee injury the year before which prevented him from being drafted in 2010. At his size, and limited form to go on, he is again very much a project player. The hope is that at least one of Gordon or Brown will develop into a decent player for the Saints.

#76 COLLINGWOOD: JARROD WITTS (NSW Scholarship)

#77 GEELONG: JACKSON COLEMAN (FWD/RUC)

Height: 196cm, Weight: 88kg, DOB: 18/12/1991
Recruited from: Sandringham Dragons

With the sub rule seemingly staying around for a while, the tall forward who can relieve in the ruck has now become a very important type. Especially with the loss of Ottens and some potential long term injury concerns with Nathan Vardy’s hip, it surely can’t hurt to have a development forward/ruck on the list.

While Jackson Coleman is a little older than your typical TAC Cup graduate, he has a heap of upside due to only recently deciding to give football a real crack. He is a gun cricketer who has actually represented Australia at U19 level. To have given up such a promising cricket career, he must think or has been told that he has plenty to offer an AFL club. He kicked 37 goals for the Dragons, which is a great result, although he did dine out on a lot of the lower teams (including 13 goals in two games against Bendigo). He is quite athletic and is very strong overhead. His rucking probably still needs quite a bit of work, but there appears to be scope for improvment.

There still appears to be plenty of talent left this late in the draft. I was actually split between players including Jack Crisp, Jack Frost, Jai Sheahan, Jack Newnes and Danny Butcher, who I would all happily draft. Perhaps this draft is a little deeper than everyone is making out?

#78 GWS: CALLUM WILSON

Summary to come…..

#79 GOLD COAST: ALEX SEXTON (QLD Zone Selection)

#80 PORT ADELAIDE: LEON DAVIS (In Pre-season Draft)

#81 ADELAIDE: AIDAN RILEY (Rookie Upgrade)

#82 FREMANTLE: NICK LOWER (Rookie Upgrade)

#83 NORTH MELBOURNE: CAMERON PEDERSON (Rookie Upgrade)

#84 SYDNEY: XAVIER RICHARDS

Tall Forward Who is the Brother of Ted Richards If he Is Still around by 84 The Swans will Grab Him, Also a Hard Worker, Has a Decent Tank and In future Years will Develop into a Monster after he Puts a Few more KGS On.

#85 GEELONG: JED BEWS (Father/Son)

#86 GOLD COAST: JACKSON ALLEN (QLD Zone Selection)

#87 ADELAIDE: MATT WRIGHT (Rookie Upgrade)

#88 SYDNEY: NATHAN GORDON (Rookie Upgrade)