World Footy News

Each year the AFL holds draft camps around Australia, with talented young footballers tested to aid AFL clubs in making their draft choices. A tall young Englishman is creating some interest, setting a new sprint record.

Brad Moran moved with his family from England to Southport, Queensland, a couple of years ago. Despite a background in soccer, rowing and Rugby, he took up Aussie Rules and immediately showed an aptitude for it. Soon he was playing for Queensland in the second division of the under 18s national tournament, formerly known as the Teal Cup. Moran was also named best on ground in the recent AFL Queensland reserves Grand Final, for Southport. He was invited to the AFL draft camp for some specialist training and testing. Impressively, he has broken the draft camp record for the 20m sprint, coming in at 2.78 seconds (0.01 better than the previous best). What is startling about this is that at 200cm tall (around 6 foot 7 inches), speed would not have been expected to be his greatest attribute. It is understood that the British national selectors are well aware of Moran's potential and will be keen to use him in the 2005 International Cup, although if he is drafted to the professional AFL he may be unavailable.

Further information can be found at the AFL Queensland website and an earlier story here.