World Footy News

The 2010 NAB AFL Draft will be held next Thursday, November 18 on the Gold Coast at the Gold Coast Convention and Exhibition Centre.

This year marks only the second time in the 25 year history of the draft where the event has been moved outside of Victoria.

In the lead up to the draft, AFL National Talent Manger, Kevin Sheehan has released his list of 30 leading prospects. Detailed profiles of Kevin Sheehan’s Top 30 are below.
Kevin Sheehan said that overall there will be 112 opportunities for players to make AFL lists this year, giving a significant number of players the chance to make a primary list.

“The selections will include 80 live picks but we can expect some clubs to pass late, leaving a spot for the NAB AFL Preseason Draft,” Mr Sheehan said.

“Also to be confirmed at the 2010 NAB AFL Draft will be 32 upgraded rookies, scholarship holders and/or father/sons.

“That’s a sizeable group already who will have their spots on a primary list confirmed for the first time when the draft takes place on the Gold Coast next week,” Mr Sheehan said.

Fans can follow the draft and their club’s latest recruits live on Fox Sports 2 from 7pm EDT.

All the action will be broadcast on radio networks 3AW from 6pm EDT, SEN from 7pm EDT, FIVEaa from 4pm CDT, NIRS from 7pm EDT Crocmedia from 6pm EDT and on ABC Radio and Triple M who will be crossing live from the draft.

http://afl.com.au will also be providing extensive online coverage of the 2010 NAB AFL Draft, featuring a Draft Tracker with live radio coverage, live online chats with journalists, a Phantom Draft, extensive video, images and bio information for every draftee, as well as reaction to the draft from all 17 clubs.

http://afl.com.au journalists will be covering the draft extensively on Twitter using the #AFLDraft hashtag.

Kevin Sheehan's Top 30 (courtesty AFL):

Shaun Atley
Position: Medium Midfielder
Height: 189cm
Weight: 82kg
DOB: 13/9/92
Club: Murray Bushrangers / Wodonga Bulldogs
An AIS-AFL graduate with an exceptional football IQ and an agile build, Atley is touted as a top 10 pick in this year’s draft.
As a flashy facilitator with a penchant for breaking the lines he has drawn the inevitable, and welcome, comparisons with St Kilda star Lenny Hayes. His exceptional endurance is a key feature of his game. Playing as an outside running half-back with the Murray Bushrangers, and a contest relishing inside midfielder and co-captain with Vic Country, Atley has shown tremendous versatility and leadership.
He was an All-Australian team member in the 2010 NAB AFL Under-18 Championships, where he averaged 19 disposals and six tackles. In the TAC Cup he averaged 22 disposals.
Highlighting his athletic abilities, Atley twice finished runner-up in state hurdles. His standing vertical jump, recorded at 64 centimetres, was among the best at the NAB AFL Draft Combine.
He likes to “run and carry”.
What type of player are you? An inside and outside midfielder who likes to run and carry the ball.
What are your strengths as a footballer?
The ability to get out of the traffic with the ball, clean hands, run and carry.
What parts of your game would you like to improve?
Becoming a more effective kick.
Which AFL team do you support and how did you come to barrack for them?
St. Kilda. My old babysitter convinced me they were a good team.

Harley Bennell
Position: Medium Forward / Midfielder
Height: 185cm
Weight: 74kg
DOB: 02/10/92
Club: Peel Thunder / Pinjarra JFC
As the winner of this year’s Larke Medal, awarded to the player judged the best in the NAB AFL Under-18 Championships, Bennell kicked 13 goals in five matches and amassed an average of 20 disposals.
Possessing an acute awareness of his surroundings, and a mercurial ability to invent the impossible, Bennell comes with the wealth of flair commonly associated with indigenous players. As a zippy ball-winner, who darts in and out of contests, Bennell is one of the most rousing talents in the draft.
The West Australian was selected as a forward in the All-Australian team, though he notably also played a lot of his state level football as a wingman and half-back.
It is hard to imagine him sitting down for long on draft night, as he will likely be snapped up early and earmarked as a staple of the future for whatever football club is lucky enough to land him.
What type of player are you?
A running wingman, or half back, but I can also kick goals.
Which AFL player do you feel you resemble and why?
Daniel Wells. The way he gets the ball and breaks the lines, he does it so well.
What are your strengths as a footballer?
My speed and good goal sense and the ability to run both ways.
What parts of your game would you like to improve?
The defensive side of my game.

Josh Caddy
Position: Medium Midfielder
Height: 186cm
Weight: 82kg
DOB: 28/09/92
Club: Northern Knights / Eltham
Josh Caddy is a hard-nosed aggressive forward/midfielder who takes strong contested marks and frees the ball proficiently from the clinches. He was an All-Australian team member in the 2010 NAB AFL Under-18 Championships, where he averaged 24 possessions (11 contested ) and seven clearances. Bullish at the bounces, he is most comfortable in congestion.
In the clean hands test at the NAB AFL Draft Combine, Caddy finished predictably on top. And with his superb fitness, evident in registering a beep test ranking among the top 10, as well as posting a couple of solid sprint times over 20 metres, Caddy displayed an extremely impressive motor at the NAB AFL Draft Combine.
While he mostly features square in the centre of the ground, Caddy can also pinch-hit as a forward and kicked three goals in three games during the NAB AFL Under-18 Championships for Vic Metro.
What type of player are you?
A fairly tough inside midfielder with the ability to go forward, take a contested mark and kick a goal.
Which AFL player do you feel you resemble and why?
Although he’s only new to the system, I believe I resemble Dustin Martin as he is a strong clearance player with the ability to go forward and kick goals.
What are your strengths as a footballer?
I think my ability to win the footy at stoppages is a real strength, and also my work ethic and marking.
What parts of your game would you like to improve?
I would like to improve the outside features of my game. If I could improve my position to receive more ball it would complement my inside work. Also, I need to improve my decision making when being tackled and release the ball quicker.

Reece Conca
Position: Medium Midfielder / Defender
Height: 185cm
Weight: 79kg
DOB: 12/08/92
Club: Perth / Trinity College / Victoria Park JFC
Commanding and versatile, Conca has exceptional smarts and great delivery with the football. He is the kind of on-field general who looks for others to look to him - coming across as a precociously mature professional.
Suiting up for WA in the NAB AFL Under-18 Championships, he averaged 18 disposals per game at an efficiency rating of 79 per cent. He has played back, midfield and forward. A versatility propelled by the fact he is happy to play wherever his team needs him.
In making the transition from Colts to senior footy during the year, Conca’s cool head and intangibles adapted seamlessly, and he notched up a couple of stock boosting best on grounds. He has solid skills and applies them with aplomb.
Conca also played for WA as a 15 year-old and represented his state at every level. While splitting his football between Trinity College, club and representative sides, he has played some outstanding football through the past couple of years.
What type of player are you?
A confident player who works hard on and off the football field. A real team-oriented and leadership figure who enjoys all aspects of football and strives for success.
Which AFL player do you feel you resemble and why?
Ryan Griffen - because of his ability to run and carry along with the fact he can play multiple positions effectively. He’s an honest and fair player who seems a real leader at his club.
What parts of your game would you like to improve?
My goal kicking, tackling, and physicality around contests.

Lucas Cook
Position: Tall Forward
Height: 196cm
Weight: 81kg
DOB: 03/03/92
Club: North Ballarat Rebels / Hopetoun
For a prospect of his size, the AIS-AFL Academy graduate displays outstanding movement as a strong overhead marking key post. Predominantly playing centre half-forward, the position he was awarded All-Australian selection at, Cook aids a free flowing style with an intelligent play-on nature and hard running ability. In the NAB AFL Under-18 Championships, he averaged 14 disposals and kicked nine goals.
He is also comfortable once the ball hits the ground, providing a highly valued second effort. He is mobile enough to go back if required, especially considering his ability to read the game. He has an exceptional leap and a clamp-like pair of hands.
With the added bulk an AFL preseason will bring, Cook’s physical tools present enormous upside.
What type of player are you?
A mobile tall forward with the versatility to go back or play on a wing.
Which AFL player do you feel you resemble and why?
Brent Staker. Someone who is versatile but can play up forward or back depending on the team's needs and structure.
What are your strengths as a footballer?
I can read the play well and can play a variety of positions. Also marking and kicking at goals.
What parts of your game would you like to improve?
I need to improve my strength so that I can have more influence in a marking contest.

Jamie Cripps
Position: Medium Defender
Height: 183cm
Weight: 75kg
DOB: 23/04/92
Club: East Fremantle / Nagle Catholic College/Northhampton
A dashing half-back flanker, Cripps is not shy to break a tackle and hit a long option with his ranging right foot. The West Australian is a tough free-running type who is capable of kicking a goal, and plays the classic attacking defender role that has been a cornerstone for so many great teams. He works well in space, and rarely makes a wrong decision.
At the NAB AFL Draft Combine, Cripps posted a top-five result in the three kilometre time trial. And while he is noted for his work with the ball, he is an untiring and sweeping stopper capable of nullifying decent forwards.
Though the West Australian’s year was hampered early by injury, he averaged 14 disposals in the NAB AFL Under-18 Championships at a 69 per cent efficiency rating.
What type of player are you?
I am a half-back player, I use my speed to get the ball out of the backline. I also can play as a midfielder or in the forward line.
Which AFL player do you feel you resemble and why?
Heath Shaw. He is a running half-back who also can play anywhere on the field.
What are your strengths as a footballer?
My ability to run and carry the ball, my kicking, defending, marking, and taking the game on.
Which AFL team do you support and how did you come to barrack for them?
North Melbourne, I just loved the team and my favourite player was Glenn Archer.

Jack Darling
Position: Tall Forward
Height: 191cm
Weight: 87kg
DOB: 16/06/92
Club: West Perth / Sacred Heart College/Sorrento Duncraig
Darling enters this draft as one of the premier tall-forward options. The West Australian is a proven goal kicker and also provides tenacious forward pressure – particularly for a prospect of his size. He is an excellent mark with long-kicking skills.
Bursting onto the scene with an eye-catching NAB AFL Under-18 Championships last season as a 17 year-old, netting him Champion Data’s top ranking along with All-Australian selection at centre half-forward, Darling’s 2010 was marred with nagging groin soreness. This year, he managed five goals – 10 less than last carnival’s 15 goal output. His assists must also gain a mention, as Darling is superb in feeding smaller forwards scoring opportunities. He averaged 16 disposals, including seven contested at an efficiency rating of 63 per cent.
Due to his previous carnival form, Darling shapes as one of the more intriguing selections in this year’s crop. And as a relatively mature bodied player, he is a chance to feature early in his rookie season.
What type of player are you?
A hard, courageous and competitive player who brings other players into the game.
Which AFL player do you feel you resemble and why?
People say Jonathan Brown with his strength, courage and leadership. Lance Franklin as well because of his agility, speed and athleticism.
What are your strengths as a footballer?
Marking, ferocity at the ball, defensive pressure, strength, speed, endurance, agility and mental strength.

Sam Day
Position: Tall Forward
Height: 196cm
Weight: 96kg
DOB: 06/09/92
Club: Sturt / Prince Alfred College
Coming with the multisport pedigree so en vogue in modern football, Day has chosen Australian football over basketball and baseball. With the guessing game finally over between his chosen disciplines, his destination is now considerably more clear-cut; a certain early choice in this year’s draft. Like many younger key position prospects, his body will need beefing up before bumping with larger AFL types. And once he does, he can be sure to fill out plenty of highlight packages.
During the carnival, he averaged 11 possessions; four marks; and one goal per game. His standout talent was most clearly observed against Tasmania, where he racked up 15 disposals to go along with eight marks and two goals. With an eye-catching aerial ability, leaping up and over packs, the South Australian will be a high-flying figure at AFL level.
What type of player are you?
I'm a tall forward, contested marking player who can take a mark on the lead.
Which AFL player do you feel you resemble and why?
Nick Riewoldt. I love to take a pack mark.
What are your strengths as a footballer?
Clean hands at ground and in the air and my vertical leap.
What parts of your game would you like to improve?
My tackling and game awareness reading the play.

Andrew Gaff
Position: Medium Midfielder
Height: 182.4cm
Weight: 75kg
DOB: 16/06/92
Club: Oakleigh Chargers / Carey
A prolific midfielder who won All-Australian selection, Gaff was a serial ball-winner throughout the NAB AFL Under-18 Championships, averaging 27 possessions per game at a 77 per cent efficiency rating. He has that rare magnetic touch which the ball somehow seems to find, only helped by the fact he covers such immense ground.
He is a left-footer with terrific game sense. He is a creative handballer and can clear quickly while running into space.
During the NAB AFL Draft Combine, he posted the best performance in the three kilometre time trial – an elite level of endurance which allows him to skip from one contest to the next. At the end of gruelling Combine, his mental toughness was also brought to the fore. This unerring focus is also evident on the football field.
What type of player are you?
Hard-running, accurate disposal, goal scoring, accountable in defence with leadership qualities.
Which AFL player do you feel you resemble and why?
Nick Dal Santo. He has a high work rate, is a team player and left-footer with good skills.
What are your strengths as a footballer?
Endurance, I'm a good decision-maker, have accurate disposal, am a good reader of the game and am team-oriented.

Josh Green
Position: Small Midfielder
Height: 177cm Weight: 76kg DOB: 24/08/92 Club: Clarence
Green is a speedy attacking midfielder who can gather the ball both on the inside and out. Twice a member of a state premiership winning side in Tasmania, he was named the state’s most valuable player in the recent NAB AFL Under-18 Championships. Averaging 25 possessions a game throughout that competition, he has proven himself a prolific ball-winner. Green was particularly impressive against Queensland, where he racked up 36 disposals in a best on ground performance.
Measuring amongst the quickest in the NAB AFL Draft Combine’s agility run, Green can travel well from one contest to the next. When going forward, most often getting there with tremendous pace off the wings, he has real knack for kicking a goal or two.
What type of player are you? Inside and outside midfielder who can go forward and kick goals. Which AFL player do you feel you resemble and why? Marc Murphy - we are the same size, and he has a good mixture of inside and outside play, kicks goals and has good speed. What are your strengths as a footballer? Speed, evasive, football smarts, leadership. What parts of your game would you like to improve? Decision-making, fitness, running the lines.

Daniel Gorringe
Position: Ruckman
Height: 200cm
Weight: 88kg
DOB: 02/06/92
Club: Norwood / Tea Tree Gully
As a ruckman with great conviction, Gorringe averaged 21 hit-outs a game during the NAB AFL Under-18 Championships. He has proven masterful at the art of ruckwork and gives his midfield unit first use of the ball. He uses terrific spring and finds smart angles in the air. Gorringe can also push forward and be dangerous around goal.
As graduate of AFL-AIS Academy, he possesses terrific movement for someone of his size. He is agile enough to continue to be effective when the ball hits the ground. He has the ability to make the right decision under pressure, and has been described as a thinking ruckman.
At senior level with Norwood, he had a number of excellent games in what was undoubtedly his most promising year. At just 88 kilograms, with his size in mind, he can be expected to fill out significantly through an AFL preseason.
What type of player are you?
I'm a skilful, athletic, hard-working ruckman with a rover's mentality.
Which AFL player do you feel you resemble and why?
I resemble Patrick Ryder and Nic Naitanui due to my ability to execute skills successfully, quickness, finish around goals, and take a contested pack mark.
What are your strengths as a footballer?
Skills, speed, ground work for my size, athletic, versatility, composure, can finish around goals, creative, ability to run and carry, awareness, leadership.

Mitch Hallahan
Position: Medium Midfielder
Height: 184cm Weight: 81kg DOB: 23/08/92 Club: Dandenong Stingrays / Sorrento
Hallahan is renowned from his work in congestion, as the former boxer needs the mere space of a phone booth to work effectively. A hard-nut inside midfielder, who’s not afraid to get his hands dirty, Hallahan represented Vic Country and averaged 20 disposals at a 66 per cent efficiency rate. He got better with every match and can expect to continue to improve after turning his focus solely to the sport.
After being selected in the All-Australian team, the likely draftee has validated his defection from the fight-game with some superb showings of late. As the captain of the Dandenong Stingrays and a member of Vic Country’s leadership group, Hallahan leads with exemplary tenaciousness.
He is the type of player who can be thrust into the engine room and trusted to get his share of the ball. An extremely honest type, and likely a coveted selection come the draft.
What type of player are you? Tough, a leader, reliable, disciplined and a team player. Which AFL player do you feel you resemble and why? Joel Selwood - tough, courageous, good hands and kick, works hard and exceptional leadership skills. What are your strengths as a footballer? Ability to win my own ball, safe hands in close, my tackling, goalkicking and marking. What parts of your game would you like to improve? My speed, endurance, kicking and ability.

Kieran Harper
Position: Medium Forward
Height: 187cm
Weight: 80kg
DOB: 15/06/92
Club: Eastern Ranges / Yarra Valley GS
After hip surgery, followed by an operation to remove his appendix, Harper’s season took a little while to find form and catch fire. But in a scintillating performance against Western Australia, which saw him kick four goals and include a particularly Didak-esque effort from the boundary, he confirmed his status as a highly draftable player.
Harper is a medium sized forward, though could also potentially play through the midfield. He has good speed and a nice leap. His finishing, as displayed consistently in that match with Western Australia, is also a strongpoint.
With his fitness in order, he was top of the running vertical jump test in the NAB AFL Draft Combine. He also finished in the top five of the standing vertical jump, as well as the repeat sprints category.
What type of player are you?
I'm a versatile player with good skills, an outside mid-forward that is reliable with the ball.
Which AFL player do you feel you resemble and why?
Robert Murphy - a lead-up forward with classy skills and finishes off his work, and good overhead.
What are your strengths as a footballer?
Athleticism, my pace and vertical leap. I'm also skilful.
Who has been the biggest influence on your career so far, and why?
My dad and brother because the support and advice they have given me has really helped me though my footy.

Dyson Heppell
Position: Medium Defender / Midfielder
Height: 189cm
Weight: 80kg
DOB: 14/05/92
Club: Gippsland Power / Berwick
The envelope pushing prototype of what an AFL footballer is rapidly becoming; quick handed, freakishly athletic runner, who racks up possession counts that look like batting scores. He won the Morrish Medal in the TAC Cup, awarded to the competition’s best and fairest. He played some outstanding finals football for Gippsland Power and was momentous in that team progressing to the TAC Cup Grand Final. In that preliminary final against the Oakleigh Chargers, he had 40 disposals, nine clearances, eight marks, and 11 inside-50s.
Winning All-Australian honours in the NAB AFL Under-18 Championships, Heppell averaged 20 disposals, at a 70 per cent efficiency rate, along with four tackles. At the Draft Combine, he finished atop in the handball awareness test. The former basketballer was also among the upper echelon in the beep test, running vertical jump and standing vertical jump.
While he is most commonly seen charging out of defence, his ability to acquire the ball and make the right decision with it may entice scouts to think of him as a midfielder. As a tall runner, he is bordering on being key position height. He shows an excellent example of his wingspan in his highlight package – where he is seen smothering an opponent’s ball; running to gather it; before executing a pinpoint pass to a teammate in space.
What type of player are you?
I'm a skilful, attacking defender.
Which AFL player do you feel you resemble and why?
Josh Drummond, because he is a very skilful, creative defender with a long, accurate left-foot kick.
What are your strengths as a footballer?
Kicking ability, overhead marking, and clean hands at ground level.
What parts of your game would you like to improve?
Explosiveness, ability to break away from stoppages, body strength.

George Horlin-Smith
Position: Medium Midfielder
Height: 186cm Weight: 78kg DOB: 22/12/92
Club: Sturt / Payneham Norwood Union
Prior to this year, the South Australian’s cricket commitments had overshadowed his football career. Or, rather, totally consumed it, as he was an Australian captain at junior level. But once Horlin-Smith brushed his Baggy Green aspirations to the leg-side, he produced a terrific season playing football for Sturt. He proved himself to be a strong overhead mark and an extremely skilful and creative type around goal. He has nice touch and can be quite flashy with the ball in hand.
However having only just altered his focus from becoming a middle-batsmen to an AFL midfielder, Horlin-Smith was not selected in the South Australian side for the NAB AFL Under-18 Championships. This, however, will have the more elite teams licking their lips at the hope of snaring him in the second round.
Due to such a small sample-size his value is hard to assess for even the most seasoned scouts, Horlin-Smith could be the bargain pick of this year’s draft.
What type of player are you? A utility that can play at either end of the ground, but predominantly through the midfield. Which AFL player do you feel you resemble and why? I really like Luke Hodge’s ability to play as a forward, through the midfield and as a defender. My goal would be to emulate his game, and his leadership qualities. What are your strengths as a footballer? Through experience of playing on the ball I have come to realise I must be quick with my hands, feet, and above all, mind. What parts of your game would you like to improve? I would like to improve my acceleration and strength but also continue to develop my non preferred side.
Who has been the biggest influence on your career so far, and why? My junior school coach Mike Howard always taught me to run and get to the next contest. Above all however, my parents have been a great support for me at home.

Ben Jacobs
Position: Medium Defender
Height: 186cm Weight: 82kg DOB: 09/01/92 Club: Sandringham Dragons / Brighton GS
Representing Vic Metro at the NAB AFL Under-18 Championships, Jacobs presented himself as a talented half-back flanker with a powerful looping left foot. Like many in his mould who have carved out successful AFL careers, Jacobs has a healthy habit of finding long options with his passing - effectively turning his side’s defence into offense quite quickly.
He gets to where the ball is and averaged an outstanding 29 disposals, at a 68 efficiency rating, throughout the Championships. In the kicking assessment at the Draft Combine, he registered at top five placing.
On receiving a handball around the 50 metre arc, he can find the goals or target a teammate who’s freed up. And whilst he is generally a defender, he has been known to player midfield and forward roles, and conceivably could do so at AFL level.
What type of player are you? I'm a powerful player able to play both ends of the ground and through the midfield, one who is physical and can take a mark, and kicking is a feature of my game. Which AFL player do you feel you resemble and why? Luke Hodge. He can play anywhere and his physicality and leadership is a standout. His kicking is also a strength, and I believe I can mould into a similar player one day. What are your strengths as a footballer? Kicking, marking, reading the play, finding the football, stoppages. Who has been the biggest influence on your career so far, and why? My dad. He always has my best interests at heart and always does all he can to allow me to be successful. He will tell me how it really is, which makes me respect his opinion strongly.

Jed Lamb
Position: Medium Forward
Height: 181cm Weight: 79kg DOB: 19/10/92 Club: Gippsland Power / Yarram
A conniving medium-forward with a deadly accurate kick, Jed Lamb possesses the innate ability to kick goals from all angles and punish opponents for half-chances. He is full of confidence and matches his hunger for the audacious goal with a pair of bright yellow boots. He is as capable of snapping on the run, as he is letting go from beyond 50 metres.
Lamb can also roam up the ground, and gather a vital assist possession. During the NAB AFL Under-18 Championships, he had 15 inside-50s with 11 scoring shots. He was also fourth at Vic Country with 41 contested possessions.
During the Draft Combine, his kick was measured the most precise in the kicking assessment. In scoring 29 out of 30, he set a record while leaving a three point gulf between himself and next closest competitor.
What type of player are you? Exciting, fast and skilful, and can play as a medium or tall forward. I'm good around goals and can create a lot of pressure in the forward line, and I'm good on both sides of my body. Which AFL player do you feel you resemble, and why? Mark LeCras. I can play as a medium forward or a marking forward. I’m a good kick for goal and I’m quick off the mark. What are your strengths as a footballer? I have good skills and think I’m a good leader on and off the field. Who has been the biggest influence on your career so far, and why? My mum. She raised eight kids on her own, and she's always been there for me.

Scott Lycett
Position: Ruckman
Height: 202cm Weight: 98kg DOB: 26/09/92 Club: Port Adelaide Magpies / Thevenard Magpies
Lycett has a large and forceful frame and he doesn’t waste any of it. As a big marking ruckman, he moves with intent and makes his impact felt. He governs the stoppages and offers his midfielders every chance for a clearance. He moves well and pushes forward to provide a big-bodied option for the attack.
Lycett is a team orientated player, and performed strongly in the NAB AFL Under-18 Championship for South Australia – averaging 17 hitouts and 10 disposals a game.
As a potential draftee, his hard-work and competitiveness must impress AFL scouts.
What type of player are you? Tall, agile and competitive. Which AFL player do you feel you resemble, and why? Matthew Kreuzer. He knows where to go around the ground and also go forward and be dangerous. What are your strengths as a footballer? Competitiveness, will do anything for the benefit of the team, have a willingness to get better as a person and player, and I want to learn. What parts of your game would you like to improve? Goalkicking, my hands in the ruck to palm the ball down to the midfielders, and getting more marks around the ground. Which AFL team do you support and how did you come to barrack for them? Brisbane Lions. When I was younger, I used to go for them because they used to win all the time, but now because I admire all of the players. A big influence was my favourite player, Jonathan Brown.

Tom Lynch
Position: Tall Forward
Height: 199cm Weight: 91kg DOB: 31/10/92 Club: Dandenong Stingrays / Sorrento
Having played Australian football a mere couple of years, Lynch has come a long way in a short amount of time. Shaping up as a tall forward option, while also displaying a decent motor, he looms as a potential Matthew Richardson type. He is athletic, a keen runner with a terrific work-rate, and kicks well off both feet.
Playing for Vic Country in the NAB AFL Under-18 Championships, he averaged 14 disposals and four marks. His arm span and hand span measured amongst the top dozen at the Draft Combine.
Lynch looks an intriguing acquisition for an AFL club. Still being relatively new to the game, and factoring in his immediate improvement in that small timeframe, he must be seen as a player with tremendous upside. He is a late bloomer physically, and will continue to grow into his frame.
What type of player are you? A lead-up tall forward. Which AFL player do you feel you resemble, and why? Scott Gumbleton, because he has a high work rate and hits up to the ball carrier. What are your strengths as a footballer? Marking. What parts of your game would you like to improve? Kicking and defensive pressure.

Luke Parker
Position: Medium Midfielder
Height: 183cm Weight: 81kg DOB: 15/10/92 Club: Dandenong Stingrays / Langwarrin
Parker comes complete with all the attributes that equate to a solid AFL career. He is a nice vertical mark, extremely reliable disposal, and a terrific football IQ. He provides run and handball, tackles with intent and is a hard-worker on the field.
Regularly man-marked by opposition with the Dandenong Stingrays, he adapted the ability to play multiple positions while being most commonly thought of as a midfielder. He finds room and has the ability to play both the inside and outside. He is effective around stoppages, and has a team-first mentality.
Playing for Vic Country in the NAB AFL Under-18 Championships, he averaged 18 disposals and three clearances a game.
What type of player are you? Very competitive player who likes winning the contested ball. Can go forward and kick goals or set up scoring opportunities. Very team-oriented. Which AFL player do you feel you resemble, and why? Jimmy Bartel. He has a fierce attack on the ball, is team-oriented and has a strong overhead mark. What are your strengths as a footballer? Ability to win contested football under pressure, strong overhead mark, vision within tight situations, good endurance, and I feel I'm a good leader on the field. What parts of your game would you like to improve? I wish to improve in all aspects of the game, even in areas I believe I'm strong at.

Jayden Pitt
Position: Medium Midfielder / Forward
Height: 188cm Weight: 70kg DOB: 07/10/92 Club: Geelong / St Albans
Noted with great reactive speed and excellent intuition of the game, a lot seems to come naturally to this versatile midfielder. Pitt possesses a deeply penetrating kick, which he can execute off either boot. He can take a nice mark, and has fantastic vision up the field. He very rarely makes a bad decision.
After playing only one game for the Geelong Falcons last year, he improved into a revelation and became the sole Falcon to snare Under-18 All-Australian honours – where he was selected as a forward.
Playing in the Vic Country side, he averaged 18 disposals while kicking eight goals.
What type of player are you? I am a team player with the ability to play in the midfield, down forward, or in defence. I pride myself on my kicking skills on both side of my body and the ability to read the play. Which AFL player do you feel you resemble, and why? I feel the player that I most resemble is Andrew Mackie from the Geelong Football Club. He has a good attacking and defensive skills and uses the ball well by foot. What are your strengths as a footballer? My ability to play in different positions, use the ball with both feet and reading the play are my strengths. What parts of your game would you like to improve? The physical part of football is something I would like to improve, only having a light frame.
Who has been the biggest influence on your career so far, and why? My parents have been the biggest influence on me so far in my football career. My dad taught me how to kick with both feet ever since I could walk. Also coaches throughout my junior football have been a big influence.

Jared Polec
Position: Medium Midfielder
Height: 189cm Weight: 80kg DOB: 12/10/92 Recruited from: Woodville-West Torrens Seaton Ramblers
Polec is a daring running midfielder, capable of kicking a goal, with decent size and a lethal left foot. Due to this, two-thirds of his possessions see him opt for his boot – which, with his accuracy, is something no coach will be caught complaining about.
Polec works hard in defence and consistently does the right thing by his team. He is generally an outside midfielder and is keen to scooter away from a pack.
He started the year in the reserves, though brimming with confidence his form warranted a senior football birth before winning Under-18 All-Australian selection. He played the five games for South Australia in the NAB AFL Under-18 Championships, where he averaged 20 disposals and a goal.
What type of player are you? I am a long left-footed wingman who is efficient going inside 50 and kicking at goals. My work rate around the ground is good and my defensiveness is one in a million. Which AFL player do you feel you resemble, and why? The way I play is more a Stephen Hill-type player with the run and carry and an explosive left foot. What are your strengths as a footballer? My strengths are my run and carry, my work rate and competitiveness around the ground. My cleanness is great and my kicking is very efficient.

Dion Prestia
Position: Small Midfielder
Height: 175cm Weight: 82kg DOB: 12/10/92 Club: Calder Cannons / Assumption College (Greenvale)
As a compact workhorse, Prestia is an inside midfielder who feeds on the contested ball and disposes with tremendous skill. While not overly towering in stature, he has meticulously crafted his body for the task at hand; establishing a muscular lower body that really wowed at the NAB AFL Draft Combine. He finished in the top two in the agility run and top five in repeat sprints.
Powerful and strong, Prestia has the ability to shrug a tackle or simply opt to evade it all together. He has tailored his game to a low centre of gravity, practically turning it to his advantage.
He averaged 28 disposals in the TAC Cup for the Calder Cannons and in the grand final win over Gippsland, he excelled with 36 disposals, eight marks, seven hardball-gets and a goal.
When representing Vic Metro, he averaged 13 disposals, six handballs receives and four marks per match - all despite only being granted 90 minutes game time. After two games, a calf injury would halt his NAB AFL Under-18 Championships.
What type of player are you? Honest, committed, loyal and encouraging team player. Can play inside or outside and can play different positions around the ground. Which AFL player do you feel you resemble, and why? David Rodan, has a good kick and uses his speed and agility well to break out of packs and takes on the game. What are your strengths as a footballer? Can play inside/outside, very athletic in all areas, good vision and decision making. What parts of your game would you like to improve? Kick more goals and finish off good work. Have more rebound 50s, pushing harder into defence.

Billie Smedts
Position: Medium Defender Height: 189cm Weight: 76kg DOB: 08/06/92 Club: Geelong Falcons / North Warrnambool
With his combined agility and size, Smedts can become an unwanted spanner in the works of even the most well oiled attack. The medium-defender has a tendency to play-on, and mixes his stern defence with fluid offence. In the vein of St Kilda’s Sam Gilbert, Smedts is a utility who can take a strong mark and play on just about any style of forward.
Defying the defender typecast further, he went forward and bagged five goals for the Geelong Falcons in a victory over North Ballarat early in the year. This comes, no less, after a previous six goal haul against the Bendigo Pioneers in the opening round. All of which could entice an AFL club to consider him in this role.
After returning from injury, he was a robust point of counter-attack for the Vic Country. He hit the target with all his kicks when playing Western Australia and South Australia, averaging 11 disposals, three rebounds and two inside 50s.
Highlighting his athleticism, he finished in the top ten in the standing vertical jump and 20 metre sprint at the NAB AFL Draft Combine. He was the best performer of all the quality talent.
What type of player are you? A defender who likes to take the game on, and hates to lose. I am good at reading the play in front of me. Which AFL player do you most resemble and why? Andrew Mackie, because he sets up really well from the defence. What are your strengths as a footballer? Competitiveness, reading the play, agility, awareness, handballing.

Brodie Smith
Position: Medium Midfielder / Defender
Height: 189cm Weight: 78kg DOB: 14/01/92 Club: Woodville-West Torrens (SA) / Henley
Smith frequently accelerates out of stoppages and delivers the ball with tremendous composure. Along with his great pace, he can sustain his run with terrific endurance. His disposal by hand is also excellent, something that equips him well for stints through the midfield.
Playing representative football for South Australia, he was instrumental in the win over Vic Country – tallying 26 disposals, 14 contested possessions and eight inside 50s. These stats speak also of his consistency during the NAB AFL Under-18 Championships, as he averaged 22 disposals, five clearances and six inside 50s.
He was named in the Under-18 2010 All-Australian side as a defender.
What type of player are you? Versatile midfielder that can play a number of roles in different positions. Good endurance and speed. Which AFL player do you most resemble and why? Bryce Gibbs. We play similar positions and he has a good work rate and solid skills. Has the ability to win lots of the footy. What are your strengths as a footballer? Work rate, competitive, clean hands, run and carry. What parts of your game would you like to improve? Tackling, contested marking, kicking.

David Swallow
Position: Midfielder
Height: 186cm Weight: 83kg DOB: 19/11/92 Club: Gold Coast / East Fremantle
Long billed as one of the best juniors for more than 12 months, Swallow has already been guaranteed one of the top three selections in the 2010 NAB AFL Draft. With a game seemingly devoid of deficiencies, he appears factory-made for AFL football.
He possesses a penetrative kick, creative run, and a near prophetic vision for the flow of modern football. Operating in the heart of the midfield, his flawless fitness and physique gives him coast to coast run, allowing him to cut apart sides with surgical precision.
In quite unique circumstances, he was not subject to the rigors of the NAB AFL Draft Combine, instead spending the entirety of 2010 playing for the Gold Coast Suns in the VFL competition. Rewarding the faith of Guy McKenna and the coaching staff, he finished fourth in the J.J Liston Medal – an award that recognises the best and fairest in the competition. Last year, he was named the Larke Medallist while playing for Western Australia as a 16 year-old.
As the brother of North Melbourne best and fairest winner Andrew Swallow, he comes with a pedigree and CV as impressive as any in Draft history.
Swallow is prodigy unlike anything the game has seen in recent years.

Seb Tape
Position: Tall Defender
Height: 191cm Weight: 81kg DOB: 06/08/92 Club: Glenelg / Kenilworth
The tall and agile defender captained South Australia in the NAB AFL Under-18 Championships, which proved an inspiring pick when he hit every target in games against Vic Country and Vic Metro. With an efficiency rating of 85 per cent, Tape was ranked among the top 10 in this category.
His use of the ball can be pinned to an extremely mature demeanour, as the left-footer always seems effortlessly composed and almost immune to on-field pressures. Because of this, he can sometimes appear slow - although this is more indicative of innate ability to take the pace off what’s around him en route to making the right decision.
He stands out as an ideal leader and can do so from either end of the ground. Tape has gone forward on occasion, and is capable of kicking the odd goal.
Tape is still dangerous when the ball hits the ground and has impressive agility.
In the AFL club interviews, he was an inquisitive subject and appears a keen competitor. Athletically, he possesses both terrific leap and leg-speed. At the NAB AFL Draft Combine, he proved it by posting great scores in the standing vertical jump and repeat sprint tests.
What type of player are you? I am a competitive player of a reasonable size, capable of playing either tall or small defensive roles with good ground skills and athleticism. Which AFL player do you most resemble and why? I seem to play a similar style to someone like St Kilda defender Sam Gilbert, as he is capable of playing both tall and small defensive roles and creating run through the back half. What are your strengths as a footballer? My strengths as a footballer are my competitiveness, ground skills, selflessness, leadership potential, awareness and closing speed. What parts of your game would you like to improve? I would like to improve particular aspects such as my kicking consistency on both feet, my attacking game and my strength.

Mitch Wallis
Position: Medium Midfielder
Height: 185cm Weight: 80kg DOB: 24/10/92 Club: Calder Cannons / St Kevin's (St Bernard’s)
It is hard to find the superlatives to capture his game in the TAC Cup Grand Final. The statistics however read: 47 disposals, 10 marks, 10 hard-ball gets, and four clearances. After a performance like that, the Bulldogs didn’t need to apply much thought when electing to take him with a father/son selection.
Wallis captained the Vic Metro side in the NAB AFL Under-18 Championships, where he averaged 28 disposals in three matches before falling to an injury. He tends to gather most of his ball on the outside of the packs - although this may bode well for his future in Rodney Eade’s attacking scheme. His hands are extremely clean and he comes with a determined work ethic. He finished in the top three in the NAB AFL Draft Combine’s clean hand test and top 10 in the agility run.
Through the aforementioned father/son rule, he will be taken at number 22 overall.
What type of player are you? An onballer who has the ability to play inside and outside. A leader who has a large work ethic and can accumulate possession. Very passionate about the game and can push myself to win games. Which AFL player do you feel you resemble, and why? Joel Selwood. Relentless attack on the ball. Huge engine, gut-busting running. Very supportive of his teammates. Can play an inside role but also a receiving role. What are your strengths as a footballer? Ability to adapt to the game by changing my game. Leadership, direction. Work at the clearances. Finish games well. Following team structures. Coachability. Love of the game. What parts of your game would you like to improve? Agility in games. Strength, speed, and aerobic capacity I need to improve through conditioning, to adapt at the elite level. Following up on my possessions. Which AFL team do you support and how did you come to barrack for them?
Western Bulldogs. Father played, went to games from an early age. Love their style of play and the way they go about it.

Matthew Watson
Position: Tall Defender
Height: 195cm
Weight: 101kg DOB: 16/07/92 Club: Calder Cannons / PEGS (Pascoe Vale)
There is a lot to like about Watson. As the heaviest player at the NAB AFL Draft Combine and with a pair of the largest mitts, he’s hard to deny as he floats across the backline taking strong leaping marks. Watson shapes as the evolution of the shutdown defender - a little more movement than the Gorilla defenders of the past and perhaps a little more growth than many of the present crop.
The team that drafts him, likely in the early rounds, will be looking to soon insert him at centre half-back and build a defence around him.
He is a damaging long left-foot kick, and averaged 19 disposals and five marks while representing Vic Metro. He relishes a duel with an opposing forward and is aggressive in getting the better of them. For his troubles during the carnival, he was awarded Under-18 All-Australian selection.
With his uncle, Steve Alessio, being a former AFL star, he has the game in his blood.
What type of player are you? A strong defensive player who enjoys a challenge against good CHF. Never wants to be beaten in a contest and uses my long kicks, aggressive spoiling and line breaking to my advantage. Which AFL player do you feel you resemble, and why? Sam Gilbert of St Kilda because of his ability to break the lines and penetrate the ball in 50. Also his ability to take a good overhead mark. What are your strengths as a footballer? Long kicks. Closing speed. Aggressive spoiling. Breaking the lines. Overhead marks. Encourage teammates. Leadership on field.
Who has been the biggest influence on your career so far, and why? My parents because of all the driving they had to do for my training and games, especially long trips. Also my uncles (Anthony and Steve Alessio) on the advice they gave me on where I needed to improve on my game.

Aaron Young
Position: Medium Midfielder
Height: 187cm Weight: 76kg DOB: 06/12/92 Club: Eastern Ranges / Yarra Valley GS
An AFL-AIS Academy graduate, Young plays both forward and midfield roles with a trademark pace and hardness. There were questions on his kicking, but he dispelled those with an exclamation mark at the Draft Combine where he recorded the second best result overall.
As a Vic Metro representative he averaged 16 disposals, four marks and three tackles a game. He also slotted six goals through the five games – three of those coming in a shock upset of tournament favourite, South Australia.
He has nice height for a player of his mould. He takes strong overhead marks and can show bursts of strong pace while running the flanks.
What type of player are you? Versatile, competitive, disciplined. Which AFL player do you feel you resemble, and why? Joel Corey. Tall midfielder that can play back and forward. Can win his own ball but also get out on his own for the loose ball. What are your strengths as a footballer? Versatile, strong overhead, good one on one, putting my head over the ball.
Who has been the biggest influence on your career so far, and why? Wayne McCraw (former coach, Bulldogs recruiter) because he has always helped me to improve my strengths and weaknesses and showed me how hard I need to work to make it at AFL level.