Draft Camp form is fine but young footballers need to be able to be good enough to play AFL footy as well
. A few topical AFL players from the 2001 and 2004 draft camps that show club recruiters need to have done their homework.
AFL site spiel from 2001:
DAVID RODAN (Calder Cannons) – Arguably the stand out performer at the 2001 Draft Camp. Rodan, a back-to-back Morrish Medallist, blitzed in the Shuttle Run (beep test) and the 3km-time trial. Has an excellent character and did everything in his power to say ‘pick me’. Would be a tragedy if he missed out, as his only question mark is his height (170cm).
GRAHAM POLAK (East Fremantle) – Arguably the best tall at the Draft Camp, Polak was touted during the year as a No.1 pick, yet will probably be in the 3-5 category, simply because of the needs of other clubs. Had terrific results in both the 20m sprint and the agility test and is the type of player recruiting staff drool over, as he is tall, agile and quick.
JAMES KELLY (Calder Cannons) – Had a terrific camp, shining in the 20m sprint, agility and shuttle run tests. His performance in Canberra lifted his rating considerably.
BRET THORNTON (Oakleigh Chargers) – An impressive character who produced consistent results in both the 3km-Time Trial and shuttle run. Finished second in the tall defenders group for the shuttle run. A versatile player.
CHRIS JUDD (Sandringham Dragons) – Is another young gun rated as a Top 5-6 pick. Judd was unable to attend the camp due to a shoulder reconstruction. Is thought to be almost a complete package in terms of athletic ability.
Then you have someone like Pearce who stars in the 2004 camp but due to his size he ends up on a rookie list yet ends up a young gun.
20-metre sprint - 1. Danyle Pearce (Sturt) - 2.79sec
Standing vertical jump - 2. Danyle Pearce (Sturt) - 70cm
Running vertical jump - 1. Danyle Pearce (Sturt) - 96cm
Agility run - 1. Danyle Pearce (Sturt) - 7.79sec
