CAMERON MCCARTHY
Height: 195cm
Weight: 89kg
Team/Club: WA/South Fremantle
Position: Half Forward
Player Comparison: Justin Westhoff
Draft Range: 20-40
Cameron McCarthy is an interesting story. Only relatively new to football, McCarthy starting taking footy seriously this year and in that period announced himself as a serious natural talent, who’s marking capabilities, vertical leap, athleticism, nous below his knees and an incredible sound set shot and deadly kick for goal were traits associated with all the makings of an AFL star. McCarthy came from the clouds to impress on the big stage, and in doing so kicked that famous winning goal after the final siren, and the week later unfortunately fractured his leg just below his knee and dislocated his ankle, after landing awkwardly in a marking contest. However, the injury will not do his draft chances much harm, with an impressive championships already under his belt, strong performances as Colts level in WA, All Australian slection and to top it off, will also be ready and fit for the draft combine in November. McCarthy stands out on field, and that’s not because of his long mop of hair that requires a headband, he demands the ball, he’s got some pace off the mark, he brings others into the game, and can be relied upon to kick multiple goals. He’s a beautiful size for the modern day game, and brings with him a bit of x-factor and a little bit of excitement in his game. McCarthy’s pressure football is also a big tick in the recruiting handbook; he runs, chases and harasses the opposition, another trait rare for big blokes, but he does it with ease, and puts pressure on the ball carrier which was very impressive to watch.
Quote
“When he was injured and lying on the table after the game, he was asking when he would be able to get back and play football. That’s testament to the boy he is. He’s really blossomed in the WA program and we’re really pleased with the way he’s progressed.”
- Raff Guadagnino, Western Australia’s talent manager.
Strengths
Huge amount of natural ability, contested marking, brilliant in the air, very good above his head and below his knees, sound kicking technique on goal, brilliant mark, rarely misses from a set shot, super athletic and has the ability to dominate games. Showed ability to be calm under pressure when he kicked for goal after the siren to hand WA the win against Vic County. Composed, and knows his strengths, will fly at anything, can pick the ball off the ground and snap over his shoulder, adds x-factor to a forward line.
Weaknesses
Still very much an unknown prospect is McCarthy. He only started taking his football seriously this year, and his natural ability and athetlicism is a fantastic base considering he’s never done a full preseason or any weight training. Still needs to learn his running patterns and leading in the forward 50, but considering he’s got a huge leap, great hands, is clean at ground level and knows how to finish on goal there is a huge amount of upside, and a prospect who could dominate the league in a few years time.
National Championships Stats
Round 2 – 16 disposals, 8 marks and 2 goals.
Round 4 - 12 disposals 3 marks and goals
Averaged 2.4 goals and 5 marks a game in the National Championships
Honours
All Australian 2013
http://www.scpaige.com.au/draftees-in-focus-cameron-mccarthy/
