AFL U18 Championships/potential draftees thread

[WilliamPowell]

I wonder how Travis Cloke went?

Who ? 

Is he playing in these championships?
 

[mightytiges]

LOL WP 

The Hun must have read your mind RR:

Top End gift to the AFL
07 July 2004   Herald Sun
Jon Anderson



Potential star: Northern Territory youngster Richard Tambling dazzled AFL scouts at the natuional under-18 championships.
Picture: Michael Klein


THE game may have meant little but those at Optus Oval yesterday were treated to something special in the form of Darwin's Richard Tambling.

Tambling was playing for the Northern Territory against Tasmania in Division 2 of the national U-18 championships.

Despite a heavy tag from Tasmania's Jason Howard, Tambling showed regular passages of the brilliance that is expected to see him drafted top five later this year as the side he captains beat Tasmania by 23 points.

Tambling, 17, embraces all that's good about the NT's gift to the AFL.

Blessed with electrifying pace and cat-like vision, he plays with the same free spirit as those Territorians before him who have burnt the AFL trail.

Alternating between mid field and full-forward, Tambling showed he has acute goal sense and a desire to tackle.

Tambling was the main attraction, most recruiters expecting the 180cm onballer to be a first-round and likely top-10 selection in this year's AFL National Draft.

He hails from Southern Districts, the same club Nathan Buckley played with and the Darwin home of Brisbane Lions Jared Brennan and Aaron Shattock.

Tambling has already displayed his wares at senior level, having blitzed for the NT Football League against the Western Bulldogs in Darwin in February.

When he eventually plays his first senior game, Tambling will become the 43rd Northern Territorian to play at senior AFL level.

Michael Long, Michael McLean and Maurice Rioli remain the elder statesmen of the game in the NT.

Peter Atkinson, football development manager for the AFL NT since 1985, said the game was hugely popular in the indigenous community.

"Around 70 per cent of players are indigenous which is a reversal of the population where 30 per cent of our 90,000 are indigenous," he said.

"Richard Tambling is typical of the elite from up here, lightning quick and skilled."

Western Bulldogs' recruiting manager Scott Clayton watched Tambling yesterday and made this assessment.

"He is a very exciting prospect with explosive pace like Aaron Davey but with the ability to play more of a genuine midfield role," Clayton said.

Also impressive yesterday on a wing for the Territory was Mark "Magic" McLean, the son of former Footscray and Brisbane star Michael "Magic" McLean. Unfortunately for both the Bulldogs and Brisbane, Mark McLean is ineligible under the father-son rule given his dad played 95 games with the Dogs and 88 with Brisbane, just short of the 100 required.

Like many of his friends, Tambling is happiest playing football or hunting for pigs, magpie geese or barramundi.

"It's pretty good going hunting. Besides football that's the only thing I enjoy," he said.

"I am trying to get as much into me now because if I get drafted there probably won't be any (hunting)," said Tambling, who barracks for Essendon and idolises James Hird.

Darren Bewick, a dual Essendon premiership player , has coached the NT side at the past two championships. He says it's a fallacy that multi-skilled lightning quick indigenous kids are falling out of trees in Darwin.

"There are the exceptions but overall the boys require plenty of work," Bewick said.

http://www.heraldsun.news.com.au/footy/common/story_page/0,8033,10065000%255E20322,00.html

[mightytiges]

Under-18 titles: Clubs get peek at draft pickings
05 July 2004   
Herald Sun
Michael Horan



Test of strength: Vic Country's John Meeson and Travis Cloke, of Vic Metro, battle for position.
Picture: Michael Klein

Collingwood coach Mick Malthouse and his recruiting staff, and Carlton recruiting manager Shane O'Sullivan and his scouts were window shopping for the national draft on November 20.

The fact Vic Metro belted last year's champion Vic Country by 63 points in the opening game and South Australia stitched up Western Australia was largely irrelevant.

Most had come to see the cream of 2004's AFL aspirants.

One of the most easily identifiable players was Travis Cloke, youngest son of former Richmond and Collingwood champion David and little brother to Magpies Jason and Cameron.

Cloke had only six touches, but the sheer physical presence of the 195cm forward more than compensated for a quiet day at the office.

Another "son of", Marc Murphy, a bottom-age midfielder, impressed most with his skills, pace and slick finishing.

Murphy's father John won five best-and-fairests for Fitzroy and one with the Swans in a brilliant 246-game VFL career.

And the 179cm Marc also appears to be a ball magnet.

"We brought Marc into the squad late and I thought he was superb," Vic Metro coach David Dickson said after Murphy's 20 possessions and two goals in a best-afield effort.

"Being a district cricket first XI player with (Melbourne) University, he didn't start his season until late. He then started to show some glimpses of form with Oakleigh Chargers, so we brought him in ahead a couple of under-18s, which was a bit political. But he showed today he's just a super player."

Good big players are like gold, and yesterday there were several who raised the recruiters' eyebrows.

The names of two more Vic Metro players who are also bottom-age – Fabian Deluca and Ryan Willitts – went into everyone's black books.

Deluca, the 203cm brother of Carlton's Adrian, started superbly before receiving a nasty knock.

"He copped a beauty, but the good thing was the way he wanted to keep going. We're very excited about the look of him," O'Sullivan said.

Willitts, who isn't 18 until next January and stands 196cm and 96kg, booted 4.2 from centre half-forward. With good mobility, he looks an exciting prospect.

Jessie Smith, son of former Kangaroo Ross Smith, got plenty of the ball, while another bottom-ager, 191cm Beau Dowler, shaped as an impressive tall defender.

At ground level, 170cm Aboriginal Eddie Betts had a quiet game, but Dickson rates him as good as they come. "I've seen the Sampis, the Wells and all those players go before him and, in my opinion, he's as good as any of them," Dickson said.

The pace and skill of Vic Country's Brett Deledio, and the output of teammates Matt Rosa and Dean Polo, also shone in the early game.

WA's Mitch Morton, already Eagles-bound under the father-son rule, had 24 touches and stood out in the game against South Australia, as did 193cm Aboriginal Lance Franklin, expected to be a top-three draft pick.

http://www.heraldsun.news.com.au/footy/common/story_page/0,8033,10040851%255E19897,00.html

[Rodgerramjet]

He's obviously a very skillful and talented kid with pace to burn RR. People liken him to Aaron Davey. Although his football talents and especially his pace are desperately needed at Richmond, my only concern is that he is listed as weighing at only 68kg so he'll most likely be a receiver at AFL level. We as a Club haven't had too much success with such lightweights. On the other hand, Krakouer was probably at a similar weight when we drafted him now that I think about it. I'd personally rather go for  a young midfielder with a bit of muscle his frame with our first round (or hopefully priority) pick. But that's just my preference.   

I know were your comming from in regards to midfeilders with muscle, we do need them and yes we have had some very mediocre lightweight players in the past but might add that none of them had the pace and skill of this fellow. The thought of Tambling and Krakouer as crumbing forwards to Richo, shultz, ottens or Stafford especially with there pace and skill could be a sight worth watching. The only disability that I can see that he has is mental, he supports the Bombers and Hird is his idol 

[mightytiges]

He's obviously a very skillful and talented kid with pace to burn RR. People liken him to Aaron Davey. Although his football talents and especially his pace are desperately needed at Richmond, my only concern is that he is listed as weighing at only 68kg so he'll most likely be a receiver at AFL level. We as a Club haven't had too much success with such lightweights. On the other hand, Krakouer was probably at a similar weight when we drafted him now that I think about it. I'd personally rather go for  a young midfielder with a bit of muscle his frame with our first round (or hopefully priority) pick. But that's just my preference.   

I know were your comming from in regards to midfeilders with muscle, we do need them and yes we have had some very mediocre lightweight players in the past but might add that none of them had the pace and skill of this fellow. The thought of Tambling and Krakouer as crumbing forwards to Richo, shultz, ottens or Stafford especially with there pace and skill could be a sight worth watching. The only disability that I can see that he has is mental, he supports the Bombers and Hird is his idol 

Yeah alot of NT aboriginal kids barrack for the bombers thanks to Michael Long.

I notice is the article about Tambling RR, Scott Clayton, who use to be the chief recruiter at the Lions before crossing over to the Dogs, says he  has the ability to play more of a genuine midfield role. I'm personally not a fan of specialist forward pockets. I prefer if we "rested" our midfielders up forward instead as it then gives the coaching staff more options with midfield rotations. If Tambling can spend as much time in the midfield as forward in the AFL (a la Browny) then he is an awesome prospect if he can get some meat onto him.   

[mightytiges]

2004: Day 4 results

South Australia: 0.2 1.5 4.9 7.9 (51)
Victoria Country: 2.2 4.4 6.7 9.8 (62)

Goals:
South Australia: Meyer 2, Monfries 2, Griffen, Grundy, McLeay
Vic Country: Deledio 3, Kirkby 2, Marsh, Roughead, Sherringham, Young

Best:
South Australia: Taylor, Monfries, Wood, Brockhouse, Stribling, Russell
Vic Country: Deledio, Kirkby, Roughead, Rosa, Hill, Dwyer


Country bounces back
5:07:58 PM Wed 7 July, 2004
Matt Burgan
Sportal

Vic Country has bounced back from a first-round thrashing to hold off a spirited South Australia by 11 points in the second game of the division one National's AFL under 18 championships double-header at Skilled Stadium on Wednesday.

Country 9.8 (62) defeated the Croweaters 7.9 (51) to notch its first win in this year's carnival, which now means that every division one side has recorded a victory in 2004.

Despite a late surge by South Australia in the final term, Vic Country had enough poise - on top of its first half efforts - to fend off the Croweaters.

Likely No.1 draftee - Vic Country's Brett Deledio - showed exactly why he is rated one of Australia's hottest young prospects for this year's National's AFL Draft, as he dominated the match with 23 disposals and three goals in a best-on-ground display.

Ruory Kirkby continued his impressive form with 18 touches and two goals, while Jarryd Roughead - another highly rated youngster at 193cm - was also among his side's best.

South Australia's Craig Taylor was the leading possession winner for the match with 26 touches, while Angus Monfries showed booted two goals and was creative with 24 possessions.

Vic Country took the honours into the first break when it booted two goals to zip to lead by 12 points. South Australia could muster just two behinds during the opening term.

Country increased the margin to 17 points at half-time, when it added two goals, while South Australia kicked its first goal via James McLeay. In the process, the Croweaters wasted their opportunities in front of goal, finishing with 1.5 during the opening half.

Vic Country had plenty more of the ball in the first half, accumulating almost 50 more disposals. Seven Country players were into double figures with their possessions, while Ben Eckermann was South Australia's highest ball-winner with nine touches.

South Australia added three goals to two in the third term to peg the margin back to just 10 points in favour of Vic Country, setting up a thrilling final term.

Vic Country broke away to a 17-point lead early in the last quarter, but South Australia produced a terrific comeback and produced three in succession to hit the front by one-point at the 12-minute mark.

Monfries' set-shot gave South Australia the lead for the first time in the match since the early part of the first quarter. But when Vic Country answered and kicked the last two goals of the match via Kirkby and Roughead, the home side sealed the victory.

http://afl.com.au/default.asp?pg=news&spg=display&articleid=158876

[mightytiges]

Burgatron's Top 10: Round 2
3:02:27 PM Thu 8 July, 2004
Matt Burgan
Sportal

We're two rounds in to this year's National's AFL Under 18 championships, and the scouts, the managers, the media and the wider football community have had a good look at the talent on display.

afl.com.au's Matt Burgan cast a critical eye over all four second round matches in both Division One and Division Two and here presents his top ten players from those matches.

1. Brett Deledio - Victoria Country
Produced an outstanding game against South Australia and is firming as the No.1 draftee for November. After a 'quieter' opening match - he gained 20 touches - Deledio turned it on it against the Croweaters with 23 disposals, eight marks and three goals.

2. Ruory Kirkby - Victoria Country
Kirkby is firming for All-Australian selection after playing two fine matches, particularly his performance against South Australia. He notched up 18 disposals, sent the ball inside 50 on five occasions and also chipped in with two goals at Skilled Stadium.

3. Ashton Hams - Western Australia
Hams was a terrific in Western Australia's one-point victory over Vic Metro. Despite his 172cm stature, his determination and ability to lay a tackle - he made eight - was telling. He kicked two goals and dished off to 'Buddy' Franklin, who kicked the winning goal.

4. Richard Tambling - Northern Territory
On target to win the Harrison Medal for the best player in division two of the championships, Tambling produced another outstanding performance against Tasmania, with three goals. His creative ability and explosive pace was again a feature of his game.

5. Jarryd Roughead - Victoria Country
The highly-rated 193cm prospect put in a fine performance against South Australia at Geelong. He won 20 possessions, had six marks and booted a goal. He is a very mobile, athletic tall, who will figure prominently come November.

6. Brent Prismall - Victoria Metropolitan
Very impressive performer in Vic Metro's dramatic loss to Western Australia, Prismall gained 14 touches and sent the ball inside 50 on five occasions, yet he was one of his side's most effective and efficient players.

7. Craig Taylor - South Australia
Taylor almost doubled his disposals in his second performance against Vic Country, when he notched up 26 touches - the most of any player from division one in the second round of the championships - which included 18 kicks and eight handballs.

8. Scott Delmenico - Western Australia
The 192cm tall was instrumental in Western Australia's thrilling one-point victory over Vic Metro and was rated one of the most effective players for the Sandgropers, while his performance was also highly rated by his coaching staff.

9. Angus Monfries - South Australia
After notching up 19 disposals in the opening match against Western Australia, Monfries claimed 24 touches and was a key rebounder either into attack or from defence. He also booted two goals against Vic Country in a terrific display.

10. James Bennett - New South Wales/Australian Capital Territory
Bennett continued his fine start to the championships with another terrific performance against Queensland in the Rams' four-point victory. He finished with 17 disposals, sent the ball inside 50 on five occasions and kicked two important goals in the win.

http://afl.com.au/default.asp?pg=news&spg=display&articleid=159057

[mightytiges]

2004 Day 5 Results - Division 2

N.T. are Division 2 champions.

Highly sort after Richard Tambling (N.T.) was named best player in Division 2.


4:24:52 PM Sat 10 July, 2004
afl.com.au

NSW/ACT: 2.2 5.2 7.3 10.6 (66)
Tasmania: 5.4 6.6 9.9 11.11 (77)

Goals:
NSW/ACT: Clarke 6, Coleman, Daniher, Hodgson, Kotzur
Tasmania: Crawford 3, Garth 3, Sherman 2, Bielski, Grima, Lonergan

Best:
NSW/ACT: Clarke, Hodgson, Shaw, Prior, Thompson, Tutt
Tasmania: Crawford, Wade, O'Donoghue, Sherman, Lonergan, Iles

Match Report


Northern Territory: 1.2 6.3 8.6 12.10 (82)
Queensland: 3.5 5.8 7.8 9.9 (63)

Goals:
Northern Territory: Tambling 3, Campbell, Ilett, M.McLean, Stephensen, Walker
Queensland: Clarke, Hamill, Joss, McGuane, Skrinis, Spurr, West

Best:
Northern Territory: Tambling, M.McLean, Corrie, Campbell, Stephensen, Gepp
Queensland: Allan, McGuane, Tanton, Hamill, Fletcher, Mills

Match Report

[mightytiges]

2004 - Day 6 Results

Vic Metro wins Division 1 title.

Best player in Division 1 was Jesse W. Smith (Vic Metro)  - son of Roo Ross Smith.

-------------------------

Victoria Metropolitan: 4.1 9.4 10.5 14.7 (91)
South Australia: 2.3 3.5 7.10 12.13 (85)

Goals:
Vic Metro: Little 5, Betts 2, Moore 2, Bain, Herrington, M.Murphy, Sharp, J.W.Smith

South Australia: Grundy 3, Meyer 2, Griffen, Jenner, McLeay, Salter, Saunders, Stribling, Thomson

Best:
Vic Metro: Moore, J.W.Smith, Betts, Jolley, Little, Nayna

South Australia: Meyer, Griffen, Hurn, Eckermann, Monfries, McMahon


Metro edges SA in thriller
2:22:14 PM Sun 11 July, 2004
Matt Burgan
Sportal

Vic Metro has won its second match of the National's AFL under 18 championships in thrilling circumstances after overcoming a determined and unlucky South Australia by six points at the MCG on Sunday.

Metro 14.7 (91) defeated the Croweaters 12.13 (85) in a match that went into extra time, as the scores were level at full-time.

As no drawn matches can be played in these championships, the siren did not sound until the next score was registered, which was a goal from Vic Metro's Ben Sharp. It gave the home side a memorable victory.

But Vic Metro will not know its fate until the second division one - and final - match on Sunday has concluded at Optus Oval, played between Victoria Country and Western Australia.

If Victoria Country defeats Western Australia, then Vic Metro will win this year's title, as the Metro bowled over the Country by 63 points in the first division one match last Sunday.

But if Western Australia defeats Vic Country, then the Sandgropers will win the championship, as they claimed a thrilling victory over Vic Metro at Geelong last Wednesday.

Matt Little booted five goals for Vic Metro in a terrific display, while teammates Jesse W.Smith - the son of former Kangaroos' defender Ross, Jarred Moore and Ben Jolley were among the best.

The Croweaters also had plenty of fine performers. Standout draft prospect Ryan Griffen starred - particularly in the second half, while Ben Eckermann, Angus Monfries and Danny Meyer were also key players.

South Australia started the match strongly booting the first two goals, but a late surge in the opening term from Vic Metro, which produced four in succession, gave the home side a 10-point lead at quarter-time.

Vic Metro made it eight in a row - and five for the quarter - when it slammed on four unanswered goals mid-way through the second term.

At one stage, Vic Metro led by 40 points - the biggest margin of the match. The Croweaters managed two late goals in the term, but still trailed by 35 points at half-time.

Metro's forwards were on fire during the first half, particularly Little, who booted four goals by the main break. Moore and Jolley were ball-magnets during that period, notching up 29 touches between them.

South Australia produced a great comeback in the third quarter when it booted four goals to one, which reduced the margin to 13 points in favour of Vic Metro and set up a fascinating final term.

The last quarter was an absolute beauty. South Australia booted five goals for the quarter - including four in a row - to level the scores, but when Sharp nailed his match-winning goal and the Metro's fourth in extra time, the city slickers recorded a brilliant victory.

http://afl.com.au/default.asp?pg=pathwayarchive&spg=u18champsdisplay&articleid=159541

[mightytiges]

Victoria Country: 2.5 4.8 10.11 12.14 (86)
Western Australia: 2.3 3.8 3.10 5.10 (40)

Goals:

Vic Country: Lewis 2, Roughead 2, Young 2, Deledio, Egan, Kirkby, Marsh, Pendlebury, Rosa

Western Australia: Franklin, S.Jones, Morton, Swallow, Wilkes

Best:

Vic Country: Lewis, Sherringham, Roughead, Egan, Moloney, Marsh

Western Australia: Wilkes, Delmenico, Morton, Franklin, Jo.Smith, Cooper


Country win hands title to Metro
4:46:07 PM Sun 11 July, 2004
Matt Burgan
Sportal

Victoria Country has ended the National's AFL under 18 championships on a high after thrashing Western Australia by 46 points at Optus Oval on Sunday in the final match of the carnival, yet the division one title has been won by Victoria Metropolitan.

Country 12.14 (86) defeated the Sandgropers 5.10 (40) to notch up its second win of the championships, but because Vic Metro defeated Vic Country in the opening division one match, the city slickers gain the title.

With each division one team entering the final day of the carnival with one win each, the result of the championship was decided by the two winners on Sunday - Vic Metro and Vic Country.

When those two teams met earlier in the week, Vic Metro thrashed Vic Country by 63 points meaning Metro was the overall winner.

Had Western Australia claimed the points over Vic Country, the Sandgropers would have won the title as the Sandgropers claimed a thrilling two-point victory over Vic Metro last Wednesday at Geelong.

Vic Country had plenty of key contributors, with Jordan Lewis, Chris Egan, Matt Rosa and Tim Sherringham all terrific players. The quartet racked up 90 touches.

For Western Australia, Beau Wilkes was his side's best player with 22 disposals, while young-gun Mitchell Morton and Ashton Hams, who was a fine player in the championship, were among the Sandgropers best.

The opening term was an even contest, with two goals registered from both sides, yet Vic Country managed to take a two-point lead into quarter-time.

Both teams wasted scoring opportunities in the first-half, but Vic Country again had the slight edge in the second term thanks to a goal after the siren from Clinton Young, who gave his side a six-point lead at the main break.

Vic Country broke away in the third term with six goals to zip, as Western Australia mustered just two behinds for the quarter. In a disappointing period for the Sandgropers, Aaron Bowers was reported for striking Vic Country's Marcus Drum.

With the result all but over heading into the final term, both sides added a further two goals each, but it was all academic as Vic Country cruised to a convincing victory.

Meanwhile, the Larke Medal for the best player in division one of the championships was awarded to Jesse W.Smith - the son of former Kangaroos player Ross - from Vic Metro, after his outstanding carnival.

[url][http://afl.com.au/default.asp?pg=pathwayarchive&spg=u18champsdisplay&articleid=159563/url]

[mightytiges]

All Australian side - National's AFL Under 18s Championships

South Australia -- Angus Monfries (Sturt), Ben Eckermann (Sturt), Ryan Griffen (South Adelaide), Heath Grundy (Norwood), Cameron Wood (West Adelaide), Scott McMahon (Woodville-West Torrens).

Vic Country -- Dean Polo (Gippsland Power/Wy Young), Roury Kirkby (Bendigo Pioneers/Echuca), Jordan Lewis (Geelong Falcons/Warrnambool), Marcus Drum (Murray Bushrangers/Congupna), Brett Deledio (Murray Bushrangers/Kyabram).

Vic Metro -- Ben Sharp (Oakleigh Chargers/Salesian College), Jesse W Smith (Calder Cannons/Aberfeldie), Jarred Moore (Dandenong Stingrays/Langwarrin), Jayden Attard (Dandenong Stingrays/Chelsea).

Western Australia -- Mitchell Morton (Claremont/Lake Grace), Alan Toovey (Claremont/Cranbrook), Mark Le Cras (West Perth/Whitford).

Queensland -- Will Hamill (Mt Gravatt).

Tasmania -- Justin Sherman (Clarence).

Northern Territory -- Richard Tambling (Southern Districts).

NSW/ACT -- Ed Clarke (Rams/North Shore).

Coach -- David Dickson, Vic Metro.

Assistant Coach -- Darren Bewick, Northern Territory.

http://afl.com.au/default.asp?pg=aflfocus&spg=display&articleid=159650

This list is of the best 22 in the Carnival; not the 22 most likely to be drafted. Normally the make sure they choose one kid from each state/territory.

[mightytiges]

How lucky are North getting a top 5 draft pick in Jesse Smith for a third rounder under the F/S  . Similarly West Coast can pick up Mitchell Morton. I'd guess if the wraps on Kym Monteath turn out to be true then we may similarly be rewarded in next year's draft.

Although there's still the draft camp, the stand outs so far that are not F/S appear to be Deledio (midfielder), Griffen (midfielder), Tambling (midfielder/forward), Roughead(KPP) and Meeson (ruckman).

Someone mentioned Eckerman was like Wanganeen.

Thoughts?

[mightytiges]

Burgatron's Top 10: Round 3
5:35:37 PM Mon 12 July, 2004
Matt Burgan
Sportal

After the third round of this year's National's AFL Under 18 championships, the scouts, the managers, the media and the wider football community have had a good look at the talent on display.

afl.com.au's Matt Burgan cast a critical eye over all four third round matches in both Division One and Division Two and here presents his top ten players from those matches.


1. Edward Clarke - New South Wales/Australian Capital Territory
Despite playing in a losing team, Clarke's performance was one of the best of the carnival. He almost single-handedly got the Rams over the line, as he booted six goals, claimed 26 touches, 11 clearances, seven inside 50s and three rebounds. All-Australian.

2. Jordan Lewis - Victoria Country
Lewis capped off a great championship, with a best-on-ground performance against Western Australia. He notched up 29 disposals, booted two goals and sent the ball inside 50 on six occasions. He was duly named All-Australian after starring in two matches.

3. Richard Tambling - Northern Territory
Arguably the most consistent player of the championships, Tambling starred in all three matches, including the final round against Queensland, where he gained 23 touches and kicked three goals. He won the Harrison Medal, the NT MVP and was All-Australian.

4. Jarred Moore - Victoria Metropolitan
Moore was a terrific performer in the all three matches, particularly the Metro's thrilling win over South Australia. He won 26 disposals, booted two goals and sent the ball inside 50 on eight occasions, while he averaged 20 touches for the carnival in a fine display.

5. Ryan Griffen - South Australia
A brilliant performer in the nail-biting clash against Vic Metro, Griffen was inspirational in the Croweaters revival, as he finished with 22 disposals, seven inside 50s and a goal. He was named All-Australian and reinforced his standing as one of the hottest prospects.

6. Jesse W.Smith - Victoria Metropolitan
Only played two of the three matches, but still did enough in the carnival, particularly in Vic Metro's epic win over South Australia when he gained 18 touches and kicked a goal, to win the Larke Medal for the best player in division one. The son of ex-Kangaroo Ross.

7. Nathan O'Donoghue - Tasmania
O'Donoghue produced a tireless performance in the ruck against NSW/ACT in Tasmania's second win. The raw, yet promising 193cm tall, clearly played his best match in the final round, winning 23 hit outs, while he sent the ball inside 50 on five occasions.

8. Ben Eckermann - South Australia
One of the most consistent players of the championships, Eckermann notched up 24 touches in his side's dramatic loss against Vic Metro. He averaged 20 disposals and was justifiably rewarded with All-Australian selection and his state's MVP award.

9. Tim Sherringham - Victoria Country
An important player in Vic Country's team throughout the championship, Sherringham was a key player in his side's victory over Western Australia, with 20 disposals. He showed great use of the ball during the carnival, with often pin-point accuracy.

10. Darren Crawford - Tasmania
Crawford finished the championships on a high after a consistent carnival, kicking 3.4, gaining 19 touches and laying six tackles in his side's win over NSW/ACT. He booted three goals in each match and was rewarded with his state's most valuable player award.

http://afl.com.au/default.asp?pg=news&spg=display&articleid=159892

[mightytiges]

The All-Australians in profile

7:10:10 PM Mon 12 July, 2004
Kevin Sheeham
AFL National Talent Manager

2004 National's AFL under 18 championships All-Australian team

When there are 200 players to select from, choosing an All-Australian team is a difficult task for the selectors.

But this is what this year's selectors - Terry Wheeler (AIS-AFL academy coach), Michael Long (AFL indigenous programs manager), Adrian Dodoro (Essendon recruiting manager), Stephen Wells (Geelong recruiting manager), Gary Buckenara (Hawthorn recruiting manager), Craig Cameron (Melbourne recruiting manager) and myself - faced at the end of the championships.

The task of selecting the All-Australian team was based purely on performances from the championships and rewarded players who stood out during this year's matches.


New South Wales/Australian Capital Territory

Edward Clarke - Rams/North Shore, 178cm, 91kg, 18 years old
Small midfielder who is powerfully built and is excellent at the clearances. Uses the ball well and is dangerous near goals, highlighted by a best-on-ground, six-goal and 26-disposal performance in losing final match against Tasmania.


Northern Territory

Richard Tambling - Southern Districts, 180cm, 68kg, 17 years old
Medium midfielder/forward with blistering pace and goal sense. Also a strong tackler, he had an outstanding championship, winning the Harrison Medal for best and fairest in division two, after winning the McLean Medal at the National's AFL under 16 championships in 2002. Averaged 20 disposals and kicked eight goals in brilliant fashion.


Queensland

Will Hamill - Mt Gravatt, 190cm, 76kg, 17 years old
Tall defender who reads the play exceptionally well and is strong overhead. Queensland captain who shows excellent leadership and courage in his attack on the ball. Had consistent championships with his 17 disposals and six marks against Tasmania in a top performance.


South Australia

Ben Eckermann - Sturt, 177cm, 74kg, 17 years old
Small inside midfielder with excellent pace and ball-winning ability. Breaks the lines and carries the ball well, penetrating the forward zone. Most consistent player in the championships, winning South Australia's most valuable player award, averaging 20 possessions.

Ryan Griffen - South Adelaide, 186cm, 78kg, 17 years old
Medium inside midfielder/forward with great poise, awareness and disposal skills. Real talent with goalkicking ability and senior experience this year. Another AIS-AFL academy graduate. Had 25 possessions against Western Australia and 22 possessions against Vic Metro in two classy performances.

Heath Grundy - Norwood, 190cm, 86kg, 18 years old
Strong marking tall forward who plays in front and is good one-on-one. Very mobile and extremely dangerous near goal, kicking three goals and taking 11 marks against Western Australia and capped off his championship with a very good game against Vic Metro in game three.

Scott McMahon - Woodville West Torrens, 184cm, 83kg, 18 years old
Medium inside defender who is very good overhead, using his natural spring. Penetrating kick who can also go midfield. Had 11 marks and 17 possessions in his game against Western Australia and also played an excellent tight defensive role in game three against Vic Metro.

Angus Monfries - Sturt, 180cm, 70kg, 17 years old
Small inside midfielder with terrific workrate and clean hands. Reads the game well and is a prolific ball-winner and good user. Made senior debut last year at Sturt and had excellent championship. Also impressed at under 17 level against Ireland earlier this year as a member of the AIS-AFL academy. Averaged 22 possessions and among South Australia's best each match.

Cameron Wood - West Adelaide, 203cm, 86kg, 17 years old
Developing ruckman with excellent mobility and disposal skills for one so tall. First choice athlete and baseballer who had approaches from the Atlanta Braves but has chosen the AFL pathway. Averaged 17 hit outs and among his team's best against Vic Country and Vic Metro.


Tasmania

Justin Sherman - Clarence, 182cm, 84kg, 17 years old
Medium forward/midfielder who is powerfully built, a penetrating kick and smart around goal. Played well against Queensland, gaining 23 possessions and was excellent in the win over NSW/ACT with two important goals and 20 disposals.


Victoria Country

Brett Deledio - Murray Bushrangers/Kyabram, 188cm, 80kg, 17 years old
Medium inside midfielder who is super competitive, strong overhead and has excellent awareness and vision. Smart around goals and runs hard. His three goals and 23 disposals in Vic Country over South Australia was a highlight.

Marcus Drum - Murray Bushrangers/Congupna, 190cm, 78kg, 17 years old
Tall inside defender who plays tight, attacks the ball and marks strongly. AIS-AFL academy member this year who is ineligible for 2004 draft. Provided good rebound in the championships for Vic Country, averaging 13 disposals.

Ruory Kirkby - Bendigo Pioneers/Echuca, 192cm, 81kg, 18 years old
Tall forward or defender who was the surprise pack of the championships, taking strong marks both down back and up forward. Among best in excellent win over South Australia and impressed in defensive and attacking roles in defeat against Vic Metro.

Jordan Lewis - Geelong Falcons/Warrnambool, 187cm, 85kg, 18 years old
Medium inside midfielder who is excellent overhead and one-on-one. Good user of the football, particularly on his left side. Best on ground performance with 29 possessions and two goals against Western Australia topped off his championship.

Dean Polo - Gippsland Power/Wy Yung, 186cm, 76kg, 17 years old
Medium inside midfielder or defender who is strong overhead and very competitive by nature. Strong one-on-one and hard runner, his 21 disposals in losing Vic Country team against Vic Metro was an excellent effort.


Victoria Metropolitan

Jayden Attard - Dandenong Stingrays/Chelsea, 184cm, 79kg, 18 years old
Medium defender with good acceleration and a penetrating kick. Played disciplined negating role for his coach David Dickson, shutting down dangerous forwards and provided good run from defence.

Jarred Moore - Dandenong Stingrays/Langwarrin, 178cm, 84kg, 18 years old
Small, inside midfielder who is strong over the ball, a penetrating kick and has the footy smarts. His 26 possessions, eight inside 50s, five centre clearances and two important goals in a best-on-ground display against South Australia was an outstanding effort.

Ben Sharp - Oakleigh Chargers/Salesian College, 187cm, 81kg, 18 years old
Medium outside midfielder who runs all day, links up play and wins high possessions. Shares the ball well and capped a consistent championship, averaging 16 disposals, with an excellent running goal to win the match against South Australia in extra time on the final day.

Jesse W.Smith - Calder Cannons/Aberfeldie, 187cm, 78kg, 17 years old
Medium inside midfielder who is well balanced, courageous in the air and is a good ball winner. Played very well in convincing win over Vic Country and again among his side's best in tight South Australian win, with 18 disposals. Winner of the Larke Medal for best and fairest in division one.


Western Australia

Mark Le Cras - West Perth/Whitfords, 183kg, 75kg, 17 years old
Medium inside forward who is excellent overhead and has poise. Consistent performer averaging 17 disposals and creating many opportunities for his team.

Mitchell Morton - Claremont/Lake Grace, 184cm, 75kg, 17 years old
Medium midfielder with great balance and disposal skills on both sides. Can also play across half-back in a sweeping role or as a leading forward. Won Barassi Medal in under 17 international rules series between Australia and Ireland earlier this year. His 24 possessions and two-goal effort against South Australia was an eye-catching performance.

Alan Toovey - Claremont/Aquinas, 189cm, 77kg, 17 years old
Medium inside defender with terrific pace and long left-foot kick. Can run opposition down from behind with strong tackles. In AIS-AFL academy squad in 2003/04. Outstanding against Vic Metro in narrow win with 17 possessions across half-back.

http://afl.com.au/default.asp?pg=pathwayarchive&spg=u18champsdisplay&articleid=159906

[WilliamPowell]

Just a bit of info on:

Cameron WOOD
dob:4/3/87
Height 203cm Weigth  86kgs from West Adelaide FC .

This young fella was at the Adelaide game on Sunday. Was at the aftermatch as a guest of the RFC I think (well he was definitely at the aftermatch ).

Very tall but very lean (as per the 86kgs suggests) will keep an eye on him