Footygoss.com 2006 draft preview

[one-eyed]

 Draft preview of the best youngsters from around the country
Posted Oct 27, 2006 - 13:56 PM
footygoss.com

Here is a summary of the top 10 youngsters in the draft pool from WA, Victoria, South Australia and the Allies combination of Queensland, New South Wales/ACT and Tasmania, as rated by FootyGoss scribe Jay Rooney:

WA Top 10

1. Scott Gumbleton - Peel Thunder
The highly-touted 18-year-old looks to be the complete centre half forward - strong contested mark, thin yet surprisingly strong and powerful. Made the successful transition to Peel's league side this season, including 5 Sandover Medal votes in the season-opener. U18 All-Australian this year and appears to be the most outstanding key forward in the draft.

2. Matthew Leuenberger - East Perth
The 18-year-old joins South Australian James Sellar as the most talented ruckmen available at this year's draft. Named the starting ruckman in the U18 All-Australian side after dominating at the national championships. Played at league level for the Royals this season, but was eligible to play in the colts' finals campaign, where he showed just why he is the best young ruckman in the country. 10 possessions and 29 hitouts in the Royals' grand final win earned Leuenberger the Mel Whinnen Medal for best on ground. Registered a 3.02sec 20m sprint time at draft camp, placing in the top 40 per cent, which is unexpected for a 202cm ruckman. Has drawn comparisons to West Coast star Dean Cox and will figure among the top 10 selections at least.

3. Leroy Jetta - South Fremantle
Freakishly quick midfielder/forward pocket who takes players on and breaks games open. Perhaps suited more to the forward pocket, where he displays his outstanding goal sense. Also an U18 All-Australian this year and finished in the top 10 in the Prendergast Medal for the reserves best and fairest. An almost definite top 10 hope.

4. Clayton Collard - South Fremantle
Almost in the same mould as teammate Jetta but is taller and more suited to the midfield. Played nine league games in 2006 including 18 possessions, nine marks and five goals against Swan Districts. Suffering from osteitis pubis, which restricted him at draft camp, but should still be a top 15 selection with a chance of going in the top 10.

5. Eric Mackenzie - Claremont
Key position player more suited to a role in defense. Excellent skills, damaging on the rebound and very impressive bodywork when opposed to a key forward. Has the ability to play at either end and should be snapped up by West Coast if he is not selected earlier in the draft.

6. Clint Benjamin - Claremont
Versatile utility who can also play as a forward or defender. Good endurance and speed for a 187cm utility. Played predominantly as a key defender at the U18 national championships this year. Only question is disposal, but should be a top 20 selection at least.

7. Brock O'Brien - Peel Thunder
Physical midfielder/half back flanker in the same mould Brock McLean. Thrives on physical contests and impressed at last two national championships at U18 level. Also played a handful of games in Peel's league side. Not lightning quick but has solid pace and appears physically ready to make the next step. A definite top 20 hope.

8. Jarryd Morton - Claremont
Brother of West Coast's Mitch Morton and son of Claremont legend Noel, a utility who plays at either end of the ground. Finished with an impressive 39 goals from 16 games in the colts, including a seven-goal haul against South Fremantle early this year. Solid at the national championships when playing predominantly in defense. Should be a second or third-round selection.

9. James Hawksley - Peel Thunder
Doesn't have the same profile as many of the other highly-touted Sandgropers but has a good combination of pace and height. Can be used on a wing or half-back flank, but more suited to a role in defense. Member of the 2005 AIS/AFL academy. Ran a solid 12.11sec at the state screening. Should be an early second or third-round selection.

10. Garry Moss - East Perth
U18 WA captain and All-Australian this year. Fairly small but has great ball-winning ability and is clever around goals. Played eight league games for the Royals after an impressive pre-season. Showed ability to adjust to league football, averaging 15 disposals in his eight games, including 26 against Perth. Also should be a second or third-round pick.

http://www.footygoss.com/modules.php?op=modload&name=News&file=article&sid=31086&mode=thread&order=0&thold=0

[one-eyed]

Victoria Top 10

1. Lachlan Hansen – Gippsland
Courageous key position player with one of the best contested marks in this year’s draft pool. Played at all positions down the spine during the U18 national championships but looks more suited to a defensive role. Dominates his opponents and does not drop many marks. Showed his amazing courage and hunger for the ball when getting knocked out in a national championships game while running back into a pack. One of five Vic Country players selected in the U18 All-Australian side. Excellent endurance and is freakishly athletic for his size. Minor hip surgery won’t stop Hansen from being drafted in the top five, while he is also considered a chance to go No.1.

2. Joel Selwood – Bendigo
One of the classiest young inside midfielders to come through the draft, brother of West Coast’s Adam and Brisbane’s Troy. Cool and composed in the stoppages, where he does his best work extracting the ball and winning possession. Physically tough player who centres aggression on winning the hard ball. Prefers to feed possessions to outside midfielders and running players in the same mould as Western Bulldogs star Daniel Cross. Excellent leadership skills also make him a more attractive prospect. Missed this year’s championships due to injury. Could be selected anywhere in the top 10.

3. Nathan Brown – North Ballarat
Another key position prospect more suited to a defensive role. Hard at the ball, great closing speed and damaging on the rebound. Vic Country MVP and U18 AA fullback at this year’s championships. Played forward at times for Rebels but clearly preferred option would be at fullback or centre half back. Could sneak into the top 10 or could be picked up anywhere from pick 10 to 25.

4. Daniel Connors – Bendigo
Quick inside midfielder, courageous and outstanding disposal. Has the ability to get the hard ball at stoppages as well as receive possession on the outside while using his pace to break the lines. Could also develop into a floating half back flanker, but has more upside as an inside midfielder. Strong overhead and a strong-bodied player. Tackling is only question mark but will most likely go between pick 10 and 20.

5. Bachar Houli – Western Jets
Tremendous, damaging skills for a small midfielder. Despite small size, Houli is hard at the ball and is superb in contested situations. Very smart player with outstanding vision and awareness. Missed out on U18 AA selection despite impressing at the championships. Struggled with ankle and back injuries in 2005 but had an injury-free 2006 season. Could be selected anywhere between pick 10 and 25.

6. Ben Reid – Murray Bushrangers
Tall, skinny key position player with huge upside and potential. Impressive at the U16 championships in 2005. Good set of hands, can take a contested mark, good leap and is very mobile and athletic for his size. Good defensive rebounder but can also play as a key forward. At 17 years of age, Reid is only just eligible for this year’s draft, so he has tremendous potential to develop into a solid key position player. Most likely selected between pick 16 and 30.

7. Jarryd Allen – Calder
U18 AA while representing Vic Metro at the national championships earlier this year. Versatile key position player who can play at either end of the ground. Could settle at centre half back in AFL. Could definitely be a huge bolter on draft day with the potential to go anywhere from top 20 to top 35.

8. Mitch Brown – North Ballarat
Brother of Nathan Brown, both in the same mould – key position players who can play at either end of the ground. Starred when swung forward in a championships match against WA. Big, strong body who loves the contest, in similar mould to Demon Brad Miller. Should also be selected somewhere after pick 20 which is a high-value pick for the club that picks him up.

9. Jarrad Harbrow – Murray Bushrangers
Can play as an inside or outside midfielder. Greatest assets are pace, kicking and goal sense. Didn’t have an extremely impressive championships campaign or draft camp but goalkicking midfielders can be invaluable. Should be selected somewhere after pick 25.

10. Grant Weeks – Bendigo
Key position player who finished runner up in Bendigo’s best and fairest this season. Tall flanker who developed into more of a full forward at the Pioneers in 2006. Presents to contests well and is good overhead. Accuracy in front of goal is one of his only weaknesses. Best suited to a half forward flank or lead-up centre half forward role. Most likely selected somewhere after pick 30.

*Tom Hawkins and Josh Kennedy were not considered as they will be picked up via the father/son rule.

[one-eyed]

South Australia Top 10

1. Bryce Gibbs – Glenelg
More of a natural footballer than an athlete but possesses freakish skills. Played senior footy for Glenelg in 2005 and 2006. One of only two South Australians that made the U18 AA side this year and was named SA’s MVP. Genuine midfielder, not lightning quick, but football ability and awareness make up for that. Can also be effective as a goalkicking wingman. Easily one of the best players if not the best in this year’s draft pool and with Carlton committing to Cain Ackland, Gibbs should be the No.1 pick.

2. James Sellar – Glenelg
Ruckman/key forward who has smooth skills for a key position player. Solid athleticism and is effective in contested situations. Good leap evident with a top 10 finish in the vertical leap at this year’s draft camp. Height could be the only question mark as to whether he can ruck at AFL level or will be a key forward. Dominated the 2005 U16 championships but failed to impress in this year’s U18 championships, when he reportedly suffered due to a bout of the flu. An almost definite top 10 selection with the potential to sneak into the top five.

3. Chris Schmidt – West Adelaide
Classy midfielder that showed his potential at the 2005 U16 championships where he was SA’s third best player behind Gibbs and Sellar. Suited to roles in the midfield, wing or forward flanks. Very smart footballer with excellent disposal. With Sellar out of form, Schmidt was clearly SA’s second best at the U18 championships. Top 10 in handspan testing at draft camp. Good overhead for a midfielder and has a strong mark. Most likely a second-round selection.

4. Tom Hurley – Sturt
SA U18 captain and U18 AA. Consistent ball winner with excellent pace and evasive skills. Draft stocks boosted by dominant championships performance this year. Suited to a role as inside midfielder with ability to win possession from stoppages. Kicking lacks penetration and precision at time but is a genuine ball magnet. Could be a first-round selection, more likely a second-rounder.

5. Alwyn Davey – South Adelaide
Outstanding small crumbing forward, brother of Melbourne star Aaron. Explosive pace and excellent defensive pressure. Has reportedly attracted interest from Port Adelaide and Melbourne. Was a disappointment until around July when he exploded onto the scene in the SANFL. Could go anywhere from the third-round onwards.

6. Sam Jacobs – Woodville-West Torrens
Only Woodville-West Torrens representative for SA at the U18 championships this year. Genuine ruckman who is mobile and works well with midfielders. Strong mark and good size. Played league football for the Eagles in the SANFL this season. Excellent work around the ground. Worth a mid-to-late round pick.

7. Zac Millar – North Adelaide
Former AIS/AFL academy member with skill and talent. Suited to a role either as a half forward flanker of midfielder. Deadly goal sense and excellent disposal. Well built and hard at the ball. Questions over his lack of endurance ability to do the one-percenters. Most likely a late-round pick.

8. Justin Westhoff - Central
Centre half forward prospect with a long, precise kick and strong mark. 19-year-old who played at league level in the SANFL this season. Terrific height for a key forward prospect but would need to add weight. If he can add around 10kg to his frame he would have tremendous upside for which ever club picks him up. Also a likely late-round pick.

9. Shane Edwards – North Adelaide
Terrific athletic qualities for a skinny midfielder. Hard working on-baller and despite skinny frame is a very good tackler (11 tackles in SANFL preliminary final). Third in the beep test at the draft camp. Outstanding endurance and aggression, but small size could see him drop to a late-round pick.

10. Todd Pfeiffer – North Adelaide
Played at league level in the SANFL but had an extremely disappointing U18 championships campaign. Class player who is poised and has great skills. Smart player, ball magnet and can drift forward and kick goals. Worth a late-round pick.

[one-eyed]

Allies Top 10

1. Mitch Thorp - Tasmania
One of the most talented and versatile key position players in this year's draft crop, can play at either end of the ground. Didn't have a great season for Tasmania in the VFL, but shined at the U18 national championships with All-Australian selection as well as Tasmania's MVP award. Almost a certainty to be selected in the top five.

2. Albert Proud - Queensland
Pacey midfielder who knows how to find the ball. Superb combination of pace, aggression and hardness. Experienced injury problems this year. Can play both as an inside and outside midfielder, enjoys breaking the lines and taking players on. Likely to go in the top 10.

3. Jack Riewoldt - Tasmania
Excellent season in Tasmania's VFL league side, overshadowing teammate Thorp. Cousin of St Kilda star Nick, more suited to a key forward role. One of the best contested marks in this year's draft pool. A chance to sneak into the top 10, but a definite top 15 selection.

4. David Armitage - Queensland
U18 All-Australian, another quick, skilled midfielder who helped Queensland capture the division two title at the championships. Knows how to find the footy and courage cannot be questioned. Stocks on the rise after best agility test in the country at draft camp. Also finished top 10 in beep test and 3km time-trial. An outside chance to sneak into the top 10 but a definite top 20 selection.

5. Kurt Tippett - Queensland
Relatively unknown until he exploded in the AFLQ finals in the Southport league side. Another basketball convert, suited to a key forward role and has shown the ability to assist in the ruck. Agile for a big man and deadly in front of goal. Impressed with four goals in the Rising Stars Cup. Should be a top 20 selection.

6. Tom Hislop - Tasmania
U18 All-Australian, physically tough inside midfielder. Good natural footballer, excellent skills with both hand and foot and impressive size for a midfielder. Most likely a top 20 pick.

7. Ricky Petterd - Queensland
Highly-rated midfielder after claiming the Harrison Medal for best player in division two at the national championships. Another Queensland representative in the U18 All-Australian side. Relatively quiet in the AFLQ but has smooth skills and leadership qualities. Chance to go in the first round but more likely to slip to the second round.

8. Brent Renouf - Queensland
Excellent form in the AFLQ finals for Southport, highly-rated ruckman who is easily one of the best talls to come out of Queensland this year. Showed flexibility when playing in the ruck and as a key defender in Southport's AFLQ grand final win. Top 10 in the vertical leap and 3km time-trial at the draft camp. A late first-round/early second-round selection.

9. Nathan Djerrkura - Northern Territory
NT MVP and its only representative in the U18 All-Australian side at the national championships. Impressive in the Rising Stars Cup win for the Allies with 23 disposals. Excellent draft camp,
finishing top 10 in agility, 30m repeat sprints, 20m sprint and beep test. Most likely a second-round selection.

10. Craig Bird - New South Wales/ACT
The captain and MVP for NSW/ACT at the U18 national championships, also their only All-Australian representative. Hard-working inside midfielder with 27 disposals in the Rising Stars Cup match. Could go anywhere in the draft and would be a handy asset with great work in the stoppages.

[mightytiges]

9. Shane Edwards – North Adelaide
Terrific athletic qualities for a skinny midfielder. Hard working on-baller and despite skinny frame is a very good tackler (11 tackles in SANFL preliminary final). Third in the beep test at the draft camp. Outstanding endurance and aggression, but small size could see him drop to a late-round pick.

We are apparently very interested in Edwards.

8. Justin Westhoff - Central
Centre half forward prospect with a long, precise kick and strong mark. 19-year-old who played at league level in the SANFL this season. Terrific height for a key forward prospect but would need to add weight. If he can add around 10kg to his frame he would have tremendous upside for which ever club picks him up. Also a likely late-round pick.

If he's still around Westoff might be another good late draft pick or even rookie pick.

[WilliamPowell]

7. Jarryd Allen – Calder
U18 AA while representing Vic Metro at the national championships earlier this year. Versatile key position player who can play at either end of the ground. Could settle at centre half back in AFL. Could definitely be a huge bolter on draft day with the potential to go anywhere from top 20 to top 35.

This is a kid I'd seriously be looking at - thought he was very impressive in the TAC Grand Final

[Gordon Bennett]

It's interesting that of the 10 Victorians, 8 played for Vic Country in the under 18 championships. Only Houli and Allen played for Vic Metro, the actual winners .

[bluey_21]

Victoria Top 10

1. Lachlan Hansen – Gippsland
Courageous key position player with one of the best contested marks in this year’s draft pool. Played at all positions down the spine during the U18 national championships but looks more suited to a defensive role. Dominates his opponents and does not drop many marks. Showed his amazing courage and hunger for the ball when getting knocked out in a national championships game while running back into a pack. One of five Vic Country players selected in the U18 All-Australian side. Excellent endurance and is freakishly athletic for his size. Minor hip surgery won’t stop Hansen from being drafted in the top five, while he is also considered a chance to go No.1.

2. Joel Selwood – Bendigo
One of the classiest young inside midfielders to come through the draft, brother of West Coast’s Adam and Brisbane’s Troy. Cool and composed in the stoppages, where he does his best work extracting the ball and winning possession. Physically tough player who centres aggression on winning the hard ball. Prefers to feed possessions to outside midfielders and running players in the same mould as Western Bulldogs star Daniel Cross. Excellent leadership skills also make him a more attractive prospect. Missed this year’s championships due to injury. Could be selected anywhere in the top 10.

3. Nathan Brown – North Ballarat
Another key position prospect more suited to a defensive role. Hard at the ball, great closing speed and damaging on the rebound. Vic Country MVP and U18 AA fullback at this year’s championships. Played forward at times for Rebels but clearly preferred option would be at fullback or centre half back. Could sneak into the top 10 or could be picked up anywhere from pick 10 to 25.

4. Daniel Connors – Bendigo
Quick inside midfielder, courageous and outstanding disposal. Has the ability to get the hard ball at stoppages as well as receive possession on the outside while using his pace to break the lines. Could also develop into a floating half back flanker, but has more upside as an inside midfielder. Strong overhead and a strong-bodied player. Tackling is only question mark but will most likely go between pick 10 and 20.

5. Bachar Houli – Western Jets
Tremendous, damaging skills for a small midfielder. Despite small size, Houli is hard at the ball and is superb in contested situations. Very smart player with outstanding vision and awareness. Missed out on U18 AA selection despite impressing at the championships. Struggled with ankle and back injuries in 2005 but had an injury-free 2006 season. Could be selected anywhere between pick 10 and 25.

6. Ben Reid – Murray Bushrangers
Tall, skinny key position player with huge upside and potential. Impressive at the U16 championships in 2005. Good set of hands, can take a contested mark, good leap and is very mobile and athletic for his size. Good defensive rebounder but can also play as a key forward. At 17 years of age, Reid is only just eligible for this year’s draft, so he has tremendous potential to develop into a solid key position player. Most likely selected between pick 16 and 30.

7. Jarryd Allen – Calder
U18 AA while representing Vic Metro at the national championships earlier this year. Versatile key position player who can play at either end of the ground. Could settle at centre half back in AFL. Could definitely be a huge bolter on draft day with the potential to go anywhere from top 20 to top 35.

8. Mitch Brown – North Ballarat
Brother of Nathan Brown, both in the same mould – key position players who can play at either end of the ground. Starred when swung forward in a championships match against WA. Big, strong body who loves the contest, in similar mould to Demon Brad Miller. Should also be selected somewhere after pick 20 which is a high-value pick for the club that picks him up.

9. Jarrad Harbrow – Murray Bushrangers
Can play as an inside or outside midfielder. Greatest assets are pace, kicking and goal sense. Didn’t have an extremely impressive championships campaign or draft camp but goalkicking midfielders can be invaluable. Should be selected somewhere after pick 25.

10. Grant Weeks – Bendigo
Key position player who finished runner up in Bendigo’s best and fairest this season. Tall flanker who developed into more of a full forward at the Pioneers in 2006. Presents to contests well and is good overhead. Accuracy in front of goal is one of his only weaknesses. Best suited to a half forward flank or lead-up centre half forward role. Most likely selected somewhere after pick 30.

*Tom Hawkins and Josh Kennedy were not considered as they will be picked up via the father/son rule.

Connors 4th best Victorian on offer hmmmm. IMO Bachar Houli, Ben Reid and a couple of others still ahead of him. Rate him highlight though

[one-eyed]

FootyGoss Mock Draft - First round selections
Posted Nov 03, 2006 - 12:01 PM
By Jay Rooney

With the November 25 national draft not too far away, here is a look at the FootyGoss Mock Draft first round predictions:

1. Bryce Gibbs - Carlton
More of a natural footballer than an athlete but possesses freakish skills. Played senior footy for Glenelg in 2005 and 2006. One of only two South Australians that made the U18 AA side this year and was named SA’s MVP. Genuine midfielder, not lightning quick, but football ability and awareness make up for that. Can also be effective as a goalkicking wingman. By far the best midfield prospect in the draft pool and the Blues will look to give the likes of Stevens and Scotland more assistance.

2. Scott Gumbleton - Essendon
The highly-touted 18-year-old looks to be the complete centre half forward - strong contested mark, thin yet surprisingly strong and powerful. Made the successful transition to Peel's league side this season, including 5 Sandover Medal votes in the season-opener. U18 All-Australian this year and appears to be the most outstanding key forward in the draft. Sheedy will find it difficult to look past this sensational key position prospect.

3. Lachlan Hansen - Kangaroos
Courageous key position player with one of the best contested marks in this year’s draft pool. Played at all positions down the spine during the U18 national championships but looks more suited to a defensive role. Dominates his opponents and does not drop many marks. Showed his amazing courage and hunger for the ball when getting knocked out in a national championships game while running back into a pack. One of five Vic Country players selected in the U18 All-Australian side. Excellent endurance and is freakishly athletic for his size. Minor hip surgery won’t stop the Kangaroos selecting Hansen, who will provide assistance to a disappointing Roos defence.

4. Joel Selwood - Brisbane
One of the classiest young inside midfielders to come through the draft. Cool and composed in the stoppages, where he does his best work extracting the ball and winning possession. Physically tough player who centres aggression on winning the hard ball. Prefers to feed possessions to outside midfielders and running players in the same mould as Western Bulldogs star Daniel Cross. Excellent leadership skills also make him a more attractive prospect. Missed this year’s championships due to injury. Lions' midfield still needs attention and pairing Joel with brother Troy will provide a massive boost.

5. Matthew Leuenberger - Port Adelaide
Named the starting ruckman in the U18 All-Australian side after dominating at the national championships. Played at league level for the Royals this season, but was eligible to play in the colts' finals campaign, where he showed just why he is the best young ruckman in the country. 10 possessions and 29 hitouts in the Royals' grand final win earned Leuenberger the Mel Whinnen Medal for best on ground. Registered a 3.02sec 20m sprint time at draft camp, placing in the top 40 per cent, which is unexpected for a 202cm ruckman. Port will look to Leuenberger as a replacement for veteran Brendon Lade.

6. Mitchell Thorp - Hawthorn
One of the most talented and versatile key position players in this year's draft crop, can play at either end of the ground. Didn't have a great season for Tasmania in the VFL, but shined at the U18 national championships with All-Australian selection as well as Tasmania's MVP award. A spine including Franklin, Roughead, Dowler and Thorp will be a potent mix in years to come.

7. Daniel Connors - Geelong
Quick inside midfielder, courageous and outstanding disposal. Has the ability to get the hard ball at stoppages as well as receive possession on the outside while using his pace to break the lines. Could also develop into a floating half back flanker, but has more upside as an inside midfielder. Strong overhead and a strong-bodied player. Perhaps somewhat of a surprise top 10 selection, but has the skill and talent to become one of the Cats' premier midfielders.

8. James Sellar - Collingwood
Ruckman/key forward who has smooth skills for a key position player. Solid athleticism and is effective in contested situations. Good leap evident with a top 10 finish in the vertical leap at this year’s draft camp. Height could be the only question mark as to whether he can ruck at AFL level or will be a key forward. Dominated the 2005 U16 championships but failed to impress in this year’s U18 championships, when he reportedly suffered due to a bout of the flu. Will provide much-needed assistance as a key forward with Tarrant's departure and Rocca ageing.

9. Leroy Jetta - St Kilda
Freakishly quick midfielder/forward pocket who takes players on and breaks games open with his outstanding goal sense. Also an U18 All-Australian this year and finished in the top 10 in the Prendergast Medal for the reserves best and fairest. Will help add dash and flair to St Kilda's workman-like midfield.

10. Albert Proud - Collingwood
Pacey midfielder who knows how to find the ball. Superb combination of pace, aggression and hardness. Experienced injury problems this year. Can play both as an inside and outside midfielder, enjoys breaking the lines and taking players on. Pies need injection of midfield youth with Buckley, Licuria, O'Bree and Burns not getting any younger.

11. Eric Mackenzie - Western Bulldogs
Key position player more suited to a role in defense. Excellent skills, damaging on the rebound and very impressive bodywork when opposed to a key forward. Does have the ability to play at either end, but will most likely fill the imminent void at centre half-back with 2007 likely to be Chris Grant's final year.

12. Clayton Collard - Melbourne
Almost in the same mould as teammate Jetta but is slightly more suited to the midfield. Played nine league games in 2006 including 18 possessions, nine marks and five goals against Swan Districts. Suffering from osteitis pubis, which restricted him at draft camp. Will add flair to Melbourne's hard-nosed midfield while he can also be used across half-forward.

13. David Armitage - Richmond
U18 All-Australian, another quick, skilled midfielder who helped Queensland capture the division two title at the championships. Knows how to find the footy and courage cannot be questioned. Stocks on the rise after best agility test in the country at draft camp. Also finished top 10 in beep test and 3km time-trial. Should help feed the Tigers' outside running midfielders.

14. Jack Riewoldt - Adelaide
Excellent season in Tasmania's VFL league side, overshadowing teammate Thorp. Cousin of St Kilda star Nick, more suited to a key forward role. One of the best contested marks in this year's draft pool. Will help solve Adelaide's inconsistent forward line with efficient goal-kicking and strong leading up the ground.

15. Clinton Benjamin - Sydney
Versatile utility who can also play as a forward or defender. Good endurance and speed for a 187cm utility. Played predominantly as a key defender at the U18 national championships this year. Only question is disposal, particularly on the left foot, but pace and versatility will be a huge asset for the Swans.

16. Tom Hislop - West Coast
U18 All-Australian, physically tough inside midfielder. Good natural footballer, excellent skills with both hand and foot and impressive size for a midfielder. Eagles have indicated that they will select key position players later in the draft and will continue streak of taking inside midfielders early in the draft.

http://www.footygoss.com/modules.php?op=modload&name=News&file=article&sid=31168

[Gordon Bennett]

If we do go for Armitage, then I'd say Craig McCrae might have played a part in that choice (as coach of their u/18's). In fact, with such a quality group of Queenslanders this year, his inside position may well be drawn on. Expect us to pick up a Queenslander with one of our late picks as well.
Armitage is usually described as an inside mid - Miller allegedly said we have enough inside mids, during trade week. I suspect we might go for someone like Connors, if still available.

[mightytiges]

Expect us to pick up a Queenslander with one of our late picks as well.

I would be happy with Queenslander Gavin Grose with a late pick if he is still around. Just seemed to have good footy smarts for a modern defender (when to play close; when to run off and rebound) with decent foot skills.

Armitage is usually described as an inside mid - Miller allegedly said we have enough inside mids, during trade week. I suspect we might go for someone like Connors, if still available.

If Connors is gone and Armitage is best available at pick 13 then we should take him. We have Cogs coming back from a knee, question marks over Tuck (as far as leg speed) and then Foley who'll only be in his third year. Lids of course could play inside mid as he can play any number of possies but I wouldn't necessarily agree with Miller and say we have enough inside mids even though footy is now days more a hard running game. We actually need IMO another couple of blokes who can win their own footy in tight and break out into open space with their speed and then deliver precisely by foot. We still get torn to shreads in the midfield. The more talented blokes we can rotate through the midfield the more dangerous a side we will become.

[Ramps]

theres a difference between quality inside mids and inside mids...i can guarantee we dont have enough of the first and we have an overload of the latter. We should take inside mid at 13 or 26.

[mightytiges]

theres a difference between quality inside mids and inside mids...i can guarantee we dont have enough of the first and we have an overload of the latter.

Sadly very true Ramps

[one-eyed]

Footygoss.com has completed the remaining rounds of their phantom draft:

http://www.footygoss.com.au/modules.php?op=modload&name=News&file=article&sid=31333&mode=thread&order=0&thold=0

Priority Picks:

17. Brock O’Brien – Carlton
Physical midfielder/half back flanker in the same mould Brock McLean. Thrives on physical contests and impressed at last two national championships at U18 level. Also played a handful of games in Peel's league side. Will add some grunt to the Blues’ midfield and is also handy in defense.

18. Nathan Brown – Essendon
Key position prospect more suited to a defensive role. Hard at the ball, great closing speed and damaging on the rebound. Vic Country MVP and U18 AA fullback at this year’s championships. Played forward at times for Rebels but clearly preferred option would be in defense. Could fill the void at CHB for Bombers.

Round 2:

19. Daniel O’Keefe – Carlton
Had an outstanding season for the Geelong Falcons, winning their best and fairest award while also claiming the goalkicking award. The typical half back flanker who racks up possessions on the rebound. Restricted at draft camp due to injury, but could be the biggest steal of the draft.

20. Bachar Houli – Essendon
Tremendous, damaging skills for a small midfielder. Despite small size, Houli is hard at the ball and is superb in contested situations. Very smart player with outstanding vision and awareness. Missed out on U18 AA selection despite impressing at the championships. Struggled with ankle and back injuries in 2005 but had an injury-free 2006 season. Will add more pace to the Bombers’ young midfield.

21. Chris Schmidt – Kangaroos
Classy midfielder that showed his potential at the 2005 U16 championships where he was SA’s third best player behind Gibbs and Sellar. Suited to roles in the midfield, wing or forward flanks. Very smart footballer with excellent disposal. With Sellar out of form, Schmidt was clearly SA’s second best at the U18 championships. Top 10 in handspan testing at draft camp. Good overhead for a midfielder and has a strong mark. Kangaroos will aim for a midfielder after taking key position player with its first selection and Schmidt will add class to a developing Roos’ midfield.

22. Ricky Petterd – Brisbane
Highly-rated midfielder after claiming the Harrison Medal for best player in division two at the national championships. Another Queensland representative in the U18 All-Australian side. Relatively quiet in the AFLQ but has smooth skills and leadership qualities. Lions will jump at opportunity to snag the local product with its second selection.

23. Jarryd Allen – Port Adelaide
U18 AA while representing Vic Metro at the national championships earlier this year. Versatile key position player who can play at either end of the ground. Will most likely be groomed for a key defensive role with Bishop retiring and Wakelin nearing the end of his career.

24. Travis Boak – Hawthorn
Classy outside midfielder with good goal sense and speed. Also affective as a running winger. Has genuine class and match-breaking ability. Only question mark would be inconsistent disposal. Very balanced and good overhead. Hawks will look for a speedy midfielder with its second pick and Boak could well be the answer.

25. Rhyce Prismall – Geelong
Half forward/midfielder who can be used in an Andrew Embley or Brett Burton-type role, playing primarily in the midfield whilst damaging when drifting forward. Runner-up in the Western Jets best and fairest after a solid year in the TAC Cup. Very dangerous around goals and a superb work ethic. Cats will look to pair Rhyce with older brother Brent and as a bottom-aged player, the younger Prismall has plenty of upside.

26. James Hawksley – Richmond
Doesn't have the same profile as many of the other highly-touted WA prospects but has a good combination of pace and height. Can be used on a wing or half-back flank, but more suited to a role in defense. Member of the 2005 AIS/AFL academy. Quite thin and will take time to develop, but could settle in as a small defender for the Tigers.

27. Kurt Tippett – St Kilda
Relatively unknown until he exploded in the AFLQ finals in the Southport league side. Another basketball convert, suited to a key forward role and has shown the ability to assist in the ruck. Agile for a big man and deadly in front of goal. Impressed with four goals in the Rising Stars Cup. Will help the loss of ruckman Cain Ackland while also providing another potent target up forward.

28. Andrejs Everitt – Collingwood
Key defensive prospect and younger brother of star ruckman Peter. Lightly-framed but has an impressive leap and is definitely capable of being groomed into a key defensive role at AFL level. Third in agility test at draft camp, top 10 in handspan. Will be an injection of youth into the Magpies’ ageing key defensive stocks.

29. Ben Reid – West Coast
Long-term key forward prospect with huge upside and potential. Impressive at the U16 championships in 2005. Good set of hands, can take a contested mark, good leap and is very mobile and athletic for his size. Good defensive rebounder but looks to be more suited to the forward line. At 17 years of age, Reid is only just eligible for this year’s draft, so he has tremendous potential to develop into a solid key position player. The Eagles need a boost to its key position stocks and have the time to wait for Reid to develop.

30. Mark Austin – Melbourne
Bottom-aged key position player who impressed at the draft camp. Showing superb development at a young age. Can play at either end of the ground but appears more suited to centre half back. Could be a huge steal at pick 30 for the Demons with tremendous upside.

31. Shane Edwards – Fremantle
Terrific athletic qualities for a skinny midfielder. Hard working on-baller and despite skinny frame is a very good tackler (11 tackles in SANFL preliminary final). Third in the beep test at the draft camp. Outstanding endurance and aggression. Can also be used as a speedy winger which would be an attractive option for the Dockers and the wide expanses of Subiaco Oval.

32. Nathan Djerrkura – Adelaide
NT MVP and its only representative in the U18 All-Australian side at the national championships. Impressive in the Rising Stars Cup win for the Allies with 23 disposals. Excellent draft camp, finishing top 10 in agility, 30m repeat sprints, 20m sprint and beep test. In addition to key position players, the Crows also need to add pace to its midfield and Djerrkura will do just that.

33. Nathan Krakouer – Hawthorn
A small forward/wingman with superb speed. Draft stocks improved immensely after excelling at draft camp, finishing in the top 10 in the 30-metre repeat sprints and just 0.04 seconds shy of the 20-metre sprint record held by Port Adelaide's Danyle Pearce in 2004. Very skinny frame but the Hawks can afford to be patient while he develops physically. Will provide an important injection of speed and agility into Hawthorn’s hard-working midfield.

34. Brent Renouf – Brisbane
Queensland ruckman who showed excellent form in the AFLQ finals for Southport. Showed flexibility when playing in the ruck and as a key defender in Southport's AFLQ grand final win. Top 10 in the vertical leap and 3km time-trial at the draft camp. Skills and disposal are questionable, but Lions will be keen to add another ruckman following Keating’s de-listing.

[one-eyed]

continued.....

Round 3:

35. Todd Goldstein – Carlton. Victorian ruckman with excellent height at over 200cm.

36. Jarryd Morton – Essendon. Claremont utility with ability to play at either end of the ground, solid at national championships in defense.

37. Garry Moss – Kangaroos. Small midfielder, clearance specialist, WA U18 captain. Could be a steal much like Andrew Swallow in last year’s draft.

38. Gavin Urquhart – Brisbane. Hard ball-winning midfielder, Lions will be keen to grab another local product.

39. Jackson Sheringham – Port Adelaide. Quick wingman who takes opposition on with pace. Only question mark is kicking skills.

40. Josh Kennedy – Hawthorn (F/S). Father-son selection, big-bodied, tough midfielder. Similar clearance-winning ability to Sam Mitchell and Jordan Lewis.

41. Tom Hawkins – Geelong (F/S). Son of Jack Hawkins, genuine power forward with fantastic marking ability. May have been no.1 selection if not taken with father-son selection.

42. Caleb Mourish – Essendon. Tall midfielder, gamble that could prove worthwhile despite poor state screening results. Impressive in Great Northern Football League.

43. Shaun Grigg – West Coast. Versatility will appeal to Eagles. Plays mostly as a midfielder or forward without standing out in any area.

44. Simon Hogan – Collingwood. Star of the draft camp but could be a bit of a risky selection. Extremely slim but pace will appeal to Magpies as they rebuild midfield.

45. Jarrad Harbrow – Western Bulldogs. Can play as inside or outside midfielder, excellent goal sense and foot skills. Stocks fell with disappointing national championships performance.

46. Tim Houlihan – Melbourne. Midfielder/half back who was among North Ballarat’s best in the TAC Cup finals. Impressive draft camp results, came close to setting new record for 3km trial. Could be a steal this late in the draft for the Dees.

47. Nathan Batsanis – Essendon. Solid all-round midfielder who impressed this year. Will slip down the draft board as he lacks any single stand-out qualities.

48. Alex Lee - Adelaide. Key position prospect, AIS/AFL academy member, athletic for a big man and plenty of upside as he is still relatively raw.

49. Ben Ross – Sydney. Wingman/half forward flanker, explosive speed, always amongst the goals. Good pressure and tackling when used as a small forward.

50. Carl Peterson – West Coast. Impressive forward who booted five goals on debut for Claremont. Eagles will be keen to pick up some local talent.

Round 4:

51. Leigh Adams – Carlton. Versatile and physically ready for AFL level. Can be used in the midfield, defense as a rebounding back pocket or up forward where he is also handy.

52. Kyle Reimers – Fremantle. Peel product who can play all over the ground. Sixth in agility test at draft camp, pace can be exploited on wide expanses of Subiaco Oval.

53. James Frawley – Kangaroos. Pure defender who can play on the flanks or as a third tall in the same mould as James Clement. Replacement for Troy Makepeace who will help resurrect Roos’ defense along with Hansen.

54. Mitch Brown – Brisbane. Key position player that can play at either end of the ground. Extremely versatile and could be groomed as a key defender for Lions.

55. James Turner – Port Adelaide. Classy medium-sized forward. Outstanding for SA at national championships, Power will be keen to pick up the local product.

56. Sam Jacobs – Hawthorn. Mobile ruckman, strong overhead and good size. Stepped up to league level in SANFL this year. Will provide some depth for Hawks’ ruck stocks.

57. Dean Kelly – Geelong. Wins the contested possessions in the midfield while also useful as a forward. Won Oakleigh’s best and fairest in 2005 and was outstanding in the 2006 TAC Cup grand final.

58. Tom Collier – Richmond. Tall defender, still very raw and will take time to develop, could be the long-term replacement for Darren Gaspar.

59. Shaun Hampson – St Kilda. Saints will be keen to add another genuine ruckman to its list with Tippett perhaps more suited to a role up forward.

60. Todd Pfeiffer – Richmond. Midfielder with huge wraps until a poor 2006 season damaged his draft stocks. However, his pace will fit perfectly into the Tigers’ rebounding and running style.

61. Chris Dawes – Western Bulldogs. Key position player who was touted as a top 20 pick before suffering a serious knee injury. Could be a steal this late in the draft depending on recovery from injury.

62. David MacKay – Melbourne. Speedy wingman with precise disposal. Could develop into a handy outside assistance to Demons’ tough midfielders.

63. Ryan Anderson – Collingwood. AIS/AFL academy graduate, speedy midfielder with good leadership credentials. Just what the Pies need with an ageing midfield.

64. Zac Millar – Adelaide. Former AIS/AFL academy member with skill and talent. Suited to a role either as a half forward flanker of midfielder. Deadly goal sense and excellent disposal.

65. Joseph Anderson – Sydney. Classy NT product, precise skills, half back flanker with potential to develop into a midfielder.

66. Alwyn Davey – Western Bulldogs. Outstanding small crumbing forward, brother of Melbourne star Aaron. Explosive pace and excellent defensive pressure. Crumbing skills will be useful with Dogs improving key position stocks.