One-Eyed Richmond Forum
Football => View from the Outer => Topic started by: mightytiges on June 30, 2004, 12:07:08 AM
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The National's AFL U18 Championships Draw
MELBOURNE, JULY 3-11, 2004
DIVISION ONE
Sunday, July 4:
Match one: Vic Metro v Vic Country, 11am, MCG
Match two: Western Australia v South Australia, 1.30pm, MCG
Wednesday, July 7:
Winner match one v loser match two, 11am,, Skilled Stadium
Winner match two v loser match one, 1.30pm,, Skilled Stadium
Sunday, July 11:
Winner match one v winner match two, 10.30am, MCG
Loser match one v loser match two, 2pm,, Optus Oval
DIVISION TWO
Saturday, July 3:
Match one: Northern Territory v NSW/ACT, 11am, TEAC Oval
Match two: Tasmania v Queensland, 1.30pm, TEAC Oval
Tuesday, July 6:
Winner match one v loser match two, 10.30am, Optus Oval
Winner match two v loser match one, 1pm, Optus Oval
Saturday, July 10:
Loser match one v loser match two, 10am,, Optus Oval
Winner match one v winner match two, 12.15pm, Optus Oval
Match conditions Round-robin format; winner in each division will be the team which wins the most games. Where two teams are tied for first position, the team which won the match played between them shall be declared the winner of that division.
Where three teams are tied, the team with the highest percentage will be declared the winner. There will be no drawn matches. Where scores are level at full-time, the time keeper shall not sound the siren until another score (goal or behind) is registered.
http://afl.com.au/default.asp?pg=aflfocus&spg=display&articleid=157222
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For those with FOX Footy:
8th July:
12.00pm - Div 2 Game 1
2.00pm - Div 2 Game 2
9th July:
12.30pm - Div 1 Game 1
2.30pm - Div 1 Game 2
11th July: Live!
10.20am (EST) - Grand Final
http://www.foxtel.com.au/TVGuide.aspx
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They previewed a couple of kids on Talking Footy that will be first to go:
1. Brett Deledio (Vic Country) - 187cm midfielder. Skilled both sides of body and from the clips looked to have poise and a footy brain but it's hard to tell without seeing him in a few games live.
2. Lance Franklin (WA) - 6ft 4 (~194cm) KPP/Forward.
Both would fit in with our needs - a KPP and a midfielder.
They also showed Travis Cloke (Pies) and Mitchell Morton (Eagles) who'll both be picked up as F/S.
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AFL's annual 'star search' gets underway
2 July, 2004
Matt Burgan
Sportal/exclusive to afl.com.au
With the all-important second half of the AFL season set to recommence on Friday night, another crucial competition also begins this weekend when the National's AFL under 18 championships kicks off on Saturday.
Six days of matches, held from July 3-11, will showcase Australia's best under-age talent, as the next wave of footballers continue their quest of reaching the highest level.
With the majority of players selected at the National AFL Draft every year coming from the championships, the next nine days will be a vital period for the country's elite youngsters, recruiters and AFL clubs alike.
The importance of the under 18 championships was vindicated by the early selections in last year's National AFL Draft - every player drafted from the priority and first round played in last year's carnival.
Although the championships will be a closely scrutinised and analysed, there is also another crucial element in the tournament - state and territory pride is on the line.
Two divisions consist in these championships. Division one features South Australia, Vic Country, Vic Metro and Western Australia, while the second division comprises of NSW/ACT, Northern Territory, Queensland and Tasmania.
AFL national talent manager Kevin Sheehan said the opening match in division one, which will see Vic Metro and Vic Country go head-to-head, will continue a fierce rivalry, particularly after Vic Country won last year.
He nominated several players from both Victorian teams to watch in Sunday's division one opener at the MCG.
Victoria Country
Andrew McQualter - "A Gippsland Power/Caulfield Grammar player who looks certain to step up into the midfield after playing as a small/medium defender last year."
Brett Deledio - "He was a star at under-16 level for Vic Country last year. With his trial form and his form for the Bushrangers, he is expected to be a key midfielder."
Jarryd Roughead - "A strong marking key forward and a powerful kick on his left foot, he will be an obvious target for Vic Country in these championships.
John Meeson - "A 200cm ruckman from the Geelong Falcons, whose mobility, marking up forward and goalkicking potential makes him an important target."
Victoria Metropolitan
Luke Herrington - "The small livewire forward kicked 17 goals in three games last year. Anything near that level will make him an invaluable asset for Vic Metro."
Eddie Betts - "Another star small forward who is back for another crack and like Herrington, he is super smart around goal. Betts wasn't eligible for the draft last year."
Mark Murphy - "Murphy is the son of John, the five-time best and fairest winner with Fitzroy. He is a very smart, fall of the ball forward/midfielder."
Ryan Willitts - "A 196cm key position forward, he kicked eight in a recent match at TAC Cup level, in what was described as a super performance."
Beau Dowler - "A 191cm key forward, who is not eligible for the draft, but is an exciting talent who is playing with the Oakleigh Chargers in the TAC Cup."
Travis Cloke - "A left-foot kick, with strong hands, he is the son of Richmond and Collingwood champion David and the brother of Magpies' Jason and Cameron."
But there will be no love lost in the second of the division one double-header at the MCG on Sunday, when Western Australia plays South Australia.
The Croweaters will be looking for their first title at under 18 level. They have not won a championship since 1995, when the carnival was staged at under 17 level and Warren Tredrea, Stuart Dew and Jared Crouch were all starring for South Australia.
But Western Australia, too, will be looking to win its first major since 1999, when Paul Hasleby, Joel Corey and Leon Davis were dominating for the state.
On Saturday, the championship officially begins when the Northern Territory and NSW/ACT clash in the opening game of division two at 11am at Teac Oval.
The division two teams are an important part of the championships, particularly with some of the hidden gems recruited from these teams. He pointed to 2004 AFL listed players from the 2001 division two players as an example.
New South Wales: Brett Doswell (Fremantle), Henry Playfair (Geelong), Dale Ellis (Port Adelaide), Paul Bevan, James Meiklejohn, Mark Powell, Lewis Roberts-Thomson, Aaron Rogers, Adam Schneider (Sydney) and Brent Staker (West Coast).
Northern Territory: Trent Hentschel (Adelaide), Jared Brennan, Anthony Corrie, Tom Logan (Brisbane Lions), Aaron Davey (Melbourne), Raphael Clarke and Xavier Clarke (St Kilda).
Queensland: Josh Drummond, Joel Macdonald, Matt Pardew (Brisbane Lions), Paul Shelton (Hawthorn), David Hale (Kangaroos) and Brad Miller (Melbourne).
Tasmania: Tom Davidson, Luke Shackleton (Collingwood), Jason Laycock (Essendon) and Barry Brooks (St Kilda).
http://afl.com.au/default.asp?pg=news&spg=display&articleid=157920
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Here's the U18's team lists (heights, weights, DOB, etc..).
Division 1
Vic Metro (http://afl.com.au/default.asp?pg=pathwayarchive&spg=u18champsdisplay&articleid=157653)
Vic Country (http://afl.com.au/default.asp?pg=pathwayarchive&spg=u18champsdisplay&articleid=157652)
South Australia (http://afl.com.au/default.asp?pg=pathwayarchive&spg=u18champsdisplay&articleid=157958)
Western Australia (http://afl.com.au/default.asp?pg=pathwayarchive&spg=u18champsdisplay&articleid=157645)
Division 2
Tasmania (http://afl.com.au/default.asp?pg=pathwayarchive&spg=u18champsdisplay&articleid=157644)
Queensland (http://afl.com.au/default.asp?pg=pathwayarchive&spg=u18champsdisplay&articleid=157646)
NSW/ACT (http://afl.com.au/default.asp?pg=pathwayarchive&spg=u18champsdisplay&articleid=157649)
Northern Territory (http://afl.com.au/default.asp?pg=pathwayarchive&spg=u18champsdisplay&articleid=157642)
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2004 Day One Results
6:54:21 PM Sat 3 July, 2004
Sportal
NSW/ACT 10.13 (73) d Northern Territory 10.7 (67)
Goals:
NSW/ACT: Prior 3, Coczur 3, Bennett 2, Bartlett 1, Hodgson 1.
Northern Territory: Roberts 2, Motlop 2, Tambling 2, Mansell 1, Calma 1, Gale 1, McLean 1.
Best:
NSW/ACT: Prior, Tutt, Shaw, Hodgson, Stanton, Stapleton.
Northern Territory: Tambling, McLean, Motlop, Corrie, Richardson, Sawyer.
Tasmania 14.7 (91) d Queensland 8.10 (58)
Goals:
Tasmania: Crawford 3, Lee 2, Garth 2, Keeley 2, Howard 1, O'Donoghue 1, Grimmer 1, Harding 1, Bielski 1.
Queensland: Hall 2, Skrinis 2, Garling 1, Tanton 1, Page 1, Williams 1.
Best:
Tasmania: Lee, Cairns, Garth, Wade, Lonergan, Bielski.
Queensland: Hall, West, Allan, Hamill, Lucy, West.
http://afl.com.au/default.asp?pg=pathwayarchive&spg=u18champsdisplay&articleid=158128
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2004 Day 2 results
4:36:38 PM Sun 4 July, 2004
Sportal
Western Australia: 2.2 4.2 6.4 8.7 (55)
South Australia: 5.0 9.2 10.4 15.6 (96)
Goals:
Western Australia: Morton 2, Corbett-Wynne, Cox, Delmenico, Franklin, Wilkes, Wright
South Australia: Grundy 3, McLeay 3, Thomson 2, Batchelor, Griffen, Meyer, Monfries, Saunders, Sugars, Taylor
Best:
Western Australia: Morton, Franklin, Hams, Bowers, Le Cras, J.Smith
South Australia: Griffen, Grundy, Batchelor, McLeay, Stribling, Monfries
Match report (http://afl.com.au/default.asp?pg=pathwayarchive&spg=u18champsdisplay&articleid=158217)
Victoria Metropolitan: 4.0 8.1 15.3 19.6 (120)
Victoria Country: 3.0 5.1 6.4 8.9 (57)
Goals:
Vic Metro: Herrington 4, Willitts 4, Little 2, M.Murphy 2, J.W.Smith 2, Bain, Betts, Jolley, May, Moore
Vic Country: Herring 2, Rosa 2, Deledio, Lewis, Pendlebury, S.Young
Best:
Vic Metro: Murphy, Willitts, Sharp, J.W.Smith, Bain, Herrington
Vic Country: Polo, Lewis, Rosa, Deledio, Drum, Kirby
Match report (http://afl.com.au/default.asp?pg=pathwayarchive&spg=u18champsdisplay&articleid=158198)
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After a request we've made this thread a sticky for future reference when the draft/trade period is on later in the year and also to allow anyone who sees any junior(s) that catch their eye to report about them here. Cheers :).
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By Emma Quayle
realfooty.theage.com.au
July 5, 2004
(http://www.realfooty.theage.com.au/ffximage/2004/07/04/deledio_0507.jpg)
Brett Deledio
Picture: Ray Kennedy
AFL clubs looking to boost their ruck stocks at this year's national draft could have their best choice in some time, with several young ruckman standing out in the opening games of the national under-18 championships.
The Kangaroos, West Coast, Collingwood, Richmond and the Brisbane Lions would also have left the first matches encouraged by the form of potential father-son selections Jesse Smith, Mitchell Morton, Travis Cloke and Marc Murphy.
John Meesen compiled 16 hit-outs for Vic Country in its 11-goal thrashing by Vic Metro in the first division one match at the MCG yesterday, a game in which Metro ruckman Fabian Deluca and Ivan Maric, were also useful. Earl Shaw was among NSW/ACT's better players in its division two win over the Northern Territory on Saturday while Cameron Wood displayed a promising leap and some good tap skills playing in the ruck for South Australia yesterday in its seven-goal win over Western Australia.
Melbourne recruiting manager Craig Cameron said that while this year's draft pool looked light on for ready-made key-position players, as most did, several of the ruck prospects would be first-round selections.
The AFL's development programs have been aimed at tall players in recent years and lured several from other sports. Maric, who plays for Calder Cannons in the TAC Cup, only just missed selection in a state basketball team this time last year, while Wood recently knocked back a scholarship offer to pursue a career in Major League Baseball.
"There are some pretty good ruckmen out there. A couple of them will go early, Deluca and probably Cameron Wood and a few others will be looked at closely," Cameron said.
"The key position players are a bit light on, but that's the same as always. We'll have to find our key position players somewhere, but I reckon that, with the development path the AFL's gone down, there are a few more there.
"I think they've been making a real effort to find more tall players. Queensland had five or six guys over 190 centimetres in its team so that was a pretty good effort. They got beaten, but those guys always take a bit longer to develop."
West Australian midfielder Morton was among his team's best players in the loss to South Australia and is available to West Coast this year as a third-round draft selection because his father, Noel, played for Claremont in the WAFL.
The Kangaroos have access to Smith, the son of ex-defender Ross Smith, who did some smart things on a wing and at half-back for Vic Metro, while the third Cloke brother, Travis, provided several contests at centre-half-forward.
One of Metro's best movers was Marc Murphy, who came into the squad late after a delayed start to his season. Murphy, whose father, John, played for Fitzroy, played Premier League cricket this year as a 16-year-old. The midfielder is too young to be drafted this November, but will become available to the Lions before next year's draft should he decide to stick with football.
Other players to impress yesterday included South Australian midfielder Ryan Griffen, a potential top-five draft pick and Vic Country onballers Dean Polo and Brett Deledio.
The next division one match is at Skilled Stadium on Wednesday, while division two continues tomorrow at Optus Oval with games between NSW/ACT and Queensland, and Tasmania and the Northern Territory.
http://www.realfooty.theage.com.au/realfooty/articles/2004/07/04/1088879374685.html
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AFL clubs looking to boost their ruck stocks at this year's national draft could have their best choice in some time, with several young ruckman standing out in the opening games of the national under-18 championships.
The Kangaroos, West Coast, Collingwood, Richmond and the Brisbane Lions would also have left the first matches encouraged by the form of potential father-son selections Jesse Smith, Mitchell Morton, Travis Cloke and Marc Murphy.
I think Travis Cloke only had 4 possessions ???
Melbourne recruiting manager Craig Cameron said that while this year's draft pool looked light on for ready-made key-position players, as most did, several of the ruck prospects would be first-round selections.
If we end up with a priority pick as well as the first rounder we may go for a midfielder and a ruckman with our first two picks by the sound of that. Fortunately a young ruckman is what we need (as well as midfielders and KPP).
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Burgatron's Top 10
6 July, 2004
Matt Burgan
Sportal/exclusive to afl.com.au
Round Two of the National Under 18 Championships are on at Optus Oval on Tuesday with the second day of the division two matches. Some great footy was played on the opening weekend, however, and after casting his eye over the action, our Matt Burgan lists his best 10 players from the first two days.
Please note this is not a prediction of how the first 10 picks of the National AFL Draft may pan out in November.
1. Heath Grundy - South Australia
Back for his second championship, Grundy was terrific up forward in his first game for South Australia against Western Australia, booting three goals and raking in 11 grabs - including seven contested marks. He also finished with 15 disposals. He stands at 190cm.
2. Ryan Griffen - South Australia
Another Croweater returning for the second successive year, Griffen was outstanding with 25 touches - the most for the match against Western Australia, which included 18 kicks. A midfielder at 186cm, he also chipped in with a goal. He is a standout prospect.
3. Marc Murphy - Victoria Metropolitan
Murphy, the son of five-time Fitzroy best-and-fairest winner John, was a shining light in Vic Metro's opening win over arch-rival Vic Country. He finished with 20 touches - the most for his side - while he also booted two goals. He was good in the clearances.
4. Ryan Willitts - Victoria Metropolitan
Very impressive key marking forward, Willitts took five marks - including some impressive contested marks - and finished with four goals against Vic Country. Standing at 196cm and 96kg, Willitts kicked eight goals in a recent TAC Cup match.
5. Toby Stribling - South Australia
Stribling put in an outstanding performance for South Australian against Western Australia. The dashing blonde-haired midfielder notched up 24 disposals - 12 kicks and 12 handballs - and pumped the ball inside 50 on eight occasions.
6. Mitchell Morton - Western Australia
Despite playing in Western Australia's losing side to South Australia, Morton showed why he is set to be pounced on as a father-son for West Coast - his father Noel played for Claremont - collecting 24 disposals and booting two goals in a fine display.
7. Richard Tambling - Northern Territory
He is another who played in a losing side in the opening round, yet the highly-rated Tambling put in an outstanding individual performance. He notched up 25 disposals, gained eight clearances, sent the ball inside 50 on eight occasions and kicked two goals.
8. Jesse W.Smith - Victoria Metropolitan
The son of former Kangaroos' defender Ross is likely to be taken as a father-son selection in this year's National's AFL Draft. He showed plenty to like about his game, notching up 16 touches, booting two goals, while sending the ball inside 50 on six occasions.
9. Ryan Bain - Victoria Metropolitan
Bain was a key contributor in Vic Metro's first round win over Vic Country, winning 16 touches, while he won plenty of loose balls and sent it inside 50 on six occasions. His performance was rated very highly by the Vic Metro coaching staff.
10. Nick Batchelor - South Australia
Another fine performer in South Australia's first-up victory over Western Australia, Batchelor was a strong performer in the midfield, gaining 16 disposals, four inside 50s, while he also chipped in with a goal. Stands at 182cm and hails from Norwood.
Matt Burgan is a staff writer for Sportal. The views expressed here are not necessarily those of the AFL or the clubs.
http://afl.com.au/default.asp?pg=news&spg=display&articleid=158502
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NT bounces back
4:37:56 PM Tue 6 July, 2004
Matt Burgan
Sportal
Tasmania: 2.2 5.4 8.6 11.8 (74)
Northern Territory: 2.3 5.9 12.10 14.13 (97)
Goals:
TAS: Crawford 3, Murphy 3, Bielski 2, Garth 2, Wade
NT: Roberts 3, Stephensen 3, Tambling 3, Ilett 2, Campbell, I.McLean, M.McLean
Best:
TAS: Crawford, Bielski, Garth, Wade, Rattenbury, Iles
NT: Ilett, Tambling, A.Motlop, Campbell, I.McLean, M.McLean
Match Report (http://afl.com.au/default.asp?pg=pathwayarchive&spg=u18champsdisplay&articleid=158609)
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I wouldn't mind us getting our hands on Richard Tambling MT, what do you think?
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I wouldn't mind us getting our hands on Richard Tambling MT, what do you think?
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.
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2004 Day 3 results
6:15:39 PM Tue 6 July, 2004
Sportal
NSW/ACT: 3.2 4.2 4.7 8.9 (57)
Queensland: 2.2 4.4 5.5 7.11 (53)
Goals:
NSW/ACT: Bennett 2, E.Clarke 2, Prior 2, Ford, Stanton
QLD: Spurr 2, Allan, McDonnell, Page, Tanton, West
Best:
NSW/ACT: Hodgson, Bennett, Bartlett, McGlynn, E.Clarke, Shaw
QLD: McGuane, Allan, Spurr, Tanton, Stiller, Hamill
http://afl.com.au/default.asp?pg=pathwayarchive&spg=u18champsdisplay&articleid=158736
2004: Day 4 Results:
Victoria Metropolitan: 3.1 5.5 7.7 7.8 (50)
Western Australia: 1.1 3.7 4.7 7.10 (52)
Goals: Vic Metro: Herrington 3, M.Murphy 2, Dowler, Knights
Western Australia: Hams 2, Bowers, Jones
Best: Vic Metro: M.Murphy, Prismall, J.D.Smith, Dowler, Moore, Herrington
Western Australia: Hams, Delmenico, Toovey, Nye, Jo.Smith, Blackwell
Match Report (http://afl.com.au/default.asp?pg=pathwayarchive&spg=u18champsdisplay&articleid=158799)
The Lions and Roos will be happy with again good performances from Marc Murphy and Jesse Smith.
I wonder how Travis Cloke went?
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I wonder how Travis Cloke went?
Who ? :o :o :o
Is he playing in these championships?
;D ;D ;D ;D
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LOL WP ;D
The Hun must have read your mind RR:
Top End gift to the AFL
07 July 2004 Herald Sun
Jon Anderson
(http://www.heraldsun.news.com.au/common/imagedata/0,1658,359143,00.jpg)
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
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Under-18 titles: Clubs get peek at draft pickings
05 July 2004
Herald Sun
Michael Horan
(http://www.heraldsun.news.com.au/common/imagedata/0,1658,358322,00.jpg)
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
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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 :o
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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 :o
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.
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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
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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
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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 (http://afl.com.au/default.asp?pg=pathwayarchive&spg=u18champsdisplay&articleid=159462)
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 (http://afl.com.au/default.asp?pg=pathwayarchive&spg=u18champsdisplay&articleid=159453)
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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
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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]
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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.
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How lucky are North getting a top 5 draft pick in Jesse Smith for a third rounder under the F/S :P. 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?
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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
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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
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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 :lol). :shh
Very tall but very lean (as per the 86kgs suggests) will keep an eye on him ;)
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He's in their under 19 squad but has played seniors and reserves this year. Shane Tuck's old club and coached by Shaun Rehn who could be a possible AFL assistant coach.
As a side note Paddy Steinfort plays for them. Injuries still haunt the poor guy :P.
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Good Wood on a tall future
The Adelaide Advertiser
By WARREN PARTLAND
14may04
NOT so long ago the West Adelaide Football Club was something of an embarrassment at the junior level. The under-19 side was thrashed week-in, week-out and the club struggled even to attract enough young players.
No longer. No. 1 draft pick Adam Cooney was on top of AFL club wishlists last season as a host of talent took the next step.
This season the Bloods have on their books another talent likely to draw plenty of attention.
Promising ruckman Cameron Wood made his SANFL debut on Saturday, aged just 17. A year 12 student at Glenunga High, Wood in his league debut took on state ruckman Paul Lindsay and Brett O'Hara.
"It was faster and harder than I thought it would be," Wood said.
Wood's goal is obvious to be drafted this year. To do that, and he has no club preference, the 203cm ruckman knows he will have to impress the AFL scouts at the national under-18 carnival in Melbourne in July.
Aiding his cause is having former champion Adelaide ruckman Shaun Rehn in his corner as West coach. Rehn, in just his second year of coaching, has watched as some excellent young talent moved on to AFL ranks.
In 2002 the club had four players drafted to the AFL Luke Jericho and Ben Rutten to Adelaide, Wade Champion to Port Adelaide and Byron Schammer to Fremantle.
And last year the club lost Cooney to the Western Bulldogs, Beau Waters, Tim Schmidt, Sam Fisher and Shane Tuck to the national draft. Cooney was the first South Australian to be the top draft pick since Clive Waterhouse in 1995.
Bloods general manager Doug Thomas says that back in the early 1990s, West's junior situation was so bad he was "getting a kick in the bum" from the SANFL.
In fact, so brittle was the situation the club battled to find sufficient numbers to field teams in those competitions.
Players from its Riverland zone, the nursery for such talent as Adelaide champion Mark Rucciuto, refused to come to Adelaide to wear the West jumper en-masse.
SANFL football services manager Colin Casey was the club's development officer from 1994-1998. The frustration of being received unfavourably in the Riverland, coupled with the poor on-field results, had him saying change was needed.
Programs had to be established and under the guidance of Thomas, junior committees were established in a bid to spark a revival of junior standards at Richmond.
Rod O'Reilly played an early role in the move while Neil Morris, Justin Dent and Andrew Milligan, current development manager and under-19's coach have aided the cause. Then there is Brian Munn, a volunteer from those dark days who has also had a significant impact.
The new committee's vision was Richmond Oval being developed into a centre of junior football excellence.
Now, 10 years after the wheels were set in motion to boost the Bloods' junior stocks, that ambition is certainly being realised.
Wood, the latest piece in the puzzle, knows that if his AFL dream fails another career could await.
The lanky teenager has already knocked back an offer from an American major league club to pursue his football career.
After playing in the national under-16 baseball championships last year with the state side, Wood was invited to a six-week camp in Brisbane from which a national team was chosen to play in Taiwan.
Wood declined the offer, reluctant to miss so much football with the Bloods and the SA under-16 football team.
But in January he was approached by scouts for the American organisation after a game with the Goodwood Indians. It was an extremely tempting four-year deal.
"The offer made me think," he admits. "There were a couple of factors though which made me knock it back.
"The biggest one was footy and my goal of getting drafted. If I have to choose between the two sports I choose football.
"In the back of my mind baseball will be there if the football doesn't work out how I hope. It is an honour to get the offer to play in America."
A member of the Australian Institute of Sport program last year, he recently played goalie for the Australian team in the under-17 International Rules series against Ireland.
So how did his school mates react to his league debut?
"Some watched the game on television and Tim Ginever (commentating) said I would probably be alright once I started eating," he said. "I copped a bit about that at school."
http://www.theadvertiser.news.com.au/footy03/story_page/0,8747,9558105%255E24397,00.html
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TAC Cup: Medal win just the draft Bate
07 September 2004
Herald Sun
Emily Power
(http://www.heraldsun.news.com.au/common/imagedata/0,1658,377266,00.jpg)
Impact: Eastern Ranges star Matthew Bate, this year's TAC Cup best-and-fairest.
Picture: Craig Hughes
MATTHEW Bate, 2004 TAC Cup best-and-fairest, is tall, mobile, versatile and ready for the next level. Memo AFL clubs: hold that thought.
Bate, 17, who was awarded the Morrish Medal on Sunday night as the most outstanding under-18 player in the state, is ineligible for the November 20 national draft because of age restrictions introduced by the AFL this year.
He is seeking the league's permission to nominate for the draft. The league, with the support of Football Victoria, yesterday confirmed it would consider the letter of special consideration it received from Bate's father Michael last week, despite the request being lodged after the June 24 deadline.
The 189cm, 85kg Eastern Ranges forward and onballer, who turns 18 on May 24 next year, has fallen 24 days short of his dream.
The AFL revised the date of eligibility, on which players must have turned 17, from June 30 to April 30.
The Morrish assures that club scouts' interest in the boy from Kilsyth will go through the roof.
But Eastern Ranges coach John Lamont, who also coaches Bate at Box Hill Senior Secondary College in the school's football program, said another year with the under-18 competition wouldn't hurt Bate.
"He's probably got the maturity in his body, but he is still working to be a more consistent player," Lamont said.
"Certainly at the start of the year I would have said he needed another year.
"Now he's got some consistency, and in the space of six weeks, people start to say this kid should be nominating for the draft."
Miles Krakouer, 17, set the precedent in June when AFL operations manager Adrian Anderson granted him permission to nominate.
Krakouer missed the cut-off date by eight days, and the family cited hardship and the fact Krakouer had been preparing for the draft for the past two years.
Five other players from around Australia have since been successful.
Players affected by the new rule must be completing Year 12, and provide evidence of compelling circumstances, to have their applications considered.
Bate shook a lower back injury that he carried through the the pre-season to flourish from Round 4.
After dominating the opening part of the season in defence, Bate was rotated in the forward line.
The Round 11 move was a masterstroke that effectively netted Bate the Morrish. He kicked seven goals, and bagged 37 for the year. Round 11 was where his polling for the medal started to boom.
"I like full-forward, and lately I have been rotating on the ball, which I enjoy as well," Bate said. "I think I started playing better then."
Bate has become just the second 17-year-old to win the Morrish Medal, after Richmond's David Rodan in 2000.
Past winners include St Kilda captain Lenny Hayes (NSW/ACT), and Tigers star Nathan Brown (Bendigo).
VOTES:
Matthew Bate (Eastern Ranges) 21,
Jordan Wood (Murray Bushrangers) 18,
David Fevaleaki (Bendigo Pioneers) 16,
Tim Sheringham (Geelong Falcons) 16,
Jarred Moore (Dandenong Stingrays) 15,
Simon Phillips (Sandringham Dragons) 14,
Rowan Nayna (Dandenong Stingrays) 13,
Matt Little (Calder Cannons) 12,
Dominic Dimascio (Eastern Ranges) 12,
Hayden Foss (Geelong Falcons) 12,
Ben Sharp (Oakleigh Chargers) 12,
Robin Nahas (Oakleigh Chargers) 12.
http://www.heraldsun.news.com.au/footy/common/story_page/0,8033,10690735%255E19897,00.html
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TAC Cup team of the year
07 September 2004
Herald Sun
2004 team.
B: Jayden Attard (Dandenong), Marcus Drum (Murray), Ruory Kirkby (Bendigo)
HB: Ben Sharp (Oakleigh), Tom Murphy (Sandringham), Jesse W Smith (Calder)
C: Matt Rosa (North Ballarat), Jarred Moore (Dandenong), Dean Polo (Gippsland)
HF: Brent Prismal (Western), Adam Patteron (Northern), Heath Hocking (Eastern)
F: Brett Deledio (Murray), Matt Little (Calder), Jarryd Roughead (Gippsland)
R: John Meesen (Geelong), Ben Jolley (Calder), Jordan Lewis (Geelong)
I/C: Tim Sheringham (Geelong), Ryan Bain (Oakleigh), Matt Bate (Eastern), Rowan Nayna (Dandenong).
http://www.heraldsun.news.com.au/footy/common/story_page/0,8033,10691375%255E19897,00.html
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TAC Cup: Roughead a good-looking draft prospect
11 September 2004
Herald Sun
Rebecca Williams
(http://www.heraldsun.news.com.au/common/imagedata/0,1658,378494,00.jpg)
Big future: Jarryd Roughead (left) in action during the national championships this year.
Picture: Michael Klein
UNTIL two years ago, footy had never been a serious pursuit for Gippsland's Jarryd Roughead.
More adept with a basketball, the extent of Roughead's football background was scattered appearances for local club Leongatha in between hoops commitments.
Fast forward to 2004 and Roughead can count himself among the AFL's top draft prospects this season.
It has been a remarkable rise for the 17-year-old forward, who has not looked back since being invited to join the under-16s at Gippsland Power in November 2002.
Roughead is the first to admit he is amazed at how far his football has come in such a short amount of time.
"It's been a shock," Roughead said. "To make under-16 Vic Country was really the main goal that I had last year. To be be named All-Australian was more of a bonus."
Roughead played basketball for Dandenong in the Victorian Basketball Association and was a state representative for four years from 2000 to 2003.
"My dad says there are some times where basketball has helped me," Roughead said. "I kind of play basketball sometimes when I'm playing footy, he (Dad) reckons."
Roughead has enjoyed a stellar season with the Power, which is expected to be rewarded with a place high in the draft pecking order.
The 193cm centre half-forward has kicked 38 goals this year and has the opportunity to add to his tally in tomorrow's semi-final against the Sandringham Dragons.
Roughead began the season honing his skills with the round ball as part of the under-17 International Rules series against Ireland.
He represented Vic Country at the under-18 national championships, but was unlucky to miss out on All-Australian selection.
Roughead's form since then has gone from strength to strength, earning him an invitation to next month's AFL draft camp in Canberra.
"The draft camp was another goal, but the big one is making an AFL list, that's every kid's dream," Roughead said.
"Hopefully I can keep playing well in the finals with Gippsland and then go up and prove myself at the draft camp."
Gippsland regional manager Peter Francis has watched Roughead's star rise and is under no illusions about the young forward's ability.
"Where he came in as a first round late (pick), he's now probably a top five or six," Francis said.
http://www.heraldsun.news.com.au/footy/common/story_page/0,8033,10726574%255E19897,00.html
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Under-18's on parade
6:28:27 PM Wed 15 September, 2004
Matt Burgan
Sportal
Some of the finest under-age players in the country will be on show during grand final week when the inaugural National's AFL Under-18 Rising Stars Cup will be played at Optus Oval on Thursday, September 23 at 1pm.
Victoria will take on The Allies, a team featuring players from NSW/ACT, Northern Territory, Queensland and Tasmania. It will be the first time The Allies have played since they played at senior state-of-origin level against Victoria in 1998.
The Victorian team comprises players from TAC Cup sides the Murray Bushrangers, Bendigo Pioneers, Northern Knights, North Ballarat Rebels, Western Jets and Geelong Falcons.
The match will feature All-Australians Under-18 players - Northern Territory's Richard Tambling, New South Wales' Ed Clarke, Queensland's Will Hamill and Tasmania' Justin Sherman.
Tambling, who is one of the most sought-after players in the competition and touted as a top-three draftee come November, will captain The Allies, while Northern Knights' forward Adam Pattison will lead Victoria. Pattison won the TAC Cup coaches' award this year.
The Allies will be coached by dual Essendon premiership player and Northern Territorian under-18 coach Darren Bewick. Former Bomber, Anton Grbac, who played two games for Essendon in 1982, is the Victorian coach.
http://afl.com.au/default.asp?pg=news&spg=display&articleid=171192
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http://www.wafl.com.au/cp2/c2/webi/article/030767ag.doc
Draft Camp Invitees:
CAMP NO FIRST NAME LAST NAME CLUB HEIGHT (CM) WEIGHT (KG) DOB CLUB NO
SMALL MIDFIELDERS
1 Eddie Betts Calder Cannons 170 72 26 November 1986 9 Small forward with terrific pace, goal sense and crumbing ability. All Australian in last years National's AFL U18s and played for Victoria Metro again this year.
2 Ben Eckermann Sturt 177 74 12 March 1987 3 Small inside midfielder with excellent pace and ball winning ability. Won SA's most valuable player award in National's AFL U18s and All Australian selection. From Athelstone FC.
3 Adam Iacobucci Calder Cannons 179 79 17 January 1986 13 Small midfielder / defender with terrific work ethic and pace. Strong in attack on the ball. From St Bernards FC.
4 Andrew McQualter Gippsland Power 180 75 9 June 1986 22 Medium inside midfielder who attacks the ball strongly, has clean hands and reads game well. Victoria Country Captain in U18s this year, from Traralgon FC and Caulfield Grammar. AIS/AFL Academy graduate.
5 Angus Monfries Sturt 180 70 19 January 1987 13 Small inside midfield who is a prolific ball winner due to terrific work rate and footy smarts. SA U18 representative winning All Australian honours this year. From Walkerville FC. AIS/AFL Academy graduate
6 Jarred Moore Dandenong Stingrays 178 84 6 March 1986 18 Small inside midfielder who is strong over the ball, has courage and good disposal skills. Had outstanding U18 Championship winning All Australian honours playing for Victoria Metro.
7 Danyle Pearce Sturt 178 72 7 April 1986 44 Small outside midfielder with excellent speed and very creative. Played seniors this year and represented SA at the U18s level. From Pasadena HS.
8 Richard Tambling Southern Districts Northern Territory 180 68 12 September 1986 6 Medium midfielder with blistering pace and great goal sense. Won McLean Medal (U16s) and Harrison Medal (U18s) at National's U16 & U18s Championships in 2002 and 2004. All Australian at U18 level this year.
9 Adam Thomson Sturt 180 78 21 August 1986 31 Medium inside midfielder with clean hands. Uses ball well and smart around goals - very versatile. From Murray Bridge FC.
MEDIUM MIDFIELDERS
10 Ryan Bain Oakleigh Chargers 184 76 7 January 1986 3 Medium midfielder who consistently finds space and the footy. Impressive for Victoria Metro in the National's AFL U18 Championships. From Bulleen Templestowe.
11 Brett Deledio Murray Bushrangers 188 80 18 April 1987 18 Medium inside midfielder who can go forward or back. Super competitive, strong overhead and smart around goal. Won All Australian U18 honour this year after winning Sheehan medal at U16's in 2003. AIS/AFL Academy graduate. From Kyabram FC.
12 Ryan Griffen South Adelaide 186 78 27 July 1986 31 Medium inside midfielder with genuine footy talent. Smart around goals with good vision. Captained SA's U18s side this year winning All Australian Honours. AIS/AFL Academy graduate. From Goolwa/Pt Elliott FC.
13 Jordan Lewis Geelong Falcons 187 85 24 April 1986 29 Left footed medium midfielder who is excellent overhead and good at the stoppages. Won All Australian honours at the National's AFL Under 18s this year. He is from Warrnambool FC.
14 Dean Polo Gippsland Power 186 76 5 August 1986 Medium insider midfielder who is a hard runner and very competitive. Strong overhead, won All Australian U18 Honours this year from Wy Yung FC.
15 Brent Prismall Western Jets 184 83 14 July 1986 14 Medium inside midfielder who reads the game well, has neat disposal skills and makes good decisions. Victoria Metro representative in 2004. From Werribee.
16 Matt Rosa North Ballarat Rebels 189 72 23 November 1986 7 Medium midfielder who is strong overhead and has great running capacity. Reach game well and clean hands - from Warracknabeal FC and represented Victoria Country at the U18s 2004.
17 Ben Sharp Oakleigh Chargers 187 81 10 July 1986 7 Medium outside midfielder who runs all day linking up the play. Had consistent National's AFL U18s championship winning All Australian honours. AIS/AFL Academy Graduate. From Salesian College.
18 Justin Sherman Clarence 182 84 26 January 1987 16 Medium forward / midfielder who is powerfully built, a penetrating kick and smart around goal. Won All Australian U18 honours in 2004. AIS/AFL Academy Graduate. From Clarence FC.
19 Nathan Van Berlo West Perth 184 74 6 June 1986 50 Medium midfielder / defender whose athletic ability, ball usage and leadership were attributes displayed in representing WA in the 2004 National's AFL U18 Championships.
MEDIUM FORWARDS
20 Travis Baird Bendigo Pioneers 187 82 25 July 1986 1 Medium inside forward / midfielder who has an excellent leap and strong mark. Has a cool head and is smart around goal. From Donald.
21 Troy Barlett Wollongong - NSW/ACT Rams 186 77 8 October 1986 8 Medium forward who is strong overhead and has neat skills.
22 Nick Becker Calder Cannons 183 74 7 July 1986 35 Medium forward who is a strong mark and penetrating kick. Has pace, agility and terrific work ethic.
23 Greg Bentley Dandenong Stingrays 185 80 9 April 1987 35 Medium forward with clean hands and is a good reader of the game.
24 Shannon Cox South Fremantle 186 90 7 March 1986 28 Medium forward who is strong overhead and provides a physical presence. WA U18s representative in 2004.
25 Chris Egan Murray Bushrangers 187 78 26 October 1986 15 Medium outside forward with pace, clean hands and strong overhead. Victoria Country U18s representative in 2004, from Rumbalara FC.
26 Mark LeCras West Perth 183 75 30 August 1986 52 Medium inside forward who is creative and strong overhead. Won All Australian U18 honours this year. From Whitfords FC.
27 Matt Little Calder Cannons 183 79 3 January 1986 20 Medium forward with great hands on the lead and smart around goal. Victoria Metro representative in 2004 from Rupertswood FC.
28 Damien McCormack Dandenong Stingrays 181 74 28 January 1987 14 Medium forward who is an excellent kick and extremely versatile. Reach game well and hails from Seaford FC.
29 Danny Meyer Glenelg 185 74 3 August 1986 3 Medium forward / midfielder with terrific athletic ability and very competitive. SA U18s representative in 2004. From Flagstaff Hill FC.
30 Clinton Young North Ballarat Rebels 186 77 16 February 1986 4 Lightly built medium forward with footy smarts and excellent kick on preferred left foot. From Minyip-Murtoa.
MEDIUM DEFENDERS
31 Jayden Attard Dandenong Stingrays 184 79 27 February 1986 21 Medium defender with good acceleration and a penetrating kick. Played disciplined football for Victoria Metro in the National's AFL Under 18 Championships, winning Australian honours.
32 Sam Barnes Bendigo Pioneers 189 86 29 March 1986 2 Medium outside defender who is very mobile and has an excellent leap. From Sandhurst Football Club.
33 Andrew Gilham Oakleigh Chargers 186 84 19 August 1986 2 Medium defender who reads game well and is versatile. Has very good work ethic and is footy smart.
34 Will Hamill Mt Gravatt 190 76 26 July 1986 8 Medium defender who reads the play well and is strong overhead. Captained Queensland's U18 team in 2004.
35 Tim Hill Bendigo Pioneers 186 81 30 July 1986 14 Medium defender with line breaking speed and is a penetrating kick. Victoria Country U18 team representative this year from Charlton.
36 Ryan Jackson Northern Knights 186 77 4 April 1987 1 Medium defender who can also play forward where he is dangerous around goal. AIS/AFL Academy graduate this year - missed the national Championships due to injury.
37 Scott McMahon Woodville-West Torrens 184 83 2 June 1986 46 Medium defender who is excellent overhead and is a strong penetrating kick. Won All Australian Under 18s honours this year representing SA. From CMS Crows FC.
38 Ryan Nye Peel Thunder 181 79 21 June 1986 21 Medium defender who is a close checker and provides a good run. WA U18 representative 2004 from Halls Head FC.
39 Paul Richardson Swan Districts 184 83 25 May 1986 51 Medium defender / midfielder who is strong at the ball and long left foot kick. WA's U18 Captain in the National's AFL U18 Championships this year. AIS/AFL Academy graduate.
40 Jordan Russell West Adelaide 186 74 6 November 1986 11 Medium midfielder / defender with very good disposal skills. SA U18s representative in 2004 and had senior experience with West Adelaide. From Edwardstown FC.
41 Alan Toovey Claremont 189 77 23 March 1987 30 Medium defender with terrific pace and strong tackler. Left footer from Aquias College who won All Australian Under 18s honours this year. AIS/AFL Academy graduate in 2003/4.
TALL FORWARDS
42 James Angus Woodville-West Torrens 191 84 9 October 1986 22 Tall forward who is very competitive and disciplined. Had an injury interrupted season. From Portland FC.
43 Matthew Bate Eastern Rangers 190 85 24 May 1987 10 Tall forward/defender with penetrating left foot and good pace. Won Morrish medal in TAC Cup in 2004. From Croydon FC.
44 Lynden Dunn Calder Cannons 192 90 14 May 1987 32 Tall forward who presents well; is competitive and sharp around goals. From Mooney valley FC.
45 Luke Forsyth Dandenong Stingrays 187 71 2 February 1987 8 Medium forward who reads the play well and kicks goals. From Karingal FC.
46 Chris Gooley Sandringham Dragons 193 84 4 March 1986 6 Tall forward who is a strong overhead mark, footy smart and competitive. From Melbourne Grammar and twin to Sam Gooley.
47 Heath Grundy Norwood 190 86 2 June 1986 27 Strong marking tall forward / defender who is good one-on-one and mobile. SA U18s representative in 2004 winning All Australian honours. From Modbury FC. AIS/AFL Academy graduate.
48 Andrew Lee Burnie 194 83 7 January 1986 8 Tall forward who is a good contested mark and very good kick for goal. Tasmanian U18s representative in 2004.
49 Dean Limbach Calder Cannons 191 77 25 October 1986 15 Tall lightly built forward with terrific hands and athleticism. Kicked 6 goals in round one of TAC Cup before injury interrupted his season. From West Coburg FC.
50 Luke McGuane Broadbeach 192 77 12 February 1987 49 Tall forward who can play in the ruck. Mobile and strong overhead. Also talented hight jumper and distance runner. Queensland U16 & U18 representative last 2 years.
51 Michael Newton Murray Bushrangers 192 82 27 April 1987 19 Lightly built forward or defender who is dangerous around goal and has good hands. He is from Whorouly FC.
52 Beau Wilkes Claremont 193 90 20 March 1986 20 Tall forward with strong hands and good mark. Has excellent work rate - WA U18s representative this year.
53 Tom Williams Morningside 195 86 17 July 1986 52 Tall athletic forward with only 12 months experience in the game after a rugby background. Queensland U18 representative this year.
TALL DEFENDERS
54 Benet Copping Sturt 191 75 7 October 1986 30 Tall forward / defender who is a strong contested mark. Shows good athleticism. SA U18s representative in 2004. From Mt Barker FC. AIS/AFL Academy graduate.
55 Lance Franklin Perth 193 88 30 January 1987 5 Tall forward / defender with pace, agility and long penetrating left foot. WA U18s representative in 2004 and graduate of AIS/AFL Academy.
56 Pat Garner West Magpies 193 80 16 March 1987 22 Tall defender / forward who is good overhead and quick. Queensland U16 & U18 representative last 2 years. AIS/AFL Academy graduate.
57 Sam Gooley Sandringham Dragons 193 76 4 March 1986 16 Tall forward / defender who is super competitive and good one-on-one. From Melbourne Grammar and twin to Chris Gooley.
58 Adam Hartlett West Adelaide 194 83 22 April 1986 20 Tall defender / forward who is a strong mark and good kick at goal. Makes good second efforts. SA U18s representative this year. From Edwardstown FC.
59 Ruory Kirkby Bendigo Pioneers 192 81 2 April 1986 26 Tall defender / forward who is very good overhead and mobile. Had outstanding National's AFL U18s winning All Australian honours playing for Victoria Country. From Echuca FC.
60 Thomas Murphy Sandringham Dragons 190 84 19 March 1986 18 Tall defender / forward who presents well across half forward and has good running ability. Victoria Metro U18s representative this year.
61 Tom Redden Glenelg 190 74 18 June 1987 29 Tall defender / forward with a very competitive nature. Progressed through U17 & U19 levels this year in the SANFL. From Keith in country SA.
62 Jarryd Roughead Gippsland Power 193 85 23 March 1987 31 Left footed key defender / forward who is a strong mark and agile. Victoria Country U18s representative this year - from Leongatha. AIS/AFL Academy graduate 2003/4.
63 Will Thursfield Sandringham Dragons 190 75 19 April 1986 9 Tall defender / forward with excellent pace and natural leap. From Ormond FC.
64 Michael West Redlands 195 85 16 February 1987 11
Tall forward / defender who is athletic, a strong mark and good kick for goal. Queensland U18s representative this year.
RUCKMEN
65 Fabian Deluca Eastern Rangers 201 96 27 January 1987 11
Mobile developing ruckman who can take a strong mark up forward. Member of AIS/AFL Academy in 2003/4 and Victoria Metro U18 representative this year, from Scoresby FC.
66 Chad Gibson Norwood 194 93 12 January 1987 4
Tall forward / defender who can also play in the ruck. Powerful athlete and a strong mark. SA U18s representative this year along with AIS/AFL Academy in 2003/4. From Tea Tree Gully FC.
67 Ivan Maric Calder Cannons 197 93 4 January 1986 24
Athletic ruckman with good leap and work rate. Victoria Metro U18s representative this year.
68 John Meesen Geelong Falcons 200 88 20 June 1986 43
Strong marking ruckman around the ground or up forward. Impressive for Victoria Country in National's AFL U18s this year.
69 Shane Neaves Calder Cannons 197 91 11 May 1987 26
Developing ruckman who is strong overhead and very athletic. From Wallan FC. AIS/AFL Academy graduate.
70 Adam Pattison Northern Knights 196 87 5 March 1986 9
Tall forward or ruckman who is much improving winning the TAC Cup Coaches Award in 2004. Strong Mark and presents in front. He is from St Damians FC.
71 Earl Shaw Campbelltown 198 93 17 December 1986 22
Improving ruckman who excels at stoppages. Athletic type who links up well around the ground. NSW/ACT U18 representative in 2003/4.
72 Jesse Wells Burnie 196 84 1 October 1986 25
Ruckman with good speed for his size. Hampered by injury in 2004.
73 Ryan Willitts Northern Knights 196 96 23 January 1987 11
Tall forward who can go back or in the ruck. Takes a strong mark and long kick at goal. Victoria Metro U16 & U18 representative in 2003-2004. From St Mary's FC.
74 Cameron Wood West Adelaide 203 86 4 March 1987 30
Developing ruckman who is mobile and quick with his hands. Already had senior experience with West Adelaide and won All Australian U18 honours this year. From Goodwood Saints FC.
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http://www.wafl.com.au/cp2/c2/webi/article/030767by.doc
2004 STATE SCREENING CAMP INVITEES
Name Surname Region
NEW SOUTH WALES / ACT
AIS - Thurday, 30 September
Ed Clarke North Shore
Andrew Hodgson Pennant Hills
Adam Prior Murray
NORTHERN TERRITORY
SA Institute of Sport - Saturday, 9 October
Martie Corrie Nightcliff
Isaac McLean West Alice Springs
Travis Natt Waratahs
QUEENSLAND
BBC College - Monday, 4 October
Marcus Allan Northern Eagles
Andrew Browning Morningside
Matthew Clarke Labrador
Scott Harding Morningside
Ed McDonnell Western Magpies
Brad Moran Southport
Marty Pask Western Magpies
Cheynee Stiller Northern Eagles
Jake Weller Northern Eagles
SOUTH AUSTRALIA
SA Institute of Sport - Saturday, 9 October
Nick Batchelor Norwood
Michael Coad Sturt
Brad DeVries Norwood
Brayden Fisher West Adelaide
Gavin Hughes Norwood
Kyle Jenner Port Adelaide
Jack Juniper Sacred Heart
James McLeay Sturt
Scott Purling Sturt
Sean Rusling West Adelaide
Henry Slattery West Adelaide
Toby Stribling North Adelaide
Brad Sugars Glenelg
Craig Taylor Port Adelaide
Stephen Tiller West Adelaide
Elijah Ware Central Districts
David Westbrok Woodville-West Torrens
TASMANIA
Melbourne University - Saturday, 2 October
Allan Bielski North Launceston
Jarrod Garth Clarence
Todd Grima Sth Launceston
Sam Lonergan Launceston
Nathan O'Donoghue Launceston
WESTERN AUSTRALIA
Challenge Stadium - Sunday, 10 October
Aaron Bowers Sth Fremantle
Luke Blackwell Swan Districts
Andrew Clarke Claremont
Morgan Cooper Sth Fremantle
Scott Delmenico Sth Fremantle
Cameron Gauchi Peel
Clinton Jones Sth Fremantle
Simon Jones Swan Districts
Brendan Jones Perth
Leigh Martin Sth Fremantle
Haydyn North Sth Fremantle
Heritier O'Brien Claremont
Matt Priddis Subiaco
Adam Rowles West Perth
Darren Rumble Subiaco
Andrew Ruck Claremont
Andrew Swallow East Fremantle
James Thompson Perth
Ashley Thornton Peel
Jai Taylor East Fremantle
VICTORIA
Melbourne University - Saturday, 2 October
Nathan Anderson Nth Ballarat
Daniel Batson Nth Ballarat
Alipate Carlile Murray
Taylor Collins Gippsland
Sam Dwyer Geelong
Shannon Emmett Murray
Benjamin Fraser Gippsland
Tom Hallam Bendigo
Stephen Henshaw Gippsland
Ryan Herring Nth Ballarat
Jack Hill Murray
Adam Jansen Warragul
Scott Meyer Gippsland
Kristopher Pendlebury Gippsland
Tim Sheringham Geelong
Hamish Troon Geelong College
Brendan Van Shaik Murray
Renwick Watts Geelong
Jordan Wood Murray
Seamus Young Bendigo
Troy Armstrong Eastern
Steve Bailey Box Hill Hawks
Jackson Barling Calder
James Barton Oakleigh
Todd Burley Eastern
Ryce Carter Werribee
David Codron Sandringham
Jarrod Dalton Eastern
Ben Davies Western
James Ezard Calder
Rudi Falovic Eastern
Will Fitzpatrick Carey/Oakleigh
Stefan Garrubba Dandenong
Sam Gibson Oakleigh
Josh Gibson Port Melbourne
Luke Herrington Dandenong
John Holmes Eastern
Luke Jarrad Williamstown
Evan Johnson Eastern
Ben Jolley Calder
Chris Knights Eastern
Myles Krakouer Oakleigh
Jon Laver Oakleigh
Mark Lynch Northern
Guy Martyn Sandringham
Dale May Calder
Byron Murphy Frankston
Rowan Nanya Dandenong
Jono Pearce Scotch College
James Quinton Northern
Anthony Raso Dandenong
James Rimington Oakleigh
Sam Robertson Calder
Marc Rovere Northern
Ben Schwarz Port Melbourne
Jesse D Smith Calder
Pat Sowersby Oakleigh
Chris Stewart Northern
Brad Sutcliffe Western
Matthew Thomas Sandringham
Wayde Twomey Western
Matt White Calder
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Anyone know what Myles Krakouer is like?
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small, artistic, creative and dark
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Myles likes you too Ron even though you are white !
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The Adelaide Advertiser reported that ruckman Cameron Wood played a starring role in the U19 SANFL GF for West Adelaide in their comfortable win over Norwood.
In other news, Monfries had 7 kicks, 6 HB, 2 marks and kicked a goal for Sturt in their senior SANFL PF loss to the W-WT Eagles. There was pic of him in the paper. Obviously capable to play against men in senior footy.
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National Bank's 2004 AFL Draft Camp Timetable
afl.com.au
11:02:55 AM Tue 28 September, 2004
With information and knowledge being the AFL club recruiting managers major tools, the greater insight gained through both the camp at the AIS and later at state screening sessions is invaluable in assisting AFL clubs fine-tune their options on players they are considering for selection at the National Banks AFL Draft, which this year will be held on Saturday, November 20, in Melbourne.
TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 28
4.30pm Players arrive from all states and territories.
6pm Dinner.
7pm Medical checks by Dr Tim Wood and visual screening by Pat Gerry.
WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 29
7.30am Breakfast
8.30am Camp welcome
Outline of camp requirements conducted by Kevin Sheehan and Kinnear Beatson.
9am-noon Fitness assessment for Group One by David Pyne: height and weight, sit and reach, skinfolds, arm length and handspan.
Medical screening for Group Two.
12.15pm Lunch
1.15-5pm Psychomotor tests for Group Two by Dr Noel Blundell: reaction time, decision-making and peripheral awareness.
Medical screening for Group One.
5.30-6.30pm Dinner for players and staff.
6.30-10pm Introduction to AFL recruiting personnel.
AFL club informal interviews conducted by recruiting managers.
Individual player taped interviews conducted by Craig Notman and Quinton Gleeson.
THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 30
7.30am Breakfast
8.15-9am TAIS appraisal
9.15-11.30am Fitness assessment (position grouping, all players) by David Pyne: sprint, agility and vertical jump.
11.30-12.30pm Transition to the AFL: Panel featuring Kevin Sheehan (AFL), Brendon Gale (AFLPA) and two National Bank's AFL Rising Star nominees, Brent Stanton (Essendon) and Daniel Cross (Western Bulldogs).
12.30-1.30pm Lunch for players and staff.
1.30-4.30pm Fitness assessment for Group Two by David Pyne: height and weight, sit and reach, skinfolds, arm length and handspan.
Psychomotor tests for Group One by Dr Noel Blundell: reaction time, decision-making and peripheral awareness.
5pm Fitness assessment: shuttle run and recovery in pool complex.
6-7.30pm Dinner for players, staff and AFL clubs.
7.30-10pm AFL club informal interviews conducted by recruiting managers.
Individual player taped interviews conducted by Craig Notman and Quinton Gleeson.
FRIDAY, OCTOBER 1
7-8am Breakfast and checkout.
8.15am Bus to Manuka Oval.
9-10.30am Skills session with Chris Fagan (Melbourne FC) and Steve Malaxos, Kelly ODonnell and Chris Waterman (Fremantle FC).
10.45am Bus back to AIS.
11.30am-12.30pm Lunch (AFL club staff to arrange own lunch).
12.30-2pm AFL club informal interviews conducted by recruiting managers.
2.30-3.30pm Fitness assessment by David Pyne: 3km time trials.
3.30pm Camp review by Kevin Sheehan.
4pm Players depart from athletics track for airport. Dinner served on flights.
http://afl.com.au/default.asp?pg=aflfocus&spg=display&articleid=173163
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FRIDAY, OCTOBER 1
12.30-2pm AFL club informal interviews conducted by recruiting managers.
I can see it now Tezza, Armstrong and Greg Miller sitting across from Deledio - "so Brett are you happy to go with 3 years rather than the standard 2 years" :thumbsup
After Deledio, comes Cameron Wood - "Now Cam if everything goes to plan with trading Judas oops we mean Ottens we should have another top 10 pick - so if you're around at say pick 7 - we'll take you" :thumbsup
:bow
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Record runs catch the eye at AFL draft camp
By Emma Quayle
Canberra
realfooty.theage.com.au
October 1, 2004
Perth midfielder Nathan Van Berlo and South Australia's Danyle Pierce captured many a recruiter's eye on day two of the AFL draft camp yesterday, setting camp records in the agility run and sprint.
Pierce, a speedy onballer from Sturt, equalled the 2.79-second record for the 20-metre sprint set by Western Bulldog Steven Koops at the 1995 camp.
Richard Tambling, a likely top-five choice at next month's national draft, also equalled Koops' time, before Pierce ran even faster in his second sprint to make the record his own.
Van Berlo, who represented Western Australia at the under-18 national championships this year, set his record in the agility run, beating the 7.95-second mark set by Fremantle midfielder Byron Schammer two years ago.
The West Perth player also performed best at the gruelling beep test, reaching level 15.02, short of the shared 16.06 level set by Geelong midfielder David Spriggs in 1999 and Sydney's Jarrad McVeigh in 2002.
The camp ends today, with a skills session and a three-kilometre time trial.
http://realfooty.theage.com.au/realfooty/articles/2004/09/30/1096527863575.html?from=storyrhs
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Draft Camp Diary: Day Two
7:56:09 PM Thu 30 September, 2004
Matt Burgan
Sportal
Matt Burgan reports on Thursday's happenings at the Australian Institute of Sport in Canberra.
2004 National Bank's AFL Draft Camp diary - Day two
8:15-9am
TAIS appraisal
Alan Toovey, Claremont, WA
"We haven't ever done anything quite like that (before), so it was something a bit different. There were 120-140 questions about different ways on how you react in different situations and what things distract you. They said at the start that there was no right or wrong answers and different personalities do different things. They had questions, which you had to answer with 'always' or 'never' and it had questions like - 'Do you get into fights at school?' or 'How highly to do study?' It took about half-an-hour. Everyone pretty much finished at the same time."
9:15-11:30am
Fitness assessment
Sprint
Danyle Pearce, Sturt, SA
"I was pretty excited when I found out (I equaled the record). I was aiming for the sprint record - me and Richard (Tambling) - we were aiming for it, but it was bit of a surprise I actually got it. I wasn't expecting to get it. When I heard (Nathan Van Berlo) broke the agility this morning, I was thinking that'd be tough. I was aiming for (Fremantle's Byron) Schammer's record, but I didn't think I'd get the record. I was aiming, not really for the agility, just the sprint - I thought I could get that but getting both was really good."
Agility
Nathan Van Berlo, West Perth, WA
"I was actually quite surprised at how well I went. My personal best before that was 8.20 when I was at a practice draft camp screening. I managed to get it down that low, but to do it that quick today, it was pretty pleasing. I got 7.80 and I was pipped at the end by 7.79 (Pearce). Records don't worry me at all, I'm just out there to do the best I can and that's more than I would have asked for myself, so I'm stoked with that. The first time I did it, I got an 8.60 and I had a look at all of the previous bests and they were around 7.95, so I thought I've got to work on that a bit. But back at the screenings in WA, I was working quite hard on that, so I could improve on that the best that I could and I managed to get it down to an 8.20, which I was pretty comfortable (with) and to come here today and do a good time, I was really happy with."
Vertical jump
Richard Tambling, Southern Districts, NT
"They weren't too bad. The vertical jump, I've always of had a natural jump, but I didn't do too bad today - I've done better, but you can't always do your best."
11:30am-12:30pm
Transition to the AFL - Panel featuring Kevin Sheehan (AFL), Brendon Gale (AFLPA), National Bank's AFL rising star nominees - Brent Stanton (Essendon) and Daniel Cross (Western Bulldogs)
Andrew Gilham, Oakleigh Chargers, VIC
"It was definitely (a good insight into the AFL), because you've got to realise that getting on an AFL list is just a start. It's a whole different thing, gaining respect of the senior players and coaching staff. One of the things he (Cross) said he's worked on is just improving each year. It was good to hear. Brent Hartigan said he was nowhere near getting a gig at the draft camp, even though he won a best-and-fairest at Calder, after (playing in a) winning grand final. His experience was the state screening and he put in a really quick time for the 20-metre sprint, so a few clubs noticed him and a few clubs said they would take him at pick 40 or 50. By the time pick 60 came around, he was a bit worried and he thought they all deserted him, but Richmond called out his name at pick 70. Kevin Sheehan said - 'It didn't matter whether you're number one or number 70, once you're there, you've got an opportunity. (Gale) wished us the best of luck and for those who go on and make (the AFL), the AFLPA is there to support you and help you along and 100 per cent of the AFL players are involved, so they must be doing the right things by the players, which is good to hear."
1:30-4:30pm
Fitness assessment
Height and weight, sit and reach, skinfolds, arm length and handspan (group two)
Sam Barnes, Bendigo Pioneers, VIC
"With the heights, we just got our back up against the wall under a big height measurer and they put your feet together and then you (had to) stretch. They then grab your neck and stretch it up and that's your height. With the weight, you just take your shoes off and jump on the scales. They did the skinfolds and they did the sit and reach, which was pretty hard on the hammys. They did an eye test, where we had to hold some beads (near our nose), so that was a bit different."
Psychomotor tests
Reaction time, decision-making and peripheral awareness (group one)
Cameron Wood, West Adelaide, SA
"The first one was reacting to a light and (then) just pushing it as quick as you see it. The second one was with a joystick and lights and it tests your peripheral vision and the other one was hitting a series of lights in 30 seconds, as quick as you can. It was harder than it looks, but once you get up there (in the room), you get into it pretty quick."
5pm
Fitness assessment
Shuttle run (aka beep test)
Lynden Dunn, Calder Cannons, VIC
"I was happy to get (level) 14.6 - that was a personal best for myself, so I aimed around the 14-mark, so anything above (level) 14, I was going to be rapt with, so it was alright. I've done a few, not too many, just over the pre-season last year. From level 11, I counted down the beeps. Getting 14.6 for a big bloke is alright, so it's not going to do any harm. I've just been complimented off my mates, but I'm not expecting too much from it, it's just a beep test."
Recovery in pool
Danny Meyer, Glenelg, SA
"It was obviously pretty challenging (the beep test). I had to push myself pretty hard towards the end. My main goal was just to get over (level) 13 and got (level) 13.4 in the end, so it wasn't too bad. It was obviously just good to get it over and down with in the end. I was pretty exhausted afterwards - that's for sure - but the water recovery was fantastic. I was just glad I achieved what I wanted to do, so I was pretty happy. The scouts seemed pretty impressed, so hopefully all goes well."
7:30-10pm
AFL club informal interviews conducted by recruiting managers
Adam Hartlett, West Adelaide, SA
"It was pretty good. They were pretty easy questions - they were a lot less stressful (than the AFL club interviews) I can tell you that. They were more family-based questions and where you can improve your game. They were similar to the questions you get from the coaches, but it was a lot less intense that's for sure. You don't get any curly (questions) from (Port Adelaide coach) Mark Williams, but it was pretty straight forward."
Individual player taped interviews
Jordan Lewis, Geelong Falcons, VIC
"It was not too bad. Choco (Williams) asked a few questions out of the blue, which were pretty tough to answer, but you've got to come up with the best answer in those situations, so it's gone pretty good and I'm pretty happy with that. I've had about eight (interviews) and I've got one more tomorrow (Friday) with Adelaide to finish off. Mostly (the questions) were about your family and they were finding out about your background and how you'd find it moving interstate. (They asked) about your social life, so it was basically a background (check) on you and your family. My first interview was pretty nerve-wracking, so you know what to say now."
http://afl.com.au/default.asp?pg=news&spg=display&articleid=173580
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Griffen fancied as top pick
9:46:46 PM Thu 30 September, 2004
Matt Burgan in Canberra
Sportal
South Australian under-18 coach Darren Trevena believes exciting South Adelaide midfielder Ryan Griffen has the ability to be the first player selected in this year's National Bank's AFL Draft.
Trevena - who coached the Northern Territory to its first under-18 title in 2002 and who has since succeeded in lifting South Australia's fortunes at the championships - said Griffen was right in the mix to claim the number one mantle in 2004.
"The big one is Griffen this year, and I'd like to see him be around the same mark like (Western Bulldogs Adam) Cooney at number one, which would be great to back up again with South Australia being the number one draft pick, two years in succession," Trevena told Sportal.
"It'll be interesting to see whether he goes one, two or three."
Trevena also suggested beanpole ruckman Cameron Wood and midfielders Angus Monfries and Danny Meyer were set to be first-round selections at this year's draft.
"The next one that will come in is Cameron Wood, who has great skills for a big guy and is 203cm and got a love of footy and is a pretty happy fella, so I think he'll come in around the top six," Trevena said.
"I think (Angus) Monfires will come around Adelaide. I know Adelaide is pretty keen on him. He has a super work ethic. He's got a big engine. He's got a great footy brain and I know that's what'll sell him over the line.
"Meyer has great potential. But we haven't seen enough about him yet. He's a bit like Gavin Wanganeen - he's got some great evasive skills and he also knows his distance in shooting for goal. He's lively in the forward half and has a great vertical leap as well."
Trevena nominated Sturt's Danyle Pearce as one player to keep an eye on, particularly after he blitzed in the agility and sprint tests at the National Bank's AFL Draft Camp on Thursday.
"He's broken two records at the camp and he ran a (level) 14 in a beep-test. He's a guy that probably didn't have the best of carnivals (this year), but has played well at SANFL level in the seniors and has really thrown his name up in the testing procedures, so I'll be interested to see how that reflects on where he goes and if he gets a chance."
With a number of other South Australia's at the camp and set for the state-based screening, Trevena said he was delighted the Croweaters were well represented in the talent pool in 2004.
"This year we've had 15 players come to the draft camp, 14 from the academy, which is a huge bonus for South Australia itself," Trevena said.
http://afl.com.au/default.asp?pg=news&spg=display&articleid=173582
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Tambling unfazed by draft focus
10:53:25 PM Thu 30 September, 2004
Matt Burgan in Canberra
Sportal
Exciting young Northern Territorian Richard Tambling says he is ready to carry the mantle of being the number one draftee - if he happens to be the first player to be selected in this year's November National Bank's AFL Draft.
The brilliant young goalkicking midfielder said on Thursday at the National Bank's AFL Draft Camp that he has carried the weight of being one of the most sought-after players in the country for some time now and has since learned to deal with the expectations.
"It's not too bad. I'm just focused on what you have to do and what the task at hand (is) and not worry about what everyone else is saying and what's going on around you and (I'm just) trying to do my best," Tambling told Sportal.
"Number one comes with a lot of pressure - so does two and three - but number two and three get it a lot easier because everyone forgets about them and they concentrate on number one.
"But I think I've handled things before in situations where the pressure's on and pulled through with it, so if I do go number one it'll be good, but number two and three wouldn't be too bad either."
Tambling, who is shaping as likely to be drafted by Richmond or Hawthorn with either the first or second selection in the draft, said he was pleased that he was attracting plenty of attention from the recruiting managers and AFL club officials.
"It feels good that you're actually being noticed, but you've got to try and blank it out and concentrate," Tambling said.
Tambling, who won the McLean Medal and Harrison Medal in the National Bank's AFL under-16 and under-18 championships in 2002 and 2004 respectively, said he was excited at the prospect of moving from the Top End to embark on an AFL career.
"I don't think I'll find it difficult at all. I've been wanting to move out of home for the last three years, so I'll be looking forward to getting out of Darwin," Tambling said.
"(My) preference is always the club you go for and I go for Essendon, so I'd love to go there, but other than that I don't really care (where I go), I just want to play footy."
An AIS/AFL academy graduate and All-Australian in 2004, Tambling was also rapt to be the inaugural skipper of the under-18 Allies side, when he led the combine out against Victoria at Optus Oval during grand final week this year.
"It was a very good highlight to captain the first under-age Allies. The team got up with a win after knowing each other for two days and the team came together really well in the end," Tambling said.
http://afl.com.au/default.asp?pg=news&spg=display&articleid=173584
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"I don't think I'll find it difficult at all. I've been wanting to move out of home for the last three years, so I'll be looking forward to getting out of Darwin," Tambling said.
...................that makes me feel a whole lot better - fwiw............
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No 1 he will be , Tambling that is ! ;)
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Ruckmen hit the heights at draft camp
By Emma Quayle
Canberra
realfooty.theage.com.au
October 2, 2004
Ruckmen can expect to feature prominently in the first round of next month's AFL national draft, given their impressive collective effort at the draft camp in Canberra this week.
Midfielders Danyle Pearce and Nathan Van Berlo entered their names in the record book with best-ever times in the 20-metre sprint and agility runs, but several taller prospects performed well in the speed, endurance and leap tests, giving clubs plenty to ponder.
South Australian ruckman Chad Gibson tested well, recording the highest standing vertical jump and notching the sixth fastest sprint.
Northern Knights player Adam Pattison ran a 14.2 beep test and performed well in the three-kilometre time-trial that completed the three-day camp yesterday.
Geelong ruckman John Meesen also showed good endurance, and 203-centimetre Fabian Deluca, the younger brother of Carlton player Adrian, scored what was considered the best reaction-time test scores recorded for a taller player.
Queensland's Tom Williams (196 centimetres) and Calder Cannon forward Lynden Dunn (192) were also among the tall prospects to test well, and highly rated Darwin midfielder Richard Tambling finished in the top 10 in most tests, as did Murray Bushranger Brett Deledio.
The AFL's national talent manager, Kevin Sheehan, nominated Gippsland midfielder Andrew McQualter as a player who had enhanced his draft chances with an impressive camp, and said Pearce and Van Berlo had also given clubs something to think about.
Van Berlo broke Fremantle midfielder Byron Schammer's agility run record on the second day, but had his record beaten by Pearce half an hour later.
"We know those boys have got something special, which you need to have. Sometimes it can be your brilliant speed or your goalkicking ability, and here it's the brilliant speed, so now it's a matter of where that can fit in at an AFL club," Sheehan said.
"They've brought themselves under notice because they're got that little bit of something extra."
http://realfooty.theage.com.au/realfooty/articles/2004/10/01/1096527942501.html
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No 1 he will be , Tambling that is ! ;)
With Deledio apparently overcoming glandular fever (?) and Griffen's knee, Tambling has moved up in many people's eyes during the draft camp. Still worried about his light weight given Richmond's recent history with drafting skinny players :-\.
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Deledio easy with top pick status
5:19:54 PM Fri 1 October, 2004
Matt Burgan in Canberra
Sportal
Richard Tambling, Ryan Griffen and Lance 'Buddy' Franklin are among the best young players who are set to be snapped up early at this year's National Bank's AFL Draft in November.
But the one who is looming as this year's number one is Murray Bushrangers' midfielder Brett Deledio.
The 17-year-old, who hails from the great sporting town of Kyabram in country Victoria was remaining calm about the prospect of being the number one pick.
"Being in the top few, there's not a lot you can do about that, so you have no control and you just kick back and relax like everyone does," Deledio told Sportal.
"After yesterday (Thursday at the draft camp), I felt the pressure a bit with the expectation that everyone thought I would be number one, but before that it was just my goal to get drafted, and whatever number that is, I don't mind."
With Richmond having the first crack in the draft, Deledio is looming at this stage as the favourite to head to Punt Rd, despite the fact that the Tigers are also considering Tambling, Griffen and Franklin.
Deledio said he had spoken to Hawthorn, Richmond, Western Bulldogs, Carlton and Adelaide during his time at the National Bank's AFL Draft Camp, held at the Australian Institute of Sport in Canberra.
But he is more than comfortable with the fact that he will have to move from the country to start a new chapter in his life, which is certain to be in Melbourne.
"It doesn't worry me at all. I've been away from home for extended periods of time, so it doesnt really worry me."
Deledio said his father Wayne, who played one match for Carlton in 1975, had been a 'huge' influence in his career, along with former Kangaroos and Melbourne player and Bushrangers coach Xavier Tanner, and former Fitzroy player and Victoria Country Leon Harris.
http://afl.com.au/default.asp?pg=news&spg=display&articleid=173788
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Draft Camp Results
5:24:48 PM Fri 1 October, 2004
Matt Burgan
Sportal
2004 National Bank's AFL Draft Camp
Height
Cameron Wood (West Adelaide) - 203.90cm
Fabian Deluca (Eastern Ranges) - 203.20cm
John Meesen (Geelong Falcons) - 199.30cm
Shane Neaves (Calder Cannons) - 199.00cm
Earl Shaw (Campbelltown) - 198.90cm
Adam Pattison (Northern Knights) - 197.90cm
Ivan Maric (Calder Cannons) - 197.80cm
Ryan Willitts (Northern Knights) - 197.30cm
Tom Williams (Morningside) - 196.10cm
Lance Franklin (Perth) - 195.90cm
Mass (kilograms)
Ryan Willitts (Northern Knights) - 99.9kg
Fabian Deluca (Eastern Ranges) - 97.0kg
Shane Neaves (Calder Cannons) - 96.6kg
Earl Shaw (Campbelltown) - 96.2kg
Ivan Maric (Calder Cannons) - 95.7kg
Jesse Wells (Burnie) - 93.7kg
Chad Gibson (Norwood) - 93.4kg
Heath Grundy (Norwood) - 92.2kg
Beau Wilkes (Claremont) - 90.6kg
Adam Pattison (Northern Knights) - 89.8kg
20-metre sprint
Danyle Pearce (Sturt) - 2.79sec
Richard Tambling (Southern Districts) - 2.87sec
Jordan Russell (West Adelaide) - 2.89sec
Brett Deledio (Murray Bushrangers) - 2.90sec
Jesse Wells (Burnie) - 2.95sec
Chad Gibson (Norwood) - 2.95sec
Tim Hill (Bendigo Pioneers) - 2.95sec
Chris Egan (Murray Bushrangers) - 2.95sec
Clinton Young (North Ballarat Rebels) - 2.97sec
Jarred Moore (Dandenong Stingrays) - 3.00sec
Standing vertical jump
Chad Gibson (Norwood) - 73.0cm
Danyle Pearce (Sturt) - 70cm
Tim Hill (Bendigo Pioneers) - 70cm
Brett Deledio (Murray Bushrangers) - 68.0cm
Angus Monfries (Sturt) - 68.0cm
Matt Little (Calder Cannons) - 67.0cm
Jordan Lewis (Geelong Falcons) - 67.0cm
Richard Tambling (Southern Districts) - 66.0cm
Jayden Attard (Dandenong Stingrays) - 66.0cm
Dean Limbach (Calder Cannons) - 65.0cm
Running vertical jump
Danyle Pearce (Sturt) - 96cm
Chris Egan (Murray Bushrangers) - 94cm
Richard Tambling (Southern Districts) - 93cm
Brett Deledio (Murray Bushrangers) - 92cm
Dean Limbach (Calder Cannons) - 90cm
Tom Williams (Morningside) - 87cm
Danny Meyer (Glenelg) - 87cm
Chad Gibson (Norwood) - 86cm
Damien McCormack (Dandenong Stingrays) - 84cm
Ryan Willitts (Northern Knights) - 83cm
Agility run
Danyle Pearce (Sturt) - 7.79sec
Nathan Van Berlo (West Perth) - 7.80sec
Andrew McQualter (Gippsland Power) - 8.00sec
Andrew Lee (Burnie) - 8.04sec
Mark Le Cras (West Perth) - 8.18sec
Dean Polo (Gippsland Power) - 8.19sec
Richard Tambling (Southern Districts) - 8.20sec
Jesse Wells (Burnie) - 8.22sec
Adam Thomson (Sturt) - 8.25sec
Jordan Russell (West Adelaide) - 8.29sec
Shuttle run
Nathan Van Berlo (West Perth) - Level 15.2
Andrew McQualter (Gippsland Power) - 15.1
Dean Polo (Gippsland Power) - 14.7
Lynden Dunn (Calder Cannons) - 14.6
Brent Prismall (Western Jets) - 14.2
Adam Pattison (Northern Knights) - 14.2
Matthew Bate (Eastern Ranges) - 14.1
Tom Williams (Morningside) - 14.1
Clinton Young (North Ballarat Rebels) - 14.1
Matt Rosa (North Ballarat Rebels) - 14.1
3km time-trail
Nathan Van Berlo (West Perth) - 10min 35sec
Tom Williams (Morningside) - 10:36
Andrew McQualter (Gippsland Power) - 10:38
Ryan Jackson (Northern Knights) - 10:40
Beau Wilkes (Claremont) - 10:42
Matt Rosa (North Ballarat Rebels) - 10:44
Dean Polo (Gippsland Power) - 10:44
John Meeson (Geelong Falcons) - 10:44
Danyle Pearce (Sturt) - 10:45
Adam Pattison (Northern Knights) - 10:46
http://afl.com.au/default.asp?pg=news&spg=display&articleid=173790
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Franklin packs bags for draft
11 October 2004
Herald Sun
Rebecca Williams
(http://www.heraldsun.news.com.au/common/imagedata/0,1658,387116,00.jpg)
WEST Australian Lance Franklin says he'll have no hesitation packing his bags and shifting across the Nullarbor Plain should a Victorian club call his name on draft day.
The Perth teenager, better known as "Buddy", is considered a top-five prospect for the national draft on November 20 -- and Victorians have the first seven picks, making a move a near certainty.
Franklin, 17, admitted the thought of moving interstate was daunting, but said he'd be prepared to go anywhere to play AFL footy.
"It doesn't bother me if I have to come to Victoria," Franklin said.
"My grandparents are over there and my uncle. So I'd probably start off with them and then my parents would come over.
"I'm still only 17 and I'm still at school, so it would be a big move. But it would be a good move."
Franklin joined more than 70 AFL hopefuls at the draft camp in Canberra at the start of the month, and made the most of his final opportunity to leave a lasting impression on club recruiters.
Franklin was interviewed by Richmond, Hawthorn and the Western Bulldogs, the clubs that hold the first six picks in the draft.
Franklin said he had also been approached by Carlton before the camp.
"It's been going pretty good for me at this stage," the modest Franklin said.
"The draft camp (was) a bit intense, but I met a few coaches, so that (was) good.
"It's pretty daunting (meeting the coaches). But it's a good experience."
It's little wonder Franklin caught their attention.
At 193cm, Franklin can play at either end of the ground, although he said his preferred position was centre half-forward, and boasts pace, agility and a penetrating left-foot kick.
Franklin, who grew up supporting Melbourne, represented WA at the under-18 national championships and is a graduate of the AIS-AFL Academy.
Also a talented cricketer and basketballer, he hails from a sporting family.
His father Lance played hockey for Victoria and his sisters Bianca and Bree are both national-level netballers.
Despite his other talents, Franklin, who teaches footy to the Year 8 students at his school, has never been tempted to pursue a different sporting career.
"Footy's all I've ever really wanted to do," he said.
"So I'm starting to get a bit nervous (about the draft) now. Hopefully it all goes OK."
http://www.heraldsun.news.com.au/footy/common/story_page/0,8033,11034559%255E20322,00.html
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The value of senior experience
1:46:22 PM Tue 26 October, 2004
Matt Burgan
Sportal
Sturt midfielder Angus Monfries believes having played against senior footballers with mature bodies will hold him in good stead, when he makes the transition from the SANFL to the AFL.
And although Monfries was not as forthright in claiming his status as a certain selection at the National Bank AFL Draft next month, there is no doubt the prolific ball-winner will be snapped up, possibly as high as a top 10 pick.
But having had six senior SANFL matches under his belt, Monfries is certain it will be a great benefit in his development.
"It's definitely been a great experience for me, just being able to play against the older blokes," Monfries told Sportal.
"It's probably taught you a lot and having to play against the bigger bodies, probably prepares you a bit better for what you want to achieve later down the track."
Monfries made his senior debut in the SANFL in 2003 - playing one match - while he added five to his tally this year.
On top of that he was a member of the AIS/AFL academy squad in 2003-04, which included Australian representation against Ireland in April.
He also played for South Australia in the National Bank's AFL under-18 championships in 2004 and was duly rewarded with All-Australian selection after an outstanding carnival.
"It was a good experience (playing in the championships), but it was a bit disappointing because we didn't get over the line in the last game," Monfries said.
"I then went back and played a few senior games with Sturt, which was good and I got a few finals games, so it was a bit disappointing we didn't win against the Eagles. (But) it was an awesome experience, with the finals pressure and the big crowd."
A South Australian cross-country running champion, who also excelled at swimming, water polo, cricket and baseball, Monfries says the possibility of moving interstate - despite being an Adelaide supporter - does not faze him in the slightest.
"To be honest, it doesn't worry me at all. I just want to play AFL footy, so I'd be prepared to go anywhere to achieve that goal of mine, so it doesn't worry me at all," Monfries said.
http://afl.com.au/default.asp?pg=news&spg=display&articleid=176081
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Griffen calm as D-Day approaches
4:29:22 PM Sun 7 November, 2004
Matt Burgan
Sportal
South Adelaide midfielder Ryan Griffen says he is coping with the focus of being one of the most highly sought after players in the lead-up to this year's National Bank's AFL Draft.
Griffen is touted as a top six selection and many believe he will be taken as a priority pick, which is one of only three selections, before the first round begins at No.4.
And the footy-smart youngster, who has terrific foot skills, is taking it all in his stride.
"It's alright. I can handle it, but sometimes you stress out a little bit by papers and (people) ringing you up. But it's all good and it's all part of it, so you've got to do it," Griffen told Sportal.
Hailing from Goolwa, around 50km south of Adelaide and near Victor Harbour, Griffen, who follows Adelaide, said the almost-certain scenario that he will be drafted by a Victorian club did not worry him too much, although he has strong family ties.
"I'm prepared to go, but it will trouble me a little bit because I'm close to my family and friends, but apart from that it will be alright (because) it will be a good experience, just to basically start a new life," Griffen said.
An AIS/AFL academy graduate, Griffen was also rewarded with All-Australian selection after a terrific carnival at this year's National Bank's AFL under-18 championships.
It was just one of a number of highlights for Griffen, who said he was pleased with his 2004 season, which also saw him play in the SANFL seniors for South Adelaide.
"It's been great because I started off in reserves and then got into league, which helped me because I got to play against men, but I carried a (knee) injury all year," Griffen said.
"At the end of the season I got an operation on my knee, which will probably help for next year, but apart from that I reckon I've done all right."
http://afl.com.au/default.asp?pg=news&spg=display&articleid=176943
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Humpty Doo hopeful destined for greatness
16 November 2004 Herald Sun
Jon Anderson
ANTICIPATION hung in the air on July 7 as watchers waited for an on-field excitement package named Richard Tambling to explode on to the scene.
(http://www.heraldsun.news.com.au/common/imagedata/0,1658,396426,00.jpg)
One to watch: Richard Tambling is likely to a be a top-three pick in Saturday's draft.
Picture: Michael Dodge
The Northern Territory under-18 captain was under a heavy tag from Tasmania's Jason Howard.
But seasoned observers knew it was only a matter of time before Tambling blew the division two match apart.
The moment came early in the third quarter when Tambling, with a combination of blistering pace and sublime skill, gathered the ball at the 50m mark in front of the once-named John Elliott Stand on the Optus Oval boundary line.
Turning quickly and seemingly too far out, Tambling took a couple of steps inside 50m before sending the ball through post-high.
For his on-field minder Howard and the rest of us, it was an act to savour, one that we would recall years later when Tambling had fulfilled his obvious destiny of becoming an AFL star.
For Tambling, it appeared nothing special as he made his way quickly back to the centre square after a brief moment of celebration.
A couple of minutes later, he kicked another goal after picking up the ball on a burst and leaving two Tasmanian chasers in his wake as he ran into goal.
Twelve weeks later Tambling took his place at the AFL draft camp at the AIS in Canberra, pitting his skills against the best teenagers in the country.
When it came time for the running vertical leap, Tambling decided to have a bit of fun before the start of testing.
"It's this pole with heaps of pegs in it and you run up and jump, touching the pegs as high as you can," said 18-year-old Tambling yesterday from his job as a trainee in the AFL's Darwin office.
"We were just mucking around when I accidentally went over the top of the pole."
It meant some frantic resetting before the real stuff began, but the story quickly got around the numerous recruiting officers.
Ultimately, Tambling finished second in the running vertical leap with a jump of 93cm, a finish he matched with his time of 2.87sec for the 20m sprint.
As AFL national talent manager Kevin Sheehan says, in terms of sheer speed Tambling may just be the quickest he's seen.
"I'm not just speaking about foot speed, but more reaction time, both on and off the ground," Sheehan said.
"He's also a great personality, a kid who is bright as a button and good fun to be around."
Tambling, who hails from Darwin's Southern Districts, the same club with which Magpies captain Nathan Buckley and Brisbane Lion Jared Brennan played, arrives in Melbourne on Friday to attend the draft.
He has spoken to "most of the clubs", but he does not care where he ends up.
"I just can't wait to move away from Darwin so I can start to play in the AFL," Tambling said.
"I have been to Melbourne about eight times in my life, and I spent a bit of time with Richmond, Hawthorn and the Bulldogs when we played there in Grand Final week last year.
"What I found with the clubs is how positive they were about next year, even though they hadn't made the finals. It was very good for me to learn about those teams as I think I'll end up in Melbourne."
Richmond is expected to use its first selection to pick Brett Deledio, with Hawthorn and the Bulldogs to choose between Tambling and South Australian Ryan Griffen.
Tambling's previous trips to Melbourne have come via his prodigious talent, one that first saw him visit for the under-12 national primary school championships in 1998.
It was an eye-opener for a boy from a small settlement 50km outside Darwin known as Humpty Doo Station.
From that base, and later Fifteen Mile Community, Tambling was also able to indulge his other great passion of hunting.
"I love getting out bush and fishing for barramundi or hunting magpie geese and pigs, and I'll miss that in Melbourne," Tambling said.
"But footy will take up all my time, plus next year I'm hoping to complete my VCE so I can one day teach physical education."
If he has an inkling of his new home, Tambling refuses to let on.
But he admits Melbourne would suit him because he knows former Darwin players such as Aaron Davey, Daniel Motlop and Dean Rioli.
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, with current Territorians including Peter and Shaun Burgoyne, Xavier and Raphael Clarke, Richard Cole, Joel and Patrick Bowden, Darryl White and Andrew McLeod.
Physically, Tambling has grown from 179cm and 68kg in July to 181cm and 74kg today, something he has done through eating as much as he can get his hands on.
http://www.heraldsun.news.com.au/footy/common/story_page/0,8033,11400426%255E20322,00.html
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Jarryd out to fulfil father's dream
15 November 2004
Herald Sun
Bruce Matthews
(http://www.heraldsun.news.com.au/common/imagedata/0,1658,396125,00.jpg)
Whole new ball game: Jarryd Roughead, once a star junior basketball player, is likely to be a top 10 AFL draft pick next weekend.
Picture George Salpigtidis
TO LIVE out a football career so agonisingly close for his Dad has become a powerful motivation for Gippsland teenager Jarryd Roughead.
No one will be more proud than father Michael when Jarryd is selected -- almost certainly in the top 10 -- in the AFL national draft on Saturday.
Roughead Sr played one game with the Bulldogs' reserves on a permit in the 1980s before a restructure of the old VFL zoning system sent him home to Leongatha, where he eventually played 211 games.
Now fighting multiple sclerosis, he has adopted a "go for it, son" attitude to his eldest son, who's only days away from living every young footballer's dream.
"When I do well it makes him happy, which makes the whole family feel good as well," was Jarryd's succinct explanation of the daily battle.
MS, the autoimmune disease which causes nerve damage, is no big deal in the Roughead household in Leongatha in south Gippsland, with the symptoms contained by alternate-day injections.
Michael insists he didn't make it to the big time because he wasn't good enough and that Jarryd has inherited his sporting abilities from mother Cheryl, a former athlete and netballer who still hits the tennis court.
It owed much to those genes from both parents that Jarryd was able to make the staggering transition from promising state junior basketballer to top-10 AFL draft prospect in less than two years.
Roughead, 17, only started concentrating on football last season after ditching the hoops, and former Sydney full-back Andrew Dunkley, then Leongatha's coach, quickly promoted him to the senior team as a wingman and half-forward.
"I played for Vic Country (basketball) four or five times and played the nationals in 2002 in Adelaide, where we won the bronze medal.
"I really didn't shoot up height-wise until last year," the 193cm left-footer said.
"I lost interest in basketball and it wasn't a big deal to change because I was enjoying the footy back here with my mates and I never expected to go this far.
"At the start of last year Dad said he would coach me at under-16s (football) if I quit basketball. So I did that and ended up playing seniors after four games."
And, at a time when aspiring Victorian draftees are busting to showcase their skills at the MCG or Telstra Dome, this key-position kid wants to fly the coop over the border.
"If I had a choice I would go to Perth, but I don't think it's going to happen," he declared, aware West Coast's first pick is No. 29 and Fremantle's is No. 59.
Perth became an instant attraction when Roughead played for an AIS team against Ireland in a modified rules game there in April.
"When we were over there for the Australian tour, I liked it because it was like a big country town. Good weather, good people. Mitch Morton (West Coast father-son selection) is one of my best mates. I don't think Mum's real happy about that idea. I think she'd be happier if I was in Melbourne," he said.
West Coast, Essendon, St Kilda and Sydney were the only clubs not to seek an interview during last month's draft camp in Canberra.
The Gippsland Power centre half-forward has formed a close friendship with Murray Bushranger Brett Deledio, expected to be the No. 1 pick, and the Vic Country teammates could end up together at Punt Rd after Richmond recruiting officer Greg Beck recently drove to Leongatha.
"I had 12 interviews at the draft camp and then Richmond has come down home in the past couple of weeks to explain what would happen if I was drafted by them," Roughead said.
At that draft camp the talented teenager and a group of fellow draft candidates faced a threat far more terrifying than sitting under a high ball in the face of a converging pack.
The group were celebrating their last night together with an orderly, but noisy, gathering at the Australian Institute of Sport's quarters when they answered a knock on the door about midnight.
"You have two minutes to go to bed," ordered world boxing champ Kostya Tszyu, in camp preparing for his junior welterweight title defence. The party quickly disbanded.
ROUGHEAD is a Scottish surname and his great grandparents were among the first European settlers around Leongatha. Even the street running past the local football ground bears the family name.
"I copped heaps, but it died down in Grade 1 or 2," Jarryd said.
http://www.heraldsun.news.com.au/footy/common/story_page/0,8033,11385283%255E20322,00.html
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The Gippsland Power centre half-forward has formed a close friendship with Murray Bushranger Brett Deledio, expected to be the No. 1 pick, and the Vic Country teammates could end up together at Punt Rd after Richmond recruiting officer Greg Beck recently drove to Leongatha.
"I had 12 interviews at the draft camp and then Richmond has come down home in the past couple of weeks to explain what would happen if I was drafted by them," Roughead said.
I missed this yesterday. I think it's safe to say we're very interested in him if we are the only ones to drive down there.
I would've preferred Miller had gone there rather than Beck!