Zane Peuckerheight: 179cm
D.O.B: 04-12-2007
Position: Forward-Midfielder
Club: Woodville-West Torrens
Leagues: AFL U18 Championships
SNAPSHOT: “A powerful, quick and high-impact small forward who has also made his name in midfield.” – Michael Alvaro
Zane Peucker is among the bolters of this year’s budding AFL Draft crop. The Woodville-West Torrens prospect fits that moniker in more ways than one, not only rising the ranks as a top-ager, but also possessing plenty of power and speed. He was one of seven original inclusions to the South Australian Under 18 squad this year, which went on to take out the title undefeated.
A premiership player with the Eagles in 2024, Peucker showed progress throughout 15 bottom-age appearances. He lifted his 13.1 disposal average to 24.8 in 2025, also booting 16 goals in 12 games. His early-season exploits in midfield began to garner attention from state selectors, guiding a transition into more of a forward role. That’s where he thrived at representative level.
Peucker played out a full National Championships, kicking goals in every match including two against Vic Metro. He lifted his level back in club colours once star pair Jevan Phillipou and Jack Cook stepped into the League grade, and has always strived to match their standards. A Geelong supporter, Peucker also strives to mould his game on Brisbane gun Zac Bailey.
STRENGTHS:+ Energy
+ Hurt factor
+ Kick penetration
+ Power
+ Scoreboard impact
+ Speed
IMPROVEMENTS:- Composure
- Endurance
- Tackle pressure
Peucker consistently punches above his weight with explosive athletic traits and boundless energy in the forward half. He possesses raw power and speed, which he showcased at the National Draft Combine with a 20m sprint time of 2.952 seconds. His preseason effort of 2.893 would have put him on the end-of-year podium. The South Australian uses it on-field too, backing his pace to leave opponents in his wake as he charges towards goal.
Everything Peucker does is full of intent. He brings an X-factor to the play, making things happen in moments of chaos and flair. A major part of that is his competitiveness, which he uses to hunt the loose ball, drive his legs out of tackles, or stick solid overhead marks. His core strength and compact frame also help to generate opportunities, with the tough small talent able to role with the hits and continue barrelling forward.
Pecuker's hurt factor can be observed in several ways. He breaks the play open through force and connects the lines with daring runs, putting defenders on the back foot. His kick penetration is terrific, capable of clearing 50m on the run which in turn lends to his scoreboard impact. Peucker went goalless just twice in 12 SANFL Under 18 games this season, booting 16 majors and also hitting the scoreboard in each National Championships match.
His high-intensity, high-impact style is also complimented by high footy IQ. Peucker positions well at the fall of the ball and crumbs cleanly before immediately looking towards how he can hurt the opposition. Although, there is room to add polish to Peucker's style, as he can tend to blaze away or execute scrappy kicks under pressure. He finished on goal at a 47 per cent rate (16.18) this year, so can certainly enhance his accuracy.
Improvement will also come in Peucker's endurance running. He is seeking to cut down his 2km time and can translate that to greater impact out of possession. So many AFL small forwards are pure workhorses, so Peucker can certainly build his running tank and lift his tackling output, especially as he transitions from midfield to the forwardline. Although, in possession, he can apply pressure to the opposition through sheer intent.
AFL U18 Championships
Season Team K HB D M CP UP T HO CLR I50 R50 GL GM K H D M HO T G DC
2025 South Australia 26 19 45 7 22 25 4 0 3 9 0 5 4 6.5 4.8 11.3 1.8 0.0 1.0 1.3 49
Total - 26 19 45 7 22 25 4 0 3 9 0 5 4 6.5 4.8 11.3 1.8 0.0 1.0 1.3 49
DRAFT RANGE: Late/Rookie
SUMMARY:While Peucker put up some of his best numbers and performances to be recognised as a midfielder, he will likely be considered a specialist small forward option at the draft. His raw power and speed are assets which catch the eye and make him a highly impactful player each time he possesses the ball. That being said, he’ll need to bring his endurance tank and tackle pressure up to the same standard of his attacking traits in order to thrive at the top level. He could be a bolter in the mix, but likely fits in late in the piece or as a high-energy rookie who will give his all.
https://central.rookieme.com/afl/player/zane-peucker/
