Demonland

THE TRADING CHRONICLES by The Oracle THE WAITING GAME There was a time when the United States had a President who went by the name of "Tricky Dicky". These days, his namesake is involved in player management and looms large on the trade scene. Yesterday, Ricky Nixon who manages Andrejs Everitt, David Hale and Richard Tambling was quoted as saying that all three would have new homes by today. He obviously knows a lot more than the rest of us but the picture coming from the first day's trading is that the week ahead is going to be a long drawn out saga. Indeed, it beggars belief that the powers that be decided it was appropriate to extend the period rather than to contract it into a shorter time frame. The day predictably kicked off with the resolution of the father son selections and there were no surprises there. The representatives of the various clubs then went into a series of meetings with their counterparts. There were numerous stories emanating from these meetings and these have been variously reported in the media. The upshot however, is that nothing has been resolved and no trade deals were consummated on day one. The opening day of trades is like that. The clubs are circling on deals and sussing out what they can gain from the exchange period. Fresh from winning the flag, Collingwood led the way with their suggestion to Fremantle of former Docker Paul Medhurst as an exchange for Chris Tarrant. This was rather cute since Medhurst also announced yesterday that he had retired. What will follow is another week of argy bargy between clubs but so far it's a matter of sitting and waiting for something to happen. Completed Player Movements and Dealings on Day One: ■ Gold Coast receives Gary Ablett (Geelong), Nathan Bock (Adelaide), Campbell Brown (Hawthorn), Jarrod Harbrow (Western Bulldogs), Nathan Krakouer (Port Adelaide), Michael Rischitelli (Brisbane) as uncontracted player selections ■ Western Bulldogs receive Mitch Wallis in return for its first-round draft selection (No. 20) under the father son rule ■ Western Bulldogs receive Tom Liberatore in return for its second-round draft selection (No. 40) under the father son rule ■ West Coast Eagles receive Jacob Brennan in return for its final-round draft selection (TBA) under the father son rule NAB AFL Draft selection numbers are indicative only. Gold Coast draft compensation selections do not yet have a number assigned to them. The above list shows only where selections may be placed if no compensation selections are activated. No trades are official until paperwork has been accepted by the AFL and formally recognised after 2.00pm on Monday, October 11.

Games MFC 2010 0 Total 6 Goals MFC 2010 0 Total 0

THE TRADING CHRONICLES 2010 by The Oracle FISHING Melbourne Football Club list manager Tim Harrington has been quoted as saying that he "believes this week's trade period might be quieter than expected." For the first time in several years there are no big fish in the trade pool thanks to the successful extraction of Gary Ablett and the rest of the Gold Coast six through the uncontracted player rule. The result of this is that we are left with no "headline" players up for grabs like a Chris Judd or a Shaun Burgoyne in previous years and therefore the common view among the recruiting fraternity is that we should expect a quiet week, certainly one that should see far less activity than the 2009 exchange period. However, there are some unknown factors at play and most of these revolve around the new franchise. With nine selections in the first round, the big question is whether the Suns are willing to trade one or two of these for established players they were unable to snare because of their contract status? Insiders maintain that the Gold Coast are concerned about their failure to attract a big name key forward. Without one or two readymade targets up forward, they are going to struggle. It would seem that Brad Miller is not in their sights while David Hale, thought by many as a likely Demon is also being mentioned as a possible returnee to his home state. Still, you never know what they might come up with before the week is out. The other clubs will also be jostling to get an early pick in the draft so no doubt Gold Coast Recruiting Manager, Scott Clayton will be the man of the moment when the clubs meet this morning to open the first day of this first exchange period of the new era. The Suns are also expected to be in the thick of things when it comes to dealing with players who have previously been in the system or nominated in previous drafts. The word is that they have already decided to snaffle names like Andrew Krakouer and Myles Sewell with the view of trading them off to other clubs for draft picks or players. But the Suns might also decide to pick and keep players under this rule as well. Williamstown's Frosty Miller Medal winner Matt Little who was previously on Hawthorn's list to fill a forward post at the new club. There is one reason for believing that the clubs might get more business done than Harrington expects. In past years when there has been a big fish or two in the trade mix, many other potential trades have been held off and even frustrated by the inability of clubs involved to close the big deals. In their absence, it might be easier for them to do business. Speaking of business, the first business of the day today will be the father/son bidding which should see Mitch Wallis and Tom Liberatore on their way to the Doggies for their first two draft picks and Jacob Brennan to West Coast for a late selection. After that it will be on for young and old and we can expect plenty of twists and turns over the coming week. I wonder whether this year we will see a club standing on its principles in the way the Saints did last year over Luke Ball. They refused an offer of pick 30 and Sharrod Wellingham last year and might have had Tyson Goldsack if they were listening at all to the Magpies. It took a year for the message to hit them but on Saturday, Wellingham and Ball were among the best for the Magpies along with Darren Jolly who was taken from the Swans with a first round pick. The Saints got nothing from Collingwood and lost a favourite son in Ball. Among their own trades was Andrew Lovett who cost a first rounder but didn't make it to the NAB Cup and they ended up getting Jesse Smith from North Melbourne who cost nothing but then again, produced nothing either. Such are the vagaries of the exchange period.

THE TRADING CHRONICLES 2010 by The Oracle FISHING Melbourne Football Club list manager Tim Harrington has been quoted as saying that he "believes this week's trade period might be quieter than expected." For the first time in several years there are no big fish in the trade pool thanks to the successful extraction of Gary Ablett and the rest of the Gold Coast six through the uncontracted player rule. The result of this is that we are left with no "headline" players up for grabs like a Chris Judd or a Shaun Burgoyne in previous years and therefore the common view among the recruiting fraternity is that we should expect a quiet week, certainly one that should see far less activity than the 2009 exchange period. However, there are some unknown factors at play and most of these revolve around the new franchise. With nine selections in the first round, the big question is whether the Suns are willing to trade one or two of these for established players they were unable to snare because of their contract status? Insiders maintain that the Gold Coast are concerned about their failure to attract a big name key forward. Without one or two readymade targets up forward, they are going to struggle. It would seem that Brad Miller is not in their sights while David Hale, thought by many as a likely Demon is also being mentioned as a possible returnee to his home state. Still, you never know what they might come up with before the week is out. The other clubs will also be jostling to get an early pick in the draft so no doubt Gold Coast Recruiting Manager, Scott Clayton will be the man of the moment when the clubs meet this morning to open the first day of this first exchange period of the new era. The Suns are also expected to be in the thick of things when it comes to dealing with players who have previously been in the system or nominated in previous drafts. The word is that they have already decided to snaffle names like Andrew Krakouer and Myles Sewell with the view of trading them off to other clubs for draft picks or players. But the Suns might also decide to pick and keep players under this rule as well. Williamstown's Frosty Miller Medal winner Matt Little who was previously on Hawthorn's list to fill a forward post at the new club. There is one reason for believing that the clubs might get more business done than Harrington expects. In past years when there has been a big fish or two in the trade mix, many other potential trades have been held off and even frustrated by the inability of clubs involved to close the big deals. In their absence, it might be easier for them to do business. Speaking of business, the first business of the day today will be the father/son bidding which should see Mitch Wallis and Tom Liberatore on their way to the Doggies for their first two draft picks and Jacob Brennan to West Coast for a late selection. After that it will be on for young and old and we can expect plenty of twists and turns over the coming week. I wonder whether this year we will see a club standing on its principles in the way the Saints did last year over Luke Ball. They refused an offer of pick 30 and Sharrod Wellingham last year and might have had Tyson Goldsack if they were listening at all to the Magpies. It took a year for the message to hit them but on Saturday, Wellingham and Ball were among the best for the Magpies along with Darren Jolly who was taken from the Swans with a first round pick. The Saints got nothing from Collingwood and lost a favourite son in Ball. Among their own trades was Andrew Lovett who cost a first rounder but didn't make it to the NAB Cup and they ended up getting Jesse Smith from North Melbourne who cost nothing but then again, produced nothing either. Such are the vagaries of the exchange period.

Games MFC 2010 2 Total 14 Goals MFC 2010 0 Total 0 Games CSFC 2010 17 Goals CSFC 2010 0

Games MFC 2010 8 Total 17 Goals MFC 2010 21 Total 41 Games CSFC 2010 2 Goals CSFC 2010 3

186cm Josh Caddy

THE TRADING CHRONICLES 2010 by The Oracle PRELUDE The Draft Combine has been and gone, we've seen records broken, young players measured, tested and interviewed and most of us don't know what to make of it all but then it seems that everything to do with our national sport is calculated to confuse. The past week has been a perfect example of the chaotic state of the game and it wasn't even meant to be part of the footy season. In the same week that our cricketers donned their whites for the first Test Match of the summer, we saw a new coach appointed, another complaining of burn out, a champion player defecting to a new club, others bailing out and asking to be traded and, oh yes, a premiership was won and lost. And if you thought it was all over, done and dusted, then think again because next week, it's really down to business. The exchange period is about to start but, as we've been saying for some time on this site, it's different this year ... and it will be different next year. In 2010, everything is dominated by the spectre of the Gold Coast Suns. To demonstrate how great is the control the new franchise over the entire AFL trade and draft regime consider the coming week as heralding a new form of chess match played under the following conditions. The newbies from the Sunshine State are the black and, as such, they have the advantage of making the opening move but that's just the start of it all. The black begins with a board that has all sixteen black chess pieces intact: one king, one queen, two rooks, two knights, two bishops, and eight pawns. The other sixteen clubs are represented by the white but, under the unusual rules of this particular game the white is at a disadvantage from the outset because there are only ten white pieces. The white starts with only three pawns and has no queen. From the outset, the white king is under immediate attack (in "check") and there is little room to manoeuvre, to remove or defend it from attack on the next move. Well you might ask the question: how long will it take therefore before the black checkmates the white's king? That's the reality of how this trade and draft is going to pan out and it's too late to cry foul because the die was cast a long time ago. Late last year a large chunk of the draft pool was removed and the Suns were given the option of taking twelve of the best 17 year olds born before the end of April 1992. Only one of these youngsters has removed himself from the equation and that was because he elected to take up a cricketing contract. Then the Suns were given the opportunity to snare one out of contract player from each of the other clubs and a much more extensive salary cap limit, giving them the opportunity to pick their targets and enabling them to gain an upper hand in the process of bidding for their services. The Gold Coast was even afforded the luxury of naming David Swallow as their number one draft selection for 2010 even before the Demons could name Tom Scully as their first pick for 2009. They've now preselected Harley Bennell and Sam Day as their next two draft picks of 2010 and they have another half dozen selections in the first round. There are more steak knives in the hands of the Suns' recruiting people. If they wish they can pick up and/or on trade a number of players from outside the AFL who have previously been in the system or nominated for the draft. What this means is that next year's Michael Barlow and James Podsiadly will most likely play for or be traded by the Gold Coast. The cumulative effect of the trade and draft concessions available to the Suns has prompted one club chief to comment that the new franchise was "well-placed to dominate the next decade." They may be well placed to dominate but, as the reigning premier proved yesterday, it's not enough to make good trades and draft wisely. There's plenty of work and development that needs to go into the players once they reach their football destination. In Collingwood's case, it's clear that the Magpies now have the leading edge in this area including the latest scientific developments that have managed to keep their list fit, healthy and primed for on field success. Despite all that, the focus in the coming week will be on the Suns as they go into this week's trades carrying all of the aces, most of the pawns and an extra team and that should be sufficient to keep most of the other clubs in check. And I'll be there following the action once again in The Trading Chronicles... Completed Player Movements and Dealings to date: ■ Gold Coast receives Gary Ablett (Geelong), Nathan Bock (Adelaide), Campbell Brown (Hawthorn), Jarrod Harbrow (Western Bulldogs), Nathan Krakouer (Port Adelaide), Michael Rischitelli (Brisbane) as uncontracted player selections NAB AFL Draft selection numbers are indicative only. Gold Coast draft compensation selections do not yet have a number assigned to them. The above list shows only where selections may be placed if no compensation selections are activated. No trades are official until paperwork has been accepted by the AFL and formally recognised after 2.00pm on Monday, October 11. [The Oracle will be back from time to time over the next eight days to unravel the dramas of the AFL's trade week as they happen ... ]

THE TRADING CHRONICLES 2010 by The Oracle PRELUDE The Draft Combine has been and gone, we've seen records broken, young players measured, tested and interviewed and most of us don't know what to make of it all but then it seems that everything to do with our national sport is calculated to confuse. The past week has been a perfect example of the chaotic state of the game and it wasn't even meant to be part of the footy season. In the same week that our cricketers donned their whites for the first Test Match of the summer, we saw a new coach appointed, another complaining of burn out, a champion player defecting to a new club, others bailing out and asking to be traded and, oh yes, a premiership was won and lost. And if you thought it was all over, done and dusted, then think again because next week, it's really down to business. The exchange period is about to start but, as we've been saying for some time on this site, it's different this year ... and it will be different next year. In 2010, everything is dominated by the spectre of the Gold Coast Suns. To demonstrate how great is the control the new franchise over the entire AFL trade and draft regime consider the coming week as heralding a new form of chess match played under the following conditions. The newbies from the Sunshine State are the black and, as such, they have the advantage of making the opening move but that’s just the start of it all. The black begins with a board that has all sixteen black chess pieces intact: one king, one queen, two rooks, two knights, two bishops, and eight pawns. The other sixteen clubs are represented by the white but, under the unusual rules of this particular game the white is at a disadvantage from the outset because there are only ten white pieces. The white starts with only three pawns and has no queen. From the outset, the white king is under immediate attack (in "check") and there is little room to manoeuvre, to remove or defend it from attack on the next move. Well you might ask the question: how long will it take therefore before the black checkmates the white's king? That's the reality of how this trade and draft is going to pan out and it’s too late to cry foul because the die was cast a long time ago. Late last year a large chunk of the draft pool was removed and the Suns were given the option of taking twelve of the best 17 year olds born before the end of April 1992. Only one of these youngsters has removed himself from the equation and that was because he elected to take up a cricketing contract. Then the Suns were given the opportunity to snare one out of contract player from each of the other clubs and a much more extensive salary cap limit, giving them the opportunity to pick their targets and enabling them to gain an upper hand in the process of bidding for their services. The Gold Coast was even afforded the luxury of naming David Swallow as their number one draft selection for 2010 even before the Demons could name Tom Scully as their first pick for 2009. They've now preselected Harley Bennell and Sam Day as their next two draft picks of 2010 and they have another half dozen selections in the first round. There are more steak knives in the hands of the Suns’ recruiting people. If they wish they can pick up and/or on trade a number of players from outside the AFL who have previously been in the system or nominated for the draft. What this means is that next year's Michael Barlow and James Podsiadly will most likely play for or be traded by the Gold Coast. The cumulative effect of the trade and draft concessions available to the Suns has prompted one club chief to comment that the new franchise was "well-placed to dominate the next decade." They may be well placed to dominate but, as the reigning premier proved yesterday, it's not enough to make good trades and draft wisely. There's plenty of work and development that needs to go into the players once they reach their football destination. In Collingwood's case, it's clear that the Magpies now have the leading edge in this area including the latest scientific developments that have managed to keep their list fit, healthy and primed for on field success. Despite all that, the focus in the coming week will be on the Suns as they go into this week's trades carrying all of the aces, most of the pawns and an extra team and that should be sufficient to keep most of the other clubs in check. And I’ll be there following the action once again in The Trading Chronicles... [The Oracle will be back from time to time over the next eight days to unravel the dramas of the AFL's trade week as they happen ... ]

Games MFC 2010 16 Total 251 Goals MFC 2010 5 Total 56 Games CSFC 2010 1 Goals CSFC 2010 1

I suggest that we act mature and grown up and be really good sports about today's catastrophic result and simply ban any mention of Collingw&%$ for the rest of the week .

Now that the season's over it's time to thank all of our contributors, the writers, our moderators, all of our posters and readers, the MFC Board, staff and players for helping make this another great season at Demonland. May we all enjoy the next few months and then the 2011 AFL season and may we see Jimmy and his captain hold a premiership cup aloft - if not next year (and why not?) then very, very soon. Cheers!

Games MFC 2010 18 Total 108 Goals MFC 2010 2 Total 25

Games MFC 2010 0 Total 66 Goals MFC 2010 0 Total 1 Games CSFC 2010 18 Goals CSFC 2010 0

Games MFC 2010 20 Total 40 Goals MFC 2010 1 Total 3

Games MFC 2010 1 Total 12 Goals MFC 2010 0 Total 7 Games CSFC 2010 17 Goals CSFC 2010 15

Games MFC 2010 22 Total 220 Goals MFC 2010 55 Total 294

See here

Now starts 5 October (i.e a day later than originally scheduled).

Games MFC 2010 14 Total 26 Goals MFC 2010 0 Total 2 Games CSFC 2010 1 Goals CSFC 2010 0

I have sent you a PM.

A DIFFERENT DRAFT - THE DRAFT COMBINE by Whispering Jack We are all now painfully aware that with the impending introduction of two new AFL franchises, the coming trade period and drafts will be dominated by the new club, the Gold Coast Suns. The concessions made available to the new club from the Sunshine State have been well documented. The Suns have already dominated the news in so far as player transfers are concerned. Five players have already announced they are leaving their clubs to play for the AFL 's new boys - Nathan Bock (Adelaide), Campbell Brown (Hawthorn), Jarrod Harbrow (Western Bulldogs), Nathan Krakouer (Port Adelaide) and Michael Rischitelli (Brisbane) - and we know there's at least another big scalp waiting in the wings for the AFL to give it's nod to the final announcement. We're a little over a week from the start of trade week but only a couple of days from this year's draft camp which has attracted a new name - the AFL Draft Combine. The AFL has increased the number of players included in the group to be looked at by scouts from 18 clubs to 100 from all states and territories. That's the number of invitees to the 2010 NAB AFL Draft National Combine including a dozen 17 year olds who will come under the scrutiny of the AFL's 18th club Greater Western Sydney. According to the AFL, the term "combine" describes "the search for talent as the AFL seeks the combination of the football skills, athletic capabilities and mental toughness needed to play at the elite level." A further 112 players have been invited to the 2010 NAB AFL Draft State Combine which takes place next week in Melbourne, Adelaide and Perth. The clubs will be straight down to business in the week after Saturday's grand final replay with the exchange period. Once again, the Gold Coast Suns are expected to dominate proceedings with a treasure trove of money, extra salary cap room and a welter of top picks and players from outside the system to trade. A month later on November 18, 2010 the NAB AFL Draft will be held with the Gold Coast Suns holding the majority of the early draft picks. The venue? The Gold Coast Convention Centre of course! What is the NAB AFL Draft Combine? The following list of players invited to the 2010 NAB AFL Draft National Combine has been released by the AFL in the following positional groups:- Small Forwards Camp No. – Player (Club, State) HT, WT, D.O.B. 1 Reece Conca (Perth, WA) 182, 76, 12.08.92 Versatile player who can play forward midfield or back. His ability to run and carry and his football smarts were prominent in representing WA at U18 level this year. 2 Sam Crocker (Oakleigh Chargers, Vic) 180, 73, 12.03.92 Midfielder who can play forward and use his excellent disposal to set-up goals. Quick and strong overhead for his size he also makes good decisions with the football. Averaged 19 disposals with Chargers this year at 65% efficiency. 3 Josh Green (Clarence, Tas) 179, 76, 24.08.92 Quick and agile midfielder/forward who reads the game extremely well and wins contested footy. Won TAS MVP in AFL U18's and All Aust honours averaging 25 disposals. 4 Cameron Johnston (Geelong Falcons, Vic) 181, 78, 24.02.92 Quick and versatile player who can play hit-up forward role or go down back. Very athletic type overall and a long kick. 5 Jed Lamb (Gippsland Power, Vic) 181, 78, 19.10.92 Clever forward with clean hands overhead and at ground level, very good awareness. Super smart goal kicker in all situations kicking 44 goals this year for Power and VIC-Country U18's. 6 Tim Milera (Pt Adelaide Magpies, SA) 170, 72, 9.12.92 Skilful and talented genuine small forward in the Eddie Betts mould. Great goal sense, clean hands and has been impressive at senior level this year. 7 Dion Prestia (Calder Cannons, Vic) 175, 82, 12.10.92 Powerful inside midfielder/forward with excellent disposal skills and contested ball winning ability. Averaged 28 disposals in the TAC Cup and represented Victoria Metro in the AFL U18's with injuries curtailing his Championships. 8 Matthew Rankine (West Adelaide, SA) 179, 70, 20.02.92 Quick and agile forward who can win the contested ball and is capable overhead for his size with his natural leap. SA rep in U18's in 2010. 9 Ben Reid (Bendigo Pioneers, Vic) 181, 67, 05.09.92 Smart forward with good anticipation, clean hands at ground level and overhead. Uses ball well and impressed for NSW/ACT in AFL U18's Championships this year. Brother Sam at Western Bulldogs. 10 Thomas Schneider (Oakleigh Chargers, Vic) 178, 77, 30.09.92 Very smart and courageous fall of the ball player with clean hands and neat disposal skills. Smart around goals and very impressive for Vic Metro in the AFL U18's winning its best player award. Average 29 disposals with Chargers this year. 11 Hayden Yarran (West Perth, WA) 186, 75, 30.04.92 Very clever player around goal and accurate on the run or set shot. Strong overhead and can also push up into midfield. WA U18's squad in 2010. Medium Midfielders 12 Warrick Andreoli (South Fremantle, WA) 182, 75, 28.02.92 Extremely quick player who takes the game on. Good user of the ball on preferred left side. Showed his talent with WA in the U18's. Averaged 15 disposals at 72% efficiency. 13 Shaun Atley (Murray Bushrangers, Vic) 188, 84, 13.09.92 Exceptionally agile player with great speed and endurance. Twice runner up in State hurdles highlights his athletic ability. All Aust U18's in 2010, averaging 19 disposals and 6 tackles. 14 Harley Bennell (Peel Thunder, WA) 184, 70, 02.10.92 Talented ball winner in the forward-line or midfield. Has speed, poise and great goal sense. Won the Larke Medal and All Aust 18 honours in 2010 kicking 13 goals in 5 matches and averaging 19.6 disposals with 6 inside 50's. 15 Rohan Bewick (West Perth, WA) 184, 77, 10.10.89 Hard running player who is smart and a penetrating kick. Has good pace and endurance. Played well at senior level in 2010 in the WAFL. 16 Josh Caddy (Northern Knights, Vic) 186, 82, 28.09.92 Powerful player who wins clearances and contested marks. Dangerous forward who attacks ball aggresively. Kicked 22 goals and averaged 21 disposlas for the Knights this year. All Aust U18's 2010. 17 Alex Fasolo (East Fremantle, WA) 182, 79, 08.06.92 Impressive player for WA in U18's this year averaging 19 disposals with 67% efficiency. Good clearance player with good decision making ability. 18 Andrew Gaff (Oakleigh Chargers, Vic) 183, 79, 16.06.92 Left footer with terrific game sense. Imposes himself on games. Prolific ball winner averaging 30.5 disposals for Chargers and 27 for Vic M this year. Has good pace and endurance combination. All Aust U18's 2010. 19 Mitch Hallahan (Dandenong Stingrays, Vic) 182, 82, 23.08.92 Tough inside player with penetrating right foot. Wins one on ones and is disciplined. All Aust in U18's 2010. 20 Brad Harvey (Eastern Ranges, Vic) 184, 83, 16.04.92 Medium defender/midfielder who can play inside or outside and provide good run and carry. Very quick and competitive. VIC Metro U18's rep in 2010. 21 Thomas Liberatore (Calder Cannons, Vic) 182, 78, 16.05.92 Wins clearances and has quick clean hands. Hard in contested situations and team orientated. Averaged 24 disposals with Cannons, 5 clearances & 4 tackles. Neat left foot kick and All Aust U18's 2010. 22 Aaron Mullet (Eastern Ranges, Vic) 183, 74, 23.02.92 Smooth moving left footer who has ability overhead. Is neat with hand and foot. VIC-M rep in AFL U18's 2010. 23 Luke Parker (Dandenong Stingrays, Vic) 182, 83, 15.10.92 Hard running player who is strong overhead and around goal. Has elite endurance and is super competitive. Averaged 23 disposals at 68% efficiency with Stingrays this year. VIC-C U18's 2010. 24 Jared Polec (Woodville West Torrens, SA) 188, 81, 12.10.92 Left footed long kicking player who excelled in NAB AFL U18's winning All Aust honours. Has pace and composure around goal with impressive form at senior level in the SANFL. 25 Mitchell Wallis (Calder Cannons, Vic) 185, 79, 24.10.92 Has great hands and work ethic ; reads game extremely well and uses the football smartly. Averaged 29 disposals at 66% efficiency with Cannons this year. Captained VIC-M in AFL U18's 2010. Medium Forwards 26 Nathan Ah Mat-Watkins (Pioneers, NT, West Adelaide, SA ) 186, 78, 18.02.92 Footy smart around forward line and has excellent clean hands and awareness. Rep NT in AFL U18's this year and playing for West Adelaide. 27 Daniel Farmer (Sandringham Dragons, Vic) 189, 82, 22.07.92 Quick and excellent one on one player who can play many roles for his team. Smart goal-kicker having kicked 17 goals in 10 matches with the Dragons. 28 Jacob Gillbee (Lauderdale, Tas) 184, 76, 13.09.92 Led up forward with good hands and goal-kicking ability. Provides good defensive pressure inside F50. Averaged 4 tackles a game and kicked 7 goals for Tasmania in the NAB AFL U18's. 29 Kieran Harper (Eastern Ranges, Vic) 187, 80, 05.06.92 Very quick and skilfull player with great goal sense. Can take contested mark and impact a game. VIC-M rep in 2010 in AFL U18's, kicking 7 goals including 4 vs. WA. 30 George Horlin-Smith (Sturt, SA) 185, 75, 22.12.92 Outstanding winning contested football and very creative player. Promising junior cricketer having represented Australia at U16 level. 31 Patrick Karnezis (Oakleigh Chargers, Vic) 190, 78, 23.04.92 Tall forward who is well balanced and team focused, setting up many goals. Also clever goal-kicker and has strong hands. VIC Metro U18's rep in 2010. 32 Jarryd Lyons (Sandringham Dragons, Vic) 183, 79, 22.07.92 Agile player with terrific ball winning ability, footy know how and endurance. Averaged 21 disposals and kicked 23 goals in 16 matches with the Dragons this year. 33 Josh Mellington (Murray Bushrangers, Vic) 186, 78, 29.12.92 Clever opportunist around goals and in one on one marking situations. Kicked 38 goals and 16 behinds in 15 matches this year. Tackles well inside F50. 34 Viv Michie (Oakleigh Chargers, Vic) 185, 79, 23.02.92 Well rounded player who is dangerous as a forward and can play midfield or back. Excellent kick and reads game extremely well. VIC-M U18's rep in 2010, averaging 16 disposals and 2 goals. 35 Ben Newton (South Fremantle, WA) 183, 76, 08.08.92 Strong marking and winner of contested football. Uses ball well with hand and foot. WA U18's rep in 2010. Graduate of AIS/AFL Academy. 36 Jayden Pitt (Geelong Falcons, Vic) 188, 72, 07.10.92 Player with good reactive speed, agility and smart user off both feet. Reads ball off hands extremely well. All Aust in NAB AFL U18's 2010 averaging 18 disposals and kicking 8 goals in the Championships. 37 Arryn Siposs (Dandenong Stingrays, Vic) 189, 80, 25.11.92 Strong marking player who is an excellent kick for goal and very team orientated. Averaged 15 disposals and kicked 34 goals for Stingrays this year. VIC-C U18's rep in 2010. 38 Aaron Young (Eastern Ranges, Vic) 188, 77, 06.12.92 Outstanding mark for his size and very athletic. Wins contested ball and has pace and hardness. VIC-M rep in 2010. averaged 16 disposals, 3 tackles, 4 marks as well as kicking 6 goals for the Championships. Medium Defenders 39 Jake Batchelor (Dandenong Stingrays, Vic) 187, 82, 13.02.92 Left footed medium defender who is strong overhead and a neat disposer of the ball. Provides good run and can lock down on opponents. 40 Nathan Batley (Woodville West Torrens, SA) 185, 74, 16.09.92 Very speedy medium defender who can break the lines. Shows good vision and decision making and is very competitive. SA U18's rep in 2010. 41 Alex Browne (Oakleigh Chargers, Vic) 188, 86, 09.08.92 Aggressive medium defender who reads the play very well and uses the ball effectively by hand and foot. Can push into the midfield and win his own ball. VIC Metro U18's rep in 2010 playing 3 matches . 42 Ben Casley (Western Jets, Vic) 189, 86, 18.03.92 Medium defender/forward who takes good contested marks and has good game sense. Provides run from defence or can be a lead-up forward. 43 Jamie Cripps (East Fremantle, Vic) 182, 78, 23.04.92 Medium defender with excellent speed who takes the game on. Uses the ball well by foot and is sound defensively. WA U18's Rep. 44 Cameron Guthrie (Calder Cannons, Vic) 186, 79, 19.08.92 Versatile medium defender who can play a lock down role and win contested ball. Very consistent player who has clean hands and makes good decisions. VIC Metro U18's rep in 2010. 45 Dyson Heppell (Gippsland Power, Vic) 187, 79, 14.05.92 Skillful left footed medium defender with penetration kick, strength overhead and clean hands. Had outstanding AFL U18's winning VIC Country MVP and All Aust honours. Won Morrish Medal for TAC Cup Best & Fairest in 2010. 46 Ben Jacobs (Sandringham Dragons, Vic) 186, 82, 09.01.92 Left footed medium defender who can play midfield or forward. Powerful type who kicks long and takes an excellent overhead mark. Can really find the ball and had outstanding AFL U18's winning All Aust honours. 47 Andrew McInnes (Dandenong Stingrays, Vic) 189, 83, 20.03.92 Disciplined medium defender who provides good rebound. Very competitive and can play on talls or smalls. VIC Country U18's rep in 2010. 48 Cameron Richardson (North Ballarat Roosters, Vic) 189, 84, 02.12.87 Hard running medium defender who makes good decisions on when to mark or spoil. Dual B&F winner in Ballarat League in 2006/08. 49 Billie Smedts (Geelong Falcons, Vic) 188, 78, 08.06.92 Composed medium defender/forward who is strong overhead and very competitive. Is an extremely agile player who takes the game on. VIC Country U18's rep in 2010 playing 3 matches after returning from injury. 50 Brodie Smith (Woodville West Torrens, SA) 189, 80, 14.01.92 Medium defender/midfielder with terrific speed/endurance combination. Powerful player who bursts from stoppages and wins plenty of the footy. Starred in AFL U18's with All Aust honours. 51 Joel Wilkinson (Broadbeach, Qld) 184, 80, 29.11.91 Dashing medium defender with only 2yrs in the game coming fron an athletics background to captain QLD this year in AFL U18's. Workrate and pressure very good. 52 Blayne Wilson (Peel Thunder, WA) 188, 86, 26.01.92 Strong marking medium defender who reads the game very well across half back. Uses the ball effectively and earn All Aust honours in 2009 and was consistent for WA at U18s level this year. Tall Defenders 53 Jordan Treloar (Northern Knights, Vic) 192, 83, 12.12.92 Well balanced Tall defender/forward who is extremely agile and strong overhead. Averaged 16 disposals and 6 marks for the Knights this year. 54 Cameron Delaney (Geelong Falcons, Vic) 192, 82, 19.06.92 Composed tall defender who is able to read the ball well coming into defense and make good decisions on when to mark and spoil. Rangy type with good closing speed - Vic C rep in 2010. 55 Tom Gordon (Oakleigh Chargers, Vic) 195, 90, 19.04.92 Tall defender/forward who is very strong overhead and long left foot kick. Very dangerous around goal in the TAC Cup. Represented VIC Metro in AFL U18's as a defender. 56 Alex Johnson (Oakleigh Chargers, Vic) 193, 82, 02.03.92 Tall defender/forward with outstanding work rate and competitive edge. Provides excellent defensive pressure when playing forward. Represented VIC Metro at AFL U18's this year. 57 David Kruse (Wanderers, NT) 190, 73, 23.01.92 Dashing tall defender with terrific run and carry from back 50 Can play tall or small or push into midfield giving his team flexiblity. From Tiwi Islands impressed for NT in AFL U18s this year. 58 Ryan Lester (Oakleigh Chargers, VIC) 190, 83, 26.08.92 Tall defender who can play medium role as well as forward. Attacks the ball strongly and is strong overhead. VIC Metro rep this year averaging 16 disposals and 4 marks. 59 Angus Litherland (Claremont, WA) 192, 83, 12.10.92 Tall defender with excellent closing speed and spoiling ability. Shows ability to rebound from defence. Represented WA in U18's in 2010. 60 Pat McCarthy (Glenelg, SA) 194, 84, 11.03.92 Athletic tall defender who can also go forward. Neat disposer of the ball and provides good rebound from defence. Won All Aust U18 honours this year. 61 Justin Monaco (East Fremantle, WA) 191, 86, 07.11.92 Tall defender who reads the game well and provides good run from defence. Provides good defensive pressure on talls and mediums. Represented WA in U18s this year. 62 Cameron O'Shea (Eastern Ranges, Vic) 191, 86, 13.03.92 Tall defender with strong work ethic and with the ability to win the contested ball. Disciplined and determined player. Represented VIC Metro in AFL U18's this year averaging 16 disposals. 63 Max Otten (Oakleigh Chargers, Vic) 193, 86, 10.11.92 Left footed tall defender who reads the game very well and makes good decisions with the ball. Provides good run from defence. Played for VIC Metro in AFL U18's. 64 Seb Tape (Sturt, SA) 191, 85, 06.08.92 Athletic tall defender with excellent closing speed and competitive edge. Very good one on one and below his knees. Captained SA in NAB AFL U18's this year. 65 Matthew Watson (Calder Cannons, Vic) 195, 98, 16.07.92 Left footed tall defender with penetrating kick and strong in the air. Composed with the ball in his hands and had a consistent U18's Championships winning All Aust honours. Tall Forwards 66 Darcy Barden (Northern Knights, Vic) 192, 91, 13.02.92 Very competitive tall forward with great work ethic and strong hands overhead. Courageous player who was impressive for VIC Metro in the AFL U18's. 67 Lucas Cook (North Ballarat Rebels, Vic) 194, 82, 03.03.92 Tall forward to reads the game well and has sure hands. Mobile player who can go back; makes good decisions. All Aust U18's in 2010. 68 Jack Darling (West Perth, WA) 191, 94, 16.06.92 Athletic tall forward who attacks the ball with ferocity and strong overhead. Provides excellent defensive pressure in the forward 50. All Australia U18 in 2009 and again provided excellent marking target up forward for WA in 2010. 69 Sam Day (Sturt, SA) 195, 94, 06.09.92 High leaping tall forward who can take contested marks. Skillful on right and left side. SA U18's rep in 2010 winning All Aust honours. 70 Zac Fitzgerald (Woodville West Torrens, SA) 192, 84, 16.02.91 Very versatile tall forward or defender who is strong overhead and accurate at goalfront. Smart reader of the game. SA U18's rep in 2010. 71 Anton Hamp (Claremont, WA) 193, 83, 21.07.92 Versatile type who makes good position and has good work ethic. Clean hands and pace also a feature. Represented WA at U18's level this year. 72 Tom Lynch (Dandenong Stingrays, Vic) 196, 90, 31.10.92 Strong marking tall forward with terrific work-rate and ability at ground level. Impressive for VIC Country in AFL U18's. 73 Luke Mitchell (Calder Cannons, Vic) 196, 96, 28.02.92 Tall Forward/Defender with strong contested marking ability. Dangerous around goals and presents well on the lead .Missed AFL U18s due to shoulder surgery but now back in TAC Cup. 74 Callum Sinclair (Port Melbourne, Vic) 201, 96, 23.09.89 Mobile tall forward who is a strong lead and mark overhead. Reads the game very well and reliable in front of goals. 75 Jamie Solly (Port Adelaide Magpies, SA) 192, 92, 27.07.92 Tall forward who can also play down back. Strong hands overhead and reliable kick for goal. SA rep in 2010 kicking 12 goals. 76 Ariel Steinberg (Bendigo Pioneers, Vic) 191, 84, 26.08.92 Tall forward who is quick on the lead and has an excellent natural leap. Played Amercian football (Gridiron) in Alberta, Canada in 2009. 77 Jake von Bertouch (Woodville West Torrens, SA) 192, 80, 04.05.92 Tall forward who is quick on the lead and accurate in front of goal. Has strong hands and is team orientated. SA U18's rep in 2010. 78 Josh Walker (Geelong Falcons, Vic) 194, 87, 12.11.92 Tall forward with terrific work-rate and strong hands overhead. Impressed for VIC Country in AFL U18's as a lead up forward. Ruckmen 79 John Ceglar (Murray Bushrangers, Vic) 200, 87, 14.02.91 Much improved mobile ruckman who is team orientated and sound overhead. Consistent performer for VIC Country in U18's this year averaging 13 hitouts and 3 marks. 80 Leif Cope (Eastern Ranges, Vic) 203, 98, 22.08.92 Athletic ruckman who competes very well at ground level. Averaged 11 disposals and 2 marks with the Ranges this year. 81 Daniel Gorringe (Norwood, SA) 200, 92, 02.06.92 Gifted in the art of ruckwork and a very athletic player who is strong overhead and dangerous near goal. Won All Australian U18 honours in 2010. 82 Brayden Grenfell (Calder Cannons, Vic) 198, 84, 09.05.92 Tall forward/ruckman with very good work-rate and good below the knees. Has strong hands on the lead. 83 Joseph Groenewegen (Launceston) 196, 84, 25.10.91 Tall forward/ruckman with very good endurance, agility and overhead marking talent. TAS U18 rep this year. 84 Tom Hickey (Morningside, Qld) 201, 88, 06.03.91 Developing ruckman with terrific work-rate and prepared to lay tackles. QLD U18's rep in 2010 averaging 18 hitouts and 3 tackles. 85 Matt Jones (South Fremantle, WA) 200, 86, 26.06.92 Mobile ruckman with long left foot kick who can go forward and provide a target. WA rep at U18's level. 86 Scott Lycett (Port Adelaide Magpies, SA) 202, 95, 26.09.92 Strong marking ruckman who is agile and super competitive. Team orientated player who impressed with SA in U18's. 87 Ben Mabon (North Ballarat Rebels, Vic) 198, 81, 14.06.92 Aggressive and athletic ruckman with excellent work-ethic and technique with his stoppage work. NSW/ACT rep in 2010 AFL U18's. 88 Andrew Phillips (Clarence, Tas) 200, 86, 03.07.91 Developing ruckman who marks well around the ground and has good understanding with his on-ballers. TAS U18's rep. GWS nominees for consideration 89 Todd Elton (Dandenong Stingrays, Vic) 197, 90, 29.04.93 Tall forward and ruckman who is very athletic and strong both overhead and at ground level. Averaged 12 disposals with 4 marks, 2 tackles in TAC Cup matches this year and also represented VIC Country in the AFL U18's. 90 Joshua Growden (Woodville West Torrens, SA) 187, 76, 17.04.93 Medium midfielder / defender who is excellent overhead and a sound decision maker who reads the play very well. Long left foot kick and capable of playing forward as well. Averaged 26 disposals at 79% efficiency in 14 games at U18's level in South Australia this year. 91 Jarrod Harding (Woodville West Torrens, SA) 183, 76, 16.03.93 Medium forward who is accurate around goal, strong mark on a lead and clean at ground level. Maintains terrific forward line pressure with strong tackling. SA U16's rep in 2009. Averaged 18 disposals in 15 matches and kicked 52 goals, 21 behinds at U18's level in SA this year. 92 Hayden Hector (Gippsland Power, Vic) 181, 81, 08.03.93 Hard running medium midfielder who can also play a shut down role. Strong over the ball and a very good mark for his size. VIC Country U16 rep in 2009 and U18's rep in 2010. Averaged 21 disposals in 11 matches for Power and 20 disposals in 3 matches for VIC Country this year. 93 Matthew Jacquier (Woodville West Torrens, SA) 175, 78, 29.03.93 Medium forward who presents very well and has strong hands overhead. Composed player with good disposal right and left. Also a talented state level basketballer. Averaged 17 disposals in 9 matches and kicked 19 goals, 9 behinds at U18 level in SA this year. 94 Shane Kersten (South Fremantle, WA) 190, 88, 15.03.93 Tall forward who is strong on the lead and sound overhead. Accurate kick for goal and has represented WA at U16 level in 2009 and U18 level in 2010 kicking 15 goals in 5 matches. Made his senior debut in the WAFL this year. 95 Nic Murphy (Oakleigh Chargers, Vic) 193, 81, 22.03.93 Tall forward with strong hands overhead and is a long left foot kick. Talented basketballer who also distributes the football very well. Has kicked 23 goals, 6 behinds in 15 matches with the Chargers this year. 96 Jack Newnes (Northern Knights, Vic) 183, 73, 24.02.93 Medium midfielder who can also go back or forward. Very composed player who uses the ball efficiently and provides very good run for his team on all parts of the ground. Averaged 19 disposals and kicked 10 goals 4 behinds in 14 matches for the Knights this year. 97 Jai Sheahan (Geelong Falcons, Vic) 193, 82, 27.01.93 Tall forward/ruckman who is super athletic, strong overhead and a sound decision maker. Played 13 matches for the Falcons this year averaging 10 disposals and 3 marks. 98 Simon Tunbridge (Perth, WA) 185, 87, 01.04.93 Medium forward who can also play back of forward. Excellent user of the ball, strong mark and has good athletic ability. From Dongara in country WA. 99 Gerald Ugle (Perth, WA) 179, 79, 31.01.93 Small midfielder/forward who can also go back and use his speed and kicking ability to great effect. AIS/AFL Academy graduate in 2010. 100 Nathan Wilson (Peel Thunder, WA) 184, 72, 07.01.93 Medium defender who can also go midfield and use his speed to break the lines. Exciting player with excellent natural leap. POSTSCRIPT - OCTOBER 2 The Draft Combine is done and dusted and we're all set for trade week. The various AFL recruiting gurus are now armed with a complete array of data concerning around 100 hopeful young aspirants who are looking for an AFL place to call "home". Some of them confirmed what everyone knew about their athleticism and skills and a few pushed their names to the fore. Queenslander Joel Wilkinson certainly produced the most impressive results and some are suggesting he might be chosen in the first round of the draft but the answer to the big question for all of them will only be made known in the years to come. Can they play football? Final Draft Combine Results (updated) 3km time trial - top 10 Position Name Result (mins:secs) 1. Andrew Gaff 10:00 2. Cameron O'Shea 10:03 3. Hayden Hector 10:04 4. Jamie Cripps 10:15 5. Jack Newnes 10:16 6. Rohan Bewick 10:18 7. Joel Wilkinson 10:26 8. Josh Caddy 10:33 9. Ariel Steinberg 10:33 10. Lucas Cook 10:34 Beep test/shuttle run - top 10 Position Name Level Shuttle 1. Hayden Hector 15 7 (record) 2. Andrew Gaff 15 3 3. Joel Wilkinson 15 3 4. Jacob Gilbee 15 1 5. Ryan Brabazon 15 1 6. Dyson Heppell 14 13 7. Cameron O'Shea 14 10 8. Josh Caddy 14 9 9. Rohan Bewick 14n7 10. Ryan Lester 14 6 Kicking assessment - top 10 Position Name Score Efficiency % 1. Jed Lamb 29/30 97 (record) 2. Aaron Young 26/30 87 3. Tom Liberatore 25/30 83 4. Gerald Ugle 24/30 80 5. Ben Jacobs 24/30 65 6. Nick Murphy 23/30 65 7. Billie Smedts 23/30 64 8. Tom Gordon 23/30 64 9. Lucas Cook 23/30 63 10. Callum Sinclair 23/30 63 Clean hands test - top 10 Position Name Score Efficiency % 1. Josh Caddy 28/30 93 2. Dyson Heppell 28/30 93 3. Mitch Wallis 27/30 90 4. Josh Farmer 27/30 90 5. Jarryd Lyons 27/30 90 6. Tom Hickey 27/30 90 7. Jai Sheehan 27/30 90 =8. Ben Reid 26/30 87 =8. Alex Fasolo 26/30 87 =8. Jamie Cripps 26/30 87 =8. Joel Wilkinson 26/30 87 Repeat sprints - top 10 Position Name Result (seconds) 1. Joel Wilkinson 23.404 2. Brad Harvey 23.458 3. Kieran Harper 23.837 4. Cameron Johnston 24.018 5. Dion Prestia 24.149 6. Nathan Batley 24.229 7. Anton Hamp 24.299 8. Shane Kersten 24.387 9. Seb Tape 24.420 10. Alex Browne 24.442 20 Metre Sprint - Top 10 Position Name Result (seconds) 1. Joel Wilkinson 2.75 (record) 2. Brad Harvey 2.78 3. Nathan Batley 2.81 4. Daniel Farmer 2.83 5. Ryan Brabazon 2.84 6. Shane Kersten 2.88 7. Gerald Ugle 2.88 8. Andrew Gaff 2.88 9. Angus Litherland 2.89 10. Billie Smedts 2.91 Agility Run - Top 10 Position Name Result (seconds) 1. Billie Smedts 7.90 2. Dion Prestia 8.00 3. Viv Michie 8.01 4. Aaron Mullett 8.03 5. Ryan Brabazon 8.04 6. Josh Green 8.07 7. Mitchell Wallis 8.07 8. Jacob Gilbee 8.10 9. Daniel Farmer 8.13 10. Jayden Pitt 8.15 Running Vertical Jump - Top 10 Position Name Result (cms) 1. Kieran Harper 88 2. Brad Harvey 88 3. Dyson Heppell 86 4. Ben Jacobs 84 5. Joel Wilkinson 84 6. Cameron Guthrie 83 7. Jake Batchelor 82 8. Rohan Bewick 82 9. Ryan Brabazon 82 10. Cameron Johnston 82 Standing Vertical Jump - Top 10 Position Name Result (cms) 1. Brad Harvey 75 2. Nathan Batley 71 3. Anton Hamp 71 4. Joel Wilkinson 66 5. Kieran Harper 65 6. Cameron Guthrie 65 7. Shaun Atley 64 8. Dyson Heppell 64 9. Seb Tape 63 10. Billie Smedts 63 Height - Top 10 Position Name Height (cms) 1. Leif Cope 204.6 2. John Ceglar 203.1 3. Tom Hickey 201.4 4. Andrew Phillips 200.9 5. Ben Mabon 200.1 6. Callum Sinclair 199.5 7. Matt Jones 199.5 8. Tom Lynch 199.1 9. Brandyn Grenfell 198.6 10. Luke Mitchell 198.0 Arm Span - Top 10 Position Name Result (cms) 1. Leif Cope 92.1 2. Tom Hickey 92.0 3. Callum Sinclair 91.0 4. Brandyn Grenfell 90.4 5. John Ceglar 89.5 6. Nic Murphy 89.2 7. Andrew Phillips 89.1 8. Todd Elton 89.1 9. Tom Lynch 88.2 10. Zac Fitzgerald 88.5 Hand Span - Top 10 Position Name Result (cms) 1. Leif Cope 25.8 2. Tom Hickey 24.9 3. Callum Sinclair 23.0 4. Brandyn Grenfell 22.8 5. John Ceglar 26.4 6. Nic Murphy 23.9 7. Andrew Phillips 24.3 8. Todd Elton 23.3 9. Tom Lynch 25.0 10. Zac Fitzgerald 25.0 All time standout combine performances Standing vertical jump Year Score (cm) Name 2008 78 Nic Naitanui (West Coast) 2009 76 James Craig (Adelaide) 2009 75 Sam Shaw (Adelaide) 2007 73 Patrick Dangerfield (Adelaide) 2008 72 Stephen Hill (Fremantle) Running vertical jump Year Score (cm) Name 2002 102 Jared Brennan (Brisbane) 2008 102 Nic Naitanui (West Coast) 2007 101 David Gourdis (Richmond) 2004 96 Danyle Pearce (Port Adelaide) 2005 90 Wayde Mills (Brisbane) Agility run Year Score (secs) Name 2008 7.77 Stephen Hill (Fremantle) 2004 7.79 Danyle Pearce (Port Adelaide) 2004 7.97 Nathan Van Berlo (Adelaide) 2007 7.91 Aaron Joseph (Carlton) 2009 7.95 Kane Lucas (Carlton) 20m sprint Year Score (secs) Name 2004 2.79 Danyle Pearce (Port Adelaide) 2008 2.80 Ashley Smith (West Coast) 2008 2.82 Jack Watts (Melbourne) 2008 2.83 Stephen Hill (Fremantle) 2002 2.83 Jared Brennan (Brisbane) Repeat sprint Year Score (secs) Name 2006 24.67 Simon Hogan (Geelong) 2007 23.59 Chris Kangars (Geelong) 2008 24.82 Ryan Schoenmaker (Hawthorn) 2009 23.91 Jack Fitzpatrick (Melbourne) Shuttle run - beep test Year Score (level) Name 2002 15.6 Jarrad McVeigh (Sydney) 2009 15.6 Brayden Norris (North Melbourne) 2006 15.4 Shane Edwards (Richmond) 2003 15.3 Farren Ray (St Kilda) 2009 15.1 Ryan Bastinac (North Melbourne) 3 km time trial Year Score (mins:secs) Name 2006 9:37 Tim Houlihan (West Coast) 2006 9:35 Simon Hogan (Geelong) 2002 10:02 Jarrad McVeigh (Sydney) 2009 10:03 Ryan Bastinac (North Melbourne) 2003 10:04 Andrew Walker (Carlton) Height (tallest player at the combine) Year Height (cms) Name 2009 206.8 Max Gawn (Melbourne) 2005 205.8 Max Bailey (Hawthorn) 2004 203.9 Cameron Wood (Collingwood) 2008 201.7 Ayce Cordy (Western Bulldogs)

A DIFFERENT DRAFT - THE DRAFT COMBINE by Whispering Jack We are all now painfully aware that with the impending introduction of two new AFL franchises, the coming trade period and drafts will be dominated by the new club, the Gold Coast Suns. The concessions made available to the new club from the Sunshine State have been well documented. The Suns have already dominated the news in so far as player transfers are concerned. Five players have already announced they are leaving their clubs to play for the AFL 's new boys - Nathan Bock (Adelaide), Campbell Brown (Hawthorn), Jarrod Harbrow (Western Bulldogs), Nathan Krakouer (Port Adelaide) and Michael Rischitelli (Brisbane) - and we know there's at least another big scalp waiting in the wings for the AFL to give it's nod to the final announcement. We're a little over a week from the start of trade week but only a couple of days from this year's draft camp which has attracted a new name - the AFL Draft Combine. The AFL has increased the number of players included in the group to be looked at by scouts from 18 clubs to 100 from all states and territories. That's the number of invitees to the 2010 NAB AFL Draft National Combine including a dozen 17 year olds who will come under the scrutiny of the AFL's 18th club Greater Western Sydney. According to the AFL, the term "combine" describes "the search for talent as the AFL seeks the combination of the football skills, athletic capabilities and mental toughness needed to play at the elite level." A further 112 players have been invited to the 2010 NAB AFL Draft State Combine which takes place next week in Melbourne, Adelaide and Perth. The clubs will be straight down to business in the week after Saturday's grand final replay with the exchange period. Once again, the Gold Coast Suns are expected to dominate proceedings with a treasure trove of money, extra salary cap room and a welter of top picks and players from outside the system to trade. A month later on November 18, 2010 the NAB AFL Draft will be held with the Gold Coast Suns holding the majority of the early draft picks. The venue? The Gold Coast Convention Centre of course! What is the NAB AFL Draft Combine? The following list of players invited to the 2010 NAB AFL Draft National Combine has been released by the AFL in the following positional groups:- Small Forwards Camp No. – Player (Club, State) HT, WT, D.O.B. 1 Reece Conca (Perth, WA) 182, 76, 12.08.92 Versatile player who can play forward midfield or back. His ability to run and carry and his football smarts were prominent in representing WA at U18 level this year. 2 Sam Crocker (Oakleigh Chargers, Vic) 180, 73, 12.03.92 Midfielder who can play forward and use his excellent disposal to set-up goals. Quick and strong overhead for his size he also makes good decisions with the football. Averaged 19 disposals with Chargers this year at 65% efficiency. 3 Josh Green (Clarence, Tas) 179, 76, 24.08.92 Quick and agile midfielder/forward who reads the game extremely well and wins contested footy. Won TAS MVP in AFL U18's and All Aust honours averaging 25 disposals. 4 Cameron Johnston (Geelong Falcons, Vic) 181, 78, 24.02.92 Quick and versatile player who can play hit-up forward role or go down back. Very athletic type overall and a long kick. 5 Jed Lamb (Gippsland Power, Vic) 181, 78, 19.10.92 Clever forward with clean hands overhead and at ground level, very good awareness. Super smart goal kicker in all situations kicking 44 goals this year for Power and VIC-Country U18's. 6 Tim Milera (Pt Adelaide Magpies, SA) 170, 72, 9.12.92 Skilful and talented genuine small forward in the Eddie Betts mould. Great goal sense, clean hands and has been impressive at senior level this year. 7 Dion Prestia (Calder Cannons, Vic) 175, 82, 12.10.92 Powerful inside midfielder/forward with excellent disposal skills and contested ball winning ability. Averaged 28 disposals in the TAC Cup and represented Victoria Metro in the AFL U18's with injuries curtailing his Championships. 8 Matthew Rankine (West Adelaide, SA) 179, 70, 20.02.92 Quick and agile forward who can win the contested ball and is capable overhead for his size with his natural leap. SA rep in U18's in 2010. 9 Ben Reid (Bendigo Pioneers, Vic) 181, 67, 05.09.92 Smart forward with good anticipation, clean hands at ground level and overhead. Uses ball well and impressed for NSW/ACT in AFL U18's Championships this year. Brother Sam at Western Bulldogs. 10 Thomas Schneider (Oakleigh Chargers, Vic) 178, 77, 30.09.92 Very smart and courageous fall of the ball player with clean hands and neat disposal skills. Smart around goals and very impressive for Vic Metro in the AFL U18's winning its best player award. Average 29 disposals with Chargers this year. 11 Hayden Yarran (West Perth, WA) 186, 75, 30.04.92 Very clever player around goal and accurate on the run or set shot. Strong overhead and can also push up into midfield. WA U18's squad in 2010. Medium Midfielders 12 Warrick Andreoli (South Fremantle, WA) 182, 75, 28.02.92 Extremely quick player who takes the game on. Good user of the ball on preferred left side. Showed his talent with WA in the U18's. Averaged 15 disposals at 72% efficiency. 13 Shaun Atley (Murray Bushrangers, Vic) 188, 84, 13.09.92 Exceptionally agile player with great speed and endurance. Twice runner up in State hurdles highlights his athletic ability. All Aust U18's in 2010, averaging 19 disposals and 6 tackles. 14 Harley Bennell (Peel Thunder, WA) 184, 70, 02.10.92 Talented ball winner in the forward-line or midfield. Has speed, poise and great goal sense. Won the Larke Medal and All Aust 18 honours in 2010 kicking 13 goals in 5 matches and averaging 19.6 disposals with 6 inside 50's. 15 Rohan Bewick (West Perth, WA) 184, 77, 10.10.89 Hard running player who is smart and a penetrating kick. Has good pace and endurance. Played well at senior level in 2010 in the WAFL. 16 Josh Caddy (Northern Knights, Vic) 186, 82, 28.09.92 Powerful player who wins clearances and contested marks. Dangerous forward who attacks ball aggresively. Kicked 22 goals and averaged 21 disposlas for the Knights this year. All Aust U18's 2010. 17 Alex Fasolo (East Fremantle, WA) 182, 79, 08.06.92 Impressive player for WA in U18's this year averaging 19 disposals with 67% efficiency. Good clearance player with good decision making ability. 18 Andrew Gaff (Oakleigh Chargers, Vic) 183, 79, 16.06.92 Left footer with terrific game sense. Imposes himself on games. Prolific ball winner averaging 30.5 disposals for Chargers and 27 for Vic M this year. Has good pace and endurance combination. All Aust U18's 2010. 19 Mitch Hallahan (Dandenong Stingrays, Vic) 182, 82, 23.08.92 Tough inside player with penetrating right foot. Wins one on ones and is disciplined. All Aust in U18's 2010. 20 Brad Harvey (Eastern Ranges, Vic) 184, 83, 16.04.92 Medium defender/midfielder who can play inside or outside and provide good run and carry. Very quick and competitive. VIC Metro U18's rep in 2010. 21 Thomas Liberatore (Calder Cannons, Vic) 182, 78, 16.05.92 Wins clearances and has quick clean hands. Hard in contested situations and team orientated. Averaged 24 disposals with Cannons, 5 clearances & 4 tackles. Neat left foot kick and All Aust U18's 2010. 22 Aaron Mullet (Eastern Ranges, Vic) 183, 74, 23.02.92 Smooth moving left footer who has ability overhead. Is neat with hand and foot. VIC-M rep in AFL U18's 2010. 23 Luke Parker (Dandenong Stingrays, Vic) 182, 83, 15.10.92 Hard running player who is strong overhead and around goal. Has elite endurance and is super competitive. Averaged 23 disposals at 68% efficiency with Stingrays this year. VIC-C U18's 2010. 24 Jared Polec (Woodville West Torrens, SA) 188, 81, 12.10.92 Left footed long kicking player who excelled in NAB AFL U18's winning All Aust honours. Has pace and composure around goal with impressive form at senior level in the SANFL. 25 Mitchell Wallis (Calder Cannons, Vic) 185, 79, 24.10.92 Has great hands and work ethic ; reads game extremely well and uses the football smartly. Averaged 29 disposals at 66% efficiency with Cannons this year. Captained VIC-M in AFL U18's 2010. Medium Forwards 26 Nathan Ah Mat-Watkins (Pioneers, NT, West Adelaide, SA ) 186, 78, 18.02.92 Footy smart around forward line and has excellent clean hands and awareness. Rep NT in AFL U18's this year and playing for West Adelaide. 27 Daniel Farmer (Sandringham Dragons, Vic) 189, 82, 22.07.92 Quick and excellent one on one player who can play many roles for his team. Smart goal-kicker having kicked 17 goals in 10 matches with the Dragons. 28 Jacob Gillbee (Lauderdale, Tas) 184, 76, 13.09.92 Led up forward with good hands and goal-kicking ability. Provides good defensive pressure inside F50. Averaged 4 tackles a game and kicked 7 goals for Tasmania in the NAB AFL U18's. 29 Kieran Harper (Eastern Ranges, Vic) 187, 80, 05.06.92 Very quick and skilfull player with great goal sense. Can take contested mark and impact a game. VIC-M rep in 2010 in AFL U18's, kicking 7 goals including 4 vs. WA. 30 George Horlin-Smith (Sturt, SA) 185, 75, 22.12.92 Outstanding winning contested football and very creative player. Promising junior cricketer having represented Australia at U16 level. 31 Patrick Karnezis (Oakleigh Chargers, Vic) 190, 78, 23.04.92 Tall forward who is well balanced and team focused, setting up many goals. Also clever goal-kicker and has strong hands. VIC Metro U18's rep in 2010. 32 Jarryd Lyons (Sandringham Dragons, Vic) 183, 79, 22.07.92 Agile player with terrific ball winning ability, footy know how and endurance. Averaged 21 disposals and kicked 23 goals in 16 matches with the Dragons this year. 33 Josh Mellington (Murray Bushrangers, Vic) 186, 78, 29.12.92 Clever opportunist around goals and in one on one marking situations. Kicked 38 goals and 16 behinds in 15 matches this year. Tackles well inside F50. 34 Viv Michie (Oakleigh Chargers, Vic) 185, 79, 23.02.92 Well rounded player who is dangerous as a forward and can play midfield or back. Excellent kick and reads game extremely well. VIC-M U18's rep in 2010, averaging 16 disposals and 2 goals. 35 Ben Newton (South Fremantle, WA) 183, 76, 08.08.92 Strong marking and winner of contested football. Uses ball well with hand and foot. WA U18's rep in 2010. Graduate of AIS/AFL Academy. 36 Jayden Pitt (Geelong Falcons, Vic) 188, 72, 07.10.92 Player with good reactive speed, agility and smart user off both feet. Reads ball off hands extremely well. All Aust in NAB AFL U18's 2010 averaging 18 disposals and kicking 8 goals in the Championships. 37 Arryn Siposs (Dandenong Stingrays, Vic) 189, 80, 25.11.92 Strong marking player who is an excellent kick for goal and very team orientated. Averaged 15 disposals and kicked 34 goals for Stingrays this year. VIC-C U18's rep in 2010. 38 Aaron Young (Eastern Ranges, Vic) 188, 77, 06.12.92 Outstanding mark for his size and very athletic. Wins contested ball and has pace and hardness. VIC-M rep in 2010. averaged 16 disposals, 3 tackles, 4 marks as well as kicking 6 goals for the Championships. Medium Defenders 39 Jake Batchelor (Dandenong Stingrays, Vic) 187, 82, 13.02.92 Left footed medium defender who is strong overhead and a neat disposer of the ball. Provides good run and can lock down on opponents. 40 Nathan Batley (Woodville West Torrens, SA) 185, 74, 16.09.92 Very speedy medium defender who can break the lines. Shows good vision and decision making and is very competitive. SA U18's rep in 2010. 41 Alex Browne (Oakleigh Chargers, Vic) 188, 86, 09.08.92 Aggressive medium defender who reads the play very well and uses the ball effectively by hand and foot. Can push into the midfield and win his own ball. VIC Metro U18's rep in 2010 playing 3 matches . 42 Ben Casley (Western Jets, Vic) 189, 86, 18.03.92 Medium defender/forward who takes good contested marks and has good game sense. Provides run from defence or can be a lead-up forward. 43 Jamie Cripps (East Fremantle, Vic) 182, 78, 23.04.92 Medium defender with excellent speed who takes the game on. Uses the ball well by foot and is sound defensively. WA U18's Rep. 44 Cameron Guthrie (Calder Cannons, Vic) 186, 79, 19.08.92 Versatile medium defender who can play a lock down role and win contested ball. Very consistent player who has clean hands and makes good decisions. VIC Metro U18's rep in 2010. 45 Dyson Heppell (Gippsland Power, Vic) 187, 79, 14.05.92 Skillful left footed medium defender with penetration kick, strength overhead and clean hands. Had outstanding AFL U18's winning VIC Country MVP and All Aust honours. Won Morrish Medal for TAC Cup Best & Fairest in 2010. 46 Ben Jacobs (Sandringham Dragons, Vic) 186, 82, 09.01.92 Left footed medium defender who can play midfield or forward. Powerful type who kicks long and takes an excellent overhead mark. Can really find the ball and had outstanding AFL U18's winning All Aust honours. 47 Andrew McInnes (Dandenong Stingrays, Vic) 189, 83, 20.03.92 Disciplined medium defender who provides good rebound. Very competitive and can play on talls or smalls. VIC Country U18's rep in 2010. 48 Cameron Richardson (North Ballarat Roosters, Vic) 189, 84, 02.12.87 Hard running medium defender who makes good decisions on when to mark or spoil. Dual B&F winner in Ballarat League in 2006/08. 49 Billie Smedts (Geelong Falcons, Vic) 188, 78, 08.06.92 Composed medium defender/forward who is strong overhead and very competitive. Is an extremely agile player who takes the game on. VIC Country U18's rep in 2010 playing 3 matches after returning from injury. 50 Brodie Smith (Woodville West Torrens, SA) 189, 80, 14.01.92 Medium defender/midfielder with terrific speed/endurance combination. Powerful player who bursts from stoppages and wins plenty of the footy. Starred in AFL U18's with All Aust honours. 51 Joel Wilkinson (Broadbeach, Qld) 184, 80, 29.11.91 Dashing medium defender with only 2yrs in the game coming fron an athletics background to captain QLD this year in AFL U18's. Workrate and pressure very good. 52 Blayne Wilson (Peel Thunder, WA) 188, 86, 26.01.92 Strong marking medium defender who reads the game very well across half back. Uses the ball effectively and earn All Aust honours in 2009 and was consistent for WA at U18s level this year. Tall Defenders 53 Jordan Treloar (Northern Knights, Vic) 192, 83, 12.12.92 Well balanced Tall defender/forward who is extremely agile and strong overhead. Averaged 16 disposals and 6 marks for the Knights this year. 54 Cameron Delaney (Geelong Falcons, Vic) 192, 82, 19.06.92 Composed tall defender who is able to read the ball well coming into defense and make good decisions on when to mark and spoil. Rangy type with good closing speed - Vic C rep in 2010. 55 Tom Gordon (Oakleigh Chargers, Vic) 195, 90, 19.04.92 Tall defender/forward who is very strong overhead and long left foot kick. Very dangerous around goal in the TAC Cup. Represented VIC Metro in AFL U18's as a defender. 56 Alex Johnson (Oakleigh Chargers, Vic) 193, 82, 02.03.92 Tall defender/forward with outstanding work rate and competitive edge. Provides excellent defensive pressure when playing forward. Represented VIC Metro at AFL U18's this year. 57 David Kruse (Wanderers, NT) 190, 73, 23.01.92 Dashing tall defender with terrific run and carry from back 50 Can play tall or small or push into midfield giving his team flexiblity. From Tiwi Islands impressed for NT in AFL U18s this year. 58 Ryan Lester (Oakleigh Chargers, VIC) 190, 83, 26.08.92 Tall defender who can play medium role as well as forward. Attacks the ball strongly and is strong overhead. VIC Metro rep this year averaging 16 disposals and 4 marks. 59 Angus Litherland (Claremont, WA) 192, 83, 12.10.92 Tall defender with excellent closing speed and spoiling ability. Shows ability to rebound from defence. Represented WA in U18's in 2010. 60 Pat McCarthy (Glenelg, SA) 194, 84, 11.03.92 Athletic tall defender who can also go forward. Neat disposer of the ball and provides good rebound from defence. Won All Aust U18 honours this year. 61 Justin Monaco (East Fremantle, WA) 191, 86, 07.11.92 Tall defender who reads the game well and provides good run from defence. Provides good defensive pressure on talls and mediums. Represented WA in U18s this year. 62 Cameron O'Shea (Eastern Ranges, Vic) 191, 86, 13.03.92 Tall defender with strong work ethic and with the ability to win the contested ball. Disciplined and determined player. Represented VIC Metro in AFL U18's this year averaging 16 disposals. 63 Max Otten (Oakleigh Chargers, Vic) 193, 86, 10.11.92 Left footed tall defender who reads the game very well and makes good decisions with the ball. Provides good run from defence. Played for VIC Metro in AFL U18's. 64 Seb Tape (Sturt, SA) 191, 85, 06.08.92 Athletic tall defender with excellent closing speed and competitive edge. Very good one on one and below his knees. Captained SA in NAB AFL U18's this year. 65 Matthew Watson (Calder Cannons, Vic) 195, 98, 16.07.92 Left footed tall defender with penetrating kick and strong in the air. Composed with the ball in his hands and had a consistent U18's Championships winning All Aust honours. Tall Forwards 66 Darcy Barden (Northern Knights, Vic) 192, 91, 13.02.92 Very competitive tall forward with great work ethic and strong hands overhead. Courageous player who was impressive for VIC Metro in the AFL U18's. 67 Lucas Cook (North Ballarat Rebels, Vic) 194, 82, 03.03.92 Tall forward to reads the game well and has sure hands. Mobile player who can go back; makes good decisions. All Aust U18's in 2010. 68 Jack Darling (West Perth, WA) 191, 94, 16.06.92 Athletic tall forward who attacks the ball with ferocity and strong overhead. Provides excellent defensive pressure in the forward 50. All Australia U18 in 2009 and again provided excellent marking target up forward for WA in 2010. 69 Sam Day (Sturt, SA) 195, 94, 06.09.92 High leaping tall forward who can take contested marks. Skillful on right and left side. SA U18's rep in 2010 winning All Aust honours. 70 Zac Fitzgerald (Woodville West Torrens, SA) 192, 84, 16.02.91 Very versatile tall forward or defender who is strong overhead and accurate at goalfront. Smart reader of the game. SA U18's rep in 2010. 71 Anton Hamp (Claremont, WA) 193, 83, 21.07.92 Versatile type who makes good position and has good work ethic. Clean hands and pace also a feature. Represented WA at U18's level this year. 72 Tom Lynch (Dandenong Stingrays, Vic) 196, 90, 31.10.92 Strong marking tall forward with terrific work-rate and ability at ground level. Impressive for VIC Country in AFL U18's. 73 Luke Mitchell (Calder Cannons, Vic) 196, 96, 28.02.92 Tall Forward/Defender with strong contested marking ability. Dangerous around goals and presents well on the lead .Missed AFL U18s due to shoulder surgery but now back in TAC Cup. 74 Callum Sinclair (Port Melbourne, Vic) 201, 96, 23.09.89 Mobile tall forward who is a strong lead and mark overhead. Reads the game very well and reliable in front of goals. 75 Jamie Solly (Port Adelaide Magpies, SA) 192, 92, 27.07.92 Tall forward who can also play down back. Strong hands overhead and reliable kick for goal. SA rep in 2010 kicking 12 goals. 76 Ariel Steinberg (Bendigo Pioneers, Vic) 191, 84, 26.08.92 Tall forward who is quick on the lead and has an excellent natural leap. Played Amercian football (Gridiron) in Alberta, Canada in 2009. 77 Jake von Bertouch (Woodville West Torrens, SA) 192, 80, 04.05.92 Tall forward who is quick on the lead and accurate in front of goal. Has strong hands and is team orientated. SA U18's rep in 2010. 78 Josh Walker (Geelong Falcons, Vic) 194, 87, 12.11.92 Tall forward with terrific work-rate and strong hands overhead. Impressed for VIC Country in AFL U18's as a lead up forward. Ruckmen 79 John Ceglar (Murray Bushrangers, Vic) 200, 87, 14.02.91 Much improved mobile ruckman who is team orientated and sound overhead. Consistent performer for VIC Country in U18's this year averaging 13 hitouts and 3 marks. 80 Leif Cope (Eastern Ranges, Vic) 203, 98, 22.08.92 Athletic ruckman who competes very well at ground level. Averaged 11 disposals and 2 marks with the Ranges this year. 81 Daniel Gorringe (Norwood, SA) 200, 92, 02.06.92 Gifted in the art of ruckwork and a very athletic player who is strong overhead and dangerous near goal. Won All Australian U18 honours in 2010. 82 Brayden Grenfell (Calder Cannons, Vic) 198, 84, 09.05.92 Tall forward/ruckman with very good work-rate and good below the knees. Has strong hands on the lead. 83 Joseph Groenewegen (Launceston) 196, 84, 25.10.91 Tall forward/ruckman with very good endurance, agility and overhead marking talent. TAS U18 rep this year. 84 Tom Hickey (Morningside, Qld) 201, 88, 06.03.91 Developing ruckman with terrific work-rate and prepared to lay tackles. QLD U18's rep in 2010 averaging 18 hitouts and 3 tackles. 85 Matt Jones (South Fremantle, WA) 200, 86, 26.06.92 Mobile ruckman with long left foot kick who can go forward and provide a target. WA rep at U18's level. 86 Scott Lycett (Port Adelaide Magpies, SA) 202, 95, 26.09.92 Strong marking ruckman who is agile and super competitive. Team orientated player who impressed with SA in U18's. 87 Ben Mabon (North Ballarat Rebels, Vic) 198, 81, 14.06.92 Aggressive and athletic ruckman with excellent work-ethic and technique with his stoppage work. NSW/ACT rep in 2010 AFL U18's. 88 Andrew Phillips (Clarence, Tas) 200, 86, 03.07.91 Developing ruckman who marks well around the ground and has good understanding with his on-ballers. TAS U18's rep. GWS nominees for consideration 89 Todd Elton (Dandenong Stingrays, Vic) 197, 90, 29.04.93 Tall forward and ruckman who is very athletic and strong both overhead and at ground level. Averaged 12 disposals with 4 marks, 2 tackles in TAC Cup matches this year and also represented VIC Country in the AFL U18's. 90 Joshua Growden (Woodville West Torrens, SA) 187, 76, 17.04.93 Medium midfielder / defender who is excellent overhead and a sound decision maker who reads the play very well. Long left foot kick and capable of playing forward as well. Averaged 26 disposals at 79% efficiency in 14 games at U18's level in South Australia this year. 91 Jarrod Harding (Woodville West Torrens, SA) 183, 76, 16.03.93 Medium forward who is accurate around goal, strong mark on a lead and clean at ground level. Maintains terrific forward line pressure with strong tackling. SA U16's rep in 2009. Averaged 18 disposals in 15 matches and kicked 52 goals, 21 behinds at U18's level in SA this year. 92 Hayden Hector (Gippsland Power, Vic) 181, 81, 08.03.93 Hard running medium midfielder who can also play a shut down role. Strong over the ball and a very good mark for his size. VIC Country U16 rep in 2009 and U18's rep in 2010. Averaged 21 disposals in 11 matches for Power and 20 disposals in 3 matches for VIC Country this year. 93 Matthew Jacquier (Woodville West Torrens, SA) 175, 78, 29.03.93 Medium forward who presents very well and has strong hands overhead. Composed player with good disposal right and left. Also a talented state level basketballer. Averaged 17 disposals in 9 matches and kicked 19 goals, 9 behinds at U18 level in SA this year. 94 Shane Kersten (South Fremantle, WA) 190, 88, 15.03.93 Tall forward who is strong on the lead and sound overhead. Accurate kick for goal and has represented WA at U16 level in 2009 and U18 level in 2010 kicking 15 goals in 5 matches. Made his senior debut in the WAFL this year. 95 Nic Murphy (Oakleigh Chargers, Vic) 193, 81, 22.03.93 Tall forward with strong hands overhead and is a long left foot kick. Talented basketballer who also distributes the football very well. Has kicked 23 goals, 6 behinds in 15 matches with the Chargers this year. 96 Jack Newnes (Northern Knights, Vic) 183, 73, 24.02.93 Medium midfielder who can also go back or forward. Very composed player who uses the ball efficiently and provides very good run for his team on all parts of the ground. Averaged 19 disposals and kicked 10 goals 4 behinds in 14 matches for the Knights this year. 97 Jai Sheahan (Geelong Falcons, Vic) 193, 82, 27.01.93 Tall forward/ruckman who is super athletic, strong overhead and a sound decision maker. Played 13 matches for the Falcons this year averaging 10 disposals and 3 marks. 98 Simon Tunbridge (Perth, WA) 185, 87, 01.04.93 Medium forward who can also play back of forward. Excellent user of the ball, strong mark and has good athletic ability. From Dongara in country WA. 99 Gerald Ugle (Perth, WA) 179, 79, 31.01.93 Small midfielder/forward who can also go back and use his speed and kicking ability to great effect. AIS/AFL Academy graduate in 2010. 100 Nathan Wilson (Peel Thunder, WA) 184, 72, 07.01.93 Medium defender who can also go midfield and use his speed to break the lines. Exciting player with excellent natural leap COMING SOON: The Oracle's Trading Chronicles

A DIFFERENT DRAFT - SELECTION 12, MELBOURNE by Whispering Jack So, now it's official. The Demons' first draft selection in the 2010 AFL National Draft will be pick number 12 (subject to any changes that might occur during the exchange period in early October). Obviously, the number 12 is nowhere near as exciting as the first and second selections of last year and the first one the year before but Melbourne fans should be satisfied that the lower draft pick means their club has been released from the stigma that a bottom four finish usually brings. The team is on the up and up and now needs to content itself with the uncertainty of recruiting through a draft system that has its own special credo of you can't always get what you want or need. Especially not when the available pool of players has already been pillaged to an extent by the new kid on the block who holds most of the aces anyway. This brings me to the question of what does Melbourne want or need to lift itself up from the position it currently occupies in the group of teams outside the top eight and into finals calculations in the years to come? One popular view (and one that I also hold) is that after stocking up on midfield talent in recent years, the Demons could do with a strong, high marking, pack bursting forward and a creative running small/medium defender. My belief in the need for a key forward is based on my view of the areas that were problematic for the club in 2010 and upon the fact that a player of this type would help complement exciting players like Jack Watts and Liam Jurrah as they continue through their development phases. But it's more than that. I think most fans are fascinated with goal kicking forwards because of the excitement they bring to the game. Unfortunately, Melbourne has hardly produced any star players in this category over the years although paradoxically, the greatest goal kicking effort in AFL/VFL history has been the 18 goal bag of Fred Fanning in the final round of the 1947 season. Leaving aside the most recent newcomer clubs, Melbourne is the only traditional club that hasn't produced a century goal kicker (Fanning's 97 in '47 being the best from a Demon). The club has produced only one Coleman Medallist since the inception of that award - David Neitz with 75 in 2002. Neita was one of our greats as a forward but a large chunk of his career was also spent as a centre half back. The same could be said of another great Demon key forward of the recent past in Garry Lyon who once kicked 10 goals in a semi final against Footscray but he also played many fine games in defence. Then there was the man who could have been the greatest forward of them all - David Schwarz. The Ox went through three knee constructions and still managed a fantastic career mainly as a centre half forward but how good would his record have been but for those wonky knees? (As an aside, I don't think we've done enough around here to plug his book so here's a shameless promotion of 'All Bets Are Off' available at all good book stores.). Now, if you cast your minds back to the West Coast Eagles game in Round 8 that was the point in time when I really became a supporter of the "go get a key forward" push. That was the game when Melbourne struggled to take a mark inside the fifty metre arc. From memory, the game total was five (including one from an Eagle's miskick across goal). Of course, the pressure on the Demons coming out of defence was also a factor in this sad statistical disaster that occurred in a game against the ultimate wooden spooner on our own home turf. On the other hand, there have been many games when the Dees' forward structure has worked well without the need for a single focal point up forward and the premiership favourites have a game plan based on an even spread of goal kickers. Then you have the example of Adelaide's full court press applied this weekend against St. Kilda. Admittedly, the Saints might well have put the cue in the rack given they were on the eve of the finals but Neil Craig's pressure tactics were good enough to quell an attack that included Riewoldt and Koschitzke so are we overplaying the role of the modern day key forward? That's just one of the questions that might be asked and answered through the different trade and draft period of 2010. However, I suspect that a tall forward will be one of the main items on club recruiting guru Barry Prendergast's shopping list as we enter the exchange period in October and again a month or so later when he considers what to do with selection number 12. I can't let the opportunity pass without a couple of my own little tips (although I warn that I've seen precious little of this year's underage competitions). The first is from Tom Scully territory - Stingrays earn coach's praise. The second is a young bloke who was recently named All Australian Under 18 centre half forward and hails from the Ballarat area - Lucas Cook. Could one of these lads become our next David Schwarz?

Games MFC 2010 6 Total 35 Goals MFC 2010 12 Total 37