Whispering_Jack

What the clubs are saying (from the Herald Sun: • Melbourne says trading Oliver and Petracca will only be done if the club feels it sets them up for their next premiership. • List boss Tim Lamb says he “will dispute” that Oliver was pushed out of the club. • Lamb also confirmed the Demons are interested in Bailey Humphrey and now expects Steven May to remain at the club.

If you’re lamenting the possible loss of Christian Petracca and Clayton Oliver, consider this:- • on Saturday, 17 August 2024, at People First Stadium, Carrara, Melbourne scored 18.9.117, defeating the Gold Coast Suns, who scored 9.9.63. Neither Petracca nor Oliver participated in that game. • on Saturday, 28 June 2025, at People First Stadium, Carrara, Melbourne scored 12.13.85, losing to the Gold Coast Suns, who scored 15.14.104. Both Petracca (32 possessions) and Oliver (24) participated in that game. Make of that what you will.

The top ten performers in each category TOP 10s | 2025 National AFL - Draft Combine

And away we go … • "The most obvious trade request this season came from Rowan Marshall. Geelong are going to want to do this pretty cheaply. This one could get a little nasty. " - Kane Cornes • Callum Twomey Collingwood has emerged as a contender for Clayton Oliver. The Pies have also made a play for Troy Chaplin as forwards coach to replace Scott Selwood. Contracted at Melbourne in 2026 and the Demons want to keep him. • All signs point to the Sydney trade for Malcolm Rosas Jr happening today. • Charlie Spargo is a Kangaroo. Demons get an end of second round pick. • Carlton is among the clubs with some interest in Gold Coast's Ben Ainsworth. • Matt Rosa of Essendon on Zach Merrett - "He's a champion of our club. He is a required player. He's stated frustrations but we are really clear that we want to work through that. No he hasn't (officially requested a trade). We have been really clear that we won't entertain a trade" • David Walls (Fremantle) re Judd McVee - "We have started chats with Melbourne which will progress this afternoon. • Sam Edmund - Hawthorn has met with Bailey Humphrey, with the Hawks well and truly among the list of potential suitors. • Gold Coast is resolute that Bailey Humphrey will not be included in any Christian Petracca deal. As per a post above, Tom Morris says that if the Dees ask for Humphrey for Petracca, the Suns walk away from the deal. Who is going to tell Petracca’s camp that GCS aren’t interested in a trade for him? • "We have been honest with Christian that he is a contracted superstar at our club. If someone wants to come and get one of our best players then it's up to them to come with the best deal to suit us" - Tim Lamb re Christian Petracca Standoff.

And on the eve of the trade period, this is how things look on a club by club basis - YOUR CLUB'S PICKS BEFORE 2025 TRADE PERIOD Adelaide: 15, 46, 53, 55, 71, 73 Brisbane: 19, 42, 45, 51, 54, 66, 77 Carlton: 9, 21, 40, 49, 67 Collingwood: 38, 57, 69, 75 Essendon: 4, 5, 20, 26, 29 Fremantle: 12, 33, 43, 52, 70 Geelong: 18, 39, 58, 76 Gold Coast: 6, 14, 17, 35, 61, 72 GWS: 13, 34, 36 Hawthorn: 8, 30, 41, 60, 74 Melbourne: 27, 59, 64 North Melbourne: 24, 25, 44, 62 Port Adelaide: 28, 47, 65 Richmond: 2, 3 St Kilda: 7, 48, 63 Sydney: 10, 31, 50, 68 West Coast: 1, 16, 22, 23, 37, 56 Western Bulldogs: 11, 32

From today’s Herald Sun ~ MELBOURNE What’s their strategy: Steven King will coach a very different looking Demons next season with Christian Petracca, Clayton Oliver and Steven May all on the trade table, with the club pinning its hopes on regeneration around young stars including Harvey Langford, Xavier Lindsay, Caleb Windsor and Koltyn Tholstrup. They are keen to bring in some ready-made talent to balance the likely big exits. List holes and will they fill them: The Dees are keen to bolster their ruck department with an eye on the future with a young big man to work alongside the evergreen Max Gawn (he turns 34 in December). The arrival of Brody Mihocek helps a serious need in attack as he is competitive and battle-hardened. Definitely gone: Charlie Spargo (North Melbourne), Judd McVee (Fremantle), Kynan Brown, Jack Billings, Tom Fullarton, Oliver Sestan, Will Verrall, Marty Hore (delisted). may go: Christian Petracca, Clayton Oliver, Steven May. Lock them in: Brody Mihocek (Collingwood), Max Heath (St Kilda) Could be coming: Bailey Humphrey (Gold Coast).

He’s tough, a leader, has experience and a good character. Nothing wrong with that.

Some more results AGILITY TOP FIVE Lachy Dovaston - 7.794sec Oskar Taylor - 7.840sec Xavier Taylor - 7.869sec Tylah Williams - 7.878sec Avery Thomas - 7.887sec 20M SPRINT TOP FIVE Oskar Taylor - 2.823sec Tylah Williams - 2.892sec Hunter Holmes - 2.895sec Avery Thomas - 2.898sec Thomas Burton - 2.915sec *All results interim, to be confirmed

The Age has come out with some interesting pen pictures of its top 30 prospects - The AFL draft is next month. These players are the cream of the crop The AFL draft is next month. These players are the cream of the crop by Marc McGowan October 3, 2025 West Coast will determine who is the dux of this year's draft class, and possibly, who is snapped up at No.2 as well. For now, our rankings of this year's draft crop - based on extensive conversations with AFL recruiters and list bosses - are not linked to which clubs are picking where, but rather a pure talent order ahead of the draft on November 19 and 20. As always, not everyone can make our top 30, but among those discussed who missed out include Liam Hetherton, Blake Thredgold, Latrelle Pickett, Louis Emmett, Kye Fincher, Lachy Carmichael, Fred Rodriguez, Jai Murray, Matt LeRay, Harry Kyle, Blake Oudshoorn-Bennier, Jack Dalton and Avery Thomas. 1. Zeke Uwland Burleigh/Gold Coast Academy/Allies Midfielder/defender, 180cm, 24/4/2007 VFL stats (avg): 16.5 disposals, 5.3 contested possessions, 4 intercept possessions 2024 U18 champs stats (avg): 23 disposals, 15 uncontested possessions, 6 rebound 50s 2024 All-Australian Uwland's back stress fractures changed the look of his draft year, wiping out the first half of his season and sidelining him from the championships - but he is a jet. His bottom-age campaign last year was sensational, and it is easy to see why he is considered the second coming of Errol Gulden, right down to his classy left slipper. Uwland has looked rusty in his limited appearances in 2025, but his running power is elite, and his football IQ and talent are off the charts. He is tipped to be Gold Coast's captain one day. 2. Willem Duursma Foster/Gippsland Power/Victoria Country Midfielder/defender/forward, 191cm, 21/6/2006 Talent League U18 stats (avg): 23.5 disposals, 5.2 tackles, 1.2 goals U18 champs stats (avg): 24.3 disposals, 13.5 uncontested possessions, 2 clearances 2025 All-Australian Some rate the latest Duursma as the No.1 prospect - and West Coast are expected to pick him first - but he is more polarising than Uwland. If Uwland is Gulden 2.0, then Duursma is the next Brendon Goddard, as a tall midfielder who is strong overhead and takes the game on with his kicking, which can make him prone to turnovers. One scout even likened him to Hayden Young. Duursma is impactful wherever he plays, but may start at half-back. He took kick-in duties for Vic Country, and has starred in the centre and shown his wares as a forward. 3. Cooper Duff-Tytler Woodend-Hesket/Calder Cannons/Victoria Metro Ruckman/forward, 200cm, 22/8/2007 Talent League U18 stats (avg): 20.4 disposals, 5.6 marks, 3.8 clearances U18 champs stats (avg): 14.5 disposals, 4 marks, 0.8 goals 2025 All-Australian Duff-Tytler is the best big man in this year's draft, and his rare athleticism and brilliant follow-up work at ground level are reminiscent of a young Luke Jackson. He also kicks the ball well, from his field kicking to set shots or even dribbling a goal, like he did in his VFL game for Essendon. Recruiters expect the new ruck rules to work in the high-leaping Duff-Tyler's favour, but he will likely play most of his early AFL games as a forward. He can still become a greater aerial threat, and his ruck craft needs to keep developing. 4. Harry Dean Lavington/Murray Bushrangers/Victoria Country Defender, 193cm, 13/11/2007 Talent League U18 stats (avg): 17.4 disposals, 3.1 intercept marks, 8 intercept possessions U18 champs stats (avg): 15.3 disposals, 3.5 intercept marks, 7.8 intercept possessions 2025 All-Australian Dean is the son of dual Carlton premiership defender Peter - and the Blues are certain to match any bid on him, no matter how early it is. This draft class lacks top-end key-position talent, particularly down back, which makes Dean even more coveted. His height means he likely won't play on the AFL's biggest forwards, but his combination of intercepting skills, athleticism, competitiveness, aggression, skill and composure make him an outstanding prospect. Some scouts rate him ahead of Duff-Tytler. 5. Daniel Annable Redlands/Brisbane Lions Academy/Allies Midfielder, 184cm, 5/4/2007 VFL stats (avg): 21.3 disposals, 11.4 contested possessions, 4.3 clearances U18 champs stats (avg): 24.8 disposals, 4.3 clearances, 5.5 inside 50s 2025 All-Australian Annable should slot straight into the Lions' senior side next year, like Levi Ashcroft did, and probably would have played this past season based on his VFL form. He is that good. A bid could come earlier than this, but Brisbane will match regardless. Annable is a contested beast with strong legs, excellent stoppage craft and a high football IQ who uses handball to make his teammates better. If you want to nitpick, his kicking is not at the level of some top prospects. 6. Dylan Patterson Palm Beach Currumbin/Gold Coast Suns Academy/Allies Defender/wingman, 183cm, 1/9/2007 VFL stats (avg): 16 disposals, 3.8 rebound 50s, 5 intercept possessions U18 champs stats (avg): 19.8 disposals, 5 rebound 50s, 400 metres gained 2025 All-Australian Patterson has more weapons than any player in this class and will be box-office viewing for the Suns, who are certain to match any bid on him. His wicked goose step owes to his rugby league background, and his attacking style generates opportunities others are unwilling to attempt. That said, Patterson sometimes tries to do too much, which he may need to curb somewhat at AFL level. But recruiters loved his more measured approach in a VFL game against Carlton, which proved he can play composed football while still using his strengths. 7. Sullivan Robey Rowville/Eastern Ranges Forward/midfielder, 192cm, 4/10/2007 Talent League U18 stats (avg): 19.7 disposals, 4.7 inside 50s, 2 goals This year's bolter, after starting the season playing in Rowville's senior side. Robey missed the cut in the under-16s at Dandenong Stingrays, who continued to overlook him before Eastern Ranges added him mid-year. He has transformed physically, thanks to a substantial home gym set-up and professionalism that endeared him to recruiters. Robey initially made his mark as a lead-up forward, then exploded with 40 disposals, five clearances and three goals as a midfielder against Western Jets, where his strength and power came to the fore. He has not stopped impressing since, and starred up forward with four goals in the Ranges' grand final win. 8. Dyson Sharp Barossa District/Central District/South Australia Midfielder, 188cm, 23/5/2007 SANFL seniors stats (avg): 14.3 disposals, 7.9 contested possessions, 3.1 clearances U18 champs stats (avg): 27 disposals, 3.3 centre clearances, 6.5 inside 50s 2025 All-Australian (captain) Sharp is more harshly judged than most top-10 contenders. He proved himself during South Australia's championships title run, culminating in him winning the Larke Medal as the best-performed player. Sharp has a rare thirst for the contest, and uses his strength, power and physicality to win a stack of contested ball. His leadership skills also suggest he could be a future AFL captain. Sharp can rush disposals under pressure, and his kicking could be better, but he is consistent and already playing senior football. 9. Xavier Taylor East Ringwood/Eastern Ranges/Victoria Metro Defender, 191cm, 30/1/2007 Talent League U18 stats (avg): 18.3 disposals, 2.7 intercept marks, 7 intercept possessions U18 champs stats (avg): 15 disposals, 1.5 intercept marks, 5.8 intercept possessions One of the year's climbers, and deservedly so, to the point many think he is certain to be a top-10 selection. Capped his season with a best-on-ground performance in Eastern Ranges' grand final win over Sandringham, where he set up play from defence with 25 disposals and four intercept marks. There are still some heart-in-the-mouth kicks at times, but Taylor became a much quicker and better decision-maker as the season progressed. He is consistent, reliable and competitive, and there is confidence he will stand up defensively in the AFL. 10. Aidan Schubert Gawler Central/Central District/South Australia Forward/ruckman, 198cm, 21/12/2007 SANFL U18s stats (avg): 19.2 disposals, 4.4 clearances, 2.2 goals U18 champs stats (avg): 17 disposals, 3.3 F50 marks, 2.5 goals 2025 All-Australian Schubert not only shone at the championships, but finished the SANFL season strongly - including making his senior debut - as a ruck-forward to stamp himself as a potential top-10 pick. He benefits from the dearth of quality talls in the 2025 draft crop, but has genuinely earned this ranking. Schubert is competitive, strong, works hard, has good endurance for a big man, and impacts the game aerially and on the ground. His set-shot kicking, particularly his ball drop, is not aesthetically pleasing, but the results are generally good. 11. Sam Cumming Wentworth/North Adelaide/South Australia Midfielder/forward, 186cm, 27/7/2007 SANFL U18s stats (avg): 24.2 disposals, 13.2 contested possessions, 1.6 goals U18 champs stats (avg): 17 disposals, 3.3 inside 50s, 1 goal 2025 All-Australian Cumming has admirers in the top 10, and it is a shame a shoulder injury prematurely ended his season. However, the tough teenager did plenty enough to show he has a bright future, and has even been likened to Crows great Mark Ricciuto for his physical and aggressive approach. Dual-position players with strength, power and endurance are in vogue, so that bodes well for Cumming. He marks well for his size, can play as a deep forward and his follow-up work is good. Cumming still has room to grow as a midfielder. 12. Mitch Marsh Kangarilla/West Adelaide/South Australia Forward, 191cm, 15/2/2007 SANFL U18 stats (avg): 12.5 disposals, 6.1 marks, 2 goals U18 champs stats (avg): 8.5 disposals, 6 marks, 3 goals 2025 All-Australian Another player with lots of fans, but his quiet finish to the year may slightly impact his draft spot. Don't rule out a club grabbing him in the top 10. Marsh kicked more goals than anyone at the championships - which has not been forgotten - and he is most effective playing as a third tall in attack. There was some disappointment among recruiters that he did not get the chance to show his positional versatility in the SANFL, but part of his projection is that he could be more than a forward. Marsh is skilful and good overhead. 13. Josh Lindsay Newtown & Chilwell/Geelong Falcons/Victoria Country Defender/midfielder, 183cm, 7/4/2007 Talent League U18 stats (avg): 20.5 disposals, 7 contested possessions, 3.7 intercept possessions U18 champs stats (avg): 22.3 disposals, 4.8 intercept possessions, 414 metres gained 2025 All-Australian There is little between many of these prospects, and Lindsay's silky left-foot kicking and sharp decision-making - arguably the best in this draft class - could appeal to a club with a top-10 pick. He is a safe selection, and should have a long AFL career. The question scouts are asking themselves is whether Lindsay can play any different roles beyond being stationed at half-back. There are also some queries on his athleticism and speed, but he has shown a willingness to immerse himself in contests. 14. Jacob Farrow Joondalup Kinross/West Perth/Western Australia Defender/midfielder, 188cm, 21/9/2007 WAFL seniors stats (avg): 17.7 disposals, 5.7 contested possessions, 6 intercept possessions U18 champs stats (avg): 19 disposals, 1.8 intercept marks, 464 metres gained 2025 All-Australian Farrow and Lindsay are interchangeable for some recruiters, and each has admirers. Farrow produced a strong championships, then mostly dominated in the WAFL colts before stepping seamlessly into senior football, which was another tick for his AFL prospects. He projects as a defender at the top level, but has played some good midfield matches. Farrow is an excellent kick, reads the play well to impact the game as an interceptor, and makes quick decisions. 15. Sam Grlj Old Camberwell Grammarians/Oakleigh Chargers/Victoria Metro Defender/midfielder, 182cm, 26/7/2007 Talent League U18 stats (avg): 20.3 disposals, 7 contested possessions, 3.9 clearances U18 champs stats (avg): 17 disposals, 12.3 uncontested possessions, 2.3 intercept possessions Grli started the season superbly and was once viewed as a potential top-five selection, but he won't be picked that high now. His elite athletic attributes, attacking mindset and upside mean he won't drift too far, with his VFL performances at half-back for Richmond solidifying his first-round standing. Grlj will start in the AFL as a defender who can also play on a wing, but there is optimism he will thrive in an elite environment and could become an inside midfielder in time. 16. Lachy Dovaston Blackburn/Eastern Ranges/Victoria Metro Forward, 177cm, 29/5/2007 Talent League U18 stats (avg): 16.1 disposals, 5 tackles, 2.4 goals U18 champs stats (avg): 12.8 disposals, 5 contested possessions, 2.3 goals 2025 All-Australian Dovaston is almost universally regarded as the best small forward up for grabs in this year's draft. He works hard up and down the ground, kicked multiple goals in 13 of his 16 Talent League outings, and his defensive commitment and selflessness have improved considerably. Dovaston's excellent VFL performance for Box Hill Hawks only added to his appeal, so don't be surprised if he makes an instant impact in the AFL. 17. Max King Cardiff Hawks/Sydney Swans Academy/Allies Forward/midfielder, 192cm, 1/9/2007 Talent League U18 stats (avg): 14 disposals, 3.8 marks, 2.3 tackles U18 champs stats (avg): 7.3 disposals, 2.7 marks, 0.7 goals King is a highlight reel waiting to happen, but there is a lot of projection when it comes to his AFL stocks. His marking and athleticism are as good as anyone in this draft, but he still has a lot to learn about playing the game and needs to find more ways to stay involved. Some recruiters believe King's "coachability" will help him flourish as a full-time footballer. The upside is tantalising, but there is genuine risk he ends up as a bust. 18. Harley Barker Mount Barker/Sturt/South Australia Wingman, 187cm, 2/5/2007 SANFL U18 stats (avg): 16.8 disposals, 6.8 marks, 3.2 clearances U18 champs stats (avg): 16 disposals, 3.3 inside 50s, 5.8 score involvements 2025 All-Australian Barker would be a higher pick - likely in the top 15 - if not for his ACL rupture playing for Sturt after his All-Australian-recognised championships. He is a genuine winger with athletic traits and kicking skills suitable for that role at AFL level, and had shown improvement across the board before his season ended abruptly. There is now a risk attached to picking Barker, but he has enough fans that he looms as a top-20 selection. 19. Oskar Taylor South Belgrave/Eastern Ranges Defender, 187cm, 2/5/2007 Talent League U18 stats (avg): 20.5 disposals, 3.2 rebound 50s, 5.1 intercept possessions The draft's other bolter. Like Robey, Taylor did not play at the championships, but is at least well-exposed at Talent League level. The first thing you notice is his acceleration off the mark and willingness to get moving quickly as soon as he has the Sherrin, and he is the ideal prototype for the modern game. Taylor's kicking can improve, particularly at his position, and there are question marks on his defending, particularly aerially. 20. Oliver Greeves Vermont/Eastern Ranges/Victoria Metro Midfielder, 191cm, 7/2/2007 Talent League U18 stats (avg): 25.5 disposals, 9.8 contested possessions, 1.1 goals U18 champs stats (avg): 25 disposals, 11.8 contested possessions, 4.5 clearances 2025 All-Australian Greeves has slid throughout the season, in large part because of concerns around his in-game running and defensive efforts, but there is still a lot to like here. He could end up being a bargain if he commits to improving as a runner because he has no trouble winning the football, distributes well by hand and foot, and has repeatedly shown he can impact the game as a forward, too. 21. Noah Hibbins-Hargreaves Mornington/Dandenong Stingrays/Victoria Country Forward, 186cm, 16/11/2007 Talent League U18 stats (avg): 16.3 disposals, 1.9 F50 marks, 1.5 goals U18 champs stats (avg): 12 disposals, 8.8 uncontested possessions, 1.5 goals Hibbins-Hargreaves boasts a splash of class, is silky skilled and had some standout performances this year. Twice for the Stingrays he won 29 disposals, while adding five goals in one and four in the other, while he kicked four goals against Western Australia at the championships. His good is very good, but inconsistency is an issue - and he needs to improve his contest work. 22. Adam Sweid Pascoe Vale/Calder Cannons/Victoria Metro Midfielder/forward, 175cm, 14/9/2007 Talent League U18 stats (avg): 25 disposals, 11.8 contested possessions, 7.3 score involvements U18 champs stats (avg): 17 disposals, 4.3 clearances, 1 goal 2025 All-Australian Sweid recovered well from an ACL rupture that sidelined him for much of the 2024 season, and the Essendon next-generation academy prospect is poised to be snapped up somewhere in the 20s. He is small, but that did not stop him at any of the levels he played at this year. Sweid's toughness, competitiveness, defensive commitment, and penchant for kicking goals while playing at half-forward endeared him to scouts. 23. Hussien El Achkar Pascoe Vale/Calder Cannons/Victoria Metro Forward, 171cm, 16/1/2007 Talent League U18 stats (avg): 12.7 disposals, 5.6 contested possessions, 2.5 goals U18 champs stats (avg): 10.5 disposals, 5.3 contested possessions, 1.5 goals Like Sweid, El Achkar is tied to Essendon as a next-generation academy prospect, so he could be running around next to Isaac Kako next year. He is generally considered the second-best small forward in this year's class, behind Dovaston, but they have different strengths. El Achkar is quick, powerful and generates scoring shots with ease - and in various ways. He will need to improve his running capacity. 24. Beau Addinsall Burleigh/Gold Coast Academy/Allies Midfielder, 180cm, 9/3/2007 VFL stats (avg): 18.2 disposals, 7.6 contested possessions, 2.2 Clearances U18 champs stats (avg): 16 disposals, 9 contested possessions, 7 clearances There is no such thing as a sure thing, but Addinsall is a rock-solid prospect who thrives in the contest, uses his hands to release teammates and has an enormous work-rate. A hamstring injury kept him to just one championships game, but he capped his season with 26 disposals and eight clearances against the Giants in the VFL. Addinsall is considered a readymade AFL player. 25. Cameron Nairn Willaston/Central District/South Australia Forward/midfielder, 189cm, 15/10/2007 SANFL U18 stats (avg): 20.5 disposals, 7.1 score involvements, 1.7 goals U18 champs stats (avg): 10 disposals, 5.3 marks, 2.3 goals Nairn's versatility is his calling card. He is not overly quick but is smart, a good size, a neat left-foot kick, and can impact the game as a forward - including seven goals against Western Australia at the championships - and in the midfield, or on a wing. He proved late in the season with back-to-back 30- then 31-disposal games that he can find a heap of the Sherrin. 26. Jack Ison Parkside/Oakleigh Chargers/Victoria Metro Midfielder/forward, 190cm, 26/3/2007 Talent League U18 stats (avg): 20.5 disposals, 4.5 clearances, 4.5 tackles U18 champs stats (avg): 13.3 disposals, 4.7 score involvements, 3.7 tackles The Carlton next-generation academy prospect had an injury-marred start to the season, but finished strongly - winning 57 disposals across his last two matches - to surge into first-round calculations. Ison's height helps him be effective in various roles beyond just the midfield, and he is good aerially and at ground level. Recruiters want to see more consistency from him, but his high-end glimpses hint at a promising future. 27. Arche Ludowyke East Sandringham/Sandringham Dragons/Victoria Metro Forward, 197cm, 19/11/2007 Talent League U18 stats (avg): 9.3 disposals, 3.3 F50 marks, 3.3 goals U18 champs stats (avg): 4 disposals, 1 mark, 1.7 score involvements Ludowyke has as wide a draft range as almost anyone in the pool. He struggled at the championships - going goalless in all three of his matches - and suffered a season-ending PCL injury in Metro's win over the Allies. But Ludowyke produced strong performances for the Dragons and AFL Academy that highlighted his aerial ability and upside. Recruiters are unsure if he can develop into a No.1 target. 28. Sam Swadling Whitford/West Perth/Western Australia Midfielder, 187cm, 16/1/2007 WAFL seniors stats (avg): 17.5 disposals, 5.5 contested possessions, 3 tackles U18 champs stats (avg): 19 disposals, 12 uncontested possessions, 2.8 clearances 2025 All-Australian Finds the ball with ease - albeit mostly on the outside - demonstrated by his obscene average of 35.4 disposals in the WAFL colts this year, and how seamlessly he transitioned to senior level. He is clean at ground level, powerful and boasts a high football IQ, but handballs more than he kicks. Swadling can be an aggressive decision-maker, but scouts have no major concerns with his kicking. 29. Riley Onley Shepparton United/Murray Bushrangers/Victoria Country Midfielder, 194cm, 30/3/2007 Talent League U18 stats (avg): 25.5 disposals, 14 contested possessions, 7.5 clearances U18 champs stats (avg): 23 disposals, 4 clearances, 6.8 score involvements 2025 All-Australian Onley is another polarising player, but performed well before suffering a season-ending hamstring tendon injury in the last championships game against Vic Metro. That injury means he was unable to heighten his cause in recent months. Onley's defensive efforts and consistency can improve, but his size for a midfielder is a big plus, and he is athletically gifted. The upside is obvious. 30. Jevan Phillipou PHOS Camden/Woodville-West Torrens/South Australia Midfielder/forward, 183cm, 30/3/2007 SANFL U18 stats (avg): 22.7 disposals, 9.7 contested possessions, 4.9 clearances The brother of St Kilda's Mattaes has a decathlon background and is one of this draft's best and most dynamic athletes, which is his major appeal. There are some clubs that won't consider Phillipou here, but there is also a chance he goes far earlier. Iniurv kept him out of the championships, and has interrupted his career, and he struggled at SANFL senior level but dominated against his under-18s peers, so he remains an intriguing prospect.

Progressive voting to end of AFLW RD 8 106. Tyla Hanks 85. Kate Hore 69. Maeve Chaplin 51. Tayla Harris 49. Elizabeth McNamara 47. Megan Fitzsimon 24. Eden Zanker 16. Shelley Heath 15. Olivia Purcell 14. Paxy Paxman 12. Ryleigh Wotherspoon 4. Lauren Pearce Saraid Taylor 2. Maggie Mahony 1. Alyssa Bannan Gabrielle Colvin Laela Ebert Molly O’Hehir

Not much news coming out of yesterday’s combine. Dan Batten tweeted that Sandringham Dragons midfielder Jack Dalton took out the 2km time trial in 5:53. That’s a decent time even if it’s a fair bit behind the record which our very own Harry Sharp set at 5:28 in October 2020. Most of the top prospects who took part ran well. Willem Duursma (6:19), Dan Annable (6:21) and Cooper Duff-Tytler (6:22) were right at the pointy end.

• Magpies and Bulldogs won’t chase Steven May
 • Silvagni, Spargo, De Koning and Worpel find new homes as free agents

AFL FREE AGENCY PERIOD: DAY ONE AS IT HAPPENED Done deals: Jack Silvagni (unrestricted) Carlton to St Kilda — Carlton receive end of first round compensation (currently pick 20) Tom De Koning (restricted) Carlton to St Kilda — Carlton receive band one compensation (pick 9) James Worpel (restricted) Hawthorn to Geelong — Hawthorn receive end of second round compensation (pick 39) Pending deals: Jacob Wehr (unrestricted) GWS Giants to Port Adelaide Charlie Spargo (unrestricted) Melbourne to North Melbourne Clubs have a 72-hour period to match an offer for restricted free agents. Carlton (Tom De Koning) and Hawthorn (James Worpel) both declined to match offers on Friday.

Happening incognito

The first day of the Free Agency period is being overshadowed by trade news but I will be back once some information on that score is available. Meanwhile - • the Lions have confirmed defender Brandon Starcevich is leaving the club to join the Eagles. • "Melbourne will ask for players and I am sure Bailey Humphrey will be at the top of the list." - Cal Twomey on Christian Petracca choosing Gold Coast • Sam Edmund says he believes a Bailey Humphrey trade will happen (via Trade Radio). Lo and behold, later in the same day, Callum Twomey reports that Humphrey has just caught up with Steven King and Nathan Jones. Gold Coast adamant he is not up for trade. Time to come home Bailey! • Christian Petracca's trade request to Gold Coast comes as Sam Flanders met with Melbourne again this morning. Flanders caught up for coffee with new Demons coach Steven King and midfield assistant Nathan Jones. • and the Giants are all in on Clayton Oliver as it stands right now and the TR panel are talking about how Oliver could grow the GWS midfield? • add Fremantle to the list of interested clubs in out-of-favour Hawthorn defender Jai Serong. • St Kilda captain Jack Steele has been informed by the club that he is “welcome” to explore opportunities at rival clubs.

It's the work of a poster Haggas on the bigfooty Trade and Draft Forum - 2025 AFL Draft General Discussion at page 82.

Starts today … who will be the first?

This one’s colourful!

• Sam Edmond reports that Clayton Oliver will meet with new coach Steven King today to discuss a role change. • the story accelerated and next thing Tom Morris reported that Melbourne has told Clayton Oliver today they can't guarantee him a spot in the senior team in 2026, and would be happy to facilitate a fair trade if he can find a new home. If not, VFL football beckons. Clayton Oliver is apparently "frustrated" about what’s happening. On top of all that the Dees are said to be willing to pay $3.5 million over 5 years to get Oliver off the books. • Lions premiership forward Callum ah Chee requests trade to the Crows. Brisbane's Deven Robertson requests trade to West Coast. • Cal Twomey believes the race for Charlie Curnow is down to one team, with the Sydney Swans well ahead in the charge for the dual Coleman Medalist. • the Melbourne Football Club released a statement regarding the reported meeting with Clayton Oliver. The Demons say that Oliver is free to explore his options if he wishes after being told of the club's plans under new coach Steven King. • James Hird reckons, "The Adelaide Crows could well and truly do with Clayton Oliver," while others are speculating that Collingwood might be his best home. Is anyone interested in what Connor Buderick is doing after all that?

As usual, the journos are speculating and reaching their own conclusions. Sam Edmunds response to reports that Clayton Oliver will meet with new coach Steven King today to discuss a role change: “From what I’m told that may or may not be to Clayton’s liking, and all options are on the table here in terms of him being asked to explore his options, Clayton saying he wants to explore his options. “At the moment his immediate playing future is uncertain. He had been largely resolved in his own mind that he wanted to stay at Melbourne for the long term and make it work.“ When did Clayton say anything?

Today’s hot potatoes ~ • Cal Wilkie recommits to the Saints after Bulldogs pursued him with a significant offer. • Tom Morris claims that Christian Petracca has felt for the last few months that Melbourne was pushing him out. “Then on Monday he spoke to Damien Hardwick and Matthew Nicks. He will soon choose between the Suns and the Crows and it is a genuine 50/50." NOTE: Many attendees at the best and fairest would have had a somewhat different impression about the situation, but Morris should know, given his intimate involvement with the inner workings of Brand Petracca. • Cal Twomey was also talking about the decision Tracc has to make in coming days. “It is line ball whether it is Adelaide or Gold Coast. He is on the move, it is just about what the deal looks like.” Twomey also believes Charlie Curnow is in the mix for the Suns who can’t fit both of them onto their list. • Tasmania's full list rules have been revealed. The Devils will be given picks No.1, 3, 5*, 7*, 9, 11*, 13* in year one, No.5* and 9 in year two and three. Picks with * must be traded. They will get 11 first round picks over their first three years and six of those have to be traded. The AFL wants the other struggling clubs to be able to access other early picks. The clubs who lose players to Tasmania will be given at least one, maybe two floating picks. The Devils will also have a $5 million sign-on bonus. • Cal Twomey opines, “If you are Tasmania, do you offer Nick Daicos in 2028 an 8-year deal worth $2 million plus, as well as a $3 million sign-on fee? They have so much to play with.” • James Hird on the centre bounce being removed - "I think it is a bad decision re the centre bounce. it just favours the tallest guy in the ruck. You want guys with craft. I am disappointed it is gone." NOTE: Max should be happy about this. • Tiger defender Tylar Young has requested a trade to West Coast. AND JUST IN • Christian Petracca will travel to Gold Coast to meet with the Suns in person. More to come, no doubt

Re Marcus Prasad - See my comments above about the need for further information on any changes to our zone. Re Toby SInnema - we still have access to him as the changes don’t appear to apply to the 2025 draft eligibility criteria.

The changes to the rules are substantial. Under the new rules, the cultural background of the parent is paramount; a player must have at least one parent born overseas to qualify for multicultural status. Clubs must spend more time with NGA prospects, have nominated them earlier, and proven that they have improved their football. Pacific and Central and South American regions have been added to the cultural eligibility criteria while European countries have been removed. With the inclusion of the Tassie Devils, North Melbourne loses its zone in the Apple Isle and the zones will be shifted around to accommodate them in Victoria. Obviously, more details are required to assess the effect on the MFC. We need to see what the boundaries are of the amended zones and know more detail about the families of the potential NGA prospects. It appears that there are no changes to 2025 draft eligibility criteria so on that basis, we can still get Toby SInnema but not Tairon Ah Mu, although we might have access to the latter’s younger brother who is also a talented young player. afl.com.auAFL cracks down on player eligibility in NGA revampClubs must spend more time with Next Generation Academy prospects and register their interest earlier in order to get priority draft access

Thanks Andy and happy birthday!!! I’m fully fit and prepared for the season ahead.

Timely for Max Gawn at this stage of his career. It could extend it by a couple of years with the capacity to have your back up ruckman playing on and off the bench. This could also assist players like JvR as they could concentrate on becoming settled as KPF's without tiring themselves out as relief ruckmen. It might also affect how teams go about their drafting this year.