by Lisa Albergo reporting for AFANA from Chicago
Hawthorn has committed to drafting Gaelic footballer Ciarán Kilkenny as an International rookie. Kilkenney,19, tested well at an AFL Draft Combine in February and recently visited the club with his father John. They also attended a Hawthorn game. Kilkenny was recently voted as the best Under-21 Gaelic Football player in Ireland. He also played for Dublin in the All-Ireland Senior semi-final.
Recruiting and List Manager Graham Wright said the club was thrilled with the signing. During his visit, Kilkenney impressed Wright and others at the club with his knowledge of the game, his attitude and quick adaptation to the Sherrin. He will join the club to begin training in November. He admitted the decision was difficult, but that was offset by his eagerness to "... experience a different culture, test myself in a new code and live the life of a professional athlete." He is well aware that a senior spot in the team is not guaranteed but is looking forward to the challenge and is grateful to everyone who has helped him along the way.
Source: Leah Mirabella, Hawthorn Media Release
The list of AFL players coming to Australia and becoming successful at a game they never played at home is a long one. The AFL has, over the past several years, set up development programs in other countries. Gideon Simon, from Papua New Guinea, will be the first AFL listed player who has come through one of those programs. Simon will be selected by Richmond on an International Scholarship and officially listed as a Tiger at the rookie draft.
Simon tested well at the recent draft combine held in Melbourne after spending the last part of the season playing with Richmond's VFL affiliate Coburg. Recruiting manager Matt Clarke said the club would like to turn the 18-year old into a "tackling machine". At the draft combine, Simon rated highly in the sprint and agility tests. Clarke said "he's little but ... powerful ...The thing that impressed us was how well he fitted into the group". The coach (Damien Hardwick) said 'he does everything right as a person ... (and) on the ground". Simon will be eligible to be upgraded to the senior list during the 2013 season.
Source: World Footy News
Gold Coast has committed to drafting 18 year old Clay Cameron from Queensland as a zone selection. Cameron trained with the Suns during their 2012 pre-season. Cameron had an impressive season playing defense and forward in the NEAFL. Cameron's father was a school age rugby representative and Cameron was also a prospect in track and field. In 2004, he was ranked first in his age group in discus and eighth in high jump. In 2005 he ranked second in discus in the Pacific and in 2007 he ranked seventh in shot put in Australia and eighth in discus. Prior to joining the Suns, he was a member of the AIS/AFL Academy. He is already chomping at the bit to start his career and is rapt that it will start in his home state. Of the Suns he said “They are a fantastic club and are one of the most exciting teams in the competition".
List manager Scott Clayton said the club had been watching Cameron for some time and that his performance in the 2011 U-18's tournament really convinced the club to sign him. Clayton said “Clay looks a real player, we have been thrilled with the way he has developed, and his football has continued to impress us ... He is quick and agile ... strong overhead, with an outstanding natural leap and clean hands." The advantage for both was Cameron being able to spend time at the club so he was able to get to know the program, players and coaches.
Source: Stephen Wilson, GC Media Release
Article last changed on Friday, February 01, 2013 - 10:16 PM EST
