AFL 2023 Draft

The 2023 draft was held just days before our November holiday. Ahead of the draft itself, clubs were allowed to trade draft selections. Most of the clubs took advantage of the opportunity to strengthen their drafting possibilities or to select a player they were keen to have. As always, it is club by club in alphabetical order so readers can scroll to the clubs of their interest. The preseason and rookie drafts were held just after the main draft and are included here.

THE DRAFT

DRAFT DAY TRADES

Trades completed during the 2023 AFL Draft:

1. St Kilda gets pick 42. Melbourne gets a future third round selection.
2. Brisbane - pick 24, Gold Coast - picks 30, 51, 54, and 65
3. St Kilda - pick 27, Gold Coast - picks 40 and 42
4. Fremantle -pick 38, Gold Coast picks 46, 60 and 63
5. Adelaide - picks 8 and 17, GWS - picks 11, 15 and a future second
6. Essendon - pick 10, Geelong - picks 11 and 31
7. GWS - pick 17, St Kilda - pick 18 and a future second
8. Brisbane - pick 51, Gold Coast - a future fourth
9. Fremantle - pick 35 , Richmond - pick 38 and a future third
10. West Coast gets pick 38. Richmond pick 40 and a future third
11. Port Adelaide - pick 48, North Melbourne - a future fourth
12. St Kilda - pick 50, GWS - a future third
13. Port Adelaide - pick 52, Hawthorn - a future fourth
14. Sydney - pick 53, Hawthorn - pick 59 and a future fourth
15. Essendon - pick 54. Richmond - a future fourth

The first number is the draft selection followed the player name, (junior club), age (years old), height (in centimeters and then in feet and inches, weight (when available) in kilograms and then pounds, position, and player profile.

ADELAIDE

8) DANIEL CURTIN (Claremont, WAFL), 18, 197 cm (6'5"), tall defender
His 2022 season was marred by injury but he fought back to be best on ground for Team Hoili in the AFL Futures game (played on Grand Final Day) that year. Outstanding for WA at the national tournament to win his team's MVP award and All-Australian honors. premiership win some senior games with Claremont and was one of the best in the Under-18 premiership team. Has speed, is agile, an excellent kick and can play midfield. The Eagles were hoping to secure the talented West Australian hut the Crows traded their selections 11, 15, and a future second round election to GWS, who had selection eight, to secure Curtin. GWS also gave up their selection 17

21) CHARLES EDWARDS (Sandringham), 18, 191 (6'3"), medium defender/midfielder
Played midfield in the Coates premiership. Ran the 2km time trial (1.24 miles) in 6:24 at the draft combine

27) OSCAR RYAN (Murray Bushrangers), 18, 187 (6'1"), medium defender
Good closing speed and is strong in the air to intercept the ball. Composed with ball in hand and has excellent vision and awareness. Wins the ball and tackles well, was runner-up in Murray's best and fairest. Represented Vic Country at the nationals and impressed at the draft combine, posting 3 seconds for the 20 meter sprint (22 yds)

Rookies
8) WILL HAMILL
The defender was drafted by the Crows in 2018 and played 38 games. Delisted at the end of 2023, the Crows redrafted him as a rookie

20() JAMES BORLASE
Originally drafted as s rookie in 2021, the defender played four games in 2023. Delisted at the end of the year and redtrafted as a rookie

BRISBANE

31) LOGAN MORRIS (Western Jets), 18, 191 (6'1"), tall midfielder
Takes a strong mark (catch of the ball), and showed his versatility by playing back for Victoria Metro in at the national against South Australia and the Allies before kicking four goals in an impressive display forward against Western Australia. Has continued to build on his ability to keep presenting as a mobile marking target, while clean hands at ground level are another key part of his skill set. Booted 30 goals in 10 matches in the Coates league to win team of the year honors

42) LUKE LLOYD (Sandringham), 18, 193 (6'3"). tall forward
Has a real instinct for the game, reads the play well to get to the right positions and has clean hands. He missed some matches with a leg injury later in the year before returning to play in the Dragons’ grand final winning team. Also got a taste of VFL football playing a couple of matches with Frankston. His 6:35 seconds for 2km time trial at the combine was a sound effort for a player of his size

51) ZANE ZAKOSTELSKY (Claremont, WAFL), 17, 196 (6'5"), tall defender/ruck
Played well for Claremont's junior team and was best on ground in their premiership win. Excellent interceptor of the ball and represented WA at the nationals. Also did well at the draft combine with his 3' standing vertical leap being the best overall, did well on the agility test and ran the 20 meter sprint (appx 22 yds) in 2.95 seconds

53) PATRICK SNELL (Brisbane Lions Academy), 18, 194 (6'4"), tall defender
Speedy defender who can also play forward. Represented the Allies at the nationals and ran the 20 meter sprint (appx 22 yds) i3:03 seconds at the combine

64) REECE TORRENT (Peel Thunder), 18, 184 6"), wingman
Powerfully built, has a sharp competitive edge, and good game awareness. Has a real appetite for the contest and was one of WA's best against the Allies at the nationals. Progressed from Peel's Under-18 side to the reserves and played a senior game late in the year. Showed his athleticism at the draft combine with 8.26 seconds on the agility test and 6:24 for the 2km (1.24 miles) time trial

BRUCE REVILLE (Brisbane Lions Academy), 22, 185 (6'), 73 (160), midfielder
A smooth mover with excellent vision, he can play a variety of roles. Taken as a Category B rookie.

CARLTON

29) ASHTON MOIR (Glenelg, SANFL), 18, 187 (6'1), medium forward
Slightly hampered by a hip injury but still managed 23 goals in 17 games. Is an accurate kick for goal and strong in the air. Excelled at the combine with 8:24 seconds in the agility test

34) BILLY WILSON (Dandenong), 18, 183 (6'), medium defender
Played midfield for Dandenong, showing his versatility. Uses his speed to great effect, has good vision, and is s good decision maker. Represented Vic Country at the nationals and was selected in the Coates team of the year. Excelled at the combine with 2.94 seconds for the 20 meter (22 yds) sprint and 75 cm (30") for the vertical  jump, ranking him fifth and third respectively for the combine

Rookie
15) MATT CARROLL (Sandringham Dragons), 18, 188 (6'1"), 81 (178), medium defender
Has a good athletic base, is quick, has good vision, and can push into the midfield at times. Represented Vic Metro at the nationals and was a member of Sandringham's premiership team.

COLLINGWOOD

25) HARRY DEMATTIA (Dandenong Stingrays), 18, 185 (6'), 78kg (171 lbs), midfielder/medium forward
Explosive athlete with speed to burn, is a strong tacker, and has leadership qualities. Is versatile in that he can play in various parts of the ground. Was co-captain of Vic Country at the nationals

37) TEW JIATH (Gippsland Power), 18, 188 (6'1"), 72kg (158), defender
Athletic and is good in the air, is composed and uses the ball well. Has speed and evasiveness, is good at intercepting the ball and is strong in one-on-one contests and good at ground level. Brother of Hawthorn's CJ

59) HARVEY THOMAS (GWS Academy, Oakleigh Chargers), 18, 176 (5'9"), small defender
Good ballwinner and uses it well, can push into the midfield and go forward. Played a pivotal role for the Allies in their title win at the nationals, setting up play with his excellent decision making and disposal of the ball. Ran the 2km 1.24 miles) time trial in 5:55 to place first at the combine.

ESSENDON

10) NATE CADDY (Northern Knights, VFL), 18, 193 6'3"), tall forward
Takes a strong mark (catch of the ball) and is a real presence in the forward line and can win the contested ball in the midfield when required. Represented Vic Metro and kicked 39 goals for the season, winning a spot in the Coates team of the year. Tested extremely well at the draft combine with results of 3.02 seconds on the 20m (22 yds) sprint along with 6:35 for the 2km (1.24 miles) time trial indications of his athletic prowess. Is the nephew of two-time Richmond premiership star Josh Caddy

39) LUAMON LUAL (GWSN Rebels), 18, 182 (5'9"), 72 (158), defender
Aggressive rebounding defender who uses the ball well, was a member of the Bulldogs Next Generation Academy and represented Vic Country at the nationals. Showed promise for the Rebels when playing midfield and on a wing. Is athletic, competitive, and reads the play well

54) ARCHIE ROBERTS (Sandringham), 17, 184 (6'), medium defender
Competitive rebounding defender with a penetrating kick, is a smart interceptor of the ball and uses his anticipation and clean hands to good effect, A good decision maker who can set up play from defense and has good endurance. Represented Vic Metro at the nationals and was named All-Australian. Ran the 2Km (1.24 miles) in 6:08 at the draft combine

Rookie
8) VIGO VISENTINI (Sandringham), 18, 204 (6'7"), ruckman
Has the size and ability to influence games, is strong in the air with a natural leap and was a member of Sandringham's premiership sides for the past two seasons, Represented Vic Metro at the nationals. The younger brother of Port Adelaide's Dante

FREMANTLE

35) COOPER SIMPSON (Dandenong), 18, 181 (5'9"), midfielder
Has excellent pace, composure, and finishing skills. Evades opponents easily and runs hard offensively and defensively. Performs well when challenged. Injured his ankle in the first game doer the Allies and could not finish out the tournament. Made an impressive return late in the year for Dandenong

41) OLLIE MURPHY (Sandringham Dragons), 18, 200 (6'6"), tall defender
Lightly built but sets up play with his good kicking skills. Composed with ball in hand, is strong in the air, and a good decision maker, knowing when to go for a catch or spoil the ball against nis opponent. Was outstanding for Victoria Metro in the nationals, winning his team’s MVP award and All Australian honors. He capped off a great year playing in the Sandringham Dragons premiership team

60) JACK DELEAN (South Adelaide, SANFL), 18, 181 (5'11"), medium forward
Quick on the lead, has a great leap and strong hands. Kicked 55 goals in 23 games to showcase his eye for goal. Was one of Australia's best in the AFL Academy game against Carlton in the VFL, Was a member of SA's premiership team. Placed in the top 10 for the standing vertical jump with 74 cm (29") at the draft combine

Rook
4) ODIN JONES (West Perth), 18, 199 (6'5"), ruckman
Super competitive with the potential to play as a tall defender. Athletic, strong in the air, and has good follow up at ground level Had a consistent season, kicking seven goals in nine matches after missing most of 2002 due to injury

GEELONG

11) CONOR CORBETT (County Cork, Ireland), 21, 190 (6'2"). 88 kg (194 lbs), forward
A star in Gaelic football, he was nominated for the U-17 player of the year in 2019 after captaining Cork to an All-Ireland final win. Has adapted quickly to Australian rules in training and tryouts and showed a proficiency for delivering the ball by hand and foot. Showed his athleticism at the combine with a running vertical jump of 86cm (34") and a time of 6:35 for the
2km (1.24 miles) time trial

32) MITCHELL EDWARDS (Peel Thunder, WAFL), 18, 206 (6'7"), ruckman
Still growing into his body, his height and natural leap gives his team a great advantage at stoppages. He has mobility, is competitive, represented WA at the nationals, and is a member of Fremantle's Next Generation Academy. Tested well at the combine with his running vertical jump of 94cm (37") ranked fifth overall, while his 3.07 seconds on the 20m sprint (22 yds) was impressive for a player of his size

36) SHAUN MANNAGH (Werribee, VFL), 26, 178 (, 5'8"), midfielder/forward
Established himself as one of the premier players in the VFL this year, producing a standout performance in the Grand Final loss to Gold Coast, winning the Norm Goss Medal after kicking six goals from 28 disposals in a best-on-ground performance. Spent three seasons with Richmond's VFL program before moving on to other clubs

58) GEORGE STEVENS (GWS Victorian Rebels), 18, 189 6'2"), medium defender
A strong-bodied defender who also plays as an inside midfielder to great effect. He reads the play well to intercept in defense , is a good decision maker and has a penetrating kick. Captained his U-18 team during the AFL Academy’s matches against SANFL and VFL sides. Represented Vic Country at the nationals and was named All-Australian as well as being named captain in the Coates team of the year. Won hs team's best and fairest award and ran the 2km(1.24 miles) time trial in 6:37 at the combine

61) OLIVER WILTSHIRE (Barwon, Bellarine League), 21, 180 (5'9("), 67(148), midfield/forward
Had an outstanding season, kicking 48 goals in 16 games to attract attention and won the club's best and fairest award. Spent two seasons with the Geelong Falcons in the VFL but 2020 was cancelled due to COVID and his 2021 season was ruined by injury

63) LAWSON HUMPHRIES (Swan Districts, WAFL), 20, 182 (5'9), medium midfielder
Moved from northern WA to Perth to pursue his education and football. Was a member of the Flying Boomerangs junior team. He has progressed over three years at Swan Districts from the Under-18s and reserves to senior football this year. Showed his athletic traits at the combine recording 3.00 seconds on the 20 meter (22 yds) sprint and 8.28 seconds on the agility test

7) EMERSON JEKA
Originally drafted by Hawthorn as a rookie in 2020 and elevated to the senior list. Played seven games for the Hawks and was delisted at the end of 2023. Can play forward and defense.

GOLD COAST

3) JED WALTER (Gold Coast Suns Academy), 18, 194 6'3"), tall forward
Strong and powerful, he was a dominant player for the Suns and the Allies, winning All-Australian honors. A real physical presence with his second efforts and tackling pressure. Kicked 11 goals for the Allies to be a real cog in their title win. Kicked 29 goals in eight games for the season. North was interested but the Suns matched their bid with selections 26, 30, and 32 and received selections 58 and 87 in return

9) ETHAN READ (Gold Coast Suns Academy), 18, 202 (6'6"), ruckman
Mobile, highly skilled with an excellent workrate and ball use. Is aggressive at stoppages and was a dominant force for the Allies at the nationals to earn All-Australian honors. His time of 5:56 seconds for the 2km (1.24 miles) time trial at the combine was sensational for any player much more so for one of his height. Won the Hunter Harrison Medal for his performances with the Gold Coast Suns Academy, with the medal presented to the best performed player from the non-Victorian Academy teams who compete in a selection of matches in the Coates league. Geelong was interested but the Suns matched their bid, giving up selections 34, 38, and 48 in exchange for selection 49

14) JAKE ROGERS (Gold Coast Academy), 18, 170 5'5"), midfielder
Tenacious livewire with good creativity and vision, is quick and agile and dispose of the ball well.. Represented the Allies at the nationals where he was a driving force in the title win. Also played well for the U-18 team against Carlton earlier in the year and was named the team's best. Did not test at the combine due to injury. Sydney was interested but the Suns matched their bid, giving up selections 42, 47, and 49 in echange for selection 65

26) WILL GRAHAM (Gold Coast Suns Academy), 18, 186 (6'1"), medium defender
Played mostly in the midfield for the Suns but adapted well to play in defense for the Allies at the nationals. Has speed to burn and uses the ball well. His elite athleticism showed at the draft combine: his 2.92 seconds for the 20 meter sprint (22 yds) was second best as was his 78cm (2.5 feet) for the standing vertical jump. He also placed third for the running vertical jump with 95 cm (3 feet)

Preseason Draft
2) SAM DAY
Has played 143 games for the Suns. Delisted at the end of 2023 with the Suns intent on redrafting him as a rookie

Rookies
4) SAM CLOHESY (Werribee, VFL), 20, 189 (6'2"), defender
Clohesy is a former Gold Coast Academy player who played in the talent program from the ages of 14 to 16 before relocating back to Melbourne with his family. Clohesy is the younger brother of Geelong midfielder Ted and has played two seasons with Werribee, including the VFL Grand Final

18. WILL ROWLANDS (Northern Territory Thunder), 18, 179 (5'10"), small midfielder/forward
Has speed to burn and takes the game on with his dash and dare. Excellent at stoppages and is dangerous near goal. Represented the Allies at the nationals but a shoulder surgery curtailed his season

24) JACK MAHONY ((North Melbourne)
Drafted by North in 2019, the small forward played 40 games for the Kangaroos and was delisted at the end of 2023.

GWS

12) PHOENIX GOTHARD (Murray Bushrangers), 18, 178 (5'10"), small forward
Has speed and a good natural leap and is creative in the forward line. Represented the unbeaten Allies at the nationals. Did well at the combine with his 78 cm )30") ranking him second overall and he placed 10th in the 20 meter (22 yds) sprint with 2.96 seconds

17) JAMES LEAKE (Tasmanian Devils), 18, 187 6'1"), medium defender/forward
Had a breakout season for the Devils and represented the Allies at the nationals. Dangerous near goal and is exceptional in the air

44) JOE FONTI (Claremont, WAFL), 19, 188 (6'2"), medium defender
Played midfield but blossomed when moved into defense. His intercepting and run from defense are features of his game and he represented WA at the nationals. Tested extremely well at the state combine in Perth, registering times of 2.88 seconds on the 20 meter (22 yds) sprint and 7.97 seconds on the agility test which were ranked first and second respectively among all players who tested at the three state combines

NATHAN WARDIUS (Rand-Walbundrie-Walla Giantd, NSW), 19, 181 (5'9"), 68 (150), medium forward
Prolific forward, evidenced by his 149 goals in 49 games. Was a member of the GWS Academy. Despite his small frame, he has played some senior football. Is athletic, has footy smarts, and is good in the air and at ground level. Taken as a Category B rookie

Rookie
`14) ADAM KENNEDY
Originally taken in the 2911 preseason draft, the midfielder has played 153 games for the Giants. Missed most of 2023 due to a knee reconstruction and was delisted at the end of the season, with the Giants committed to redrafting him as a rookie.

HAWTHORN

5) NICK WATSON (Eastern Ranges), 18, 170 (5'6"), small forward
Quick, agile, crafty, and loves the contest. Showed his prowess in front of goal with 23 goals in 10 games in the talent pathway. Could not be stopped at the nationals, kicking 14 goals in four games for Vic Metro top the goalkicking for the tournament and was named All-Australian. Expanded his game by playing midfield and in defense for the Ranges. Unable to test at the combine due to a foot injury

19) WILL MCCABE (Central District, SANFL), 18, 197 (6'5"), tall defender
Competitive with a good leap and is strong in the air. Played well for Central and one of SA's better players at the nationals. Son of former Hawk Luke McCabe. North was interested but the Hawks matched their bid, giving up selections 42 and 44 in exchange for selection 73

22) WILL DAWSON (Gippsland Power), 17, 200 cm (6'6"), tall defender
Developed as a potential tall defender throughout the year but also played up forward and in the ruck. Still developing physically having grown almost eight inches in the past two years but has maintained his ability at ground level, where he is clean below the knees. Played well for Vic Country at the nationals, showing aggression and intensity in the way he attacked the ball

46 BODIE RYAN (Glenelg, SANFL), 18, 187 (6'1"), medium defender
No nonsense defender who is strong in his attack on the ball and an excellent one-on-one player. Was South Australia’s best player in the nationals win over Victoria Country when he curtailed Harley Reid (the number one draft selection) after he had kicked three goals in the opening quarter. Backed it up in the loss to Western Australia with another sterling performance. Placed fourth overall in the agility test with 8.21 seconds at the draft combine as well as running the 29 meter sprint ((22 yds)

56) CALSHER DEAR (Sandringham), 18, 195 (6'3"), tall forward
Played more basketball than elite football until this year but really began to emerge for Sandringham as the year progressed. Is still very raw but has shown mercurial ability in the air and finished the year kicking 21 goals from his 15 matches. Is the son of former Hawthorn star and 1991 Norm Smith medalist Paul Dear who played 123 games so the Hawks were able to select him under the father-son rule

Preseason  Draft
1) CHAD WINGARD
Played 147 games for Port Adelaide 2012-2018 before being traded to Hawthorn where he has played 71 games. His 2023 season was wrecked by injuries and the Hawks delisted him but were always committed to redrafting him as a rookie

Rookie Draft

3) COOPER STEPHENS
Originally drafted by Geelong in 2019, he played seven games before being traded to Hawthorn at the end of 2022. He has yet to play a senor game and was delisted but the Hawks have given him a second chance as a rookie.

MELBOURNE

7) CALEB WINDSOR (Eastern Ranges), 18, 184 (6'), wingman
Has speed to burn and likes to take the game on. Represented the Vic Metro at the nationals and was among the best in their loss to the Allies and again in the win over WA. Was also a consistent ballwinner for the Ranges. Recorded a slick time of 2.92 seconds in the 20 meter (22 yds) sprint at the combine as well as recording 6:28 for the 2km (1.24 miles), demonstrating his speed and endurance. Gold Coast had to match Adelaide's bid with selections 47 and 51, gaining selection 69

13) KOLTON THOLSTRUP (Subiaco, WAFL). 18, 186 (6'1"), 86kg (189 lbs), forward
Aggressive and loves to the game on. Excellent finishing skills and is a long kick. Played 10 senior games for Subiaco and represented WA at the nationals. Strong at the contest and composed when working to win the ball in the air or at ground level and uses the ball well to create opportunities for teammates

Rookies
12) JAKE MELKSHAM
Drafted by Essendon in 2009, he played 114 games for the Bombers before being traded to Melbourne at the end of 2014. He has played 107 games for the Demons. Delisted and redrafted as a rookie

22) KYMAN BROWN (Oakleigh Chargers), 18, 181 (5'9"), midfielder
Has quick hands, sharp vision, and is creative to set up play through the middle. Disposes of the ball with efficiency and tackles well/ Won Oakley's best and fairest award and starred for Vic Metro at the nationals. Tested very well at the combine with his 6:12 on the 2km (1.24 miles) time trial and 3.04 seconds for the 20 meter (22 yds) sprint rounding off a productive season. As the son of former Melbourne utility Nathan D Brown who played 146 games for the Demons, he is eligible to be selected under the father-son rule.

NORTH MELBOURNE

2) COLBY MCKERCHER (Tasmanian Devils), 18, 180 (5'9"), midfielder
Uses his dazzling speed to break the lines and kicks the ball with pinpoint accuracy. Represented the Allies at the nationals and won the Larke Medal as the best in his division and was named All-Australian. Also won the Morrish Medal (junior equivalent of the Brownlow). Was equally dominant for the Tasmania Devils having more than 30 disposals in seven of his nine matches and also kicked 12 goals. Showed he could match it against more experienced opponents by having 20 disposals and three clearances in Australia’s win over the Carlton VFL team. Did not test at the national combine

4) ZANE DUURSMA (Gippsland Power), 18, 189 (6'2"), medium forward
The brother of former Port player Xavier (traded to Essendon), he is a mercurial forward who reads the play well, is strong in the air and an accurate kick for goal. Was outstanding for Vic Country at the nationals to earn All-Australian honors, including a match-wining performance against Vic Metro. Was a dominant player for Gippsland to win their best and fairest award and selection in the Coates team of the year. Kicked 42 goals in 20 games. His running vertical jump of 67 cm (26") at the combine ranked second. HIs sister Yasmine plays for Port in the WAFL

20) TAYLOR GOAD (South Adelaide, SANFL), 18, 206 (6'7"), ruckman
Comes from a basketball background and is still developing his craft. Showed splendid improvement this year playing for his state and club at under 18 level. Impressed for SA in 13 games. Both his standing vertical jump of 74cm (29") and 20m (22 yds) sprint time of 2.965 seconds were ranked in the top 10 at the national combine and gave distinct indications of his elite athletic skills

23) RILEY HARDEMAN (Swan Districts, WAFL), 18, 185 (6'), medium defender
Strong overhead, has line-breaking speed, and is composed under pressure. Played some senior games for Swan Districts and captained WA at the nationals, winning All-Australian honors. Has a natural leap, placing in the top 10 for the standing vertical jump with 75 cm (30") and the running vertical jump with 91 cm (appx 3')

Rookie
2) FINNBAR MALEY (Northern Bullants, VFL), 20, 197 (6'4"), 91 (200), ruck/forward
Still raw with plenty of potential. The Kangaroos see him as a developing ruck and forward.

PORT ADELAIDE

48) TOM ANASTAOPOULOS (Geelong Falcons), 18, 176 (5'7"), small forward
Speedy and plays with intensity and applies plenty of tackling pressure. Represented Vic Country at the nationals and is an accurate kick for goal, kicking 21 goals in 11 games. His time of 6:11 on the 2km time trial (1.24 miles) was ranked second among state combine participants

52) LACHLAN CHARLESON (GWS Reels), 18, 177 (5'7"), 74 (163), small forward
Applies plenty of defensive pressure on opponents and is good at ground level and has speed. Attacks the contest with intensity to win the ball and disposes of it well. Represented Vic Metro at the nationals

57) WILL LORENZ (Oakleigh Chargers), 18, 186 (6'1"), wingman/forward
Lightly built but has good speed and evasiveness and is a good ballwinner. At representative level he played for the Australian Under-U8 team in their matches against Port Adelaide (SANFL) and Carlton (VFL) as well as playing three matches for Victoria Metro. Tested soundly at the combine with his 3.06 seconds for the 20 meter sprint (22 yds) and 6:33 for the 2km (1.24 miles) time trial both solid performances. He is the grandson of former Hawthorn premiership captain and AFL Hall of Fame member Graham Arthur.

Rookie
13) XAVIER WELSH (East Perth, WAFL), 18 195 (6'4"), 90 (198), tall forward
Powerful and athletic, capable of playing a variety of positions. Attacks the contest strongly to create contests and is strong in the air. Represented WA at the nationals. Has a natural leap and showed it at the combine with a running vertical jump of 87cm (34")

RICHMOND

40) KANE MCAULIFFE (North Adelaide, SANFL), 18, 187 (6'1"), midfielder
Big-bodied and powerful, wins the ball well and is a long kick. Strong and aggressive tackler and excels at stoppages with his clean hands and vision. Progressed from under-18 level to play several reserves gamEs for North Adelaide. Was one of the best for SA against the Allies and Vic Metro at the nationals. Showcased his power and speed at the draft combine with his running vertical jump of 95cm (37") ranking third and 2.93 seconds for the 20 meter (22 yds) sprint ranking fifth

43) LIAM FAWCETT (Central District, SANFL), 18, 197 6'4"), tall forward
Strong, mobile, and is an accurate kick for goal, kicking 32 goals for the season. Represented SA at the nationals. Tested soundly at the combine with his 3.08 seconds for the 20m sprint (22 yds) and 6:38 for the 2km (1.24 miles) time trial both strong performances.

ST KILDA

18) DARCY WILSON (Murray Bushrangers), 18, 186 (6'1"), medium forward
Elusive and creative and covers the ground well. Can also play on a wing. Still developing physically but had an outstanding season. winning Murray's best and fairest award. Represented Vic Country at the nationals and was one of their best players as well as putting in a strong performance for the AFL Academy against Port Adelaide in the SANFL. His running capacity was confirmed when he finished second in the 2km time trial (1.24 miles) at the combine with a time of 5:52. He also demonstrated his power by producing the best running vertical jump of 98cm (3'2")

28) LANCE COLLARD (Subiaco, WAFL), 18, 180 (5'10"), small forward
Extremely dangerous near goal, kicking 39 goals in 16 matches for the Subiaco junior team. Represented WA at the nationals. Did well at the combine with 8,16 seconds in the agility test and 2:82 for the 20 mete (22 yds) sprint. Is a member of West Coast's Next Generation Academy

33) ANGUS HASLIE (Geelong Falcons), 18, 190 (6'2"), medium defender
Athletic and can set up play from defense and create opportunities for teammates. Has excellent intercept skills and represented Vic Country at the nationals. Also has excellent lateral movement and placed third in the agility test with 8.20 seconds

50) HUGO GARCIA (Calder Cannons), 18, 185 (6'), medium midfielder
Has speed and is good in one-on-one contests. Unable to test at the combine but did participate in the Coates test day where his 2.93 seconds for the 20m 22 yds) sprint was impressive

62) ARIE SCHOEMAKER (Tasmanian Devils), 18, 194 (6'3"), 91 (200), wing/defender
Was impressive in 2022, but an off-field indiscretion in 2023 saw him suspended for 10 games. Came back and wasted no time making up lost ground, winning a spot in the Allies' team at the nationals. Can also pinch-hit in the ruck

Preseason Draft
3) RILEY BONNER
Played 93 games for Port Adelaide since 2016, delisted by Port at the end of 2023 and picked up by the Saints as a rookie.

SYDNEY

16) WILL GREEN (Northers Knights, VFL), 18, 204 (6'7"), ruckman
Excellent mark (catch of the ball) is mobile, and good at ground level to provide opportunities for teammates. Represented Vic Metro at the nationals and was named All-Australian. Showed his natural leap and endurance at the combine with 87cm (34") for the running vertical jump and 6:34 for the 2km (1.24 miles) time trial at the combine.

24) CAIDEN CLEARY (Sydney Swans Academy), 18, 182 (5'9"), midfielder
Attacks the ball and opponents vigorously and excels at getting the ball away from stoppages. Has excellent repeat speed, clean hands, and courage. Played very well for the Allies at the nationals to be named All-Australian. Ran the 2km (1.24 miles) time trial in 6:06 at the draft combine. Has been with the Sydney Academy since the Under-10's. Collingwood was interested but Sydney matched their bid, giving up selections 43 and 47 in exchange for selection 63

Category B Rookie
INDHI KIRK Sydney Swans Academy), 21, 179 (5'9") midfielder
The son of former Sydney champion Brett, he has many of his father's qualities. Is tough, has clean hands, footy smarts, is a good decision maker, is good at ground level, and has a good workrate. Played some reserves games with Sydney's VFL team and represented the Allies at the nationals.

Rookie
11) SAM REID
Drafted in 2009, the key forward has played 181 games for the Swans. Delisted and redrafted as a rookie.

WEST COAST

1) HARLEY REID (Bendigo Pioneers), 18, 187 (6'1"), midfielder
Can play forward and defense as well as midfield. Has been on the radar for several months to be the number one selection. Confirmed his credentials at the nationals with three goals in five minutes for Vic Country against SA and continued to star throughout the tournament. Wins the ball well at ground level and in the air, is an excellent decision maker, and uses the ball well. Won Vic Country's MVP award and was named All-Australian. Handled the step up to playing senior football with three impressive games in the VFL and was the best player for the Australia Under-18s team in its match against Port Adelaide’s SANFL team which showed he is ready for AFL

30) ARCHER REID (Gippsland Power), 18, 203 (6'6"), tall forward
Exceptional aerial skills, is mobile, good at ground level, and has natural goal sense. Represented Vic Country at the nationals, was runner-up in Gippsland's best and fairest count. The younger brother of Essendon's Zach

38) CLAY HALL (Peel Thunder), 18, 189 (6'2), midfielder
Prolific ballwinner and uses it well, excels at stoppages with his clean hands and good vision to set up teammates. Played nine senior games with Peel and starred for WA at the nationals to win All-Australian honors. Son of former Eagle and Cat Derek. Did not test at the combine due to injury

49) HARVEY JOHNSTON (Sandringham Dragons), 18, 183 (6'), medium forward
Creative user of the ball by hand and foot. Represented Vic Metro at the nationals and was one of the best against West Australia. Was an influential player for the Dragons and showed his athleticism at the combine with 6:17 for the 20 meter (22 yds) sprint and 8:39 seconds in the agility test

Category B Rookie
COEN LIVINGSTONE (Perth (WAFL), 18, 199 (6'5"), ruckman/forward
Still developing but had a fine season for Perth, kicking 20 goals for the year and was named in the Coates team of the year. A real impact at the nationals playing for WA against SA with 18 disposals, 17 hitouts, and a goal. The nephew of former Hawk Chance Bateman and is a member of of West Coast's Next Generation Academy

Rookie
1) LOCH RAWLINSON (Sturt), 18, 178 (5'8"), 72 (158), small forward
Speedy and has clean hands and can hit the scoreboard and has a good workrate. Needs to build up his body and work on his kicking efficiency. Represented SA at the nationals.

WESTERN BULLDOGS

6) RYLEY SANDERS (Sandringham), 18, 185 (6'), midfielder
Strong-bodied, powerful, and courageous. Attacks the ball well and puts plenty of pressure on opponents. Represented the Allies at the nationals and his ball use, clearance play, and tacking saw him win the Larke Medal as his side's best and fairest player, was named captain of the All-Australian team. Caught the eye with a strong performance for the Australia Under-18 team in its representative match against Port Adelaide’s SANFL side and backed it up in the second match against Carlton’s VFL side. Was a member of Sandringham's premiership team.

15) JORDAN CROFT (Calder Cannons), 18, 200 (6'5"), tall forward
Lightly built but extremely athletic. He uses his mobility and height to create opportunities to mark (catch) the ball, has speed and is a precise kick of the ball. Comes from a volleyball background and opted for footy just a year ago. Starred for Calder and Vic Metro, kicking 33 goals for the year. His 2km (1.24 miles) time of 6:05 at the combine showed his elite endurance for a player of hs size. The Western Bulldogs selected him under the father-son rules as the son of former Bulldogs utility Matthew Croft who played 186 games for the club. Sydney was interested but the Bulldogs matched the bid, giving up selections 44, 46, and 47 in exchange for selections 61 and 87.

45) JOEL FREIJAH (GW V Rebels), 18, 190 (6'2"), wingman
Composed and clean at ground level and disposes of the ball well. A strong athlete who represented Vic Country at the nationals. Ran the 20 meter (22 yds) in 2.98 seconds and completed the 2km (1.24 miles) time trial in 6:13

47) LACHLAN SMITH (Gippsland Power), 18, 202 (6'6"), ruckman
Uses his size to compete ferociously at stoppages and is a good ball winner. Was impressive playing for Vic Country at the nationals. Was unable to test at the combine due to injury but was able to take part in the Coates testing day and showed his mobility with 3:13 seconds in the 20 meter sprint (22 yds)

55) AIDEN O'DRISCOLL (Perth, WAFL), 18, 175 (5'7"),
Has footy smarts, speed, and endurance and uses those attributes well to create play from the wing. Was among WA's best against the Allies and Vic Country at the nationals. His 2.87 seconds for the 20 meter (22 yds) sprint was ranked first and was fifth for the 2km (1.24 miles) time trial with 6:06. HIs brother Nathan and sister Emma both play for Fremantle.

Rookies
10) LACHIE MCNEIL
Drafted in 2020, he played 29 games for the Bulldogs. Delisted at the end of 2023, he has been added to the rookie list

21) TAYLOR DURYEA
Originally drafted by Hawthorn in 2009 and played 118 games for the Hawks before being traded to the Bulldogs at the end of 2018. Delisted at the end of 2023 and redrafted as a rookie.

Source: Samuel Zito, AFL Media Release, afl.com.au, AFL Record Season Guide, foxsports.com.au, central.rokieme.com