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[Shannon]

Lawson Humphries
20 years old

Winger

2024 Debut: Smoky

Typically, players selected at pick 63 are not high up on the list of players to debut early, but the 20 year old is already a club favourite at the Cattery. Humphries could play as a half back, winger or small forward, with great footy IQ and ball use. Humphries would be one of Geelong’s best ball users by foot, with coaches genuinely questioning whether he is a left or right footer. Humphries could easily continue impressing through the pre-season and be a chance at debuting in 2024. Expect Humphries to become a fan favourite and cult figure with an eccentric personality.


Oliver Wiltshire
21 years old

Medium forward

2024 Debut: Unlikely

The local talent nabbed from Barwon Heads would be an amazing story if he can get a debut in 2024, but in reality Wiltshire is an incredibly raw forward who has some great traits. Wiltshire has impressed early in his first pre-season, but would play a similar role to Ollie Henry, who booted 40 goals in 2023 and is locked into Geelong’s best 23. Wiltshire would need to add a bit of size and impress in VFL games to be a chance at a debut, after recording an official weight of 67kg. But with great goalsense and football traits, Wiltshire could be a great addition to the Cats.


Phoenix Foster
19 years old

Key Forward

2024 Debut: Unlikely

Going into his second year, Foster’s first full pre-season has been impacted with a foot injury, however the 19 year old should be a full participant in the Cats’ first session of 2024. A key forward who showed glimpses in the VFL last season and will likely be given plenty of time to continue to develop into an AFL key forward. Shannon Neale is currently ahead of Foster as the first-up key forward, however there is a void that Foster fills after that, with little other competition for the spot. A couple of injuries at senior level could lead to a debut, however with Jeremy Cameron and Tom Hawkins filling out the spine of the side, there is little room for any other tall forwards.

James Willis
20 years old

Inside Midfielder

2024 Debut: Unlikely

It is a do-or-die season ahead for Willis, who will enter his third season on an AFL list without making his debut. The former second-round selection has had a wretched run with injury, kept to just four VFL games in 2022 before signing a one-year extension in June 2023 during his best run of form in the reserve grade. Willis is an inside midfielder that has shown promising signs, but will be fighting Tanner Bruhn, Jhye Clark, Brandan Parfitt, Max Holmes, Mitch Knevitt, and George Stevens as young midfielders looking for a role.


Joe Furphy
24 years old

Ruck

2024 Debut: Unlikely

Furphy signed on at Geelong as a category B rookie, having spent his recent years playing basketball at an elite level. But the 24 year old has fit right in at Geelong, showcasing great athleticism and endurance for a 202cm prospect. Furphy is a true depth ruck option, behind Conway, Stanley and Blicavs, and competing with Edwards, Foster and Neale for a backup role.

Oscar Murdoch
19 years old

Medium Defender

2024 Debut: Unlikely

Another yet-to-debut Cat that is coming out of contract, Murdoch was one of the last players handed an extension for 2024, which means he could be fighting for another deal at the end of the season. The 190cm defender has great versatility in his role, with the ability to play lock down or in an intercept position, which will help him fight for a spot in the best 23. However, Geelong’s back six is pretty set and experienced, so it would take a fair bit to see Murdoch playing senior football in 2024.

Emerson Jeka
22 years old

Key Defender

2024 Debut: Likely

A mature-aged recruit coming from Hawthorn, Jeka was a surprise delisting at Waverley after an injury-riddled start to his career. Jeka made the transition from key forward to key defender and showed glimpses at VFL level, but never got a real run in the AFL in defence. The 22 year old played seven games in his first three seasons with Hawthorn after being selected in the 2019 rookie draft, but did not feature in the AFL in 2023. He signed a one-year deal with Geelong, and would be the first back up behind the trio of Sam De Koning, Jack Henry and Connor O’Sullivan.

Mitch Hardie
26 years old

Inside Midfielder

2024 Debut: Likely

Similarly to Shaun Mannagh, Hardie was picked as a mature-aged midfielder and Geelong is not a side that would stash them in the VFL. Hardie was close to a debut late in the season, and after a pre-season with the club will be a real chance to add to the Cats’ engine room. One Cats official compared Hardie to Adelaide’s Rory Laird in his game style, and he would add another mature body into the midfield mix that would prefer not relying on young players to carry the side’s clearance work.


Very interesting info on O'Sullivan - look forward to seeing him play in preseason. Manangh I think everyone will have, likely to be able to field him also - not just a bench option.

 

[Presto]

An early look at every AFL club’s best side for the 2024 season
Pre-season training is back in full swing and the countdown to Opening Round is on. Which recruits and draftees are making their case on the track? We predict every club’s best 23.

less than 2 min read
January 16, 2024 - 12:20PM
News Corp Australia Sports Newsroom
Armed with a fresh batch of draft picks and trade coups, every AFL club will enter 2024 with high hopes.
With pre-season training back in full swing, this is how each team’s 23 could look come March.
Will top Crows draftee Daniel Curtin debut in round 1? Picture: Michael Willson/AFL Photos
Will top Crows draftee Daniel Curtin debut in round 1? Picture: Michael Willson/AFL Photos
ADELAIDE
Coach: Matthew Nicks
Captain: Jordan Dawson
BEST 23
B J. Worrell, J. Butts, C. Jones
HB W. Milera, D. Curtin, M. Michalanney
C J. Soligo, R. Laird, B. Smith
HF I. Rankine, D. Fogarty, J. Rachele
F L. Murphy, T. Walker, R. Thilthorpe
FOL R. O’Brien, J. Dawson, M. Crouch
I/C R. Sloane, M. Hinge, L. Pedlar, B. Keays, B. Cook (sub)
Not considered due to injury: Nick Murray

BRISBANE
Coach: Chris Fagan
Captain: Lachie Neale, Harris Andrews
BEST 23
FB: B. Starcevich, H. Andrews, C. McKenna
HB: K. Coleman, J. Payne, D. Wilmot
C: J.Berry, J. Dunkley, J. Fletcher
HF: C. Cameron, E. Hipwood, Z. Bailey
FF: C. Rayner, J. Daniher, L. McCarthy
Foll: O. McInerney, L. Neale, H. McCluggage
INT: C. Ah Chee, D. Robertson, D. Zorko, R.Lester, K.Lohmann (sub)
Not considered due to injury: Tom Doedee, Will Ashcroft

CARLTON
Coach: Michael Voss
Captain: Patrick Cripps
BEST 23
B: A. Saad, J. Weitering, C. Marchbank
HB: S. Docherty, M. McGovern, N. Newman
C: B. Acres, P. Cripps, O. Hollands
HF: J. Martin, C. Curnow, M. Cottrell
F: J. Motlop, H. McKay, M. Owies
FOL: M. Pittonet, A. Cerra, S. Walsh
I: G. Hewett, L. Fogarty, T. De Koning, L. Young, Z. Williams (sub)

COLLINGWOOD
Coach: Craig McRae
Captain: Darcy Moore

BEST 23
FB: I.Quaynor, B.Frampton, B.Maynard
HB: N.Murphy, D.Moore, J.Crisp
C: S.Sidebottom, S.Pendlebury, J.Daicos
HF: B.McCreery, B.Mihocek, B.Hill
F: J.Elliott, M.Cox, L.Schultz
Foll: D.Cameron, N. Daicos, J.De Goey
Inter: O.Markov, T.Mitchell, J.Howe, P.Lipinski, A.Johnson (sub)

Not considered due to injury: Dan McStay

ESSENDON
Coach: Brad Scott
Captain: Zach Merrett
BEST 23
FB: A. McGrath, B. McKay, Z. Reid
HB: J. Ridley, J. Laverde, M. Redman
C: X. Duursma, W. Setterfield, N. Martin
HF: J. Gresham, H. Jones, S. Durham
FF: K. Langford, P. Wright, J. Stringer
F: S. Draper, J.Caldwell, Z. Merrett
I: D. Heppell, D. Parish, E. Tsatas, T. Goldstein, A. Perkins (sub)

FREMANTLE
Coach: Justin Longmuir
Captain: Alex Pearce
BEST 23
B: L.Ryan, B.Cox, H.Chapman
HB: H.Young, A.Pearce, J.Clark
C: N.O’Driscoll, A.Brayshaw, J.Aish
HF: S.Sturt, L.Jackson, S.Switkowski
F: N.Fyfe, M.Taberner, M.Walters
FOL: S.Darcy, J.O’Meara, C.Serong
I/C: M.Johnson, B.Walker, M.Frederick, J.Amiss, N.Erasmus (sub)

GEELONG
Coach: Chris Scott
Captain: Patrick Dangerfield

BEST 23
FB: Z Guthrie, T. De Koning, J. Kolodjashnij
HB: T. Stewart, J Henry, M. Blicavs
C: M. Holmes, C. Guthrie, M. Duncan
HF: G. Miers, J. Cameron, O. Henry
F: T. Stengle, T. Hawkins, B. Close
FOL: R. Stanley, P. Dangerfield, T. Atkins
I/C: T. Bruhn, G. Rohan, J. Bowes, B. Parfitt, S. Mannagh (sub)

GOLD COAST
Coach: Damien Hardwick
Captain: Jarrod Witts, Touk Miller
BEST 23
FB: C. Budarick, S. Collins, M. Andrew
HB: L. Weller, C. Ballard, W. Powell
C: B. Ellis, N. Anderson, S. Flanders
HF: M. Rosas, J. Lukosius, B. Humphrey
FF: B. Ainswerth, B. King, J. Walter
F: J. Witts, M. Rowell, T. Miller
INT: N. Holman, D. Swallow, J. Rogers, J. Jeffrey, B. Fiorini (sub)

GWS
Coach: Adam Kinglsey
Captain: Toby Greene
BEST 23
FB: J. Buckley, S. Taylor, C. Idun
HB: L. Ash, H. Himmelberg, L. Whitfield
C: H. Perryman, T. Green, J. Kelly
HF: T. Bedford, J. Riccardi, B. Daniels
FF: C. Brown, J. Hogan, T. Greene
F: K. Briggs, C. Ward, S. Coniglio
INT: F. Callaghan, I. Cumming, A. Cadman, L. Aleer, X. O’Halloran (sub)

HAWTHORN
Coach: Sam Mitchell
Captain: James Sicily
BEST 23
B: B. Hardwick, J. Sicily, C. Jiath
HB: J. Impey, J. Blanck, J. Weddle
C: K. Amon, J. Newcombe, C. Nash
HF: J. Ginnivan, M. Chol, D. Moore
F: L. Breust, M. Lewis, J. Gunston
FOL: N. Reeves, J. Worpel, W. Day
I/C: J. Ward, F. Maginness, N. Watson, C. MacDonald, C. Mackenzie (sub)

MELBOURNE
Coach: Simon Goodwin
Captain: Max Gawn
BEST 23
B: T. Rivers, S. May, A. Tomlinson
HB: J. McVee, J. Lever, C. Salem
C: L. Hunter, C. Oliver, E. Langdon
HF: C. Spargo, B. Fritsch, A. Neal-Bullen
F: J. Van Rooyen, H. Petty, K. Pickett
Foll: M. Gawn, C. Petracca, J. Viney
Inter: J. Bowey, T. Sparrow, A. Brayshaw, S. McAdam, J. Billings (sub)

NORTH MELBOURNE
Coach: Alastair Clarkson
Captain: Jy Simpkin, Luke McDonald
BEST 23
B: L. McDonald, T. Pink, A. Corr
HB: Z. Fisher, B. Nyuon, H. Sheezel
C: B. Scott, G. Wardlaw, D. Stephens
HF: T. Thomas, C. Coleman-Jones, E. Ford
F: B. George, N. Larkey, C. Zurhaar
FOL: T. Xerri, L. Davies-Uniacke, J. Simpkin
I/C: P. Curtis, W. Phillips, M. Bergman, C. Comben, C. McKercher (sub)

PORT ADELAIDE
Coach: Ken Hinkley
Captain: Connor Rozee
BEST 23
FB: L. Jones, E. Ratugolea, A. Aliir
HB: D. Houston, B. Zerk-Thatcher, M. Bergman
C: W. Drew, Z. Butters, O. Wines
HF: S. Powell-Pepper, T. Marshall, W. Rioli
FF: O. Lord, C. Dixon, J. Finlayson
F: I. Soldo, J. Horne-Francis, C. Rozee
I/C: J. McEntee, K. Farrell, R. Burton, D. Byrne-Jones, T. Boak (sub)

RICHMOND
Coach: Adem Yze
Captain: Toby Nankervis
BEST 23
FB: N. Vlastuin, N. Balta, J. Gibcus
HB: D. Rioli, T. Young, J. Short
C: J. Ross, T. Dow, S. Banks
HF: M. Rioli, T. Lynch, L. Baker
FF: S. Bolton, J. Koschitzke, D. Martin
F: T. Nankervis, T. Taranto, D. Prestia
INT: J. Hopper, N. Broad, S. Ryan, J. Graham, N. Cumberland (sub)

ST KILDA
Coach: Ross Lyon
Captain: Jack Steele
BEST 23
B: J. Battle, C. Wilkie, J. Webster
HB: N. Wanganeen-Milera, Z. Cordy, J. Sinclair
C: B. Hill, B. Crouch, L. Henry
HF: D. Butler, T. Membrey, M. Phillipou
F: J. Higgins, M. King, M. Owens
Foll: R. Marshall, J. Steele, S. Ross
Inter: P. Dow, M. Wood, M. Windhager, L. Stocker, R. Byrnes (sub)

SYDNEY
Coach: John Longmire
Captain: Callum Mills, Dane Rampe, Luke Parker
BEST 23
FB: D. Rampe, T. McCartin, J. Lloyd
HB: O. Florent, J. Hamling, N. Blakey
C: E. Gulden, C. Mills, B. Campbell
HF: W. Hayward, H. McLean, I. Heeney
F: T. Papley, J. Amartey, L. McDonald
Foll: B. Grundy, L. Parker, C. Warner
Int: T. Adams, J. Rowbottom, J. McInerney, S. Wicks, J. Jordon (sub)

WEST COAST
Coach: Adam Simpson
Captain: Liam Duggan, Oscar Allen
BEST 23
B: A.Witherden, J.McGovern, B.Hough
HB: L.Duggan, T.Barrass, T. Cole
C: J.Hunt, T.Kelly, A.Gaff
HF: H. Reid, J.Darling, L.Ryan
F: J.Cripps, O.Allen, T.Brockman
FOL: M.Flynn, D.Sheed, E.Yeo
I/C: J.Jones, B.Williams, N.Long, R.Ginbey, E.Hewett (sub)
Not considered due to injury: Jai Culley

WESTERN BULLDOGS
Coach: Luke Beveridge
Captain: Marcus Bontempelli
BEST 23
FB: B. Dale, L. Jones, E. Richards
HB: L. Vandermeer, S. Darcy, N. Coffield
C: B. Williams, T. Liberatore, J. Macrae
HF: C. Daniel, J. Ugle-Hagan, C. Weightman
FF: R. Lobb, A. Naughton, R. West
F: T. English, M. Bontempelli, A. Treloar
IC: R. Sanders, J. Johannisen, J. O’Donnell, J. Harmes, A Jones (sub)

 

[inwhiterooms]

AFL SuperCoach 2024 Rookie Bible: Every cheapie and all the stats you need to know
The rookies are the backbone of any good SuperCoach team – so who should you pick in 2024? Here’s an early look at the best cheapie picks and all their numbers.
The Phantom and Dan Batten

12 min read
January 17, 2024 - 6:00AM
News Corp Australia Sports Newsroom

AFL: North Melbourne co-captain Jy Simpkin believes the Kangaroos are destined for success after four lacklustre years.

Cash cows are the backbone of any good SuperCoach team.
But picking the best basement-price options isn’t always easy.
Luckily, The Phantom and Dan Batten have done the hard work for you with profiles and stats on 30 SuperCoach cheapies in the first Rookie Bible for 2024.
Stay tuned for more names, team intel and verdicts over the pre-season.

Dan Curtin is one of the top rookie options. Picture: Getty Images
DEFENDERS
Dan Curtin
Adel $175,800, Mid
It’s true, the 197cm Curtin scored 138 and 136 SuperCoach points playing as a midfielder at the national under-18 carnival – but it’s in defence where the No. 8 pick could have an immediate impact at West Lakes. Adelaide is short on tall defenders and the neat-kicking left-footer, who has settled in well on the track, averaged 17 disposals, six intercepts and 86 points in six impressive senior games for Claremont, showing he can more than hold his own against the bigger bodies.
Josh Gibcus
Rich $150,700
Gibcus proved to be a fruitful cash cow in his debut season, averaging 65 points in his first eight games as a defender, and he returns two years later at an almost identical price. The athletic key position talent was sidelined for the entire 2023 season with a serious hamstring injury, but he appears to be over those concerns now. With another two pre-seasons to add to his frame, Gibcus has serious appeal as a rookie option with his elite intercepting ability. Chuck him on your field for now.

Josh Gibcus is back as a SuperCoach rookie option. Picture: Michael Klein
Marty Hore
Melb $117,300
A sense of KFC SuperCoach deja vu here given Hore was one of the top cash cows of 2019, where he averaged 70.6 points from his 14 games. Now, he is back on the radar half a decade later after being picked up by the same team that delisted him at the end of 2021. Hore’s 2020 and 2021 seasons were wiped out by injury and he has been an intercept king in the VFL since. Last season Hore averaged a whopping 10.4 intercept possessions, 5.5 intercept marks, 23.1 disposals and 122 KFC SuperCoach points for Williamstown, and he went at 116 points per game the previous season at North Melbourne VFL. There could be defensive openings at the Demons and he should be high on your pre-season watch-list.
Zach Reid
Ess $123,900
Zach Reid in full training is great news for SuperCoaches and Bombers fans alike. The 202cm defender, who is a terrific ball user, played eight games in his first two years on Essendon’s list, scoring 60 points or more in three of his first five. But he’s battled multiple injury issues along the way, with the pick 10 from the 2022 draft managing just two VFL appearances last season. But a fit Reid has caught the eye on the track, with Essendon footy boss Daniel McPherson telling Melbourne radio the club is “really excited about what he could do in the side” ahead of the Christmas break.
Nick Coffield
WB $123,900
A forgotten man after three seasons in the wilderness, Coffield’s last AFL game in round 23 of 2021, where he tallied 21 disposals, seven marks and 117 SuperCoach points. Coffield has been cruelled by injury since then, managing just four VFL games in two seasons. He arrives at a Bulldogs side that could use another distributing defender, and his season averages of 79.4 in 2020 (16 games) and 63.2 in 2021 (16 games) shows he has the scoring potential to make some serious cash. But will he be picked in Luke Beveridge’s best side, and even if he is there, can his body be trusted? If he is in the Dogs’ round one side, he’ll be tough to overlook.
Sam Clohesy
GC $102,400
It’s a given, the Fothergill-Round-Mitchell Medallist – the VFL’s best young player – as a basement price rookie is an automatic inclusion to the SuperCoach pre-season watchlist. And while Clohesy might be a little less developed than previous winners, after only committing to state league footy completely last year, the 21-year-old is one to keep an eye on. The 189cm rebounding defender uses the ball well by foot, is strong overhead and was a standout in Werribee’s preliminary final win, tallying 26 disposals, 12 marks, six intercepts and 120 SuperCoach points against the Lions. A week later in the grand final, Clohesy found the target with 19 of his 22 disposals.

Sam Clohesy won the Fothergill-Round-Mitchell Medal last year. Picture: Graham Denholm/AFL Photos via Getty Images
Connor O’Sullivan
Geel $162,300
O’Sullivan said on draft night that he is eyeing a round one start and he has already impressed his teammates in pre-season training. The versatile tall was used on a wing for a period and in the ruck during match simulation, and proved in his draft year he can play at either end. SuperCoaches should be hoping he is used as a defender, though, given he averaged 99 points at the national champs and 110 at Coates Talent League level playing primarily down back. However, you would need to be certain of his spot in the 22 given his high asking price.
Toby Pink
NM $123,900
Pink joined North Melbourne as a delisted free agent, and the key defender is every chance to get opportunity with the state of the Roos’ depleted backline. The former Swan’s numbers have been solid in the SANFL the past two seasons for Glenelg, averaging 73 points, 6.3 intercepts and 2,8 intercept marks in 2023 and 72 in 2022. While he should get plenty of action back there, you wouldn’t back him for an on-field slot – especially with the strength in the defensive rookie line.
Charlie Dean
Coll $123,900
Could this finally be the 2021 Fothergill-Round-Mitchell Medallist’s year? After winning the award as the VFL’s best young player, Dean landed at the Pies in that year’s rookie draft and SuperCoaches pencilled him – and his standout intercept marking – in as a basement price rookie. But both of his first two seasons on the Magpies list were wiped out by injury, with Dean only managing three VFL games. One of those, however, was a 93-point performance, on the back of 15 disposals, seven spoils and four intercept marks, on return from injury in the 2023 preliminary final. Look for the 22-year-old to get an opportunity at some point in 2024, if he can get through the pre-season unscathed.
Will Graham
GC $117,300 Def-mid
He may be the least hyped of the Sun’s four Academy selections in the draft but given his athletic traits, versatility and toughness, Graham might surprise in 2024. The teenager held his own in four VFL games last season and averaged 95 SuperCoach points in the Coates League, featuring through the midfield and in defence.

Colby McKercher has certainly caught the eye in his first pre-season. Picture: North Melbourne FC
MIDFIELDERS
Colby McKercher
NM $202,800
“Holy crap”. That was the reaction of North Melbourne captain Jy Simpkin when watching McKercher’s eye-catching pre-season to date. Defensive coach Jed Adcock added that a role in defence looms for the speedy Tasmanian: “You saw it with Nick Daicos and Sheezel and you might see it with Colby”. That is enough to make a SuperCoach’s eyes pop out of their head, particularly after McKercher averaged 150 points (U18 champs) and 144 points (Coates Talent League) at under-18 level. Don’t worry about the price, get the deadlock out.
Ryley Sanders
WB $184,800
There has been plenty of buzz around Sanders this pre-season, making an immediate statement by finishing second in the club’s 2km time trial. Sanders was a ball-magnet at all levels in his draft year: He score more SuperCoach points than any other player at the national championships, averaging 170 points along with 35.8 disposals, and 143 SuperCoach points and 30.6 disposals in the Coates Talent League. The only question mark is over magnet-man Luke Beveridge and his ideal midfield mix, but he shapes as one of the top midfield rookie options on offer regardless.

Ryley Sanders dominated at junior level. Picture: Morgan Hancock/Getty Images

Caiden Cleary
Syd $117,300
Contested ball, tackles and clearances are in Cleary’s DNA. That’s what we like in SuperCoach, especially in a basement price rookie. Cleary put up big numbers at the national champs, averaging the fourth-most SuperCoach points per game – behind popular cheapies Ryley Sanders, Colby McKercher and Daniel Curtin. The Swans Academy graduate was also given VFL exposure with Sydney and didn’t look out of place, averaging 18 disposals and 76 SuperCoach points, including a ton against the Giants. His elite endurance and ready-made frame should work in his favour of earning an early debut.

 

[inwhiterooms]

Jhye Clark
Geel $123,900
Clark came to the Cats with plenty of fanfare but injury restricted him to just one game, where he debuted as the substitute. That would be the last we saw of him in 2023 after the Cats detected a navicular stress reaction in his foot days later – a good result for SuperCoaches with the top-10 pick’s price taking a hit. Clark averaged 64 points per game in six VFL games earlier in the year and presents as a midfield option for the Cats, but is he a best 22 lock with Cam Guthrie back in the side and Mannagh in the frame?
Jake Rogers
GC $148,800
Forget the height – the 170cm Gold Coast Academy gun ticks a lot of SuperCoach boxes. The tough and clean midfielder averaged 25 disposals, 14 contested possessions, seven clearances, six tackles, five score involvements and 134 SuperCoach in four huge Coates Leagues game early last year, before posting a SuperCoach ton in each of his four national carnival appearances. Rogers also impressed against the big bodies in the AFL Academy’s showcase games and he’s been compared to his new captain Touk Miller. Looks an early Opening Round contender – and one who is likely to handle the step up better than most. Just keep an eye on the role.
Jaxon Binns
Carl $123,900
The running power of Ollie Hollands was lauded last year as Carlton’s top pick played 19 games in his debut season. But it’s the club’s third pick from the 2022 draft, Binns, who head of development Luke Power described as “the best runner over distance at the club”. In his first year of senior football, the wingman won the Blues’ reserves best-and-fairest and was named in the VFL team of the year after averaging 29 disposals, eight marks and 115 SuperCoach points. Can he push Hollands and Blake Acres for a wing spot in 2024?
Billy Dowling
Adel $123,900
In his draft year of 2022, Dowling averaged a huge 160 SuperCoach points in the SANFL under-18s, breaking the 140-point barrier on seven occasions. He may have started forward in the Crows’ reserves side last season, but he finished the year in the midfield, posting four scores of 119 or more and averaging 98 points across the final 10 games. The Crows have high hopes for the 187cm Dowling, and his height fits the needs of Adelaide’s engine room.
Finlay Macrae
Coll $152,600
Taylor Adams out, Fin Macrae in? That’s the dream scenario for SuperCoaches at Collingwood this year. The younger brother of Bulldog Jack, Macrae couldn’t do much more at state league level, averaging 26 disposals, 10 contested possessions, six tackles, six score involvements and 102 SuperCoach points in 2023, following on from a 106-point average in 2022. And that was despite an injury-interrupted pre-season. There have been glimpses at AFL level, too, but his time in the senior side has been severely sub-affected. The Pies have continually said that are happy with his development so, like his teammate Dean, is this finally his year?
Ed Allan
Coll $123,900
Despite being tipped to see action in his debut season, following an impressive summer, the tall midfielder with serious speed failed to break into the Collingwood side last year. But after a solid VFL campaign, and Taylor Adams’ departure, it might be a different story in 2024. The 194cm Allan averaged 23 disposals and 80 SuperCoach points in the Magpies’ final three state league matches, including the wildcard round win and elimination final and, despite spending most of his time on wing, might yet develop on the inside.
Hugh Jackson
Port $123,900
A huge scorer as a junior, Jackson arrived at Alberton in the 2021 draft with all SuperCoach eyes on him. But after a delayed start to the pre-season, averaged 50 points for Port Adelaide’s SANFL team across 14 matches. But that figured rocketed up to 94 last year, as the smart midfielder helped himself to 19 disposals, 10 contested possessions, six tackles, five clearances and five score involvements per game on his way to a two-year contract extension. It might still be a difficult side to break into this year, but Jackson is one to consider if an early opportunity does arise.
RUCKS
Finnbar Maley
NM $102,400, Fwd
The perfect R3 captain loophole with RUC-FWD status at basement price, but don’t be shocked if Maley gets a look-in. From a basketball background, Maley was plucked from the Northern Bullants in the rookie draft after just 11 VFL games, with his athleticism his standout attribute.
FORWARDS
Harley Reid
WCE $207,300, Mid
The debate rolls around each year about whether we should fork out the big bucks for the top pick. But Reid was just about sign, sealed and delivered as a SuperCoach lock halfway through his draft year. Reid averaged an impressive 102 SuperCoach points and 19.3 touches from his three VFL games against senior bodies. While spending extended stints up forward, he also went at 135 points per game Coates Talent League and averaged 112 at the national championships. Still not convinced? West Coast coach Adam Simpson has already flagged that he will play primarily as a defender, where he starred at the national championships as a bottom-ager and averaged 113 SuperCoach points. A possible season-keeper at $207k.

Shaun Mannagh
Geel $117,300, Mid
Mature-age recruits are worth their weight in gold in SuperCoach, especially when they are proven points scorers at state league level and come in at a bargain basement price. The 26-year-old tore the VFL to shreds last year, averaging 25 disposals, 5.6 tackles, 4.7 clearances and 117 SuperCoach points, along with kicking 40 goals. His dominant season included seven 130-plus totals, with three consecutive monsters of 160, 163 and 153 in the back-half of the year. Geelong doesn’t target mature-age recruits for no reason and he has the tools to play right away and have a serious impact as a forward-midfielder. Slot him in.
Zane Duursma
NM $193,800, Mid
Duursma lit up games in his draft year and his talent suggests he could make an instant impact in North Melbourne’s forward half in a similar vein to Connor Rozee’s first season. The top-five pick doesn’t need much of the pill to score well, either. In one match for Vic Country last year, Duursma scored a whopping 191 points from just 22 disposals after booting four goals and setting up another six scores. But North Melbourne’s forward line is starvation corner. Worth assessing his role and midfield time in the pre-season before picking.
Darcy Wilson
St K $139,300, Mid
Ross Lyon loves players who can run all day and Wilson can certainly do that, finishing second in the 2km time trial at last year’s draft combine. Wilson, who averaged 125 points per game for the Murray Bushrangers in 2023, has the running and attacking attributes to be a solid KFC SuperCoach scorer off a wing in his first season and his price isn’t too expensive. His FWD-MID status is also a handy bonus to swing with the likes of Harley Reid or Shaun Mannagh.
Reef McInnes
Coll $123,900
There are two holes Collingwood coach Craig McRae needs to fill this year – Dan McStay in the forward line and the grunt of Taylor Adams through the middle. And McIness, drafted by Collingwood at pick 23 in 2022, has the ability fill both. But while the 21-year-old impressed as a big-bodied 194cm midfielder in his draft year, it’s as a forward-line X-factor where McInnes could make his mark in 2024. He booted 32 goals in 15 VFL games last season and posted three SuperCoach scores of 120 or more. And, more importantly, has already caught McRae’s eye over summer. We might not be able to expect huge early numbers, though.

 

[inwhiterooms]

Nick Watson
Haw $189,300
‘The Wizard’ can have a lot of the ball, as his 34-disposal, 12-contested possession, 12 score involvement, 166-point Coates League performance proved early last year. But, in an important attribute for first-year players in SuperCoach, Watson doesn’t need a lot of the ball to have an impact. He finished with 116 points from 13 disposals later in the season and tallied 146 points against WA at the under-18 carnival, on the back of another 13 touches. He did kick five and play a direct hand in three others that day – but that’s just what he does. Might be worth paying up for, given what might be reasonably high job security.
Orazio Fantasia
Carl $175,900
The new Blue has played just 22 home-and-away matches in the past four seasons – and 13 of them were in his first year at Port in 2021. But he started that campaign with a 90 and 74 and booted 38 goals and averaged 73 SuperCoach points in a career-best 19-game season in 2017. There are a lot of ‘what ifs’ – and that’s an understatement – but those numbers mean the skilful forward has to, at least, be on the pre-season watchlist at $175k – especially given Carlton need a forward of his type.

Koltyn Tholstrup
Melb $153,300
After more than holding his own in 10 senior WAFL matches last season, the strong and aggressive Tholstrup looks ready to step straight in and play a role at AFL level. Tholstrup makes things happen at the contest and around goal and, in another big tick for his SuperCoach cash cows prospects in 2024, scored well as a junior despite not being a consistently-high ball winner.
Jacob Konstanty
Syd $123,900
Konstanty was in the headlines for all the wrong reasons in September after a Mad Monday wrestle gone wrong left Callum Mills with a devastating shoulder injury. But 12 months ago Konstanty was in the mix for a round one before an injury blow delayed his start to 2023. The small forward managed 11 VFL games last season, averaging 53 points. Keep an eye on his progress as he should score better than the average rookie small forward with his relentless tackling, laying 11 tackles on his way to a 115-point return in round 21 last year.

 

[inwhiterooms]

SuperCoach AFL opening round scoring explained
The historic staggered start to the AFL’s 2024 season is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for SuperCoach players to get teams in shape. Here’s how to take advantage.
Max Stainkamph

3 min read
January 16, 2024 - 10:10AM

Taylor Adams during Sydney Swans training at Bat and Ball oval on December 8, 2023 Photo by Phil Hillyard (Image Supplied for Editorial Use only - **NO ON SALES** - ©Phil Hillyard )
The AFL’s opening round in NSW presents an opportunity for the AFL to make inroads into rugby league heartland, sneaking into Peter V’Landys’ backyard while he takes the family on holiday to Las Vegas.
For SuperCoachers, we get our own chance to make inroads into our 2024 season - a free hit at guys from the eight clubs who’ll line up before round one.
With unlimited trades until the start of Round 1 and no players locked out, it’s free real estate.
While Opening Round scores do not count and will not be included in your SuperCoach scoring (with the real stuff starting Round 1) you can still make the most out of the four games - Sydney v Melbourne on March 7, Brisbane v Carlton on March 8 then Gold Coast v Richmond and GWS v Collingwood on March 9.
SUPERCOACH AFL 2024 OPENING ROUND EXPLAINER
The SuperCoach AFL season starts Round 1, not in the condensed Opening Round. Here's how it will work and how to take advantage.

Will the Opening Round count towards my overall score?
No. Like previous seasons, SuperCoach commences officially in Round 1, with a full slate of nine matches. The AFL's new 'Opening Round' played one week earlier will not be included in the competition.

Can I still change my team after Opening Round?
Yes, players will only be locked at the first bounce of their Round 1 game, and not in the four matches of Opening Round that starts on Thursday, March 7. There's a virtue in picking your team, and seeing how they perform in Opening Round - then dropping them, or keeping them, right through to lockout.

Can I still follow Opening Round scores?
Yes. You will be able to view and track live scores from the Opening Round.

What will those scores mean for breakevens and price changes?
Player performances from Opening Round will impact their future break-evens and price changes (noting that some players will receive price changes from Round 2 - with all players being on equal footing, having had the opportunity to play up to 6 games at the completion of Round 6).

Will there be any changes to help us navigate the extra byes?
With each of the 8 opening round teams having an early bye in rounds 2, 3, 5 and 6 (two teams per respective round), Best 18 scoring will apply for these rounds. A decision on the number of trades available will be announced soon.

What happens during the mid-season bye rounds?
Best 18 scoring will also continue to apply to the usual mid-season bye rounds - 12, 13, 14 and 15. You'll be able to make up to 3 trades per round ahead of all four mid-season bye rounds as before.

What about dual position player updates?
The first round of dual position player updates will occur one round later than usual, at the completion of round 6. This ensures all teams have played an equal number of matches following the early bye rounds. Further DPP updates will be added at the conclusion of rounds 11 and 17, like previous seasons.

Here’s how to take advantage of the unique season start.
PREMIUMS
Wondering what Taylor Adams’ split between midfield and forward will be?
Want to know if Finn Callaghan will take a step up on the inside?
Want to know what role Zac Williams will play as he slides back into Carlton’s side?

How will the Blues play Zac Williams? Get a sneak peek in their season opener against Brisbane on March 8. Picture: David Crosling
Normally, we have to read the tea leaves from practice matches, navigating how much coaches are experimenting with their best 23, and how much of the gameplay will carry over to the real season.
For these eight sides, there’s no guesswork: they’re playing for four points.
There’s no dealing with dodgy camera angles from regional centres, or being unsure if someone like James Harmes is in the best 23.
We’re playing for points. We know. And all for free.
ROOKIES
This has always been the biggest conundrum for SuperCoachers.
If the Suns rest Touk Miller from a practice match, it’s hard to gauge if Jake Rodgers is playing in his spot or Gold Coast will fit them both in.
They won’t rest Miller in Opening Round.
So we know which rookies are locked in from nearly half the competition before SuperCoach officially kicks off, and we don’t need to use precious trades to bring them in.
But that’s not all.
We’ll see price rises from these bargain basement guys a week earlier, as price changes will still be impacted by Opening Round, even if scores aren’t.
This mean upgrade season can begin a week earlier and that cash flow starts sooner than it ever has.
BYES
All things have balance and the downside to this boon we’ve been granted is a week off.
All eight clubs from Opening Round will have a bye scattered in the first few weeks of the season and SuperCoach will slim down to counting your best 18 scores across those rounds.
With four rounds of top 18 scorers only, can we take more risks with players who have a high variation in scores - like key forwards?
Does taking on someone like Tom Lynch become more attractive knowing for four rounds early on, when we want him to generate cash, if he stinks it up on the field we may not even have to cop his score?
TINKERERS
For those who love to tinker with their sides from pre-season time trials all the way through to the first lockout, this round is your gift.
Jesse Hogan kicks a goal and pushes further up the ground in the first quarter of the season?
You can see how he fits into your side in real time, and then not be committed to actually picking him by trading him out after he scores three points in the second half.
Get your side set up early and get tinkering.
If you get your leagues set up early, you can use Opening Round as the reminder to the stragglers in the office - there’s always one - to get themselves together and put together a team.
DRAFTS

New team, new Brodie Grundy? Picture: Phil Hillyard
The real winners out of the round zero change could be SuperCoach Draft players.
Not only do we have in-depth knowledge into all eight sides lining up in Opening Round, the AFL’s obsession with Thursday night football will play into the hands of SuperCoachers for once.
Games will be finished by Saturday night, making March 10 the perfect day to get your mates over for a barbecue, pies, beer or Evians for the mother of all draft days - where spreadsheets that took months to compile were blown apart in mere hours.
If Brodie Grundy comes out and scores 150 in Opening Round do you take him in the first round instead of the second?
If Darcy Cameron has an off week, do you look to target him a bit later and “punt” your ruckmen, focusing on gobbling up pointscoring captaincy options in the midfield?
This is information we’ve never had before and will make your drafts that little bit spicier.

 

[Bermi]

AFL SuperCoach 2024: How to play, expert advice, new rules and extra trades for Opening Round | Herald Sun

AFL SuperCoach 2024: How to play, all the prizes and everything you need to know for new season
Australia’s biggest and best fantasy game is back for a new season! See the exciting changes for 2024 and everything you need to know to win $50k cash and ultimate footy bragging rights.

SuperCoach AFL is back for 2024.
Back – and this ain’t no opening day cliche – bigger than ever.
With the addition of Opening Round and the return of Gather Round to the AFL fixture, it will be a SuperCoach season like no other.
But, don’t worry, we’ve been working behind the scenes to make Australia’s biggest fantasy sports game better, easier and more fun to play than ever.
For the first time, to help you navigate your way through the early part of the year, an extra four trades have been added for 2024, taking the total to 40 for the season.
More trades means more flexibility and, for the long-time players, more strategy.
Scroll down for everything you need to know about SuperCoach AFL in 2024.

SuperCoach AFL is back for 2024 – can any player catch Bulldogs skipper Marcus Bontempelli as the top scorer? Picture: Michael Klein.
OPENING ROUND
SUPERCOACH AFL 2024 OPENING ROUND EXPLAINER
The SuperCoach AFL season starts Round 1, not in the condensed Opening Round. Here's how it will work and how to take advantage.
Will the Opening Round count towards my overall score?
No. Like previous seasons, SuperCoach commences officially in Round 1, with a full slate of nine matches. The AFL’s new ‘Opening Round’ played one week earlier will not be included in the competition.
Can I still change my team after Opening Round?
Yes, players will only be locked at the first bounce of their Round 1 game, and not in the four matches of Opening Round that starts on Thursday, March 7. There’s a virtue in picking your team, and seeing how they perform in Opening Round – then dropping them, or keeping them, right through to lockout.
Can I still follow Opening Round scores?
Yes. You will be able to view and track live scores from the Opening Round.
What will those scores mean for breakevens and price changes?
Player performances from Opening Round will impact their future break-evens and price changes (noting that some players will receive price changes from Round 2 – with all players being on equal footing, having had the opportunity to play up to six games at the completion of Round 6).
Will there be any changes to help us navigate the extra byes?
With each of the eight Opening Round teams having an early bye in rounds 2, 3, 5 and 6 (two teams per respective round), Best 18 scoring will apply for these rounds. To assist with the new challenge of managing these early bye rounds, an additional 4 trades will be added, for a total of 40 trades available for the season. Note that the usual maximum of 2 trades per round will continue to apply in these early bye rounds. Up to 5 Trade Boosts will also be available once again.
What happens during the mid-season bye rounds?
Best 18 scoring will also continue to apply to the usual mid-season bye rounds – 12, 13, 14 and 15. You’ll be able to make up to three trades per round ahead of all four mid-season bye rounds as before.
What about dual position player updates?
The first round of dual position player updates will occur one round later than usual, at the completion of round 6. This ensures all teams have played an equal number of matches following the early bye rounds. Further DPP updates will be added at the conclusion of rounds 11 and 17, like previous seasons.

WHAT ELSE IS NEW
THE SITE
We’ve made some visual changes across the board, to present your team’s data more concisely and clearly on your dashboard, the list view of your team screen and viewing live scoring for actual matches. The changes also help in streamlining the registration process and joining other games, and much more.
LEAGUES
We’ve revamped and redesigned the way you manage your leagues. In addition to the usual head-to-head leagues, where you take on other coaches direct, you can now create and join unlimited-size open leagues – previously known in SuperCoach as “groups” – where you can play against any number of other participants, ranked on weekly and total points. All open leagues will now have LIVE scoring and rankings available, just like head-to-head leagues.

Nick Daicos is available as a SuperCoach defender in 2024. Picture: David Crosling
SUPERCOACH PLUS
SuperCoach Plus subscribers get some great new features and updates, headlined by SuperCoach Plus Smart Search – a collection of all-new tools and filters to find your perfect trade. You can now filter players by their breakeven, next round projected score, projected price change and even the level of ownership. Want to find the perfect forward who’ll score you the big points, get a huge price increase and isn’t already owned by the majority of coaches? Now you can. Coaches’ Choice also gets an all-new ‘teams in my leagues’ ownership tab. Adding to the options to view live player ownership (and ownership change) data for the top 1, 5, 10% or the entire competition, you can now view player ownership information based on all teams who you complete against in your head-to-head leagues. The perfect tool to find that unique point-of-difference for your squad when playing for head-to-head glory.
SIGN UP TO SUPERCOACH HERE
SUPERCOACH DRAFT
We continue to improve and develop SuperCoach Draft based on YOUR feedback, suggestions and requests. And all new settings and customisations continue to be completely FREE. Once again, we’ve made some massive updates and changes to the Draft platform ahead of 2024. The big one is the addition of an on-field FLEX player position. You can now activate and enable an extra utility/flex option on your team field, where you can add an extra starting player from ANY position. The flex player may be added to any pre-set or custom line-up, or added to existing keeper leagues. This adds an all-new dimension in how you approach and play SuperCoach Draft! We’ve also updated the 1-day waiver time period and you now have the option to run extremely deep benches for all line-ups – for those who are serious about their keeper leagues.

 

[Bermi]

BIG PRIZES
At the end of the AFL home-and-away season the top SuperCoach in the country takes home $50,000 in cash. Second place receives $5000 and those placed third to 10th win $1000 each.
There is also a $1000 weekly prize for the best score each round – doubled to $2000 if you’re a SuperCoach Plus subscriber.
THE BASICS
HOW IT WORKS
You’re a coach with a team to pick, a salary cap to work under and games to win.
Select a squad of players from across the AFL and score points based on their real-life performances in AFL games, using a unique formula developed by Champion Data.
During the year, you’ll deal with form and injuries just like an AFL coach, but with the benefit of trades to replace sidelined or out-of-form players and to improve your squad.
Take on your mates in your own private league for ultimate bragging rights, and track your progress against all other SuperCoaches in the race for weekly and major prizes.

Brodie Grundy as Sydney’s No. 1 ruckman could be SuperCoach gold. Picture: Phil Hillyard
HOW TO PLAY
Once you’ve registered for SuperCoach AFL:
YOU have a $10 million salary cap and 30 players to pick.
SELECT eight defenders, 11 midfielders, eight forwards, and three rucks. Remember to save your team!
YOU will need a mix of top-end stars you can rely on for high scores every week, bottom-priced players who will rise in value and a few in between – look for players who are underpriced due to injury or a change in role.
NEED help picking a side? Try the auto select feature which picks a team for you instantly using our smart technology.
CHANGE your team as much as you like until round 1 of SuperCoach starts on March 14.
BEFORE each round, choose a starting 22 and nominate one of your bench players in every position as an emergency. Their score will count if one of your starting 22 doesn’t play.
NOMINATE a captain who he earns double points, and a vice-captain as back-up.
YOU will have 40 trades to maintain your side during the season. Each week you can make up to two trades, except for the mid-season bye rounds when you get three trades.
STAY on top of your team with our free Apple and Android apps.
SIGN UP TO SUPERCOACH HERE
HOW PLAYERS SCORE POINTS
Players score SuperCoach points from acts in real AFL games using a formula devised by Champion Data to reward actions that have the biggest impact on matches – there is more to SuperCoach than adding up kicks, marks and handballs.
This game rewards players who win a crucial one-on-one contest and hit a target when the game is on the line.
The ability to win the ball (contested possessions), use it well (disposal efficiency), impact the scoreboard (goals and score assists), win the footy back off the opposition (intercept possessions) and tackles all score well.
There are also negative acts that cost players SuperCoach points such as turnovers and giving away free kicks and 50m penalties.

Harley Reid could be a first-year SuperCoach star. Picture: Michael Willson/AFL Photos
START WITH THESE 4
Harley Reid (WC, $207,300 FWD-MID)
The No.1 draft pick is the most-expensive first-year player in SuperCoach, but he looks set to be worth every bit of the top price tag. Reid, who is available as a forward in SuperCoach, averaged 135 points in the Coates League last year and could be used as a ball-winning defender in his first season at the top level.
Nick Daicos (Coll, $650,000 DEF-MID)
Is this the 2024 Brownlow Medallist? He’s the overwhelming favourite heading into just this third season in the competition. And he’s also the favourite to finish the year as the top-ranked SuperCoach defender, after averaging 116 points per game last season.
Brodie Grundy (Syd, $481,900 RUCK)
With Max Gawn out the side last year, Grundy averaged 138 SuperCoach points per game – form reminiscent of his 130-point days as Collingwood’s No. 1 ruckman in 2018 and 2019. Well, he’s the main man up in Sydney again and appears undervalued after his struggles at Melbourne in 2023.
Ryley Sanders (WB, $184,800 MID)
The rookie-priced players are key to a strong SuperCoach team, given they accumulate money quicker, allowing you to trade up and fill your team with stars. While nailing your selections in the $123k price bracket is key, there’s still plenty we don’t know about those names. But what we do know is, Sanders, pick 6 in last year’s draft, was a prolific junior SuperCoach scorer and has been a standout at Western Bulldogs training.

 

[Presto]

SuperCoach AFL mid-price bible: The 40 best value picks of 2024 rated

From fallen premiums to breakout rookies, there are a host of great value options in SuperCoach this year. We’ve ranked the best from 1-40 in our ultimate mid-price bible.



Tim Michell

January 26, 2024 - 6:00AM

SuperCoach

SuperCoach has always been a game of risk and reward.

Take the right calculated risks and you go a long way to setting yourself apart from the pack and on the path to SuperCoach glory.

Every year, there are mid-price gems who emerge as some of the best selections of the season.

They can be players who are underpriced due to an injury the previous season or young guns primed for a premium breakout.

Or, even players who switched clubs during the off-season and are set for the opportunity to stamp themselves on the competition.

There are several standout options who fit these categories in 2024 — although we cut our list at 40 as ultimately, you can’t pick them all.

We determined a mid-pricer to be a player in the following price brackets:

FORWARDS AND DEFENDERS — $208k ($1k above No. 1 draft pick) to $450k.

MIDFIELDERS AND RUCKS — $208k to $500k

Price, job security, role and likely scoring were the main factors considered when ranking players.

Check out our full 1-40 rankings of this year’s mid-pricers below and be sure to come back throughout pre-season as the order changes.

SUPERCOACH 2024: MID-PRICE TOP 40

1 Zac Williams

Carlton $216,100 DEF

One of the best value picks in SuperCoach history - pending his fitness of course. Williams has only played 34 matches in the past four seasons - scoring nine SuperCoach tons. He doesn't need to be cranking out triple figures every week at this price though. If he can return with an average north of 80, SuperCoaches will be onto a huge winner. He should be one of the most popular picks of the year, as long as he's named in round 1.

2 Tom Lynch

Richmond $287,300 FWD

Considering he started last year at $519k and peaked at $576k in 2022, Lynch looks a huge bargain this year. The onus will be on him more than ever before to carry the Richmond forward line when he returns from a foot issue that restricted him to four matches last year. Just be prepared to hit the eject button and jump off when his price peaks as key forwards traditionally go on hot and cold streaks.

3 Heath Chapman

Fremantle $251,700 DEF

The Docker has all the attributes to be a SuperCoach star. He breaks lines, kicks well and can take an intercept mark. Now he just needs to stay on the park. Chapman endured a torrid run with injury last year, only managing three games for scores of 90, 70 and 33. There's no doubt he is underpriced and all eyes will be on his progress as the season draws closer. If he lines up on a wing in round 1 - which has been mooted - lock him in.

4 Keidean Coleman

Brisbane Lions $398,800 DEF

Scores of 127 in both the preliminary final and Grand Final gave SuperCoaches a taste of just how good Coleman can be. He will be one of the generals in the Brisbane defence after the retirement of Daniel Rich, although it was Conor McKenna who took the lion's share of kick-outs in 2023. Coleman has gone at better than 70 per cent by foot in the past two years and averaged more than five intercepts a game. The early bye is tricky but he could be a season keeper for less than $400k.

5 Matt Crouch

Adelaide $490,800 MID

Crouch went from a likely delisting to a key cog in Adelaide's on-ball plans for 2024 with a barnstroming finish to last season. In the last six rounds, the 28-year-old averaged 108 - but is priced at an average of about 88 points. The Crows don't play round 0, so he could be a cut-price premium to carry you through the early byes, or someone that turns into a season keeper. The only concern is his injury history - the last time Crouch played 20 games was in 2017.

6 Sam Flanders

Gold Coast $494,200 FWD-MID

Not technically a mid-pricer as a forward, but he fits into the $208k-$500k bracket as a midfielder. Flanders went from one of the SuperCoach flops of 2023 to one of the great finds, averaging 44 in his first four games and 106.1 in his last 10 after bottoming out at $238k. With so few premium forward options this year, he's set to be a popular selection - albeit one who has an early bye due to round 0. Watch his role with interest in pre-season to make sure Damien Hardwick doesn't stick him back at half-forward.

7 Tristan Xerri

North Melbourne $407,400 RUC

A facial injury which requires surgery is a concern, so monitor Xerri's recovery ahead of round 1 before committing. He appeals as an option who is about $75k cheaper than Brodie Grundy and doesn't have two byes in the opening 12 rounds like Grundy. Whether he can go close to Grundy in his first campaign as a first-choice ruckman remains to be seen though. Xerri started promisingly in 2022 with scores of 79 and 120 but due to Todd Goldstein is still largely untested as a solo big man. Has all the makings of a boom-or-bust pick at R2.

8 Cameron Guthrie

Geelong $420,800 MID

Guthrie is heavily discounted after only playing six matches last season due to a toe injury. It is only three years since he averaged uber premium numbers, posting 113.3 points a game in 2021. The 31-year-old's finish to 2022 will encourage those who think he can emerge as one of the bargain premiums of the year. From round 10 onwards, Guthrie averaged 105.3 - which included a score of 55. Check out Geelong's midfield mix in pre-season and if the role is still there, he's a great option.

9 Harry Himmelberg

GWS Giants $450,400 DEF

After all the uncertainty of last pre-season regarding Himmelberg's best position under Adam Kingsley, it's nice to know he's locked in as a defender. It's disappointing though that he fell short of the threshold to be a DEF-FWD considering how few forward premiums are available this year. Himmelberg settled in defence midyear and averaged 94.5 points in the last 12 rounds. He wasn't as dominant as in 2022 during his backline stint, but remains at an affordable price as a result. He's a rung below the best defenders in SuperCoach.

10 James Harmes

Western Bulldogs $258,300 FWD-MID

Opportunity knocks at the kennel after Bailey Smith was ruled out for the season with an ACL injury. Top-10 draftee Ryley Sanders has been a standout during pre-season but SuperCoaches will be hopeful Luke Beveridge plans to use Harmes in the engine room as well. He's not going to be a season-long premium but if he starts well, Harmes will provide a stepping stone to a fallen premium or a big gun via a one-down, one-up trade. Harmes has averaged 83 or more three times and anything above 80 would be a great result at his price.

 

[Presto]

11 Zac Fisher

North Melbourne $378,600 FWD

Fisher has never been a name to feature prominently in SuperCoach plans. But he might have the best role in SuperCoach this year if he's deployed in North Melbourne's defence. Jack Ziebell, Aaron Hall and Harry Sheezel have all flourished behind the ball for North in recent years. The retirement of Hall and Ziebell has opened the door for another player to step into their heavy-scoring roles and Fisher appears to be a frontrunner after crossing from Carlton. A recent hamstring setback is considered minor.

12 Jack Billings

Melbourne $243,900 FWD

Another player with a new club - albeit one that will be tougher to crack into the best 22. Billings costs little more than a top-priced draftee and the only real potential knock on him as a starting pick will be his job security. After only managing 11 games in the past two years for St Kilda, is Billings going to walk straight into Melbourne's round 1 (or round 0) team? You might be wiser paying the extra $15k for Harmes if you can only fit one into your forward line. Billings has averaged 80.6 or more six times, so his talent is not in question. The positive is his ability by foot should help Melbourne's connection through the middle when he does play.

13 Taylor Adams

Sydney $437,200 FWD-MID

After being squeezed out of the midfield at Collingwood, Adams arrives in Sydney with a point to prove and has been slated for his favoured inside midfield role. His average of 78.2 last year was his lowest since 2014, but pleasingly he got through 22 games for just the second time in his career before a cruel setback in finals. Adams went from attending 65 per cent of centre bounces in 2022 to 39 per cent in 2023 as Tom Mitchell's addition had a huge impact on his role. The Swans' midfield is flush with emerging talent but the strong suggestion is Adams has been recruited to bring the experience and physicality that was lacking at times last year. His best SuperCoach seasons of 2017 and 2020 were built on big tackle, contested possession and clearance numbers. The early draw - two byes in 12 rounds - is one of few deterrents.

14 Karl Amon

Hawthorn $483,300 MID

The Amon to halfback hype appears to be real. Long gone are the days where SuperCoach was all about who was getting more midfield minutes. Now there's just as much - if not greater emphasis - on which players are going to play behind the ball and take kick-ins. With the Hawks' main kick-in man Blake Hardwick shifting forward, Amon appears to be the player slated to be the main distributor for Sam Mitchell's team. Amon went at a career-high 73.6 per cent by foot last year and averaged 108.8 points in the last five rounds - when he spent time playing behind the ball. He should be a DEF-MID by round 6 and has serious top-eight defender potential as long as he maintains a backline role for the full season.

15 James Jordon

Sydney $275,500 FWD-MID

Jordon was one of the buzz rookies of SuperCoach only three years ago when he scored 78, 82, 76, 82, 91, 85 and 96 in seven of his first nine games and peaked at more than $400k. Opportunities have been hard to come by since, with Jordon stuck on the fringes of the Demons' best side and often finding himself as sub. He has huge upside if he can crack a regular berth in the Sydney midfield though. From rounds 9-15 of 2022, Jordon averaged 96.5 points. He's won plenty of admirers since arriving at the Swans and looks primed for a round 1 debut in red and white. Monitor his role closely in pre-season and jump on if there's a hint of any inside mid time.
16 Ollie Wines

Port Adelaide $463,600 MID

It's the news many SuperCoaches were hoping to hear - the Ollie Wines wing experiment is over. The 2021 Brownlow medallist was the collateral damage from Zak Butters and Connor Rozee becoming fulltime midfielders last season, shunted to the outside despite being renowned for his work in the engine room. Wines produced his lowest average since his debut season of 2013, dropping from 105.5 points a game in 2022 to 83 last year. If Hinkley sticks to the plan to return Wines to the inside, he could be underpriced by 15-20 points a game and make a potential cut-price premium.

17 Marcus Windhager

St Kilda $323,200 DEF-MID

Windhager put more than $200k on his price from rounds 14-24 last year, averaging 78.3 during an encouraging stretch to finish the campaign. Track watchers at Moorabbin have been raving about Windhager's off-season, although his athleticism has never been an issue. Many coaches were keen on the young Saint leading into 2023 when he was $266k and had FWD-MID eligibility. This year he's available for only $57k more with a much stronger scoring history. There are no shortage of defensive and midfield rookies but if you're in the market for a mid-pricer in either position, Windhager stands out as one of the better options for price and scoring potential. Midfield role is uncertain but he impressed at halfback too.

18 Angus Sheldrick

Sydney $301,800 MID

There's a big watch on the nuggety on-baller this off-season to see if he can improve his tank and become a regular member of Sydney's midfield rotation. Sheldrick's PPM last season was equal to many elite players, going at 0.9 SuperCoach points per minute. The issue was that he only averaged 66 minutes a game and spent large chunks of matches watching on from the bench. He can find the ball and his contested style suits SuperCoach, but Sheldrick would often be gassed after a few efforts and spend large periods on the bench. He's got potential to be a mid-price money-maker in the same vein as James Worpel and Jacob Hopper last year if he can start playing a minimum of 80-90 minutes a match. If not, don't bother.

19 Elijah Tsatas

Essendon $245,900 FWD-MID

Tsatas started last year at $189k, so being elevated from rookie price to the bottom of the mid-price range shouldn't be a huge issue if you like the No.5 draftee. The problem is Tsatas is one of about 10 players being slated for extra midfield time at Essendon if you believe the off-season talk. A more realistic option for him to become a regular part of the 23 will be on a wing, especially with Nic Martin tipped to move behind the ball. Tsatas averaged 100 ranking points in VFL games last year and 149 in the Coates League in his draft year. It'd be a brave move to take him over a player such as Harmes - but sometimes the POD pays off.
20 Nat Fyfe

Fremantle $283,200 FWD-MID

Surely we can't go here again, can we? After all the hype surrounding Fyfe and a potential return to midfield last pre-season, those who started the dual Brownlow winner got one game, a score of 26 and then an injury out of him. Coaches who bought into the hype after he scored 96 against Richmond with a renewed on-ball role mid-season managed to get three games out of Fyfe - two of which were scores of 47 and 45. If you've seen the highlights of his one-handed mark in a Dockers match sim and heard the talk of midfield minutes emanating from the west, you'd probably be excited - again. But there's reason to be very wary.

 

[Presto]

21 Matthew Flynn

West Coast $491,800 RUC

SuperCoaches don't need to look far into the history books for a reminder of how well Flynn can score as a No.1 ruckman. In 2021, he debuted with a score of 140 and made more than $300k from his starting price of $123k. Even last season, Flynn posted 132 in round 2 before being usurped as the first-choice ruckman by Kieren Briggs. West Coast has been crying out for a ruckman to replace Nic Naitanui and although Bailey Williams has battled manfully - Flynn should start his first season in WA as Adam Simpson's first-choice big man. Keep a close eye on how Flynn and Williams split the ruck minutes in pre-season.

22 Callum Mills

Sydney $490,300 MID

Mills would be top-10 - if not top-five - on this list if it wasn't for lingering doubts over when his 2024 campaign will get underway after shoulder surgery. Mills was a frustrating player to own in the back half of 2023 after many coaches jumped on when he bottomed out at $400k. While he went big in SuperCoach Grand Final week with a score of 143, the Swans co-captain also dropped scores of 50 and 38 in the last five rounds. He has potential to be a top-eight midfielder in SuperCoach but needs fulltime midfield minutes to get there - and those just can't be guaranteed when John Longmire seems intent on continuing to use Mills as a Mr Fix-It.

23 Connor Budarick

Gold Coast $301,200 DEF

A recent article quoted Budarick saying new Suns coach Damien Hardwick wants to use him in the mould of Jayden Short or Liam Baker. If your interest wasn't piqued, it should have been. Budarick returned from an ACL injury in the final two rounds of 2023, scoring 71 and 83 points. He's unlikely to have huge possession numbers but has a SuperCoach friendly role and uses the ball well by foot - in his two games last year, Budarick went at 83 per cent by foot. He becomes a genuine option for your SuperCoach defence if he's on kick-out duties, which were very profitable for Rory Atkins last year.

24 Josh Weddle

Hawthorn $373,800 DEF

Weddle has been touted as one of the AFL's next superstars after a hugely-encouraging start to his career as a Hawk. He's no stranger to SuperCoaches as tens of thousands jumped on mid-season last year after his debut. Weddle showcased his SuperCoach potential with 114 points in his fourth game and finished the campaign with 11 scores of 62 points or better in 17 games. He's a huge talent, but maybe this year will be too soon for a true premium breakout? He needs to average about 85-90 minimum to be worth the starting price and bridge the gap to a fallen premium.
25 George Wardlaw

North Melbourne $365,400 MID

The Phantom will probably spit out his breakfast when he sees Wardlaw ranked at 25 after tipping a Clayton Oliver-style second-year breakout from the rising Roo. It's no surprise that Alastair Clarkson loves him and his game is perfectly built to become a SuperCoach premium we'll be talking about for the best part of a decade. He tackles, wins clearances, wins his own ball and relishes contested footy, hallmarks of most of the topscoring SuperCoach midfielders. Oliver averaged 70.3 in his first season and 111.5 in his second. Can Wardlaw go from 65.4 to achieve something similar? Hopefully his hamstrings aren't an issue because if he stays fit, we could be in for the emergence of a new SuperCoach star.
26 Jack Hayes

St Kilda $228,000 FWD

Remember Jack Hayes? The mature-age SANFL draftee who thrilled every SuperCoach when he debuted with 127 points as a $102k rookie in 2022? Since then, the 27-year-old has only featured five times due to a tough run with injury which included an ACL. Hayes scored tons in two of his first four games and shapes as a potential back-up to Rowan Marshall to take some of the load off the Saints' No.1 ruckman. Tom Campbell stayed on the fringes last year and St Kilda relied on Anthony Caminiti and Mitch Owens to carry its forward line for periods when Max King was injured. Hayes' height and physicality will give the Saints a sorely-needed presence in attack and a great foil for Marshall.

27 Tom Sparrow

Melbourne $375,200 MID

Greater opportunity beckons - at least early in the season - for the likes of Sparrow with Clayton Oliver likely to have a delayed start to 2024 as he deals with personal issues. Sparrow scored 109 points in round 11 last year when he attended a season-high 85 per cent of centre bounces. He is at the right age to take his game to the next level, turning 24 this year. But his breakout potential is based more on extra time in his preferred role as an inside midfielder than anything else. Sparrow's contested possession rate was as high as 47 per cent in the early years of his career, but dropped to 35 per cent last season. He should relish the opportunity to partner Christian Petracca and Jack Viney in the engine room and boost those numbers back above 40 per cent.

28 Connor Macdonald

Hawthorn $381,400 FWD

The buzz about Macdonald and his potential midfield breakout seems to be growing by the week. While many SuperCoaches were tracking Josh Ward's progress early in pre-season, Macdonald has emerged as the mid-price Hawks on-baller who looks primed to take the next step. There is very little recent evidence of Macdonald's likely impact as a midfielder as he has mostly played as a small forward since being drafted. But as an on-baller in the Coates League, he averaged 30 disposals, 14 contested possessions, five tackles and 148 ranking points in 2021.

29 Mattaes Phillipou

St Kilda $287,500 FWD

St Kilda looks to have a generational talent on its hands in the kid who was compared to Marcus Bontempelli before being drafted. Phillipou is still only 19 but played 23 games in his debut campaign, predominantly as a forward. The biggest leap Phillipou must make to become a SuperCoach money maker will be to lift his average of 12.7 disposals a game. The best case would be if he made $150k and was flipped to a fallen premium - but that's unlikely if he's still playing in attack.

30 Nik Cox

Essendon $234,700 DEF-MID

It seems like a long time ago that Cox scored 93 and 97 points in his third and fourth AFL games. In truth, it was only 2021. The No.8 draft pick has hardly been sighted in the past two years due to injury, only featuring in 11 matches. Cox was dubbed a 'unicorn' after being drafted and never truly settled in one position. But the suggestion out of Tullamarine is the Bombers will try to unlock his potential as a halfback. If that's the case, his scoring should enjoy a spike.

 

[Presto]

31 Massimo D'Ambrosio

Hawthorn $224,900 DEF

The smooth-moving left-footer might face a battle to crack a berth in Hawthorn's best 23. But if he does, he has the atttributes to be a SuperCoach cash cow - albeit from a tricky price. D'Ambrosio has gone at 73 per cent by foot during his career and is highly-regarded for his penetrating left boot. There's no doubt he will make money if he's in Hawthorn's team early in the season, but the question is how much? Most SuperCoaches aim for a profit of at least $150k before committing to a player and D'Ambrosio might need to average 70-80 to get near that mark.

32 Sam Berry

Adelaide $226,900 MID

After leading the league in tackles two years ago, Berry fell off the radar last season after Jordan Dawson's successful midfield transition. The 21-year-old only played four games and did not feature at AFL level after round 10. It was a far cry from the player who averaged 94.1 post-bye in 2022. Adelaide's midfield is getting deeper and Berry faces a hard task to earn his spot back. He averaged 106 ranking points in 18 SANFL games last season.

33 Thomson Dow

Richmond $254,800 MID

The Yze revolution is underway at Punt Road and Dow is one of the emerging players who has thrust his name forward to be a key part of it. The 22-year-old has been unable to establish himself as a senior regular in four seasons at Richmond, playing 17 matches including four last year. He showcased his potential by averaging 68.6 SuperCoach points and 21.3 disposals in the last three rounds of 2023. Dow's biggest knock is a kicking efficiency of 54 per cent which needs to improve if he's going to become a decent SuperCoach scorer.

34 Elliott Himmelberg

Adelaide $234,000 FWD

This is the same Elliott Himmelberg who has only twice averaged more than 60 in a season, I hear you ask? Yes, it is. The sole reason Himmelberg has made this list - despite a failed trade request to GWS - is that he has been training as a defender in pre-season. The Crows have lost Tom Doedee and will be without Nick Murray for most of the season due to an ACL, so Himmelberg's chance in the backline could come early. And, SuperCoach history tells us it's a lot easier to score playing behind the ball than in attack. He should be a DEF-FWD by round 6 if he plays enough games to be eligible for DPP additions.

35 Changkuoth Jiath

Hawthorn $347,900 DEF

Gilbert Gardiner was on the money when he called Changkuoth Jiath's breakout in 2021. Starting at $266k, the dashing Hawk scored three tons in the first month of the season and announced himself as one of the game's most exciting defensive prospects. But Jiath's progress has been stalled since by injury and he only managed eight games last year. He appears set to take a wing role this year, with Karl Amon shifting to defence. That role isn't as conducive to big SuperCoach scores as playing at halfback, but should mean Jiath picks up DEF-MID status.

36 Liam Baker

Richmond $445,600 DEF-FWD

Baker, who is listed as a DEF-FWD, has been touted for extra midfield minutes in a revamped Richmond team. Baker has averaged between 74.4 and 82.5 in the past five seasons, scoring a rung or two below the best premiums in both positions. But the promise of extra time in the middle is encouraging and makes Baker a huge watch in pre-season. His DPP status could provide great flexibility for trades or cover across both the forward and defensive lines.

37 Nic Martin

Essendon $492,800 MID

Another player set to be unleashed off halfback in a move which could take his SuperCoach scoring into a new stratosphere. Martin has enjoyed a great start to his career, averaging 79.2 and 88.2 in his first two seasons and scoring seven tons in 2023. Add intercept possessions to his uncontested possession rate and generally good ball use and Martin could threaten an average of 100 this year.

38 Mitch Owens

St Kilda $445,300 FWD

Owens has been one of the most remarkable SuperCoach stories of the past two years. He scored 2 on debut, 89 in his next game and then exploded from $249k to average 80 during a breakout 2023 campaign. If Owens can get out of the attacking 50 and provide some spark to St Kilda's midfield, an average of 90+ should be within reach. Huge talent, but his starting price will make him difficult to squeeze in.

39 Ivan Soldo

Port Adelaide $485,500 RUC

Port Adelaide went chips in on Soldo, who looks destined to be the club's No.1 ruckman in 2024 despite competition from Jordon Sweet. When he played as Richmond's No.1 in rounds 18-20 last year, Soldo scored 126, 78 and 128 SuperCoach points and averaged 33 hitouts. Kieren Briggs highlighted the value of contested-possession winning ruckmen last year and Soldo averaged 5.8 a game last year. Feeding stars such as Connor Rozee and Zak Butters, his hitout-to-advantage percentage should jump from 15.6 per cent.

40 Elijah Hewett

West Coast $254,700 FWD-MID

The second-year Eagle got an introduction to AFL footy last year, playing 15 matches including 10 consecutively to round out the campaign. His scoring was always unlikely to be significant in a struggling team, but Hewett showed promise with five scores above 60 including an 83 during the run home. He has had a delayed pre-season. Looks a big talent, but it's probably too soon for a fully-fledged breakout.

 

[Presto]

AFL: Pre-season injury watch for all 18 clubs ahead of February’s trial games

Who is on the comeback trail? Who is in doubt for the pre-season games? And which stars are sidelined? Here is a stocktake of where things stand at all 18 clubs.

With practice matches just around the corner, our team have compiled a stocktake of where every club’s injury list is at.

There’s some big names racing the clock to be fit in time to get some valuable minutes in before the season proper.

See the full list below.

Adelaide

Match simulation: Port Adelaide, February 23, Alberton Oval

Community series: West Coast, March 2, Hisense Stadium (Richmond)

Nick Murray (knee): The key defender is tracking well in his rehabilitation from ACL surgery, starting change of direction running and joining in some drills with the main group as he eyes a return at the 11-12 month mark.

Harry Schoenberg (achilles): The midfielder is also running, initially on a weight-bearing treadmill before moving to grass last week. He is expected to return in the second half of the season.

Wayne Milera (hamstring): The half-back has overcome a minor, pre-Christmas issue to be back in full training.

Rory Sloane (hamstring): Like Milera, the ex-captain sustained an injury before the new year break but was now training unrestricted again.

Elliott Himmelberg (hamstring): The swingman is progressing in his return from surgery.

Dan Curtin (knee soreness): The Crows’ top draft pick was in the rehab group before the four-day break and was expected to rejoin the main group in coming weeks.

Brisbane Lions

Match simulation: v Gold Coast, February 22, Springfield

Community Series: v Sydney, February 29, Blacktown

Lachie Neale (groin): Has recovered from post-season groin surgery and is expected to feature in the match simulation work in February.

Deven Robertson (wrist): Had surgery in the off-season, but a minor complication has meant he required a second operation to ensure correct healing procedure. He is not locked into the pre-season games, with the club cautious as he continues to wear a guard to protect the wrist.

Will Ashcroft (knee): Progressing well from a ruptured ACL that he sustained against Geelong last season, but he is not expected to return to any level of football until mid-season.

Tom Doedee (knee): Arriving over summer, the former Crow will miss the opening rounds as he recovers from an ACL injury, but the Lions hope he is in the mix early in the year.

Carlton

Match simulation: v Geelong, February 22, Ikon Park

Community series: Melbourne, February 28, Ikon Park

Jacob Weitering (calf): The star defender suffered a high-grade calf strain during a training session earlier this month and will be racing the clock to be ready for opening round.

Jack Silvagni (knee): The forward will miss the entire 2024 season in a big blow for the Blues, after rupturing his ACL at training this week.

Zac Williams (knee): The rebounding defender is nearing a return to full fitness, having finally rejoined the main training group after tearing his ACL last February.

Matt Duffy (knee): The Irish recruit won’t play this year, after rupturing his anterior cruciate ligament while playing a Gaelic football match in November ahead of his arrival in Australia.

Collingwood

Match simulation: v North Melbourne, February 21, Arden St

Community series: v Richmond, February 27, Ikon Park

Josh Daicos (foot): Daicos labelled his injury as a foot problem but the club this week named it as “lower leg/nerve muscle pain”. Either way, Daicos has been running through the issue and will be eased into drills in the next few weeks and should play in pre-season fixtures.

Brody Mihocek (calf): Had to deal with a calf niggle but is almost back into full training. Should be ready for match simulation next week.

Brayden Maynard (shoulder): The defender has been desperate to get into contact training and will be eased into match sim in the next couple of weeks, leaving him as a likely starter for the pre-season games.

Jakob Ryan (leg): The youngster had some soreness in his leg that was revealed to be bone bruising. He was due to start running again this week and will be assessed from there.

Dan McStay (knee): Out for the season with an ACL injury, the Magpies are yet to put him on the inactive list.

Essendon

Match simulation: v St Kilda, February 23, RSEA Park

Community series: v Geelong, March 1, GMHBA Stadium

Sam Draper (groin): The ruck will begin training next week after a long build up of running and will be hopeful of facing Geelong in the official practice match. Signs are positive for the fan favourite.

Dylan Shiel (foot): Looks like the midfielder will miss the practice matches, as he is still away from the main group at training. Shiel is expected to begin entering training next month.

Jaiden Hunter (knee): Season over unfortunately for the rookie, who ruptured his ACL earlier this month.

Tex Wanganeen (foot): The young forward is still not running on grass and is a long way off proper training.

Sam Weideman (Achilles): A slow start to pre-season for the ex-Bomber, who was stuck on running duties but he has returned to full training now.

Xavier Duursma (hip): The recruit was in and out of drills before Christmas due to a hip injury but is in full swing now.

Fremantle

Match simulation: v West Coast, February 24, Mineral Resources Park

Community Series: v Port Adelaide, March 1, Alberton Oval

Brennan Cox (leg): Cox experienced lower leg soreness after match simulation late last week, and was held out of training on Monday as the club sought to confirm the issue. The 25 year old was diagnosed with a stress reaction in his fibula and is unlikely to play in the practice matches, however the club expects him to be available for round 1.

Sean Darcy (knee): Darcy suffered a serious knee injury late in the 2023 season and has been limited during the pre-season, however the ruck is expected to be pushing to be fit for round 1. He is unlikely to be available for the match simulation or community series matches.

Sam Switkowski (hamstring): Still confined to the rehab group, the small forward will be unlikely to feature in the pre-season however remains a chance for round 1.

Brandon Walker (leg): Unlikely to feature in the match simulations, with the small defender still with the rehab group this week after his 2023 campaign came to an end early because of a dislocated knee against Collingwood.

Luke Ryan (ankle): Spent time in the rehab group however has rejoined training, albeit light duties, and should be available for match simulation work from next week.

Geelong

Match simulation: v Carlton, February 22, Ikon Park

Community series: v Essendon, March 1, GMHBA Stadium

Geelong has a full complement on the track which pales in comparison to the club’s injury-riddled season last year. Jack Henry (lisfranc) and Phoenix Foster (foot fracture) were on modified programs leading up to the Christmas break but both are back in full training since returning.

Gold Coast

Match simulation: v Brisbane, February 22, Carrara

Community series: v Greater Western Sydney, February 29, Manuka Oval

Lachie Weller (knee): Weller will not play for the Suns until at least mid-season after tearing his ACL in 2023.

Greater Western Sydney

Match simulation: v Sydney, February 22, Tramway Oval

Community series: v Gold Coast, February 29, Manuka Oval

Adam Kennedy (knee): Kennedy is eight months post ACL surgery and progressing with running conditioning, agility work and currently joining in the team warm-up. Will progress to team skills in February and at this stage is the only player confirmed to be unavailable for the Giants’ pre-season games.

 

[Presto]

Hawthorn

Match simulation: v Western Bulldogs, February 23, Whitten Oval

Community Series: v Western Bulldogs, March 2, UTAS Stadium

Mitch Lewis (ankle): The full-forward has recovered from a foot issue but rolled his ankle earlier this month. He stepped back into training this week so should be available for practice games.

Mabior Chol (knee): The recruit was delayed in his first pre-season with Hawthorn after a PCL injury he suffered in the VFL grand final but is back in full training.

Seamus Mitchell (hamstring): Still at least a week away from full training and in some doubt for pre-season matches.

Will Day (foot): A stress fracture in Day’s foot hit the Hawks hard and the reigning best-and-fairest winner is still in a moon boot. The midfielder will likely be assessed within the next three weeks to map out his return, essentially ruling him out of pre-season games, but he is still a chance for round 1.

Changkuoth Jiath (groin): Back from a training camp in Qatar with a bounce in his step, Jiath is at full fitness.

Jack Ginnivan (corkie): No real concerns for the recruit, who copped a knock at training on Monday.

Denver Grainger-Barras (ankle): Tweaked his ankle at training on Monday but the injury is minor. Should be back into full training within the next fortnight.

Chad Wingard (Achilles): All signs point to a mid-season return for Wingard, who has been running and making good progress.

Melbourne

Community Series: v Carlton, February 28, Ikon Park

Clayton Oliver (personal): The gun midfielder was granted extended leave by the Demons, not returning to pre-season training with teammates earlier this month as he deals personal issues.

Jake Melksham (knee): The forward is slowly building but faces a long road to recovery after rupturing his ACL last August.

Harry Petty (foot): The defender turned forward is expected to return to full training next week.

Christian Salem (hamstring): The rebounding defender has experienced some recent hamstring awareness, but the Demons expect him to be back in full training in coming sessions.

Lachie Hunter (calf): The wingman experienced a minor calf issue during the Christmas break and has been managed as he works his way back.

Ben Brown (knee): The luckless key forward had fresh knee surgery on Thursday after suffering some minor damage and won’t be back to full fitness for six to eight weeks.

Tom Fullarton (hamstring): The recruit has been sent for scans with fears he has seriously injured his hamstring.

North Melbourne

Match Simulation: v Collingwood, February 21, Arden St

Community Series: v St Kilda, March 3, RSEA Park

Brayden George (elbow): Finally some good news for the unlucky youngster who dislocated his elbow in a training mishap, with George back in full training and due to step into intraclub match simulation on Friday.

Zac Fisher (hamstring): Cleared of any damage after he was sent for scans last week on a sore hamstring. Fisher will spend some time on a modified program but will return to full training soon.

Eddie Ford (ankle): Picked up a nasty syndesmosis injury before Christmas and has been getting back into running. Looks unlikely for match simulation against Collingwood.

Aidan Corr (ankle): Corr also injured his ankle pre-season but he is further along than Ford, and expected back into full training as early as next week.

Jackson Archer (groin): Still a few weeks off joining main training with a groin problem that first hit last year. He isn’t due to return to full training for at least another two weeks, most likely ruling him out of playing against Collingwood.

Luke McDonald (hamstring): Tracking well to enter full training in three weeks, which means he would likely be on limited minutes if he was available for match simulation against Collingwood.

Griffin Logue (knee): Best hopes for the defender are for a return to the field by round 10.

Tristan Xerri (face): The ruck copped a knock in match play last week and is poised for surgery. His fitness shouldn’t be hit as he can still run but his return to contact will depend on how he improves.

Port Adelaide:

Match simulation: v Adelaide, February 23, Alberton Oval

Community series: v Fremantle, March 1, Alberton Oval

Mitch Georgiades (knee): Continuing his recovery from ACL surgery, spending training sessions running along the sidelines. He is eyeing a round 1 return but when he is reintegrated into matchplay and how he fares will likely be a key factor into his availability.

Todd Marshall (hip): After having off-season surgery on his right hip, which hindered him late last year, the key forward has reintegrated into the main group but still is not doing everything, playing some match simulation on Wednesday before sitting out to run.

Charlie Dixon (groin): The spearhead is dealing with a strain, stemming from a training injury, which the club says is mild.

Josh Sinn (hamstring): Coming off an injury-interrupted first two campaigns, including off-season surgery, Sinn is progressing well and has been involved in match simulation.

Trent McKenzie (ankle): They key defender battled an ankle problem late last season before having surgery after Port’s campaign ended. He has returned to full training.

Richmond

Community Series: v Collingwood, February 27, Ikon Park

Dustin Martin (ankle): Took some steps back into training on Wednesday after being sent off to the rehab group after a minor ankle tweak. Should recover in time to face Collingwood.

Tom Lynch (foot): Unlikely for pre-season matches but the big forward has been running on grass and is still hopeful of playing in opening round.

Josh Gibcus (hamstring): The youngster has lifted to be included in almost all of training after a slow build to nurse through his worrisome hamstring. Should be cherry ripe for some pre-season action.

Jack Ross (toe): Off-season toe surgery has put the brakes on the winger’s pre-season, he is still building up fitness so is touch and go for a pre-season meeting with Collingwood.

Shai Bolton (ankle): No worries for Bolton, he had ankle surgery post-season but is back in full training.

Dylan Grimes (calf): The veteran is taking it easy and among the rehab group at the Tigers but club CEO Brendon Gale reckons he will play in opening round. Whether he faces Collingwood on February 27 is yet to be seen.

St Kilda

Match simulation: v Essendon, February 23, RSEA Park

Community series: v North Melbourne, March 3, RSEA Park

Dan Butler (ankle): Resumed running this week after ankle surgery last month, but he is still a couple of weeks away from joining main training. The small forward faces a delayed start to the season.

James Van Es (ankle): Had stepped up his training after ankle surgery late last season, but has since had a further operation to remove a screw which was causing discomfort.

Max King (shoulder): is still being managed, but is getting involved in more training after an injury-hit 2023.

Jack Hayes (knee): Still working his way back after a post-season knee clean-out, but there are plans to step up his training load next week.

Anthony Caminiti (hamstring): Closing in on a return to main training as he nears the end of a personalised conditioning block after hamstring tenderness caused problems before Christmas.

yet.

 

[Presto]

Sydney

Match simulation: v Greater Western Sydney, February 22, Tramway Oval

Community series: v Brisbane, February 29, Blacktown

Callum Mills (shoulder): Mills is progressing well from his shoulder operation following his costly Mad Monday wrestle with teammate Jacob Konstanty that left him with a ruptured rotator cuff. He has started modified training with the main group and has continued to build his running and cardio work. He is tipped to be back in action midway through the season.

Lachlan McAndrew (wrist): Had post-season surgery on his wrist and has been integrated into skills work. He is expected to start contact work in the next fortnight.

West Coast

Match simulation: v Fremantle, February 24, Mineral Resources Park

Community series: v Adelaide, March 2, Hisense Stadium

Tim Kelly (hamstring): A hamstring strain last Monday was one of three injuries that came from the Eagles camp. Kelly is not expected to be in danger of missing round 1 and should be free to face Fremantle with it only a 2-3 week injury, however the Eagles may not risk him before the season opener against Port Adelaide.

Liam Ryan (hamstring): Ryan’s hamstring injury was the most significant injury to come out of the pre-season for West Coast, with a high-grade tear confirmed. Tendon damage meant Ryan went under the knife for repair work, and the high-flying small forward is expected to miss the opening

Coby Burgiel (hamstring): A minor hamstring strain, West Coast is confident the second-year Eagle will not miss much training and regain fitness in time to participate in the practice matches.

Dom Sheed (foot): Battling a hot spot on his foot, Sheed is working into training ahead of the practice matches. The premiership hero was sidelined by the issue before Christmas and has been on a modified program, but the Eagles are hopeful of his being fully fit for the start of the season.

Elijah Hewett (foot): One of the club’s bright young stars has been on light duties since December, battling a foot issue. It is not serious and Hewett is expected to be available for the game against Fremantle in February.

Josh Rotham (groin): Battling groin tightness, Rotham has been on restricted duties at training in recent weeks however he is expected to be available ahead of the clash against Fremantle.

Western Bulldogs

Match simulation: v Hawthorn, February 23, Whitten Oval

Community series: v Hawthorn, March 2, UTAS Stadium

Tim English (illness): The Dogs cleared their star ruck of any concussion concerns and have labelled the injury that kept him out of contact drills as “migraine-related”. English has remained fit despite missing contact work for the last six weeks so unless he has further hiccups, he should be fit to face Hawthorn.

Alex Keath (knee): The Dogs believe Keath is still a chance to play pre-season matches despite a sore knee that has kept him away from the main group. He ran slow laps on Wednesday.

Riley Garcia (shoulder): Running at good speed and not far off being reintroduced into drills.

Lachie Bramble (shoulder): Went through a shoulder reconstruction in the off-season before signing with the Dogs in November. Took part in all of a lighter session on Wednesday so is almost 100 per cent.

Marcus Bontempelli (ankle): Started pre-season with a wobbly ankle but ‘the Bont’ is back in full swing.

Bailey Smith (knee): No footy this year for Smith unless there is some kind of miracle, having ruptured his ACL in December. The Dogs have not placed him on the long-term injury list

 

[Shannon]

Track watch: Hawks looking to handle bevy of forward options after busy off-season
The Hawks made plenty of moves in the off-season, and although they are still a young side, they’re adamant they won’t be around to just make up the numbers, with finals well in sight.

Dan Batten
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@danbatten_

5 min read
January 29, 2024 - 5:39PM

Hawthorn ball-winner James Worpel believes there will be some selection headaches for coach Sam Mitchell in the forward 50 with a host of new faces to choose from.

A Hawks side that ranked third-last for points per game last year added prized draftee Nick Watson, Collingwood premiership small Jack Ginnivan, key position target Mabior Chol (Gold Coast) and returning goalkicker Jack Gunston to their attack during a busy off-season.

Mitchell, who is back taking training after a serious bout of pneumonia, suddenly has a bevy of options despite forwards Jacob Koschitzke, Tyler Brockman and Brandon Ryan all joining new clubs during the trade period.

Reliable defender Blake Hardwick has also been swung forward this pre-season and was stationed there again in match simulation on Monday, showing his aerial presence with a strong contested mark at one stage.

Ginnivan also showed some good signs as a lead-up forward and was difficult to miss with his pink headband.

Worpel is excited by the forward stocks at their disposal and while he is unsure how many goalsneaks can fit in the one side, he thinks livewire Watson is right in the mix to play early.

“It’s interesting, isn’t it. I think if you asked the small forwards they probably say six of them. Good luck getting that across,” Worpel said with a laugh.

“(Watson’s) got really good foot skills as well and he reads the game really well and he’s a natural footballer, obviously he’s gone pick five in the draft for a reason. So he’s got a lot of attributes that all stand up at AFL footy.

“I think he’s hasn’t put a foot wrong and he’s training well so we’ll see how we go.

“Then you’ve got Moorey who works probably more up the ground than the other boys and (Hardwick) almost plays like a tall sometimes, you can sit him at full forward and he’ll kick you a bag of goals. Sam’s probably got a headache come selection time. But yeah, they are all looking pretty good.

“ (Chol’s) a big lad so he takes marks and he’s a beautiful kick of the footy. So the more we can get it into his hands the better we are going to be as a team and hopefully he can play a full year for us and kick us some goals.

“(Gunston’s) slotted back in nicely, it’s like he never left which is good.”


Hawks fans may be surprised to see Hardwick, with eight AFL goals to his name, in the forward arc, but his move forward was inevitable in the eyes of Worpel.

Worpel also said he was pleased to see Mitchell back taking his charges after being hospitalised in New York last month.

“I reckon (Hardwick’s) been begging Sam for however long he has been here, before that he was begging Clarko,” Worpel chuckled.

POINT TO PROVE

Hawthorn has hit the draft hard in recent years and last year supporters began to see the fruits of the rebuild in Mitchell’s second season at the helm.

But Worpel made it clear the young Hawks aren’t there to make up the numbers in 2024, with a rise up the ladder and finals in their sights.

And you could see it with the standards being set.

After captain James Sicily performed a double fend off on two would-be tacklers from the ‘bibs’ team, Karl Amon then waltzed his way through another defender minutes later.

A Hawks player made no secret of his disappointment.

“F---ing tackle them, make a tackle!’ a Hawks player bellowed.

The response was swift. Shortly after, a player from the ‘bibs’ side buried their opponent with a desperate rundown tackle, which was met with backslaps and support from teammates.

POSITION SWITCHES

SuperCoach players, keep Amon on your radar.

It wasn’t a full-ground hitout in match simulation on Monday out at Deakin University Geelong, part of Hawthorn’s high performance camp in Torquay this week, but Amon was setting up play out of defence throughout with his trusty left boot – just as he did in the final month of last year.

He scored three SuperCoach tons and averaged 27 disposals and 107 points in four games in the role, and he shapes as a point-of-difference option to consider.

His switch from the wing to halfback has opened the door for Changkuoth Jiath to move up the ground. The athletic 24-year-old was unsighted after round nine due to persistent hamstring troubles.

After returning from a trip to Qatar in December, Jiath is at full tilt and caught the eye during stoppage drills with the midfield group as he continues his new role as a wingman.

Youngsters Henry Hustwaite and Cameron Mackenzie also impressed at stages with their poise and agility in traffic during match simulation.

Worpel flagged these two young midfielders and Josh Ward as the players who can fill the midfield void if Will Day continues to be sidelined with his foot injury.

 

[Shannon]

At this very early stage, it certainly appears than Amon needs to be monitored closely as he appears to be the main hawks playmaker coming out of defence.

 

[Courtesans]

At this very early stage, it certainly appears than Amon needs to be monitored closely as he appears to be the main hawks playmaker coming out of defence.

Sicily therefore?

 

[Presto]

SuperCoach AFL: The kick-in kings to target from every club

Who doesn’t love free SuperCoach points when your player steps up to take a kick-out? We look at the AFL’s kick-in kings and breakdown the data on what the stats mean for every club.

Tim Michell and Tarquin Oakley

2 min read

January 30, 2024 - 6:00AM

Every SuperCoach knows the feeling.

A player lines up for goal, misses and one of the players in your SuperCoach team sprints back to gobble up the kick-out.

There are few greater joys in SuperCoach.

It’s a surefire way to boost your SuperCoach score and has become one of the most valuable roles in the game.

Many teams have only one designated kick-in taker, although sides such as Essendon (Mason Redman/Jordan Ridley), Adelaide (Brodie Smith/Mitch Hinge/Wayne Milera) and St Kilda (Nasiah Wanganeen-Milera/Jack Sinclair) prefer to share the role between their best ball users.

As Champion Data guru Fantasy Freako explains, it is almost impossible for a kick-in not to be classed as effective under the scoring system.

Freako says a kick-in to advantage is: “A long kick that results in uncontested possession by a teammate. If an error is made by the player ‘receiving’ the ick a long kick to advantage is still recorded for the player kicking the ball.”

Here are the raw stats players score for a kick-in

Kick-in scoring in SuperCoach

Kick-In SC Pts

Kick In: Long To Advantage 4

Kick In: Effective 1

Kick In: Long 1

Kick In: Short 1

Kick In: Ineffective 0

Kick In: Clanger -4



Kick-In Play On SC Pts

Kick: Long 4

Kick: Short 4

Kick: Long To Advantage 3

Kick: Ineffective 0

Kick: Clanger -4

However, it is worth noting these scores are indicative and change based on match situation.

For example, a kick-in clanger late in a close match could be worth -5 points or more, while a kick-in clanger early in a game may be less than -4 points.

Regardless, kick-ins are a great way for a player to boost their SuperCoach points floor.

Take Fremantle’s Luke Ryan for example.

His lowest-scoring game last year was 83 points — helped by taking 54 per cent of the Dockers’ kick-ins.

Gold Coast’s Rory Atkins was another prime example of the impact kick-ins can have on SuperCoach scoring last year.

Atkins played on from every one of his 57 kick-ins and he averaged 96.7 points from rounds 19-21 while taking 20 kick-outs across those three matches.

Ensure you take kick-in numbers into account when choosing your defenders in SuperCoach.

They can often be the difference between an average score and a premium one or be what salvages a poor outing.

They are not foolproof, as roles can change and other kick-in takers can emerge — but they are often the fast track to uncovering the topscoring defenders of the season.

Here are the designated kick-in takers from all 18 clubs and expert analysis on what the stats mean for every club.

ADELAIDE

Player Kick-Ins Kick-In Play On % Effective Kick-In

Brodie Smith 58 46 79% 58

Mitch Hinge 45 44 98% 45

Wayne Milera 45 34 76% 45

WE SAY: A much more even spread after Jordan Dawson's ($647,600 MID) move to midfield. Brodie Smith ($460,100 DEF) was No.2 to Dawson in 2022 but Mitch Hinge ($474,300 DEF) and Wayne Milera ($433,100 DEF) also took on more responsibility. None of the kick-in takers at the Crows appear SuperCoach relevant this year, unless Daniel Curtin ($175,800 DEF-MID) manages to sneak a few.

BRISBANE LIONS

Player Kick-Ins Kick-In Play On % Effective Kick-In

Conor McKenna 94 52 55% 92

Keidean Coleman 41 27 66% 41

Darcy Wilmot 34 34 100% 34

WE SAY: Not a great sign for those hoping Keidean Coleman ($398,800 DEF) would become the main man after Daniel Rich's retirement. Early in 2023 when Rich was playing, the pecking order went Rich, McKenna and then Coleman. Whether that changes remains to be seen, but don't bank on Coleman being the No.1 kick-out player for the Lions. That role is likely to again fall to Conor McKenna ($353,100 DEF) who has entrenched himself as a member of the Brisbane backline.

CARLTON

Player Kick-Ins Kick-In Play On % Effective Kick-In

Mitch McGovern 111 90 81% 110

Adam Saad 76 53 70% 76

Nic Newman 40 40 100% 40

WE SAY: No great surprise to see Sam Docherty's ($562,200 MID) numbers plummet from 65 kick-outs in 2022 (ranked #1 at the Blues) to 14 (ranked #4) as he played further afield for much of the season. The wildcard this season will be Zac Williams ($216,100 DEF). In the first eight rounds of 2022, Williams was entrusted with 34 kickouts - more than any other Blue. Mitch McGovern ($448,900 DEF) stepped up last year, but it would give SuperCoaches even greater incentive to pick Williams if he shares the role.

COLLINGWOOD

Player Kick-Ins Kick-In Play On % Effective Kick-In

Darcy Moore 85 83 98% 84

Nick Daicos 54 54 100% 54

Brayden Maynard 38 33 87% 38

WE SAY: These do not paint a full picture of Nick Daicos' ($650,000 DEF-MID) campaign - the Brownlow Medal favourite took 41 of his 53 kick-ins from round 16 onwards, a period during which he transitioned into a fulltime midfielder. Darcy Moore ($505,900 DEF) was a consistent presence in the defensive goal square and averaged more than 90 points for the first time. Scott Pendlebury ($525,100 MID) was prominent early in the campaign before the Magpies' ended the experiment with him playing deep in defence. Expect Moore and Brayden Maynard (449,400 DEF) to share kick-in duties in 2024.

ESSENDON

Player Kick-Ins Kick-In Play On % Effective Kick-In

Mason Redman 88 83 94% 88

Jordan Ridley 59 56 95% 59

Andrew McGrath 48 46 96% 48

WE SAY: One of the most frustrating teams in SuperCoach as the kick-outs are shared between three players. Many coaches were banking on a spike from Jordan Ridley ($530,300 DEF) last season but it never eventuated as Mason Redman ($507,800 DEF) took charge. The dream result for SuperCoaches would have been Redman accepting an offer from Adelaide and freeing up Ridley, but he re-signed with the Bombers. Watch for Nic Martin ($492,800 MID) to take some if his mooted defensive switch comes to fruition.

FREMANTLE

Player Kick-Ins Kick-In Play On % Effective Kick-In

Luke Ryan 119 109 92% 118

Hayden Young 43 38 88% 43

Jordan Clark 23 16 70% 23

WE SAY: Luke Ryan ($611,800 DEF) was one of the most prolific kick-in takers in the AFL last year and his tally of 119 accounted for 53.8 per cent of Fremantle's total kick-ins. Ryan took at least five kick-ins in 16 matches, helping him reach a career-best average of 109.5. Ryan has dominated the Dockers' kick-ins for the past three seasons and Hayden Young's ($525,100 DEF) move to the midfield will give him even more share. Jordan Clark ($461,000 DEF) and Corey Wagner ($410,500 DEF) are the most likely players to deputise for Ryan.

 

[Presto]

GEELONG

Player Kick-Ins Kick-In Play On % Effective Kick-In

Tom Stewart 90 80 89% 89

Zach Tuohy 51 44 86% 51

Zach Guthrie 27 25 93% 27

WE SAY: If you believe the talk about extra midfield time for Stewart, there is a big opportunity which will open up for a player such as Zach Guthrie ($411,400 DEF) to step up. Guthrie has never averaged more than 73.6 points but could push into the 80s as a regular kick-out taker. Tom Stewart ($635,300 DEF) losing a few kick-out points would likely be o***et by more contested possessions and disposals playing in the middle. Zach Tuohy ($404,900 MID) has signed on again but is unlikely to play every game.

GOLD COAST

Player Kick-Ins Kick-In Play On % Effective Kick-In

Wil Powell 81 62 77% 81

Rory Atkins 57 57 100% 57

Lachie Weller 26 26 100% 26

WE SAY: Wil Powell ($513,500 DEF) had the second-lowest play-on rate of any club's main kick-out taker last year. Only Conor McKenna (55 per cent) played on less. Brandon Ellis and Lachie Weller led the kick-in stats for Gold Coast in 2022, but both dropped away last year due to injury (Weller) and role change (Ellis). Rory Atkins ($404,000) averaged six kickouts a game from rounds 19-23.



GWS GIANTS

Player Kick-Ins Kick-In Play On % Effective Kick-In

Lachie Whitfield 106 92 87% 106

Lachie Ash 70 63 90% 69

Harry Himmelberg 62 59 95% 62

WE SAY: Are you brave enough to go there again with Lachie Whitfield ($519,000 DEF)? His numbers since returning to defence have been compelling, but the most-important thing is Adam Kingsley doesn't seem likely to pull a Leon Cameron and move Whitfield every few weeks. He rocketed home in the second half of 2023, which coincided with strong kick-in numbers. Harry Himmelberg ($450,400 DEF) averaged four kickouts a game from round 12 onwards when his defensive role was locked in.

HAWTHORN

Player Kick-Ins Kick-In Play On % Effective Kick-In

Blake Hardwick 82 65 79% 81

James Sicily 45 42 93% 45

Jack Scrimshaw 29 23 79% 29

WE SAY: There might be some movement in the kick-in ranks at Waverley with Blake Hardwick ($481,600 DEF) trying his hand up forward, making uber premium James Sicily ($637,400 DEF) an even more desirable starter in your SuperCoach side. Sicily averaged 114.1 points in 2023 despite taking far fewer kick-outs than fellow high scorers Luke Ryan (119 kick-ins) and Tom Stewart (90 kick-ins), so the prospect of the Hawthorn captain increasing his load in 2024 is a tantalising one. Karl Amon ($483,300 MID) has been training off half-back in pre-season after he increased his kick-in load at the backend of last year and averaged 109 points in his final five games of the Hawks' campaign.

MELBOURNE

Player Kick-Ins Kick-In Play On % Effective Kick-In

Steven May 125 99 79% 123

Jake Bowey 45 44 98% 45

Trent Rivers 21 21 100% 21

WE SAY: All hail the kick-in king of the AFL. Steven May ($468,900 DEF) took the most kick-outs in the competition in 2023, as he did the year prior in 2022. May's SuperCoach average however dropped below 90 for the first time since 2019 and he's not a relevant option this season. Trent Rivers ($474,100 DEF) took a big leap from averaging 58.9 points in 2022 to 84.8 points in 2023 and might be one to keep an eye on if he pinches some more kick-ins from May.

NORTH MELBOURNE

Player Kick-Ins Kick-In Play On % Effective Kick-In

Harry Sheezel 66 58 88% 65

Aiden Corr 43 34 79% 43

Luke McDonald 23 23 100% 23

WE SAY: There is a void at North Melbourne that needs to be filled after Jack Ziebell's retirement took 100-plus kick-ins with him. The big question is how much Rising Star winner Hary Sheezel ($556,200 DEF) pushes up the ground. If Sheezel stays in defence he'll be the Roos' primary distributor, if he wasn't already, and the kick-in points are there for the taking. Aidan Corr ($388,000 DEF) is next in line to take the kick-outs but I wouldn't be touching the key defender.

PORT ADELAIDE

Player Kick-Ins Kick-In Play On % Effective Kick-In

Ryan Burton 86 70 81% 86

Kane Farrell 52 47 90% 52

Dylan Williams 42 40 95% 41

WE SAY: The Power's go-to guy for kick-ins over the past couple of seasons has been Ryan Burton ($426,400), but the former Hawk hasn't been able to rack up enough SuperCoach points to be a contender for your side. All-Australian Dan Houston ($593,100 DEF) is fourth in Port Adelaide's kick-in ranks behind 2023 rookie pick Dylan Williams ($372,500 DEF) and is currently owned by under five per cent of teams despite an average of 106.1 points last year. If Burton shares more of the kick-in load, Houston could be a POD shout with a massive ceiling given he posted scores of 146, 156 and 176 in the second half of 2023.

RICHMOND

Player Kick-Ins Kick-In Play On % Effective Kick-In

Nick Vlastuin 76 64 84% 75

Daniel Rioli 59 55 93% 58

Jayden Short 32 20 63% 32

WE SAY: It would take a bold SuperCoacher to start one of these Tigers in your side. Jayden Short ($551,200 DEF) averaged 98.6 points in 2023 and took half his kick-ins in the last four rounds, but he’s a repeat offender of a cardinal SuperCoach sin – failing to run out of the goalsquare on kick-outs. Daniel Rioli ($485,700 DEF) was averaging roughly 95 points a game for most of last year but dropped right off in the last month as he dealt with injury and moved forward. If that switch continues then Nick Vlaustin ($514,700 DEF) and Short should bring in most kick-ins.

ST KILDA

Player Kick-Ins Kick-In Play On % Effective Kick-In

Nasiah Wanganeen-Milera 104 84 81% 104

Jack Sinclair 90 84 93% 90

Liam Stocker 24 23 96% 24

WE SAY: The Saints like to get the ball in the hands of Nasiah Wanganeen-Milera ($475,800 DEF) and Jack Sinclair ($596,300 DEF) from kick-ins, with the latter a popular SuperCoach pick. Sinclair was used as a midfielder at times last season but is trusted with plenty of kick-outs when playing in defence. Should Ross Lyon choose to use Sinclair more in midfield, how that impacts his and also Wanganeen-Milera's scoring (who would benefit with more kick-ins) will be one to watch for SuperCoachers this year.

SYDNEY



Player Kick-Ins Kick-In Play On % Effective Kick-In

Nick Blakey 100 96 96% 100

Jake Lloyd 85 81 95% 85

Oliver Florent 47 35 74% 47



WE SAY: A SuperCoach favourite returned to relevancy in 2023 and Jake Lloyd ($535,300 DEF) does love a kick-out, taking 152 more than any Swan across 2021-22. But the 30-year old only scored one ton in his last nine games and was overtaken in Sydney’s kick-in ranks by the lizard Nick Blakey ($499,600 DEF). Hard to see much changing this season other than those two taking the bulk of the load.

WEST COAST

Player Kick-Ins Kick-In Play On % Effective Kick-In

Alex Witherden 89 82 92% 88

Liam Duggan 62 53 85% 62

Elliot Yeo 23 17 74% 23

WE SAY: Shannon Hurn has been the Eagles go-to guy but his retirement opens the door for Alex Witherden ($472,300 DEF) and Liam Duggan ($503,500 DEF) to increase their kick-in numbers. Witherden and Duggan averaged 97.9 and 96.7 SuperCoach points respectively over their final nine games of 2023 and without Hurn could both boost that average above 100 with some more kick-outs. Elliot Yeo ($447,100 DEF-MID) gets his fair share when on the park but SuperCoaches will be wary of his injury-prone history.

WESTERN BULLDOGS

Player Kick-Ins Kick-In Play On % Effective Kick-In

Bailey Dale 116 107 92% 115

Ed Richards 50 37 74% 50

Jason Johannisen 28 22 79% 28

WE SAY: Despite a drop in SuperCoach points from 2022, Bailey Dale ($507,600 DEF) continued to be the Bulldogs' No.1 kick-in taker in 2023. With Caleb Daniel ($518,800 MID-FWD) pushing up the ground, Ed Richards ($481,800 DEF) claimed more responsibility and should continue to do so. Popular pick Tim English ($715,100 RUC) will have to find other ways to score after his solitary effort last year caused headlines for the wrong reasons. Sorry Tim!