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No. I believe it is the website provider who has set it to censor these words automatically, nobody here can modify it to allow legitimate words/names which happen to contain these letter combos.
Trust me, it's for the best these words are censored. If this automatic censoring of various letter combos modifies other legitimate words occasionally, it's still a better result than seeing posts where every second word is a swear word. I know most people here are above posting like that, but there will always be some who will do it.
Trust me, it's for the best these words are censored. If this automatic censoring of various letter combos modifies other legitimate words occasionally, it's still a better result than seeing posts where every second word is a swear word. I know most people here are above posting like that, but there will always be some who will do it.
Look I get it now, it's for the greater good and that's fine by me, I can't stand sites that allow profanity and offensive behaviour. The good thing about this place is that it feels quite safe, safe you're not going to be attacked, bullied or sworn at with no admin protection...many other blogs /sites out there just let people go at it but that's not good for anyone.
I guess in future when I see these kind of censorship things happening, I'll just have a chuckle about it and realise, it's for the greater good and spell the word my own way.
I guess in future when I see these kind of censorship things happening, I'll just have a chuckle about it and realise, it's for the greater good and spell the word my own way.
Look I get it now, it's for the greater good and that's fine by me, I can't stand sites that allow profanity and offensive behaviour. The good thing about this place is that it feels quite safe, safe you're not going to be attacked, bullied or sworn at with no admin protection...many other blogs /sites out there just let people go at it but that's not good for anyone.
I guess in future when I see these kind of censorship things happening, I'll just have a chuckle about it and realise, it's for the greater good and spell the word my own way.
I guess in future when I see these kind of censorship things happening, I'll just have a chuckle about it and realise, it's for the greater good and spell the word my own way.
Bottom of Form
KFC SuperCoach 2023 Rookie Bible: Every cheapie and all the stats you need to knowIt’s never too early to start your rookie research. We have you covered with all the stats, KFC SuperCoach averages and full profiles on more than 50 cheapies.
The Phantom and Dan Batten
less than 2 min read
January 14, 2023 - 6:05AM
News Corp Australia Sports Newsroom
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Cash cows are the backbone of any good KFC SuperCoach team.
But picking the best basement-price options isn’t always easy.
To help you get ahead of the game, before the official opening in late January, The Phantom and Dan Batten have named the top three KFC SuperCoach cheapies at every club.
Luke Pedlar
Adelaide (Fwd $173,400)
SC Ave 2022: 45 (AFL – 1 game)
Pedlar, pick 11 in the 2022 national draft, added just one game to his two debut-season matches last year, dropped after an error-ridden, 45-point performance against the Pies in Round 2. But the tough 20-year-old found his groove late in the SANFL season, booting seven goals in the Crows’ final three games, playing a high-half-forward role. A week after tallying 16 disposals, 10 score involvements and 115 SuperCoach points against Port, he finished with three goals, eight tackles and 88 points in the club’s qualifying final win over Norwood. He's hit the track running this summer and Pedlar’s explosiveness and penetrating left-foot could add another layer to Adelaide’s forward-half early in 2023. Monitor closely.
Luke Nankervis
Adelaide (Mid/Fwd $123,900)
SC Ave 2022: 72 (SANFL)
He might be flying under the radar a little more but Nankervis was another young Crow to impress in the SANFL last year. The pre-season draftee from 2021 finished the year with back-to-back KFC SuperCoach tons, and averaged 19 disposals, 10 contested possessions, seven intercepts, five tackles and four inside-50s in the final three matches. At 191cm, with great hands in tight and the ability to win the ball back off the opposition and in space, Nankervis could surprise and give the Crows a different look through the midfield or forward of centre at some stage.
Billy Dowling
Adelaide (Mid $117,300)
SC Ave 2022: 160 (SANFL U18)
In terms of KFC SuperCoach junior numbers, Dowling is up there with any of the draftees. The hard-working midfielder passed three figures in each of his 12 SANFL under-18 matches last season, recording seven scores of 140 or more. In Round 16 against Glenelg, he produced one of the biggest junior performances of recent years, tallying a huge 268 points, on the back of 44 disposals, 17 marks, 16 contested possessions, 14 score involvements, four goals and four score assists. He’s wasted little time showing his ability to win the ball in space during match sim, but can he force his way in?
Darcy Wilmot
Brisbane (Def $123,900)
SC Ave 2022: 83 (VFL)
After scoring 52, 61 and 73 points in Brisbane’s final three matches of 2022, should the young Lion really be basement price? Take it and run, KFC SuperCoaches, because, as impressive he was, Wilmot’s first three games at AFL level were finals so they have not affected his price tag this year. The 19-year-old, who was the youngest player drafted in 2021, replaced the suspended Noah Answerth for the qualifying final – but kept his spot despite Answerth’s return, after an impressive debut, for the rest of the major round. The arrival of Connor McKenna adds to Brisbane’s running defender stocks further but Wilmot should be one of the first picked KFC SuperCoach cheapies – for now.
Will Ashcroft
Brisbane (Mid $202,800)
SC Ave 2022: 159 (NAB League)
Forget the price-tag, just pick him. In his 21 games last year, across the VFL, NAB League and national under-18 carnival, Ashcroft tallied 140 KFC SuperCoach points in 16 of them. The father-son gun, who is as ready-to-go as any top draftee in recent years – and that includes Nick Daicos, Sam Walsh and Matt Rowell – averaged 34 disposals and 159 points for Sandringham at under-18 level and posted scores of 119, 126, 146 in three dominant VFL performances for the Lions.
Conor McKenna
Brisbane (Def $167,500)
SC Ave 2020: 61 (Essendon)
In the year before he retired to head back to Ireland, McKenna averaged 80 KFC SuperCoach points in 21 games for the Bombers. The season before that in 2018, it was 74 in 18 games. Those sort of numbers should price him at more than $400k. But after his two-year absence from the AFL, the 26-year-old, who has 79 games to his name, is available for less than $200k. It’s too early to say he will slot straight into Brisbane’s best 22, but if he does, McKenna looms as one of the KFC SuperCoach bargains of 2023.
Oliver Hollands
Carlton (Mid $162,500)
SC Ave 2022: 114 (U18 Champs)
The Blues have made no secret of their desire to add to their outside stocks and Hollands will compete for a spot right away. The elite running midfielder - who took out the 2km time trial at the draft combine with a blistering time of 5:54 – was the third ranked KFC SuperCoach scorer at the national championships, averaging 114 points, 23.5 disposals and 6.5 marks. Hollands is a different player to his brother, Gold Coast youngster Elijah, but he could prove to be just as promising as a SuperCoach cheapie.
David Cunningham
Carlton (Mid/Fwd $163,800)
SC Ave 2022: DNP
A forgotten man given Cuningham has been unsighted at any level since midway through 2021 after rupturing his ACL against Melbourne in round 9. In his three matches before that blow, Cuningham posted totals of 93, 78 and 67 and he managed season averages of 63.4 in 2020 (12 games), 66.4 in 2019 (nine games). At 25, Cuningham shapes as another potential option up forward in the elevated rookie price range - but can he break into Carlton’s strong best 22?
Lachie Cowan
Carlton (Def $117,300)
SC Ave 2022: 141
Meet a future kick-in pig. There is nothing Cowan loves more than tucking the ball under his arm, streaming out of defence and launching it long with his penetrating kick. Cowan averaged 141 SuperCoach points per game in the NAB League for the Tasmania Devils – ranked third in the competition behind a couple of handy players in Will Ashcroft and Elijah Tsatas. He may be up against it to feature early but keep an eye out when he does, as his attacking brand is very attractive for KFC SuperCoach.
Charlie Dean
Collingwood (Def $123,900)
SC Ave 2022: 60 (VFL)
After being drafted as a readymade mature-ager from the VFL, Dean was the great KFC SuperCoach rookie hope of last summer. But a foot injury on the eve of the season – then another in June – ruined his first year with the Magpies. But in his one, and only, full game for the season in the VFL, the 22-year-old finished with 90 points, on the back of 14 disposals, six intercepts, six rebound-50s and five marks. In 2021, Dean averaged eight intercepts – three of them marks – and 85 points to win the VFL’s best young player award, and is back in full training ahead of this season.
Joe Richards
Collingwood (Mid/Fwd $117,300)
SC Ave 2022: N/A
Richards didn’t play one state-league game last year, so there’s no hard data to look at, apart from his 29 goals in 11 games for Wangaratta in the Ovens and Murray League. But he’s a 22-year-old, mature-age draftee who the Magpies plucked from nowhere with a likely role in mind. Richards is a forward who can pinch-hit further up the ground and has serious speed and terrific goal sense. Keep a close eye on him over the pre-season.
Finlay Macrae
Collingwood (Mid $123,900)
SC Ave 2022: 106 (VFL)
The younger brother of Bulldogs star Jackson, Macrae has struggled to make his mark at senior level in his first two years on the Collingwood list, playing 11 games – a few sub-affected - with little impact. But the 20-year-old finished strongly in the VFL in 2022 and the Pies are happy with his development, extending his contract in July. In the final eight games of the state-league season, Macrae averaged 27 disposals, 12 contested possessions, six clearances, six score involvements, six tackles and 120 SuperCoach points. Remind you of anyone? Jackson averaged 31, 12, six, six and four in 2022. The Collingwood midfield will be even more crowded in 2023, but get on if a spot opens up.
Rhett Montgomerie
Essendon (Def $102,400)
SC Ave 2022: 93 (SANFL)
Basement-price, mature-age intercept defenders have been KFC SuperCoach gold in the past. And it could be a similar story for Montgomerie, if he can force his way into the Bombers side. He’s wasted little time trying to do just that, too, fitting in well early in the pre-season. The neat-kicking 22-year-old, who uses his long arms to great effect, lead all non-AFL listed players in the SANFL for intercept marks last year and averaged 15 disposals, seven total intercept possessions, five spoils and 93 points. Against Port Adelaide’s reserves late in the season, Montgomerie took seven intercept marks on his way to 138 points.
Elijah Tsatas
Essendon (Mid $189,300)
SC Ave 2022: 149 (NAB League)
Essendon is crying out for some speed and explosiveness away from the contest and its first selection in last year’s draft brings that in spades. The teenager has hit the ground running – literally – this summer and has his eyes on a Round 1 debut. Tsatas can win the ball on the inside, but it’s outside game – he averaged 23 uncontested possessions, eight inside-50s and seven marks in the NAB League – is what we are likely to see a lot of early in his career. With Ashcroft a must, Tsatas’ price might be a little too high but he did post KFC SuperCoach scores of 102, 154, 165, 126, 161 and 186 in his six appearances during an injury-interrupted draft year for Oakleigh Chargers.
Jye Menzie
Essendon (Fwd $154,200)
SC Ave 2022: 40 (2 games)
After being overlooked in the 2021 draft, the talented small-forward moved across to the SANFL and booted 20 goals in his first eight games for South Adelaide. The Bombers then swooped in last year’s mid-season draft and Menzie kicked another 13 in eight VFL matches. The 20-year-old broke through for two senior appearances late in 2022, kicking one major and finishing with 49 points against the Tigers in the final round. Role is a concern for KFC SuperCoach but he’s impressed on the track already this pre-season and could be about to make his mark.
Corey Wagner
Fremantle (Def/Mid $117,300)
SC Ave 2022: 105 (VFL)
At 26, with stints at North Melbourne and Melbourne under his belt, the Dockers haven’t recruited Wagner to let him develop in the WAFL – and that’s good news for KFC SuperCoaches. Wagner was given a third AFL chance after impressing in a new role across half-back for Port Melbourne in the VFL last year. He averaged 22 disposals and 105 KFC SuperCoach points across 15 matches, but it’s his finish to the season that really stands out. From Round 17 onwards, the hard-running, competitive Wagner averaged 27 disposals, seven intercepts, five tackles and 124 points. Although Wagner is more defensively-minded, the Dockers do need to replace the run of Blake Acres in 2023. Put him on your bench for now.
Matthew Johnson
Fremantle (Mid $123,900)
SC Ave 2022: 105 (VFL)
The second-year Docker is another who would have an eye on Acres’ spot this year. Johnson, drafted at pick 21 in 2021, took a while to get going in his debut season, battling injury early, before showing some impressive signs at WAFL level. The classy, 192cm midfielder, who arrived at the club with senior experience, averaged 85 points in 14 state-league matches, with his 25-disposal, 143-point performance against East Perth the highlight. An on-ball role beckons in the future, but Johnson has the weapons to have an impact on the outside this season.
Tom Emmett
Fremantle (Fwd $117,300)
SC Ave 2022: 60 (SANFL)
Fremantle boasts talent across every line, but its forwardline is far from settled, especially in the wake of Rory Lobb’s departure. So, don’t be surprised to see Emmett break into the senior side in 2023. The mature-age draftee, who overcame cancer as a teenager, is a strong, powerful mid-sized forward with a terrific ability to stay involved once the ball hits the ground. Emmett, 22, booted 15 goals in his final seven SANFL matches.
Jhye Clark
Geelong (Mid $175,800)
SC Ave 2022: 60 (SANFL)
Clark, pick 8 in last year’s draft, has been earmarked as the long-term Joel Selwood replacement in the Geelong midfield. But there’s one big question KFC SuperCoaches want to know the answer to - when will he get his chance? Because, given his competiveness, ball-winning ability, two-way running and junior numbers – Clark averaged 25 disposals, 13 contested possessions and 127 points in the NAB League – he’ll be ready to go when called upon. Keep an eye on what the Cats are doing in the lead-up to Round 1.
Mitch Knevitt
Geelong (Mid $140,700)
SC Ave 2022: 36 (2 games)
Although a completely different type of player at 193cm, Knevitt is another young Cat looking to force his way into a premiership-winning side this year. The 20-year-old, who is strong at the contest and equally impressive breaking away from it, played two games in his first season, finishing with 15 disposals, seven marks and 49 points on debut against the Giants in Round 8. Knevitt’s VFL debut for the Cats last year was another highlight, with the second-round draft pick tallying 21 disposals, 10 contested possessions, nine tackles, seven marks and 122 KFC SuperCoach points in his first game for the club.
Esava Ratugolea
Geelong (Ruck/Fwd $174,000)
SC Ave 2022: 36 (2 games)
He may have not quite found his way to Port Adelaide during the trade period – a move that would’ve likely granted him more AFL opportunity immediately – but he should still be on the KFC SuperCoach watchlist. The Cats, despite Ratugolea playing four senior games during an injury-riddled 2022, didn’t want to let him go and his late-season form in defence was a big reason why. After kicking goals, and pinch-hitting in the ruck on his return from injury, the 24-year-old took 10 intercept marks, among 22 total intercept possession, in the final two matches of the year, playing in defence. Could his inclusion give Chris Scott’s side yet another layer? At the price, KFC SuperCoaches should be hoping so.
Bailey Humphrey
Gold Coast (Mid/Fwd $184,800)
SC Ave 2022: 132 (NAB League)
Although a different player to the departed Izak Rankine, the Suns’ top pick is just as difficult a match-up. Humphrey is a strong overhead mark, brilliant around goal and boasts quick feet and explosiveness which make him hard to contain at ground level. Gold Coast have plenty of young talent, making the teenager’s path to an early-season debut a tough one, but he has the traits to have an impact inside-50 at some stage in 2023.
Collingwood (Def $123,900)
SC Ave 2022: 60 (VFL)
After being drafted as a readymade mature-ager from the VFL, Dean was the great KFC SuperCoach rookie hope of last summer. But a foot injury on the eve of the season – then another in June – ruined his first year with the Magpies. But in his one, and only, full game for the season in the VFL, the 22-year-old finished with 90 points, on the back of 14 disposals, six intercepts, six rebound-50s and five marks. In 2021, Dean averaged eight intercepts – three of them marks – and 85 points to win the VFL’s best young player award, and is back in full training ahead of this season.
Joe Richards
Collingwood (Mid/Fwd $117,300)
SC Ave 2022: N/A
Richards didn’t play one state-league game last year, so there’s no hard data to look at, apart from his 29 goals in 11 games for Wangaratta in the Ovens and Murray League. But he’s a 22-year-old, mature-age draftee who the Magpies plucked from nowhere with a likely role in mind. Richards is a forward who can pinch-hit further up the ground and has serious speed and terrific goal sense. Keep a close eye on him over the pre-season.
Finlay Macrae
Collingwood (Mid $123,900)
SC Ave 2022: 106 (VFL)
The younger brother of Bulldogs star Jackson, Macrae has struggled to make his mark at senior level in his first two years on the Collingwood list, playing 11 games – a few sub-affected - with little impact. But the 20-year-old finished strongly in the VFL in 2022 and the Pies are happy with his development, extending his contract in July. In the final eight games of the state-league season, Macrae averaged 27 disposals, 12 contested possessions, six clearances, six score involvements, six tackles and 120 SuperCoach points. Remind you of anyone? Jackson averaged 31, 12, six, six and four in 2022. The Collingwood midfield will be even more crowded in 2023, but get on if a spot opens up.
Rhett Montgomerie
Essendon (Def $102,400)
SC Ave 2022: 93 (SANFL)
Basement-price, mature-age intercept defenders have been KFC SuperCoach gold in the past. And it could be a similar story for Montgomerie, if he can force his way into the Bombers side. He’s wasted little time trying to do just that, too, fitting in well early in the pre-season. The neat-kicking 22-year-old, who uses his long arms to great effect, lead all non-AFL listed players in the SANFL for intercept marks last year and averaged 15 disposals, seven total intercept possessions, five spoils and 93 points. Against Port Adelaide’s reserves late in the season, Montgomerie took seven intercept marks on his way to 138 points.
Elijah Tsatas
Essendon (Mid $189,300)
SC Ave 2022: 149 (NAB League)
Essendon is crying out for some speed and explosiveness away from the contest and its first selection in last year’s draft brings that in spades. The teenager has hit the ground running – literally – this summer and has his eyes on a Round 1 debut. Tsatas can win the ball on the inside, but it’s outside game – he averaged 23 uncontested possessions, eight inside-50s and seven marks in the NAB League – is what we are likely to see a lot of early in his career. With Ashcroft a must, Tsatas’ price might be a little too high but he did post KFC SuperCoach scores of 102, 154, 165, 126, 161 and 186 in his six appearances during an injury-interrupted draft year for Oakleigh Chargers.
Jye Menzie
Essendon (Fwd $154,200)
SC Ave 2022: 40 (2 games)
After being overlooked in the 2021 draft, the talented small-forward moved across to the SANFL and booted 20 goals in his first eight games for South Adelaide. The Bombers then swooped in last year’s mid-season draft and Menzie kicked another 13 in eight VFL matches. The 20-year-old broke through for two senior appearances late in 2022, kicking one major and finishing with 49 points against the Tigers in the final round. Role is a concern for KFC SuperCoach but he’s impressed on the track already this pre-season and could be about to make his mark.
Corey Wagner
Fremantle (Def/Mid $117,300)
SC Ave 2022: 105 (VFL)
At 26, with stints at North Melbourne and Melbourne under his belt, the Dockers haven’t recruited Wagner to let him develop in the WAFL – and that’s good news for KFC SuperCoaches. Wagner was given a third AFL chance after impressing in a new role across half-back for Port Melbourne in the VFL last year. He averaged 22 disposals and 105 KFC SuperCoach points across 15 matches, but it’s his finish to the season that really stands out. From Round 17 onwards, the hard-running, competitive Wagner averaged 27 disposals, seven intercepts, five tackles and 124 points. Although Wagner is more defensively-minded, the Dockers do need to replace the run of Blake Acres in 2023. Put him on your bench for now.
Matthew Johnson
Fremantle (Mid $123,900)
SC Ave 2022: 105 (VFL)
The second-year Docker is another who would have an eye on Acres’ spot this year. Johnson, drafted at pick 21 in 2021, took a while to get going in his debut season, battling injury early, before showing some impressive signs at WAFL level. The classy, 192cm midfielder, who arrived at the club with senior experience, averaged 85 points in 14 state-league matches, with his 25-disposal, 143-point performance against East Perth the highlight. An on-ball role beckons in the future, but Johnson has the weapons to have an impact on the outside this season.
Tom Emmett
Fremantle (Fwd $117,300)
SC Ave 2022: 60 (SANFL)
Fremantle boasts talent across every line, but its forwardline is far from settled, especially in the wake of Rory Lobb’s departure. So, don’t be surprised to see Emmett break into the senior side in 2023. The mature-age draftee, who overcame cancer as a teenager, is a strong, powerful mid-sized forward with a terrific ability to stay involved once the ball hits the ground. Emmett, 22, booted 15 goals in his final seven SANFL matches.
Jhye Clark
Geelong (Mid $175,800)
SC Ave 2022: 60 (SANFL)
Clark, pick 8 in last year’s draft, has been earmarked as the long-term Joel Selwood replacement in the Geelong midfield. But there’s one big question KFC SuperCoaches want to know the answer to - when will he get his chance? Because, given his competiveness, ball-winning ability, two-way running and junior numbers – Clark averaged 25 disposals, 13 contested possessions and 127 points in the NAB League – he’ll be ready to go when called upon. Keep an eye on what the Cats are doing in the lead-up to Round 1.
Mitch Knevitt
Geelong (Mid $140,700)
SC Ave 2022: 36 (2 games)
Although a completely different type of player at 193cm, Knevitt is another young Cat looking to force his way into a premiership-winning side this year. The 20-year-old, who is strong at the contest and equally impressive breaking away from it, played two games in his first season, finishing with 15 disposals, seven marks and 49 points on debut against the Giants in Round 8. Knevitt’s VFL debut for the Cats last year was another highlight, with the second-round draft pick tallying 21 disposals, 10 contested possessions, nine tackles, seven marks and 122 KFC SuperCoach points in his first game for the club.
Esava Ratugolea
Geelong (Ruck/Fwd $174,000)
SC Ave 2022: 36 (2 games)
He may have not quite found his way to Port Adelaide during the trade period – a move that would’ve likely granted him more AFL opportunity immediately – but he should still be on the KFC SuperCoach watchlist. The Cats, despite Ratugolea playing four senior games during an injury-riddled 2022, didn’t want to let him go and his late-season form in defence was a big reason why. After kicking goals, and pinch-hitting in the ruck on his return from injury, the 24-year-old took 10 intercept marks, among 22 total intercept possession, in the final two matches of the year, playing in defence. Could his inclusion give Chris Scott’s side yet another layer? At the price, KFC SuperCoaches should be hoping so.
Bailey Humphrey
Gold Coast (Mid/Fwd $184,800)
SC Ave 2022: 132 (NAB League)
Although a different player to the departed Izak Rankine, the Suns’ top pick is just as difficult a match-up. Humphrey is a strong overhead mark, brilliant around goal and boasts quick feet and explosiveness which make him hard to contain at ground level. Gold Coast have plenty of young talent, making the teenager’s path to an early-season debut a tough one, but he has the traits to have an impact inside-50 at some stage in 2023.
Ben King
Gold Coast (Fwd $176,300)
SC Ave 2022: N/A
As Gold Coast’s pre-season started in early November, coach Stuart Dew said King was “looking fantastic” in his recovering from an ACL tear last summer. The 22-year-old was on the edge of returning to full training ahead of the Christmas break and, all going to plan from here, looks set to take his place in the Suns’ forward line in Round 1. King may have only averaged 53 in his last full season in 2021 – a campaign that included six scores of 25 of less – but his job security is likely to be higher than a lot of others in the price range and the Suns appear a far better team than when he last played. Must be on the radar.
Charlie Constable
Gold Coast (Def/Mid $123,900)
SC Ave 2022: 110 (VFL)
We all know Constable can put up huge numbers at state-league level as a midfielder – to some extent, he even did it in his brief time in Geelong’s senior side. But in 2022, the 23-year-old – yes he’s still young – proved he can win he ball in defence, too. As the year progressed, Constable floated between the midfield and the back-half – taking kick-ins - in the VFL, averaging seven rebound-50s, six intercepts, 114 SuperCoach points, and taking six intercept marks, in the final six games of the season. In the preliminary final against Southport, he did it all, winning the ball back off the Sharks in defence, taking kick-ins and tallying 42 disposals and nine clearances. But numbers have never been a problem for Constable. If he can finally break in, we’ll all pick him as a DPP.
Harry Rowston
GWS (Mid $139,800)
SC Ave 2022: 110 (NAB League)
KFC SuperCoaches don’t need to be afraid of GWS’ No. 24 any longer. With Rowston, the Academy member drafted at pick 16, taking retired tagger Matt De Boer’s number at the club, it’s a jumper we could be watching for all the right reasons now. The tough teenagers’ competitive edge, as well as his ability to hit the scoreboard and pressure as a forward, will see him push hard for a senior debut in 2023. Brent Daniels will return this year, and the Giants also drafted West Australian small Darcy Jones, but a role in the forward half might be up for grabs. Rowston averaged 22 disposals 12 contested possessions, five clearances, five inside-50s, four tackles and 110 SuperCoach points in the NAB League, while he booted three goals to go with 24 touches in the opening national carnival game, before showing his midfield craft against Vic Country, finishing with 16 contested possessions and seven clearances in the Allies’ third match.
Aaron Cadman
GWS (Fwd $207,300)
SC Ave 2022: 129 (NAB League)
New teammate Sam Taylor has been throwing Cadman “down in the dirt” during his first AFL pre-season, with the young forward admitting he has plenty to work on. But Cadman was the No. 1 pick, the Giants need another key target in attack and his KFC SuperCoach potential is obvious. The Jeremy Cameron-like forward doesn’t just kick goals – he booted 34 in 12 NAB League matches – he gets up the ground and gets his hands on the ball, too. In four of his final six matches, Cadman tallied 20 disposals or more and averaged 10 contested possessions, 10 score involvements, six marks, four tackles, four inside-50s, three goals and 149 KFC SuperCoach points in a huge finish to the year.
Brent Daniels
GWS (Fwd ($191,300)
SC Ave 2021: 58
Remember when Daniels would start at the centre bounce ahead of Tim Taranto in 2021? Don’t worry, we’ve tried to erase it from our memory as well. That was a Leon Cameron move, but with Taranto, Jacob Hopper and Tanner Bruhn no longer at the club, Daniels might find himself pinch-hitting there again. That would be a bonus because, at $191k, the 23-year-old, whose 2022 season was ruined by foot and hamstring injuries, has proven he can score well enough to make quick, early-season cash as a forward in KFC SuperCoach. After his seven-game debut season, Daniels has averaged 64 KFC SuperCoach points in his past 55 matches, including finals.
Cam Mackenzie
Hawthorn (Mid $180,300)
SC Ave 2022: 108 (U18 champs)
Mackenzie was one of the top midfielders available in the draft but his ability to be used on the outside – along with Hawthorn’s young team – should see him push for opportunities all over the ground. The 189cm prospect averaged 108 KFC SuperCoach points at the under-18 championships and 112 points in the NAB League, including a monster grand final where he registered 26 disposals, two goals and 170 points. But if he does get early games, will he justify his elevated starting price?
Fergus Greene
Hawthorn (Fwd $123,900)
SC Ave 2022: 93 (VFL)
Greene was likened to Bayley Fritsch by his former Box Hill Hawks coach Clint Proctor after his VFL feats last season, kicking 53 goals in 17 matches and averaging 91 KFC SuperCoach points. After being picked up as a delisted free agent, the 25-year-old shapes as a possible ready-made replacement for the departed Jack Gunston, with the former Bulldog having an uncanny knack of hitting the scoreboard. Greene averaged just 41 points from his five matches back in 2018 for the Western Bulldogs, but he is far more capable now.
Josh Weddle
Hawthorn (Def $130,800)
SC Ave 2022: 83 (U18 Champs)
Expect Weddle to get games in his first season as a lockdown defender, especially given the rebuilding Hawks traded future selections on draft night to snare him. Weddle possesses elite athletic traits and was one of the top performers in Hawthorn's 2km time trial, which means he could have an impact from the get go. The 191cm defender averaged 5.8 intercepts and 83 KFC SuperCoach points at the national championships in 2022. While his role at AFL level may not be conducive to scoring, he could be a solid bench option if he can find a consistent spot in the Hawks lineup.
Jacob van Rooyen
Melbourne (Fwd $123,900)
SC Ave 2022: 85 (VFL)
JVR is primed to make his debut and could push to become a Demons regular in 2023 after a stellar debut season at VFL level. Van Rooyen booted 36.13 from 18 matches and averaged 11.6 disposals, 1.9 contested marks and 85 SuperCoach points for Casey. In one match against North Melbourne, van Rooyen amassed 170 points, 22 disposals, 17 score involvements and piled on six goals. Watch his progress with interest in the pre-season.
Kade Chandler
Melbourne (Fwd $123,900)
SC Ave 2022: 107 (VFL)
Chandler’s KFC SuperCoach average of 6.3 last year doesn’t scream ‘pick me’, but he was substitute in all three of those matches. His VFL numbers are much more attractive, with the small forward averaging 18.4 disposals, 1.7 goals and 107 SuperCoach points. Toby Bedford’s departure during the trade period should give Chandler more of a look in next year, particularly if one of Melbourne’s mosquito fleet goes down.
Bailey Laurie
Melbourne (Fwd/Mid $123,900)
SC Ave 2022: 81 (VFL)
Entering his third season, Laurie is another who should be given a taste of AFL footy this year after injury hampered his progress. The clever small even surpassed van Rooyen’s monster score last year, registering a mammoth 174 points from 30 disposals and three goals. Laurie will likely play as a small forward if he gets a chance but his ball-use and ability to push up the ground means he is worthy of consideration.
Gold Coast (Fwd $176,300)
SC Ave 2022: N/A
As Gold Coast’s pre-season started in early November, coach Stuart Dew said King was “looking fantastic” in his recovering from an ACL tear last summer. The 22-year-old was on the edge of returning to full training ahead of the Christmas break and, all going to plan from here, looks set to take his place in the Suns’ forward line in Round 1. King may have only averaged 53 in his last full season in 2021 – a campaign that included six scores of 25 of less – but his job security is likely to be higher than a lot of others in the price range and the Suns appear a far better team than when he last played. Must be on the radar.
Charlie Constable
Gold Coast (Def/Mid $123,900)
SC Ave 2022: 110 (VFL)
We all know Constable can put up huge numbers at state-league level as a midfielder – to some extent, he even did it in his brief time in Geelong’s senior side. But in 2022, the 23-year-old – yes he’s still young – proved he can win he ball in defence, too. As the year progressed, Constable floated between the midfield and the back-half – taking kick-ins - in the VFL, averaging seven rebound-50s, six intercepts, 114 SuperCoach points, and taking six intercept marks, in the final six games of the season. In the preliminary final against Southport, he did it all, winning the ball back off the Sharks in defence, taking kick-ins and tallying 42 disposals and nine clearances. But numbers have never been a problem for Constable. If he can finally break in, we’ll all pick him as a DPP.
Harry Rowston
GWS (Mid $139,800)
SC Ave 2022: 110 (NAB League)
KFC SuperCoaches don’t need to be afraid of GWS’ No. 24 any longer. With Rowston, the Academy member drafted at pick 16, taking retired tagger Matt De Boer’s number at the club, it’s a jumper we could be watching for all the right reasons now. The tough teenagers’ competitive edge, as well as his ability to hit the scoreboard and pressure as a forward, will see him push hard for a senior debut in 2023. Brent Daniels will return this year, and the Giants also drafted West Australian small Darcy Jones, but a role in the forward half might be up for grabs. Rowston averaged 22 disposals 12 contested possessions, five clearances, five inside-50s, four tackles and 110 SuperCoach points in the NAB League, while he booted three goals to go with 24 touches in the opening national carnival game, before showing his midfield craft against Vic Country, finishing with 16 contested possessions and seven clearances in the Allies’ third match.
Aaron Cadman
GWS (Fwd $207,300)
SC Ave 2022: 129 (NAB League)
New teammate Sam Taylor has been throwing Cadman “down in the dirt” during his first AFL pre-season, with the young forward admitting he has plenty to work on. But Cadman was the No. 1 pick, the Giants need another key target in attack and his KFC SuperCoach potential is obvious. The Jeremy Cameron-like forward doesn’t just kick goals – he booted 34 in 12 NAB League matches – he gets up the ground and gets his hands on the ball, too. In four of his final six matches, Cadman tallied 20 disposals or more and averaged 10 contested possessions, 10 score involvements, six marks, four tackles, four inside-50s, three goals and 149 KFC SuperCoach points in a huge finish to the year.
Brent Daniels
GWS (Fwd ($191,300)
SC Ave 2021: 58
Remember when Daniels would start at the centre bounce ahead of Tim Taranto in 2021? Don’t worry, we’ve tried to erase it from our memory as well. That was a Leon Cameron move, but with Taranto, Jacob Hopper and Tanner Bruhn no longer at the club, Daniels might find himself pinch-hitting there again. That would be a bonus because, at $191k, the 23-year-old, whose 2022 season was ruined by foot and hamstring injuries, has proven he can score well enough to make quick, early-season cash as a forward in KFC SuperCoach. After his seven-game debut season, Daniels has averaged 64 KFC SuperCoach points in his past 55 matches, including finals.
Cam Mackenzie
Hawthorn (Mid $180,300)
SC Ave 2022: 108 (U18 champs)
Mackenzie was one of the top midfielders available in the draft but his ability to be used on the outside – along with Hawthorn’s young team – should see him push for opportunities all over the ground. The 189cm prospect averaged 108 KFC SuperCoach points at the under-18 championships and 112 points in the NAB League, including a monster grand final where he registered 26 disposals, two goals and 170 points. But if he does get early games, will he justify his elevated starting price?
Fergus Greene
Hawthorn (Fwd $123,900)
SC Ave 2022: 93 (VFL)
Greene was likened to Bayley Fritsch by his former Box Hill Hawks coach Clint Proctor after his VFL feats last season, kicking 53 goals in 17 matches and averaging 91 KFC SuperCoach points. After being picked up as a delisted free agent, the 25-year-old shapes as a possible ready-made replacement for the departed Jack Gunston, with the former Bulldog having an uncanny knack of hitting the scoreboard. Greene averaged just 41 points from his five matches back in 2018 for the Western Bulldogs, but he is far more capable now.
Josh Weddle
Hawthorn (Def $130,800)
SC Ave 2022: 83 (U18 Champs)
Expect Weddle to get games in his first season as a lockdown defender, especially given the rebuilding Hawks traded future selections on draft night to snare him. Weddle possesses elite athletic traits and was one of the top performers in Hawthorn's 2km time trial, which means he could have an impact from the get go. The 191cm defender averaged 5.8 intercepts and 83 KFC SuperCoach points at the national championships in 2022. While his role at AFL level may not be conducive to scoring, he could be a solid bench option if he can find a consistent spot in the Hawks lineup.
Jacob van Rooyen
Melbourne (Fwd $123,900)
SC Ave 2022: 85 (VFL)
JVR is primed to make his debut and could push to become a Demons regular in 2023 after a stellar debut season at VFL level. Van Rooyen booted 36.13 from 18 matches and averaged 11.6 disposals, 1.9 contested marks and 85 SuperCoach points for Casey. In one match against North Melbourne, van Rooyen amassed 170 points, 22 disposals, 17 score involvements and piled on six goals. Watch his progress with interest in the pre-season.
Kade Chandler
Melbourne (Fwd $123,900)
SC Ave 2022: 107 (VFL)
Chandler’s KFC SuperCoach average of 6.3 last year doesn’t scream ‘pick me’, but he was substitute in all three of those matches. His VFL numbers are much more attractive, with the small forward averaging 18.4 disposals, 1.7 goals and 107 SuperCoach points. Toby Bedford’s departure during the trade period should give Chandler more of a look in next year, particularly if one of Melbourne’s mosquito fleet goes down.
Bailey Laurie
Melbourne (Fwd/Mid $123,900)
SC Ave 2022: 81 (VFL)
Entering his third season, Laurie is another who should be given a taste of AFL footy this year after injury hampered his progress. The clever small even surpassed van Rooyen’s monster score last year, registering a mammoth 174 points from 30 disposals and three goals. Laurie will likely play as a small forward if he gets a chance but his ball-use and ability to push up the ground means he is worthy of consideration.
George Wardlaw
North Melbourne (Mid $193,800)
SC Ave 2022: 132 (NAB League)
A rookie that has been likened to Clayton Oliver will command the attention of any KFC SuperCoach. Wardlaw played just three NAB League games last year - producing scores of 159, 100 and 141 – but the No.3 selection went ballistic in a 17-year-old representative game in 2021. In that clash, he finished with 22 disposals, 14 contested possessions, seven tackles and 163 SuperCoach points. A contested ball-winner and relentless tackler, Wardlaw should score enough to justify his inflated price, but will the Roos ease him through his first year after battling hamstring issues in 2022?
Will Phillips
North Melbourne (Mid $158,300)
SC Ave 2022: 54 (VFL)
Phillips has been cruelled by injury and illness to start his career, with the young Roo sidelined by Covid and then a bout of glandular fever last year, restricting him to three VFL games. The No.3 pick averaged 51.4 points from his 13 non sub-affected matches in his first season with limited midfield minutes. If he can become a midfield regular for the Roos he will be a steal, but - despite some good early signs on the track - that may be easier said than done with their emerging on-ball brigade. Nonetheless, he is one of the top midfield rookie options.
Hamish Free
North Melbourne (Ruck $102,400)
SC Ave 2022: 107 (WAFL)
Goldstein and Xerri will be North Melbourne’s first choice ruck duo but, if either goes down, they have a ready-made replacement in the wings. Free was plucked in the rookie draft from South Fremantle, where the 24-year-old averaged 12.1 disposals, 41.7 hitouts and 107 SuperCoach points. At 202cm and 103kg, Free is ready to go if required and with North Melbourne likely to be playing later in most rounds, he doubles as a captaincy loophole option.
Josh Sinn
Port Adelaide (Mid/Fwd $123,900)
SC Ave 2022: 24
Ken Hinkley has named Port Adelaide’s first pick in the 2021 draft as Karl Amon’s possible replacement on the wing. Sinn, who debuted in Round 2 last year before a groin issue hampered his first season at the top level, has the speed and foot skills the Power need on the outside – hence Hinkey’s want to blood him early last year. But Sinn also battled injury during his draft year and is still at least five-to-six weeks away from returning to full training. Track his progress closely. If he’s right to go, he’ll be a popular starting pick.
Orazio Fantasia
Port Adelaide (Fwd $203,000)
SC Ave 2021: 61
Speaking of injury-prone, Fantasia failed to play a senior game during his second year on Port Adelaide’s list. But Hinkley on January 10 labeled the former Bomber as “one of the shining lights in pre-season”. It’s hard say you can trust the skilful forward, but in the most consistent stretch of his career in 2017, Fantasia averaged 77 KFC SuperCoach points in 18 games for Essendon before being injured against the Blues in Round 20, meaning there's obvious value in his price tag.
Francis Evans
Port Adelaide (Fwd $136,500)
SC Ave 2022: 31
Fantasia’s clean bill of health probably doesn’t help Evans’ case for an early Power debut, especially with Junior Rioli also arriving at Alberton during the off-season. But the former Cat, who booted 20 goals and averaged 94 KFC SuperCoach points in 12 VFL games last year, was recruited to enhance Port’s small-forward stocks and to keep Zak Butters and Connor Rozee in the midfield. The 21-year-old could be a nice, little KFC SuperCoach cash cow if the opportunity arises.
Steely Green
Richmond (Mid $117,300)
SC Ave 2022: 79 (WAFL)
SuperCoach steal-y? Maybe not, but Green put up some impressive numbers against men in the WAFL last year. Green, who has been likened to Tiger utility Liam Baker, averaged 19 disposals and 79 KFC SuperCoach points across eight games for South Fremantle, including three totals of 105 or more. The 179cm product can play in a variety of positions and could push for a spot at some stage in his first season.
Jacob Bauer
Richmond (Fwd $123,900)
SC Ave 2022: 61 (VFL)
Look out for the Tigers’ mid-season draftee this year. Bauer averaged KFC SuperCoach 61 points and booted 16 goals in nine VFL matches after joining Richmond last year - and eight of those majors came in the last three rounds where he averaged 84 points. The 192cm forward plays taller than his height suggests because of his great leap, meaning he could be used in a key forward role if Tom Lynch or Jack Riewoldt go down.
Tylar Young
Richmond (Def $102,400)
SC Ave 2022: 61 (VFL)
The 24-year-old defender was a surprise pick-up from Richmond’s VFL side in last year’s rookie draft but he is a ready-made size at 196cm and 98kg. In just his third year of footy, after playing soccer and cricket previously, Young averaged 62 KFC SuperCoach points, 9.6 disposals, 4.4 intercepts and 1.9 intercepts marks in 14 VFL matches for the Tigers. An early debut may be a longshot, but if injuries strike his mature body could be called on.
Mattaes Phillipou
St Kilda (Mid $166,800)
SC Ave 2022: 102 (U18 Champs)
The Saints need match winners and, while Phillipou does talk a big game, he backs it up on-field. And the 190cm midfielder-forward had some big games in his draft year. This included a monster 181-point display at the national champs, totals of 175 and 180 back-to-back in the SANFL U18s matches and perhaps his best performance of all, three goals and 114 points in the SANFL Reserves. The left-footer has been compared to Marcus Bontempelli, and like the Bont he oozes X-Factor and KFC SuperCoach scoring potential.
Jack Bytel
St Kilda (Mid $156,800)
SC Ave 2022: 112 (VFL)
Ravaged by injury during his time at the Saints, Bytel will be eager to impress 2023 after being forced to wait until October last year to ink a one-year deal. Bytel was unable to add to his 16 senior games last season but averaged 24.8 didposals, 5.9 tackles and 112 SuperCoach points across 12 games at VFL level, including a monster 184 in his last outing. He looks to be outside St Kilda’s best 23 at this stage but monitor his progress throughout the pre-season, as $156k for a 22-year-old midfielder is good buying.
Nick Coffield
St Kilda (Def $208,800)
SC Ave 2022: N/A
I nearly fell off my chair seeing Coffield’s price after a generous deduction from the boffins at KFC SuperCoach HQ. Coffield is still working his way back from an ACL rupture that he suffered in the 2021 pre-season, but he screams value when he does return. Coffield has posted KFC SuperCoach averages of 79 (2020, 18 games) and 63 (2021,16 games) in recent seasons and uses the ball well as a rebounding defender. He hasn’t lived up to his top-10 potential just yet but he should be beginning to enter his prime in 2023 in his sixth season.
Angus Sheldrick
Sydney (Mid/Fwd $165,700)
SC Ave 2022: 101 (VFL)
Sydney recruiting manager Simon Dalymple named Sheldrick as the young Swan to watch next year on The Drafts podcast late in 2022, and his VFL form was certainly promising. The big-bodied midfielder-forward raised the bat for a KFC SuperCoach ton in his first VFL game after debuting at AFL level the previous week, and went on to average 23 disposals, 12.4 contested possessions, five tackles and 101 points in 10 VFL matches. The contested animal averaged a whopping 152 points in the WAFL Colts in his draft year and looms as a KFC SuperCoach player of the future once he breaks into centre-bounces.
Will Gould
Sydney (Def $123,900)
SC Ave 2022: 101 (VFL)
It wouldn’t be a pre-season without W.Gould on our defensive bench. While fantasy players remain unsure of his existence, Gould allegedly signed a one-year extension for 2023 and was named as an emergency for the grand final, so he is close to cracking into their best side. Gould also averaged 101 KFC SuperCoach points, 18.9 disposals, 6.5 intercepts and 2.4 intercept marks in the VFL last year. Entering his fourth season, will this be Gould’s year? As always, time will tell.
Jacob Konstanty
Sydney (Fwd $121,800)
SC Ave 2022: 100 (NAB League)
Konstanty could work his way into the Swans side as a pressure forward. The Gippsland Power product was a tackling machine at under-18 level, averaging 5.8 tackles per game - laying 14 in a single game against the Geelong Falcons - 14.6 disposals and 100 KFC SuperCoach points in the NAB League. He was also a consistent goalkicker and works his way up the ground to win the footy. Konstanty’s tackle numbers mean he is worth consideration if he gets a look-in - even with a fairly unattractive KFC SuperCoach role.
Toby McLean
Western Bulldogs (Fwd/Mid $178,900)
SC Ave 2022: 100 (AFL, one game)
KFC SuperCoaches’ collective jaws hit the floor when we saw McLean’s 2023 price - a player who was a forward premium with an average of 94.7 points in 2018. The Bulldog has played four senior games in the past two seasons due to injury, and fortunately his one game last year came in the finals. McLean racked up 21 disposals, nine tackles four clearances and 100 points in their loss to the Dockers in a display that had coaches licking their lips. The 26-year-old may not spend a great deal of time in the Dogs’ stacked midfield, but he is a must-have regardless.
North Melbourne (Mid $193,800)
SC Ave 2022: 132 (NAB League)
A rookie that has been likened to Clayton Oliver will command the attention of any KFC SuperCoach. Wardlaw played just three NAB League games last year - producing scores of 159, 100 and 141 – but the No.3 selection went ballistic in a 17-year-old representative game in 2021. In that clash, he finished with 22 disposals, 14 contested possessions, seven tackles and 163 SuperCoach points. A contested ball-winner and relentless tackler, Wardlaw should score enough to justify his inflated price, but will the Roos ease him through his first year after battling hamstring issues in 2022?
Will Phillips
North Melbourne (Mid $158,300)
SC Ave 2022: 54 (VFL)
Phillips has been cruelled by injury and illness to start his career, with the young Roo sidelined by Covid and then a bout of glandular fever last year, restricting him to three VFL games. The No.3 pick averaged 51.4 points from his 13 non sub-affected matches in his first season with limited midfield minutes. If he can become a midfield regular for the Roos he will be a steal, but - despite some good early signs on the track - that may be easier said than done with their emerging on-ball brigade. Nonetheless, he is one of the top midfield rookie options.
Hamish Free
North Melbourne (Ruck $102,400)
SC Ave 2022: 107 (WAFL)
Goldstein and Xerri will be North Melbourne’s first choice ruck duo but, if either goes down, they have a ready-made replacement in the wings. Free was plucked in the rookie draft from South Fremantle, where the 24-year-old averaged 12.1 disposals, 41.7 hitouts and 107 SuperCoach points. At 202cm and 103kg, Free is ready to go if required and with North Melbourne likely to be playing later in most rounds, he doubles as a captaincy loophole option.
Josh Sinn
Port Adelaide (Mid/Fwd $123,900)
SC Ave 2022: 24
Ken Hinkley has named Port Adelaide’s first pick in the 2021 draft as Karl Amon’s possible replacement on the wing. Sinn, who debuted in Round 2 last year before a groin issue hampered his first season at the top level, has the speed and foot skills the Power need on the outside – hence Hinkey’s want to blood him early last year. But Sinn also battled injury during his draft year and is still at least five-to-six weeks away from returning to full training. Track his progress closely. If he’s right to go, he’ll be a popular starting pick.
Orazio Fantasia
Port Adelaide (Fwd $203,000)
SC Ave 2021: 61
Speaking of injury-prone, Fantasia failed to play a senior game during his second year on Port Adelaide’s list. But Hinkley on January 10 labeled the former Bomber as “one of the shining lights in pre-season”. It’s hard say you can trust the skilful forward, but in the most consistent stretch of his career in 2017, Fantasia averaged 77 KFC SuperCoach points in 18 games for Essendon before being injured against the Blues in Round 20, meaning there's obvious value in his price tag.
Francis Evans
Port Adelaide (Fwd $136,500)
SC Ave 2022: 31
Fantasia’s clean bill of health probably doesn’t help Evans’ case for an early Power debut, especially with Junior Rioli also arriving at Alberton during the off-season. But the former Cat, who booted 20 goals and averaged 94 KFC SuperCoach points in 12 VFL games last year, was recruited to enhance Port’s small-forward stocks and to keep Zak Butters and Connor Rozee in the midfield. The 21-year-old could be a nice, little KFC SuperCoach cash cow if the opportunity arises.
Steely Green
Richmond (Mid $117,300)
SC Ave 2022: 79 (WAFL)
SuperCoach steal-y? Maybe not, but Green put up some impressive numbers against men in the WAFL last year. Green, who has been likened to Tiger utility Liam Baker, averaged 19 disposals and 79 KFC SuperCoach points across eight games for South Fremantle, including three totals of 105 or more. The 179cm product can play in a variety of positions and could push for a spot at some stage in his first season.
Jacob Bauer
Richmond (Fwd $123,900)
SC Ave 2022: 61 (VFL)
Look out for the Tigers’ mid-season draftee this year. Bauer averaged KFC SuperCoach 61 points and booted 16 goals in nine VFL matches after joining Richmond last year - and eight of those majors came in the last three rounds where he averaged 84 points. The 192cm forward plays taller than his height suggests because of his great leap, meaning he could be used in a key forward role if Tom Lynch or Jack Riewoldt go down.
Tylar Young
Richmond (Def $102,400)
SC Ave 2022: 61 (VFL)
The 24-year-old defender was a surprise pick-up from Richmond’s VFL side in last year’s rookie draft but he is a ready-made size at 196cm and 98kg. In just his third year of footy, after playing soccer and cricket previously, Young averaged 62 KFC SuperCoach points, 9.6 disposals, 4.4 intercepts and 1.9 intercepts marks in 14 VFL matches for the Tigers. An early debut may be a longshot, but if injuries strike his mature body could be called on.
Mattaes Phillipou
St Kilda (Mid $166,800)
SC Ave 2022: 102 (U18 Champs)
The Saints need match winners and, while Phillipou does talk a big game, he backs it up on-field. And the 190cm midfielder-forward had some big games in his draft year. This included a monster 181-point display at the national champs, totals of 175 and 180 back-to-back in the SANFL U18s matches and perhaps his best performance of all, three goals and 114 points in the SANFL Reserves. The left-footer has been compared to Marcus Bontempelli, and like the Bont he oozes X-Factor and KFC SuperCoach scoring potential.
Jack Bytel
St Kilda (Mid $156,800)
SC Ave 2022: 112 (VFL)
Ravaged by injury during his time at the Saints, Bytel will be eager to impress 2023 after being forced to wait until October last year to ink a one-year deal. Bytel was unable to add to his 16 senior games last season but averaged 24.8 didposals, 5.9 tackles and 112 SuperCoach points across 12 games at VFL level, including a monster 184 in his last outing. He looks to be outside St Kilda’s best 23 at this stage but monitor his progress throughout the pre-season, as $156k for a 22-year-old midfielder is good buying.
Nick Coffield
St Kilda (Def $208,800)
SC Ave 2022: N/A
I nearly fell off my chair seeing Coffield’s price after a generous deduction from the boffins at KFC SuperCoach HQ. Coffield is still working his way back from an ACL rupture that he suffered in the 2021 pre-season, but he screams value when he does return. Coffield has posted KFC SuperCoach averages of 79 (2020, 18 games) and 63 (2021,16 games) in recent seasons and uses the ball well as a rebounding defender. He hasn’t lived up to his top-10 potential just yet but he should be beginning to enter his prime in 2023 in his sixth season.
Angus Sheldrick
Sydney (Mid/Fwd $165,700)
SC Ave 2022: 101 (VFL)
Sydney recruiting manager Simon Dalymple named Sheldrick as the young Swan to watch next year on The Drafts podcast late in 2022, and his VFL form was certainly promising. The big-bodied midfielder-forward raised the bat for a KFC SuperCoach ton in his first VFL game after debuting at AFL level the previous week, and went on to average 23 disposals, 12.4 contested possessions, five tackles and 101 points in 10 VFL matches. The contested animal averaged a whopping 152 points in the WAFL Colts in his draft year and looms as a KFC SuperCoach player of the future once he breaks into centre-bounces.
Will Gould
Sydney (Def $123,900)
SC Ave 2022: 101 (VFL)
It wouldn’t be a pre-season without W.Gould on our defensive bench. While fantasy players remain unsure of his existence, Gould allegedly signed a one-year extension for 2023 and was named as an emergency for the grand final, so he is close to cracking into their best side. Gould also averaged 101 KFC SuperCoach points, 18.9 disposals, 6.5 intercepts and 2.4 intercept marks in the VFL last year. Entering his fourth season, will this be Gould’s year? As always, time will tell.
Jacob Konstanty
Sydney (Fwd $121,800)
SC Ave 2022: 100 (NAB League)
Konstanty could work his way into the Swans side as a pressure forward. The Gippsland Power product was a tackling machine at under-18 level, averaging 5.8 tackles per game - laying 14 in a single game against the Geelong Falcons - 14.6 disposals and 100 KFC SuperCoach points in the NAB League. He was also a consistent goalkicker and works his way up the ground to win the footy. Konstanty’s tackle numbers mean he is worth consideration if he gets a look-in - even with a fairly unattractive KFC SuperCoach role.
Toby McLean
Western Bulldogs (Fwd/Mid $178,900)
SC Ave 2022: 100 (AFL, one game)
KFC SuperCoaches’ collective jaws hit the floor when we saw McLean’s 2023 price - a player who was a forward premium with an average of 94.7 points in 2018. The Bulldog has played four senior games in the past two seasons due to injury, and fortunately his one game last year came in the finals. McLean racked up 21 disposals, nine tackles four clearances and 100 points in their loss to the Dockers in a display that had coaches licking their lips. The 26-year-old may not spend a great deal of time in the Dogs’ stacked midfield, but he is a must-have regardless.
Josh Bruce
Western Bulldogs (Fwd $161,200)
SC Ave 2022: 37
Bruce has never been a big KFC SuperCoach scorer but he comes in at an intriguing price after having a limited influence upon his return from an ACL injury, averaging a meagre 37 points from five games. The key forward was dropped for their elimination loss to Fremantle and with Rory Lobb heading to Whitten Oval, Bruce will need a big pre-season to force himself past Lobb or rising giant Sam Darcy. The 31-year-old will warrant consideration if he can prove he is in their best 22, given he has posted four season averages of 65+ across his career.
Harvey Gallagher
Western Bulldogs (Def/Fwd $117,300)
SC Ave 2022: 125 (NAB League)
Try these scores on for size - 103, 197, 147, 172, 175 and 157. These were the totals Gallagher amassed in the NAB League after being swung into a roaming halfback role midway through the season. The 19-year-old also broke in for a game for Vic Metro, where he finished with 23 disposals and 99 KFC SuperCoach points. Gallagher’s decision-making and coverage of the ground makes him a natural fit as a rebounding defender and he is capable of playing there, or as a small forward, in his first season at AFL level. Luke Beveride’s side is a tough one to break into, but he is worth monitoring with that junior scoring pedigree.
Reuben Ginbey
West Coast (Def/Mid $171,300)
SC Ave: 93 (U18 Champs)
The size, athleticism and versatility of the Eagles’ top 2022 draft pick will ensure he gets a run in his debut season. Ginbey got senior exposure in the WAFL as a defender and then added midfield weapons to his arsenal at the national championships, where he finished as Western Australia’s MVP and averaged 20.8 disposals and 93 points. The 189cm draftee is perhaps more likely to begin his career across half-back, which has been a profitable role for KFC SuperCoach rookies in the past. Watch his pre-season with interest.
Elijah Hewett
West Coast (Mid $148,800)
SC Ave 2022: 61 (WAFL)
Hewett spent most of his draft year up against men in the WAFL for Swan Districts, where he averaged 13.8 disposals and 61 KFC SuperCoach points across nine games as a midfielder-forward, including promising scores of 80 and 96 in his last three outings. But his magnum opus came at the national championships where he registered 29 disposals, 11 inside 50s, two goals and 150 KFC SuperCoach points against the likes of Will Ashcroft and Elijah Tsatas. Hewett’s experience against bigger bodies should hold him in good stead and the celler-dweller Eagles should willing to expose him in his first season.
Campbell Chesser
West Coast (Def/mid $123,900)
SC Ave 2022: 61 (WAFL)
A round 1 debut looked a certainty for Chesser last year until he succumbed to an untimely foot injury in a pre-season practice match. There is a silver lining for KFC SuperCoaches, though, with the DEF-MID receiving a discount from his elevated 2022 price. The Eagles are crying out for run and dash off half-back and Chesser brings that in spades. He is still being eased back into things this pre-season but it will be a matter of when, not if, Chesser dons the Eagles guernsey in 2023 - hopefully one that is a better fit than his draft night photo…
Western Bulldogs (Fwd $161,200)
SC Ave 2022: 37
Bruce has never been a big KFC SuperCoach scorer but he comes in at an intriguing price after having a limited influence upon his return from an ACL injury, averaging a meagre 37 points from five games. The key forward was dropped for their elimination loss to Fremantle and with Rory Lobb heading to Whitten Oval, Bruce will need a big pre-season to force himself past Lobb or rising giant Sam Darcy. The 31-year-old will warrant consideration if he can prove he is in their best 22, given he has posted four season averages of 65+ across his career.
Harvey Gallagher
Western Bulldogs (Def/Fwd $117,300)
SC Ave 2022: 125 (NAB League)
Try these scores on for size - 103, 197, 147, 172, 175 and 157. These were the totals Gallagher amassed in the NAB League after being swung into a roaming halfback role midway through the season. The 19-year-old also broke in for a game for Vic Metro, where he finished with 23 disposals and 99 KFC SuperCoach points. Gallagher’s decision-making and coverage of the ground makes him a natural fit as a rebounding defender and he is capable of playing there, or as a small forward, in his first season at AFL level. Luke Beveride’s side is a tough one to break into, but he is worth monitoring with that junior scoring pedigree.
Reuben Ginbey
West Coast (Def/Mid $171,300)
SC Ave: 93 (U18 Champs)
The size, athleticism and versatility of the Eagles’ top 2022 draft pick will ensure he gets a run in his debut season. Ginbey got senior exposure in the WAFL as a defender and then added midfield weapons to his arsenal at the national championships, where he finished as Western Australia’s MVP and averaged 20.8 disposals and 93 points. The 189cm draftee is perhaps more likely to begin his career across half-back, which has been a profitable role for KFC SuperCoach rookies in the past. Watch his pre-season with interest.
Elijah Hewett
West Coast (Mid $148,800)
SC Ave 2022: 61 (WAFL)
Hewett spent most of his draft year up against men in the WAFL for Swan Districts, where he averaged 13.8 disposals and 61 KFC SuperCoach points across nine games as a midfielder-forward, including promising scores of 80 and 96 in his last three outings. But his magnum opus came at the national championships where he registered 29 disposals, 11 inside 50s, two goals and 150 KFC SuperCoach points against the likes of Will Ashcroft and Elijah Tsatas. Hewett’s experience against bigger bodies should hold him in good stead and the celler-dweller Eagles should willing to expose him in his first season.
Campbell Chesser
West Coast (Def/mid $123,900)
SC Ave 2022: 61 (WAFL)
A round 1 debut looked a certainty for Chesser last year until he succumbed to an untimely foot injury in a pre-season practice match. There is a silver lining for KFC SuperCoaches, though, with the DEF-MID receiving a discount from his elevated 2022 price. The Eagles are crying out for run and dash off half-back and Chesser brings that in spades. He is still being eased back into things this pre-season but it will be a matter of when, not if, Chesser dons the Eagles guernsey in 2023 - hopefully one that is a better fit than his draft night photo…
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Look I get it now, it's for the greater good and that's fine by me, I can't stand sites that allow profanity and offensive behaviour. The good thing about this place is that it feels quite safe, safe you're not going to be attacked, bullied or sworn at with no admin protection...many other blogs /sites out there just let people go at it but that's not good for anyone.
I guess in future when I see these kind of censorship things happening, I'll just have a chuckle about it and realise, it's for the greater good and spell the word my own way.
I guess in future when I see these kind of censorship things happening, I'll just have a chuckle about it and realise, it's for the greater good and spell the word my own way.
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Is anyone able to post:
SuperCoach breakout: The players who could take next step
Thanks in advance.
CC
SuperCoach breakout: The players who could take next step
Thanks in advance.
CC
Every KFC SuperCoach knows the big guns – the stars of the game almost guaranteed to score well.
But the key to getting the jump on the rest of the competition – in your league or in the race for the grand prize – is identifying the players set to take the next step.
Sure, it can backfire – we’ve all been there – but finding the value in KFC SuperCoach is one of the keys to building the foundation of a successful year.
Here are seven players The Phantom is tipping to increase their average significantly in 2023.
Errol Gulden (Syd)
$472,000, Fwd-Mid
2022 average: 86
Predicted average 2023: 104
After posting scores of 139 and 136 in the first two games of career, and rating elite for inside 50s, effective kicks, intercept possessions and goal assists as a forward in his debut season, I tipped Gulden to push the 95-point mark last year.
Although 86 is still a significant bump, he didn’t quite there. But we’ve see more to suggest that it will only be a matter of time until he does.
Gulden, who was second behind endurance king Dylan Stephens in the latest 2km time trial, spent more time on a wing in 2022, floating back to play behind the ball, but recorded another three scores of 125 or more, among six KFC SuperCoach tons.
And his enormous scoring potential – as a result of multiple avenues of scoring – goes back to his junior career with Gulden posting scores of 168, 131 and 105 in his three NAB League games in his draft year and 245, 177 and 149 at the national under-16 carnival the previous season.
In Round 20 against the Giants, Gulden tallied career-high disposals (33), metres gained (697), marks (12) and inside-50s (10), on his way to a season-high 131 points. He scored another KFC SuperCoach ton a week later, before finishing the year – including finals – with 72, 74, 79, 88 and 58.
While the ceiling is high, those numbers prove his scoring floor is still low. But consistency often comes with time, and a greater role, and Gulden’s importance to Sydney’s team is likely to only grow from here, given his almost unmatched footy IQ.
Phantom’s Verdict: As some of you know, I’m all in on the young Swan in his third season.
Alex Davies (GC)
$263,200, Fwd-Mid
2022 average: 48
Predicted average 2023: 77
“Alex Davies is different to our other mids, and he got some exposure, but we think he could get some more exposure.”
That’s what Suns coach Stuart Dew said at the end of last season when talking about the plans to increase the depth of his side’s midfield.
The end of last season was also when Davies – again – highlighted his KFC SuperCoach-friendly game.
In the final round against North Melbourne – his highest percentage of game-time for the year (78%) – the 191cm midfielder won 11 of his 15 possessions in a contest and tallied nine groundball-gets, two goals, two assists and 93 KFC SuperCoach points.
The 20-year-old was in and out of the team last year, but played in the Suns’ last three games after a huge 156-point performance, on the back of 18 contested possessions, 13 groundball-gets and 11 tackles, in the VFL.
It was a similar story in 2021, too, with Davies recording 14 contested possessions and six tackles on debut in Round 21.
Consistent opportunity didn’t follow that performance but it might be a different story in 2023.
Phantom’s Verdict: Davies just needs more opportunity, because the way he wins the ball is suited perfectly to KFC SuperCoach. Even as a permanent half-forward, 70 could be on the cards, which would see him make enough early cash.
Marcus Windhager (StK)
$266,200, Fwd-Mid
2022 average: 48
Predicted average 2023: 80
It was an impressive 2022 for the young Saint, who played 18 games in his debut season, finishing the year as the club’s tagger in the midfield.
The extra responsibility resulted in Windhager tallying 17 disposals or more in three of the final five matches.
But it wasn’t the numbers that stood out the most.
Stationed around the ball, Windhager showed off his strength – often taking possession ahead of a more experienced opponent – and clean hands at ground level.
Some of his numbers were pretty good, however.
In Round 21 against the Lions, while restricting Lachie Neale to 16 disposals, the teenager tallied 21 disposals, eight contested possessions, seven marks and five clearances of his own.
Before that, when he was dropped back to the VFL, Windhager dominated the Bombers, finishing with 155 KFC SuperCoach points, on the back of 32 disposals, 16 contested possessions, 12 clearances, eight tackles and two goals.
Windhager kicked off the 2023 pre-season with a 2km time trial win and he’s continued to impress the new coaching group over summer.
Phantom’s Verdict: Another cheap, dual-position forward who is likely to score well above his price tag with an increased role. How many can you fit in, though?
Max Holmes (Geel)
$360,600, Mid
2022 average: 65
Predicted average 2023: 91
Speaking of scoring above their price tag, the young Cat is certainly underpriced in KFC SuperCoach.
Thanks to an injury-affected 14 and a slow start to last season, which included a clanger-ridden 18-point performance in Round 2, Holmes is priced at a 65-point average this year.
But if his finish to 2022 is anything to go by, the 20-year-old will score well above that in 2023.
Holmes, who teammate Patrick Dangerfield believes “could be the best player in the competition at some stage”, became a key part of Chris Scott’s side in the run to the flag, averaging 94 KFC SuperCoach points in the final six games, including finals.
From Round 20 onwards, Holmes averaged 19 disposals, seven contested possessions, six score involvements, four inside-50s, four marks, 438 metres gained and one goal per game.
In the preliminary win over the Lions, Holmes, who was a late comer to football after choosing the game over a promising junior athletics career, tallied 12 disposals, six score involvements, one goal and 102 KFC SuperCoach points in just 56 per cent game-time before injury ended his campaign.
Phantom’s Verdict: At $360k, it doesn’t need to be a full blown breakout for Holmes to be KFC SuperCoach relevant in 2023. That could come when, as Dangerfield predicts, he moves to the inside down the track. If he just reaches the level he hit in the back half of last year, Holmes may well be a mid-pricer worth starting.
James Rowbottom (Syd)
$468,500, Mid
2022 average: 85
Predicted average 2023: 103
He’s threatened for a while but after a strong finish to last year, Rowbottom’s fifth season in the competition could be his breakout one.
The 22-year-old may have only added four points to his KFC SuperCoach average and lifted his disposals per game from 16 to 18, but his final eight games could be sign of the big jump that’s about to come.
Rowbottom, who finished third in the club’s best-and-fairest behind Callum Mills and Chad Warner, averaged 25 disposals, 12 contested possessions, nine groundball-gets, eight tackles, six clearances, and 106 KFC SuperCoach points to finish the season.
The tough midfielder led the Swans for tackles and pressure acts and stood up on the big stage in the finals.
“He plays with power and hardness,” Swans coach John Longmire said after the qualifying final win over Melbourne.
“He just gets from contest to contest really quickly.
“He knows what works for him, he knows what his strengths are … he competes hard and keeps it simple.”
Phantom’s Verdict: A price tag of $468k doesn’t make Rowbottom’s selection in KFC SuperCoach a simple one, though. But there’s no denying the numbers are trending in the right direction.
But the key to getting the jump on the rest of the competition – in your league or in the race for the grand prize – is identifying the players set to take the next step.
Sure, it can backfire – we’ve all been there – but finding the value in KFC SuperCoach is one of the keys to building the foundation of a successful year.
Here are seven players The Phantom is tipping to increase their average significantly in 2023.
Errol Gulden (Syd)
$472,000, Fwd-Mid
2022 average: 86
Predicted average 2023: 104
After posting scores of 139 and 136 in the first two games of career, and rating elite for inside 50s, effective kicks, intercept possessions and goal assists as a forward in his debut season, I tipped Gulden to push the 95-point mark last year.
Although 86 is still a significant bump, he didn’t quite there. But we’ve see more to suggest that it will only be a matter of time until he does.
Gulden, who was second behind endurance king Dylan Stephens in the latest 2km time trial, spent more time on a wing in 2022, floating back to play behind the ball, but recorded another three scores of 125 or more, among six KFC SuperCoach tons.
And his enormous scoring potential – as a result of multiple avenues of scoring – goes back to his junior career with Gulden posting scores of 168, 131 and 105 in his three NAB League games in his draft year and 245, 177 and 149 at the national under-16 carnival the previous season.
In Round 20 against the Giants, Gulden tallied career-high disposals (33), metres gained (697), marks (12) and inside-50s (10), on his way to a season-high 131 points. He scored another KFC SuperCoach ton a week later, before finishing the year – including finals – with 72, 74, 79, 88 and 58.
While the ceiling is high, those numbers prove his scoring floor is still low. But consistency often comes with time, and a greater role, and Gulden’s importance to Sydney’s team is likely to only grow from here, given his almost unmatched footy IQ.
Phantom’s Verdict: As some of you know, I’m all in on the young Swan in his third season.
Alex Davies (GC)
$263,200, Fwd-Mid
2022 average: 48
Predicted average 2023: 77
“Alex Davies is different to our other mids, and he got some exposure, but we think he could get some more exposure.”
That’s what Suns coach Stuart Dew said at the end of last season when talking about the plans to increase the depth of his side’s midfield.
The end of last season was also when Davies – again – highlighted his KFC SuperCoach-friendly game.
In the final round against North Melbourne – his highest percentage of game-time for the year (78%) – the 191cm midfielder won 11 of his 15 possessions in a contest and tallied nine groundball-gets, two goals, two assists and 93 KFC SuperCoach points.
The 20-year-old was in and out of the team last year, but played in the Suns’ last three games after a huge 156-point performance, on the back of 18 contested possessions, 13 groundball-gets and 11 tackles, in the VFL.
It was a similar story in 2021, too, with Davies recording 14 contested possessions and six tackles on debut in Round 21.
Consistent opportunity didn’t follow that performance but it might be a different story in 2023.
Phantom’s Verdict: Davies just needs more opportunity, because the way he wins the ball is suited perfectly to KFC SuperCoach. Even as a permanent half-forward, 70 could be on the cards, which would see him make enough early cash.
Marcus Windhager (StK)
$266,200, Fwd-Mid
2022 average: 48
Predicted average 2023: 80
It was an impressive 2022 for the young Saint, who played 18 games in his debut season, finishing the year as the club’s tagger in the midfield.
The extra responsibility resulted in Windhager tallying 17 disposals or more in three of the final five matches.
But it wasn’t the numbers that stood out the most.
Stationed around the ball, Windhager showed off his strength – often taking possession ahead of a more experienced opponent – and clean hands at ground level.
Some of his numbers were pretty good, however.
In Round 21 against the Lions, while restricting Lachie Neale to 16 disposals, the teenager tallied 21 disposals, eight contested possessions, seven marks and five clearances of his own.
Before that, when he was dropped back to the VFL, Windhager dominated the Bombers, finishing with 155 KFC SuperCoach points, on the back of 32 disposals, 16 contested possessions, 12 clearances, eight tackles and two goals.
Windhager kicked off the 2023 pre-season with a 2km time trial win and he’s continued to impress the new coaching group over summer.
Phantom’s Verdict: Another cheap, dual-position forward who is likely to score well above his price tag with an increased role. How many can you fit in, though?
Max Holmes (Geel)
$360,600, Mid
2022 average: 65
Predicted average 2023: 91
Speaking of scoring above their price tag, the young Cat is certainly underpriced in KFC SuperCoach.
Thanks to an injury-affected 14 and a slow start to last season, which included a clanger-ridden 18-point performance in Round 2, Holmes is priced at a 65-point average this year.
But if his finish to 2022 is anything to go by, the 20-year-old will score well above that in 2023.
Holmes, who teammate Patrick Dangerfield believes “could be the best player in the competition at some stage”, became a key part of Chris Scott’s side in the run to the flag, averaging 94 KFC SuperCoach points in the final six games, including finals.
From Round 20 onwards, Holmes averaged 19 disposals, seven contested possessions, six score involvements, four inside-50s, four marks, 438 metres gained and one goal per game.
In the preliminary win over the Lions, Holmes, who was a late comer to football after choosing the game over a promising junior athletics career, tallied 12 disposals, six score involvements, one goal and 102 KFC SuperCoach points in just 56 per cent game-time before injury ended his campaign.
Phantom’s Verdict: At $360k, it doesn’t need to be a full blown breakout for Holmes to be KFC SuperCoach relevant in 2023. That could come when, as Dangerfield predicts, he moves to the inside down the track. If he just reaches the level he hit in the back half of last year, Holmes may well be a mid-pricer worth starting.
James Rowbottom (Syd)
$468,500, Mid
2022 average: 85
Predicted average 2023: 103
He’s threatened for a while but after a strong finish to last year, Rowbottom’s fifth season in the competition could be his breakout one.
The 22-year-old may have only added four points to his KFC SuperCoach average and lifted his disposals per game from 16 to 18, but his final eight games could be sign of the big jump that’s about to come.
Rowbottom, who finished third in the club’s best-and-fairest behind Callum Mills and Chad Warner, averaged 25 disposals, 12 contested possessions, nine groundball-gets, eight tackles, six clearances, and 106 KFC SuperCoach points to finish the season.
The tough midfielder led the Swans for tackles and pressure acts and stood up on the big stage in the finals.
“He plays with power and hardness,” Swans coach John Longmire said after the qualifying final win over Melbourne.
“He just gets from contest to contest really quickly.
“He knows what works for him, he knows what his strengths are … he competes hard and keeps it simple.”
Phantom’s Verdict: A price tag of $468k doesn’t make Rowbottom’s selection in KFC SuperCoach a simple one, though. But there’s no denying the numbers are trending in the right direction.
Sam Berry (Adel)
$478,700, Mid
2022 average: 87
Predicted average 2023: 99
Even if you include the finals series when the Crows took no part, Berry laid eight more tackles than any other player in the competition – the man above James Rowbottom was second.
The young Crow’s 9.5 per game was clearly ranked No. 1 in the league after he recorded double-digit tackles on seven occasions.
Berry may have only posted three KFC SuperCoach tons – among 11 scores of 80 or more – but two of them were big.
In Round 18 against Collingwood, Berry tallied 21 disposals, 13 contested possessions, 17 tackles and 121 points.
A week later in the clash with the Swans, the 20-year-old finished with 24 disposals, 20 contested possessions, 14 tackles, two goals and 140 points.
In those two matches, Berry attended 87 per cent and 91 per cent of centre bounces, respectively. On the year, his centre bounce attendance jumped by 50 per cent on his debut season.
They are numbers reminiscent of his draft year when Berry posted two KFC SuperCoach tons among eight scores of 90 or more from 10 games.
But the season also included a huge 220-point performance, on the back of 20 disposals, 18 tackles, 17 contested possessions and three goals.
Phantom’s Verdict: The tackling beast will always be in the game, but can he do enough else on a consistent basis? That’s his next challenge. I expect a jump but he’s hard to pick in classic as a midfielder only. Keep him high on your KFC SuperCoach Draft watchlist, though.
Hayden Young (Frem)
$508,200, Def
2022 average: 92
Predicted average 2023: 104
My 2020 prediction was close on Young – I forecast a jump from 77 to 95 in his third year, and he finished on 92 after fading late in the minor round.
But, in the story of his season, the damaging left-foot bounced back with scores of 120 and 105 in Fremantle’s two finals.
Overall, including finals, from Round 13, Young posted scores of 142, 104, 58, 89, 88, 139, 110, 78, 85, 89, 120, 105.
The scoring power is there, but like so many young players the consistency isn’t – yet.
But even with those ups and downs, Young averaged 24 disposals, eight marks - two of them intercepts – and 99 KFC SuperCoach points across the 12-game stretch.
Before that – after averaging 19 disposals, seven intercepts, seven marks and 98 KFC SuperCoach points in the final four games of the 2021 – Young started 2023 with 92, 123, 56 and 101 before six scores of 100 or less.
It’s a story of almost, but not quite.
The stats show Young’s bump last year was on the back of his ability to get in the right spots and win the ball back off the opposition.
But it’s still his kicking – and decision making – that is a joy to watch.
Of the 79 players to average 23 disposals or more in 2022, only Tom Stewart, Daniel Rich, Caleb Daniel and Shannon Hurn recorded a better kicking efficiency than Young (79.4 per cent).
That’s good company.
Phantom’s Verdict: Good kicking is good KFC SuperCoach – that part is simple. If he can find a new level of consistency in his fourth season – and there’s enough ball to go around in the Dockers’ defence – Young could be a top-eight defender in 2023.
$478,700, Mid
2022 average: 87
Predicted average 2023: 99
Even if you include the finals series when the Crows took no part, Berry laid eight more tackles than any other player in the competition – the man above James Rowbottom was second.
The young Crow’s 9.5 per game was clearly ranked No. 1 in the league after he recorded double-digit tackles on seven occasions.
Berry may have only posted three KFC SuperCoach tons – among 11 scores of 80 or more – but two of them were big.
In Round 18 against Collingwood, Berry tallied 21 disposals, 13 contested possessions, 17 tackles and 121 points.
A week later in the clash with the Swans, the 20-year-old finished with 24 disposals, 20 contested possessions, 14 tackles, two goals and 140 points.
In those two matches, Berry attended 87 per cent and 91 per cent of centre bounces, respectively. On the year, his centre bounce attendance jumped by 50 per cent on his debut season.
They are numbers reminiscent of his draft year when Berry posted two KFC SuperCoach tons among eight scores of 90 or more from 10 games.
But the season also included a huge 220-point performance, on the back of 20 disposals, 18 tackles, 17 contested possessions and three goals.
Phantom’s Verdict: The tackling beast will always be in the game, but can he do enough else on a consistent basis? That’s his next challenge. I expect a jump but he’s hard to pick in classic as a midfielder only. Keep him high on your KFC SuperCoach Draft watchlist, though.
Hayden Young (Frem)
$508,200, Def
2022 average: 92
Predicted average 2023: 104
My 2020 prediction was close on Young – I forecast a jump from 77 to 95 in his third year, and he finished on 92 after fading late in the minor round.
But, in the story of his season, the damaging left-foot bounced back with scores of 120 and 105 in Fremantle’s two finals.
Overall, including finals, from Round 13, Young posted scores of 142, 104, 58, 89, 88, 139, 110, 78, 85, 89, 120, 105.
The scoring power is there, but like so many young players the consistency isn’t – yet.
But even with those ups and downs, Young averaged 24 disposals, eight marks - two of them intercepts – and 99 KFC SuperCoach points across the 12-game stretch.
Before that – after averaging 19 disposals, seven intercepts, seven marks and 98 KFC SuperCoach points in the final four games of the 2021 – Young started 2023 with 92, 123, 56 and 101 before six scores of 100 or less.
It’s a story of almost, but not quite.
The stats show Young’s bump last year was on the back of his ability to get in the right spots and win the ball back off the opposition.
But it’s still his kicking – and decision making – that is a joy to watch.
Of the 79 players to average 23 disposals or more in 2022, only Tom Stewart, Daniel Rich, Caleb Daniel and Shannon Hurn recorded a better kicking efficiency than Young (79.4 per cent).
That’s good company.
Phantom’s Verdict: Good kicking is good KFC SuperCoach – that part is simple. If he can find a new level of consistency in his fourth season – and there’s enough ball to go around in the Dockers’ defence – Young could be a top-eight defender in 2023.
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Any chance someone can post this article? https://www.heraldsun.com.au/sport/...s-story/7f921f1e4ed9c4638350412ae373fe19?amp#