Discussion Rookie Discussion
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Taking a look at the mature age rookies drafted this year they appeared to be stacked in the forward line.
Players drafted over the age of 20 in the national draft:
-Ben Cavarra * (VFL) pick #45 from the bulldogs, Born in 1995, general forward. 97 SC avg.
-Matthew Parker * (WAFL) pick #47 from the saints, Born in 1996, general forward. (elsewhere he's described as a mid-forward). 76 SC avg.
-Nick Hind (VFL) * pick #55 from the saints, Born in 1994, mid. (elsewhere he's described as a mid-forward). 87 SC avg.
-Matty Hore (VFL) * pick #56 from the dees, Born in 1996, key defender. 102 SC avg
-Lachlan Schultz * (VFL) pick #57 from the dockers, Born in 1997, general forward. 79 SC avg.
-Brett Bewley * (VFL) pick #59 from the dockers, Born in 1995, mid. 103 SC avg.
-Darcy Fort (SANFL) pick #65 from the cats, Born in 1993, Ruck. 123 SC avg.
-Robert Young (SANFL) pick #67 from the saints, Born in 1995, general forward. 71 SC avg.
-Will Hayes * (VFL) pick #78 from the dogs, Born in 1995, mid. 97 SC avg.
-Information from Champion Data Twitter.
The pre-draft selections also include:
Nathan Kreuger (swingman) - cats
Shane McAdam (forward) - crows
Josh Corbett * (forward) - suns
Chris Burgess * (swingman) - suns
Sam Collins * (defender) - suns
some of the mature age, fresh faced rookie picks include:
Jake Aarts * (VFL) general forward - tigers
Kieran Strachan (VFL) ruck - crows 32 SC avg.
Tom Jok (VFL) utility - dons
Tom Atkins * (VFL) mid - cats. 107 SC avg.
Tobe Watson * (WAFL) defender - dockers
Tom Wilkinson * (NEAFL) forward - roos. 93 SC avg.
Callum Wilkie * (SANFL) defender - saints. 99 SC avg.
Jordon Sweet (SANFL) ruck - dogs
Avg from HS.
*I put an Asterix on the players that seem immediately most fantasy relevant based on SC scoring in their state leagues, position and maturity.
Depending on some of the older players already on teams who are about to get games next season this makes me think that we might not be able to pick 6 rookies in defence as we have in other seasons.
Players drafted over the age of 20 in the national draft:
-Ben Cavarra * (VFL) pick #45 from the bulldogs, Born in 1995, general forward. 97 SC avg.
-Matthew Parker * (WAFL) pick #47 from the saints, Born in 1996, general forward. (elsewhere he's described as a mid-forward). 76 SC avg.
-Nick Hind (VFL) * pick #55 from the saints, Born in 1994, mid. (elsewhere he's described as a mid-forward). 87 SC avg.
-Matty Hore (VFL) * pick #56 from the dees, Born in 1996, key defender. 102 SC avg
-Lachlan Schultz * (VFL) pick #57 from the dockers, Born in 1997, general forward. 79 SC avg.
-Brett Bewley * (VFL) pick #59 from the dockers, Born in 1995, mid. 103 SC avg.
-Darcy Fort (SANFL) pick #65 from the cats, Born in 1993, Ruck. 123 SC avg.
-Robert Young (SANFL) pick #67 from the saints, Born in 1995, general forward. 71 SC avg.
-Will Hayes * (VFL) pick #78 from the dogs, Born in 1995, mid. 97 SC avg.
-Information from Champion Data Twitter.
The pre-draft selections also include:
Nathan Kreuger (swingman) - cats
Shane McAdam (forward) - crows
Josh Corbett * (forward) - suns
Chris Burgess * (swingman) - suns
Sam Collins * (defender) - suns
some of the mature age, fresh faced rookie picks include:
Jake Aarts * (VFL) general forward - tigers
Kieran Strachan (VFL) ruck - crows 32 SC avg.
Tom Jok (VFL) utility - dons
Tom Atkins * (VFL) mid - cats. 107 SC avg.
Tobe Watson * (WAFL) defender - dockers
Tom Wilkinson * (NEAFL) forward - roos. 93 SC avg.
Callum Wilkie * (SANFL) defender - saints. 99 SC avg.
Jordon Sweet (SANFL) ruck - dogs
Avg from HS.
*I put an Asterix on the players that seem immediately most fantasy relevant based on SC scoring in their state leagues, position and maturity.
Depending on some of the older players already on teams who are about to get games next season this makes me think that we might not be able to pick 6 rookies in defence as we have in other seasons.
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Herald Sun Article
Supercoach
Rookie bible: AFL draft picks who could be SuperCoach bargains
Al Paton, Herald Sun
November 27, 2018 12:25pm
Subscriber only
Everyone loves a bargain at the AFL draft — and in SuperCoach.
And this year there is a long list of potential fairytale stories, with eight players recruited from the VFL and other second-tier comps in the national draft, plus another 10 mature-age lifelines in the rookie draft — not counting players redrafted by their own clubs.
All of those players are ready to play from Round 1, giving them a headstart on juniors recruited straight out of the under-18 competition.
They were also late draft picks, which means they won’t cost us much in SuperCoach.
We’ve heard a lot about the top-end picks, although the hype doesn’t always translate to on-field performance in year one.
Sam Walsh could be the exception to the rule after averaging 158 in the TAC Cup and 141 in the under-18 championships. But we’ll have to fork out more than $200,000 to add him to our squads.
The players listed below are all a lot cheaper, and bring immeasurable feel-good factor. Here’s who we’ll be keeping a close eye on over the next four months in the countdown to Round 1.
CASH COW ALERT
BEN CAVARRA (WESTERN BULLDOGS, PICK 45)
Recruited from: Williamstown VFL
Estimated 2019 SuperCoach starting price: $117,300
2018 SuperCoach average: 97
Cavarra was overlooked in multiple drafts due to his size (175cm). He kicked 34 goals for Williamstown this year playing as a pressure forward, but has enough strings to his bow to average a very healthy 97 SuperCoach points a game. Don’t forget he won the 2013 Morrish Medal and two Frankston Dolphins best-and-fairests as a midfielder. Likely to start on the bench in a lot of SuperCoach teams.
Ben Cavarra tries to break a tackle in the VFL. Picture: Yuri Kouzmin
MATTHEW PARKER (ST KILDA, PICK 47)
Recruited from: South Fremantle, WAFL
Estimated 2019 SuperCoach starting price: $117,300
2018 SuperCoach average: 76
The explosive forward — who you can’t miss with his neck tattoos — could be our best bet for an early price spike as he hits the AFL physically ready and mentally determined to make an impact. Inspired by Geelong star and SuperCoach sensation Tim Kelly, Parker kicked 27 goals — and laid 84 tackles — in the WAFL this year, and Saints coach Alan Richardson believes his speed and power will suit Marvel Stadium. “(I was) just sitting there watching the draft and the Saints pick came around ... they said my name and I didn’t believe it,” Parker told the West Australian. I burst into tears ... to think that me of all people gets this opportunity. My job is now to go after it, 110 per cent.”
DARCY FORT (GEELONG, PICK 65)
Recruited from: Central District, SANFL
Estimated 2019 SuperCoach starting price: $117,300
2018 SuperCoach average: 123
Mark him down as a sneaky bench option — and he could be a lot more. The Cats need a ruckman and the 205cm 25-year-old could be the man. He has to overtake the inconsistent Zac Smith, injury-prone Rhys Stanley and fellow mature-ager Ryan Abbott, but his numbers stack up. The former Geelong junior averaged 16 disposals and 42 hitouts (including a crazy 72 in one game) in the SANFL. According to his player profile, his nickname is Plow and his favourite hobby outside footy is “fighting corruption”. Should be fun to watch.
NICK HIND (ST KILDA, PICK 54)
Recruited from: Essendon VFL
Estimated 2019 SuperCoach starting price: $117,300
2018 SuperCoach average: 87
St Kilda needs some dash out of the backline and that’s exactly what Hind brings. The 24-year-old is ready to slot straight into the best 22 after averaging 22 disposals and four marks a game for Essendon’s VFL team in 2018. Ranked fourth in the VFL this year for score assists.
BRETT BEWLEY (FREMANTLE, PICK 59)
Recruited from: Williamstown VFL
Estimated 2019 SuperCoach starting price: $117,300
2018 SuperCoach average: 103
When his VFL club likens him to Tom Scully, we take notice. Bewley ranked No.1 in the VFL for effective long kicks last season and averaged 25 disposals a game. “He’s ready-made to go as far as we would be concerned and I dare say obviously Fremantle think the same if they’ve looked at him through the national draft,” Williamstown footy manager Stephen Soulsby told the West Australian. “I would imagine they would like to see him play as an outside mid initially and then potentially throw him inside over time.”
CALLUM WILKIE (ST KILDA ROOKIE)
Recruited from: North Adelaide SANFL (age 22)
Estimated 2019 SuperCoach starting price: $126,400
2018 SuperCoach average: 99
SuperCoach players love a ball-winning backman and Wilkie ticks all the right boxes after starring as an intercept and playmaking defender for North Adelaide in its stunning SANFL premiership triumph. A big ball-winner as a junior, he now has four years of senior footy under his belt culminating in a best-and-fairest this year after an outstanding season in which he averaged 26 disposals and nine marks.
MARTY HORE (MELBOURNE, PICK 56)
Recruited from: Collingwood VFL
Estimated 2019 SuperCoach starting price: $117,300
2018 SuperCoach average: 102
Key defenders are usually a no-go zone in SuperCoach but Hore is worth a look. He ranked first for effective kicks in the VFL this year and second for total marks and intercept possessions (Sam Collins, now at Gold Coast, was No.1 in both categories). The Demons weren’t able to settle on a defensive six in 2017, with Sam Frost and Joel Smith given opportunities and Bayley Fritsch spending time there. Hore will be part of the mix next year, along with star recruit Steven May and returning knee injury victim Jake Lever.
TOM ATKINS (GEELONG ROOKIE)
Recruited from: Geelong VFL (age 23)
Estimated 2019 SuperCoach starting price: $114,400
2018 SuperCoach average: 107
It won’t be easy getting a gig in a star-studded midfield but we know the Cats love a mature-age recruit (think Tim Kelly, Sam Menegola and Co). Atkins averaged 22 disposals and nine tackles for Geelong’s VFL team this year.
WILL HAYES (WESTERN BULLDOGS, PICK 78)
Recruited from: Footscray VFL
Estimated 2019 SuperCoach starting price: $117,300
2018 SuperCoach average: 97
Hayes led Footscray for disposals (26 per game) and contested possessions (10 per game) on the way to winning the best-and-fairest. The 23-year-old son of horse trainer David Hayes is noted for his endurance, finishing third in the comp for inside-50s and second for uncontested possessions.
Will Hayes has been rewarded for a great year at Footscray. Picture: Mark Dadswell
TOM WILKINSON (NORTH MELBOURNE ROOKIE)
Recruited from: Southport (age 22)
Estimated 2019 SuperCoach starting price: $102,400
2018 SuperCoach average: 93
The small forward was passed over in four drafts before being snagged by the Kangaroos with pick 41 in this year’s rookie draft. He won a best-and-fairest with Sandringham in the VFL, took a year off, returned with Williamstown then jetted to Queensland to play for Southport Sharks in the VFL in 2018, kicking 35 goals. North’s Round 1 team is hard to pick but there could be a spot in the forward pocket, with Wilkinson competing with the likes of Kayne Turner, Jy Simpkin and Tarryn Thomas.
LACHLAN SCHULTZ (FREMANTLE, PICK 57)
Recruited from: Williamstown VFL
Estimated 2019 SuperCoach starting price: $117,300
2018 SuperCoach average: 79
Schultz was on a plumbing job when his boss called to tell him he had been drafted. He is a small (177cm) forward who can push into the midfield, potentially inheriting the role of veteran Hayden Ballantyne. The Dockers hope he can repeat the success of mature-agers Lyke Ryan and Bailey Banfield.
HARRISON WIGG (GOLD COAST ROOKIE)
Recruited from: Gold Coast (age 22)
Estimated 2019 SuperCoach starting price: $123,900
2018 SuperCoach average -
We excluded players redrafted by their own clubs from this list, but Wigg is the exception (unlike most others he comes in at basement price). The former Crow had no luck with injuries in his first season as a sun, breaking his ankle at one of his first training sessions which eventually ruled him out for the season. One to watch if he gets through this pre-season unscathed. Averaged 25 disposals a game in the SANFL in 2017.
BUYER BEWARE
HUGH GODDARD (CARLTON ROOKIE)
Recruited from: St Kilda (age 22)
Estimated 2019 SuperCoach starting price: $123,900
2018 SuperCoach averageprimary comp: 61
Is Goddard the Cam O’Shea of 2019? Could get a game in the Blues backline but has never shown much SuperCoach potential with just two scores above 70 in his 10 AFL appearances over the past four years.
ROBBIE YOUNG (ST KILDA, PICK 67)
Recruited from: North Adelaide, SANFL
Estimated 2019 SuperCoach starting price: $117,300
2018 SuperCoach averageprimary comp: 71
According to the Saints website the 23-year-old can play as an inside midfielder or small forward but he spent most of the SANFL season as the latter, booting 19 goals and averaging just 11 disposals a game, with a 19-disposal, six-goal game against Norwood a clear highlight. He can tackle, laying seven or more four times.
KIERAN STRACHAN (ADELAIDE ROOKIE)
Recruited from: Port Melbourne VFL (age 23)
Estimated 2019 SuperCoach starting price: $120,400
2018 SuperCoach average: 32
A former dual best-and-fairest winner at South Bendigo, the ruckman started 2018 on Essendon’s VFL list but shifted mid-season to Port Melbourne in search of opportunity — then broke his ankle. Seems a fair way down the pecking order behind Sam Jacobs.
JOSH SMITH (WEST COAST ROOKIE)
Recruited from: Collingwood (age 24)
Estimated 2019 SuperCoach starting price: $222,750
2018 SuperCoach average: 74
Delisted Pie gets another chance at the premier. Smith played 18 games in his first season at Collingwood but just one last year. Likely to cop an elevated price tag which rules him out of SuperCoach plans.
Supercoach
Rookie bible: AFL draft picks who could be SuperCoach bargains
Al Paton, Herald Sun
November 27, 2018 12:25pm
Subscriber only
Everyone loves a bargain at the AFL draft — and in SuperCoach.
And this year there is a long list of potential fairytale stories, with eight players recruited from the VFL and other second-tier comps in the national draft, plus another 10 mature-age lifelines in the rookie draft — not counting players redrafted by their own clubs.
All of those players are ready to play from Round 1, giving them a headstart on juniors recruited straight out of the under-18 competition.
They were also late draft picks, which means they won’t cost us much in SuperCoach.
We’ve heard a lot about the top-end picks, although the hype doesn’t always translate to on-field performance in year one.
Sam Walsh could be the exception to the rule after averaging 158 in the TAC Cup and 141 in the under-18 championships. But we’ll have to fork out more than $200,000 to add him to our squads.
The players listed below are all a lot cheaper, and bring immeasurable feel-good factor. Here’s who we’ll be keeping a close eye on over the next four months in the countdown to Round 1.
CASH COW ALERT
BEN CAVARRA (WESTERN BULLDOGS, PICK 45)
Recruited from: Williamstown VFL
Estimated 2019 SuperCoach starting price: $117,300
2018 SuperCoach average: 97
Cavarra was overlooked in multiple drafts due to his size (175cm). He kicked 34 goals for Williamstown this year playing as a pressure forward, but has enough strings to his bow to average a very healthy 97 SuperCoach points a game. Don’t forget he won the 2013 Morrish Medal and two Frankston Dolphins best-and-fairests as a midfielder. Likely to start on the bench in a lot of SuperCoach teams.
Ben Cavarra tries to break a tackle in the VFL. Picture: Yuri Kouzmin
MATTHEW PARKER (ST KILDA, PICK 47)
Recruited from: South Fremantle, WAFL
Estimated 2019 SuperCoach starting price: $117,300
2018 SuperCoach average: 76
The explosive forward — who you can’t miss with his neck tattoos — could be our best bet for an early price spike as he hits the AFL physically ready and mentally determined to make an impact. Inspired by Geelong star and SuperCoach sensation Tim Kelly, Parker kicked 27 goals — and laid 84 tackles — in the WAFL this year, and Saints coach Alan Richardson believes his speed and power will suit Marvel Stadium. “(I was) just sitting there watching the draft and the Saints pick came around ... they said my name and I didn’t believe it,” Parker told the West Australian. I burst into tears ... to think that me of all people gets this opportunity. My job is now to go after it, 110 per cent.”
DARCY FORT (GEELONG, PICK 65)
Recruited from: Central District, SANFL
Estimated 2019 SuperCoach starting price: $117,300
2018 SuperCoach average: 123
Mark him down as a sneaky bench option — and he could be a lot more. The Cats need a ruckman and the 205cm 25-year-old could be the man. He has to overtake the inconsistent Zac Smith, injury-prone Rhys Stanley and fellow mature-ager Ryan Abbott, but his numbers stack up. The former Geelong junior averaged 16 disposals and 42 hitouts (including a crazy 72 in one game) in the SANFL. According to his player profile, his nickname is Plow and his favourite hobby outside footy is “fighting corruption”. Should be fun to watch.
NICK HIND (ST KILDA, PICK 54)
Recruited from: Essendon VFL
Estimated 2019 SuperCoach starting price: $117,300
2018 SuperCoach average: 87
St Kilda needs some dash out of the backline and that’s exactly what Hind brings. The 24-year-old is ready to slot straight into the best 22 after averaging 22 disposals and four marks a game for Essendon’s VFL team in 2018. Ranked fourth in the VFL this year for score assists.
BRETT BEWLEY (FREMANTLE, PICK 59)
Recruited from: Williamstown VFL
Estimated 2019 SuperCoach starting price: $117,300
2018 SuperCoach average: 103
When his VFL club likens him to Tom Scully, we take notice. Bewley ranked No.1 in the VFL for effective long kicks last season and averaged 25 disposals a game. “He’s ready-made to go as far as we would be concerned and I dare say obviously Fremantle think the same if they’ve looked at him through the national draft,” Williamstown footy manager Stephen Soulsby told the West Australian. “I would imagine they would like to see him play as an outside mid initially and then potentially throw him inside over time.”
CALLUM WILKIE (ST KILDA ROOKIE)
Recruited from: North Adelaide SANFL (age 22)
Estimated 2019 SuperCoach starting price: $126,400
2018 SuperCoach average: 99
SuperCoach players love a ball-winning backman and Wilkie ticks all the right boxes after starring as an intercept and playmaking defender for North Adelaide in its stunning SANFL premiership triumph. A big ball-winner as a junior, he now has four years of senior footy under his belt culminating in a best-and-fairest this year after an outstanding season in which he averaged 26 disposals and nine marks.
MARTY HORE (MELBOURNE, PICK 56)
Recruited from: Collingwood VFL
Estimated 2019 SuperCoach starting price: $117,300
2018 SuperCoach average: 102
Key defenders are usually a no-go zone in SuperCoach but Hore is worth a look. He ranked first for effective kicks in the VFL this year and second for total marks and intercept possessions (Sam Collins, now at Gold Coast, was No.1 in both categories). The Demons weren’t able to settle on a defensive six in 2017, with Sam Frost and Joel Smith given opportunities and Bayley Fritsch spending time there. Hore will be part of the mix next year, along with star recruit Steven May and returning knee injury victim Jake Lever.
TOM ATKINS (GEELONG ROOKIE)
Recruited from: Geelong VFL (age 23)
Estimated 2019 SuperCoach starting price: $114,400
2018 SuperCoach average: 107
It won’t be easy getting a gig in a star-studded midfield but we know the Cats love a mature-age recruit (think Tim Kelly, Sam Menegola and Co). Atkins averaged 22 disposals and nine tackles for Geelong’s VFL team this year.
WILL HAYES (WESTERN BULLDOGS, PICK 78)
Recruited from: Footscray VFL
Estimated 2019 SuperCoach starting price: $117,300
2018 SuperCoach average: 97
Hayes led Footscray for disposals (26 per game) and contested possessions (10 per game) on the way to winning the best-and-fairest. The 23-year-old son of horse trainer David Hayes is noted for his endurance, finishing third in the comp for inside-50s and second for uncontested possessions.
Will Hayes has been rewarded for a great year at Footscray. Picture: Mark Dadswell
TOM WILKINSON (NORTH MELBOURNE ROOKIE)
Recruited from: Southport (age 22)
Estimated 2019 SuperCoach starting price: $102,400
2018 SuperCoach average: 93
The small forward was passed over in four drafts before being snagged by the Kangaroos with pick 41 in this year’s rookie draft. He won a best-and-fairest with Sandringham in the VFL, took a year off, returned with Williamstown then jetted to Queensland to play for Southport Sharks in the VFL in 2018, kicking 35 goals. North’s Round 1 team is hard to pick but there could be a spot in the forward pocket, with Wilkinson competing with the likes of Kayne Turner, Jy Simpkin and Tarryn Thomas.
LACHLAN SCHULTZ (FREMANTLE, PICK 57)
Recruited from: Williamstown VFL
Estimated 2019 SuperCoach starting price: $117,300
2018 SuperCoach average: 79
Schultz was on a plumbing job when his boss called to tell him he had been drafted. He is a small (177cm) forward who can push into the midfield, potentially inheriting the role of veteran Hayden Ballantyne. The Dockers hope he can repeat the success of mature-agers Lyke Ryan and Bailey Banfield.
HARRISON WIGG (GOLD COAST ROOKIE)
Recruited from: Gold Coast (age 22)
Estimated 2019 SuperCoach starting price: $123,900
2018 SuperCoach average -
We excluded players redrafted by their own clubs from this list, but Wigg is the exception (unlike most others he comes in at basement price). The former Crow had no luck with injuries in his first season as a sun, breaking his ankle at one of his first training sessions which eventually ruled him out for the season. One to watch if he gets through this pre-season unscathed. Averaged 25 disposals a game in the SANFL in 2017.
BUYER BEWARE
HUGH GODDARD (CARLTON ROOKIE)
Recruited from: St Kilda (age 22)
Estimated 2019 SuperCoach starting price: $123,900
2018 SuperCoach averageprimary comp: 61
Is Goddard the Cam O’Shea of 2019? Could get a game in the Blues backline but has never shown much SuperCoach potential with just two scores above 70 in his 10 AFL appearances over the past four years.
ROBBIE YOUNG (ST KILDA, PICK 67)
Recruited from: North Adelaide, SANFL
Estimated 2019 SuperCoach starting price: $117,300
2018 SuperCoach averageprimary comp: 71
According to the Saints website the 23-year-old can play as an inside midfielder or small forward but he spent most of the SANFL season as the latter, booting 19 goals and averaging just 11 disposals a game, with a 19-disposal, six-goal game against Norwood a clear highlight. He can tackle, laying seven or more four times.
KIERAN STRACHAN (ADELAIDE ROOKIE)
Recruited from: Port Melbourne VFL (age 23)
Estimated 2019 SuperCoach starting price: $120,400
2018 SuperCoach average: 32
A former dual best-and-fairest winner at South Bendigo, the ruckman started 2018 on Essendon’s VFL list but shifted mid-season to Port Melbourne in search of opportunity — then broke his ankle. Seems a fair way down the pecking order behind Sam Jacobs.
JOSH SMITH (WEST COAST ROOKIE)
Recruited from: Collingwood (age 24)
Estimated 2019 SuperCoach starting price: $222,750
2018 SuperCoach average: 74
Delisted Pie gets another chance at the premier. Smith played 18 games in his first season at Collingwood but just one last year. Likely to cop an elevated price tag which rules him out of SuperCoach plans.
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Has anyone done an analysis of the cash return and return on investment of this year's rookies by any chance? Would be interesting. Mature age players and those already in the system were the ones who seemed to perform the best yet again.
Kelly, Doedee, Fritsch, Ed Richards (thanks to some spike games that I appreciated), Holman, Finlayson, Murray, Ronke and Stephenson were amongst the best off the top of my head (they all made money, delivered a good ROI % and made it reasonably quickly).
Kelly, Doedee, Fritsch, Ed Richards (thanks to some spike games that I appreciated), Holman, Finlayson, Murray, Ronke and Stephenson were amongst the best off the top of my head (they all made money, delivered a good ROI % and made it reasonably quickly).
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So now prices have dropped for 2019, thought I would share my view on who of the Freo rookies look to be relevant at this early stage....
Logue (164,300 Def) - Former number 8 draft pick, coming off an injury ruined 2018...from all reports has come back in ripping shape, looking fit and strong and is doing everything right on the track. Primed to take on that 3rd tall role down back, if he stays fit, will be best 22
Bewley (117,300, Mid) - Mature ager, strong and fit and looks like he can slot into the midfield to fill some of that void left by Neale...will be there abouts come round 1
Valente (117,300, Mid) - Big wraps on him and his leadership skills, given Pav's former 29, which must mean he is capable of carrying the weight of expectation
Bennell (167,700, Mid) - Training the house down...nah nah nah, if you pick him, I wish you all the best!
Schultz (117,300, Fwd) - Another mature ager, and Freo do have a void to fill at small forward...probably not best 22 to start the season...but definitely one to watch
Think that's about it for relevant rookies from a Freo perspective at this stage....
Logue (164,300 Def) - Former number 8 draft pick, coming off an injury ruined 2018...from all reports has come back in ripping shape, looking fit and strong and is doing everything right on the track. Primed to take on that 3rd tall role down back, if he stays fit, will be best 22
Bewley (117,300, Mid) - Mature ager, strong and fit and looks like he can slot into the midfield to fill some of that void left by Neale...will be there abouts come round 1
Valente (117,300, Mid) - Big wraps on him and his leadership skills, given Pav's former 29, which must mean he is capable of carrying the weight of expectation
Bennell (167,700, Mid) - Training the house down...nah nah nah, if you pick him, I wish you all the best!
Schultz (117,300, Fwd) - Another mature ager, and Freo do have a void to fill at small forward...probably not best 22 to start the season...but definitely one to watch
Think that's about it for relevant rookies from a Freo perspective at this stage....
Crows rookies will all come with the JS query as there will be serious competition for spots with a fit list and a returning Brad Crouch and Brodie Smith....no Tom Doedee style rookie locks this year. McAdam, Jones the most relevant but will be playing low scoring type of role. My tip for the most relevant rookie priced crow would be Reilly O'Brien if there are any issues with Jacobs.
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Thanks mate - early days as you say, but I’ll keep an eye on those names.
Quite a lot of the appealing defenders (keepers, mid pricers and rookies) are from Adelaide, Carlton, GC and GWS, so they share the same bye.
At least it’s R14 (the last one) and the rookies should be largely gone by then. GC rookies from other lines should also have a bit longer to generate cash as a result.
Quite a lot of the appealing defenders (keepers, mid pricers and rookies) are from Adelaide, Carlton, GC and GWS, so they share the same bye.
At least it’s R14 (the last one) and the rookies should be largely gone by then. GC rookies from other lines should also have a bit longer to generate cash as a result.
The Advertiser’s Reece Homfray spent some time with the club during their pre-season camp in Noosa...……..Homfray also commented on two of Port Adelaide’s high draft picks - Connor Rozee and Zak Butters - tipping the former to make his senior debut early next year.
“I couldn’t have been any more impressed,” he added.
“They’ve held Butters back a bit with his shoulder.
“With Rozee, I’d pencil him in for Round 1 right now, he looks great.”
https://www.sen.com.au/news/2018/12/17/how-port-adelaide-plan-to-deploy-ryan-burton/
“I couldn’t have been any more impressed,” he added.
“They’ve held Butters back a bit with his shoulder.
“With Rozee, I’d pencil him in for Round 1 right now, he looks great.”
https://www.sen.com.au/news/2018/12/17/how-port-adelaide-plan-to-deploy-ryan-burton/
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SuperCoach Cheapie Bible: All the rookies you need to know for 2019
DECEMBER 19, 2018
DEFENDERS
Tom Williamson (Carlton) $189,500
Williamson’s 2018 season was ruined by injury, a major blow given he is very highly rated at the Blues. He’s a smooth-moving halfback and with Sam Docherty suffering another ACL tear, some believe Williamson will be the man to fill the void. He played 15 senior games in 2017 and averaged only 49.9 SuperCoach points but will another pre-season under his belt and time in the gym, he should be better equipped for senior footy. The Blues play a high-possession style, which could mean very good things. Watch him over the pre-season.
Connor Rozee (Port Adelaide) $189,300 def/fwd
The No.5 draft pick is lightly-framed but the Power are looking to inject more speed into the midfield following the loss of Jared Polec and Chad Wingard, and Rozee brings just that. He’s had experience playing against senior bodies in the SANFL, which will hold him in good stead as he pushes for a Round 1 debut. He’s also known for his tackling and aggression, two characteristics that should see him in the selection mix. Has played both midfield (157 SuperCoach-point average in 2016 under-16 championships and 104 points in 2017) and forward (74-point SuperCoach average at under-18 carnival), so watch his role over pre-season before making a decision. Still, if he can average 74 points at AFL level you’d take that as a nice cash cow injection.
Sam Collins (Gold Coast) $188,900
During his first stint in the AFL Collins put up some good scores for Fremantle in 2016-17 (including a 126 against Collingwood) before being delisted by the Dockers after just 14 matches. The 24-year-old gets another chance, this time at the Suns, after an outstanding season in the VFL where he led the league for total marks and contested marks. Should see plenty of action down back for Gold Coast.
Isaac Cumming (GWS Giants) $173,700
Cumming was on the radar at this time last year but managed just two AFL games in 2018 for modest SuperCoach returns. With another pre-season under his belt and senior players including Dylan Shiel, Tom Scully and Ryan Griffen departing, there are spots available in the Giants’ best 22. He averaged just over 20 disposals per game in the NEAFL, including one 33-disposal and two-goal game. Could he be 2019’s Jeremy Finlayson?
Oleg Markov (Richmond) $158,000
The Tigers have big raps on Markov but 2019 is surely a make or break year for him. It will be his fourth season at Richmond and given he’s still yet to cement his spot in the team, he needs a big pre-season to get himself in the mix. With the departures of depth players Sam Lloyd, Reece Conca, Corey Ellis and Anthony Miles, there is opportunity for Markov to put himself under coach Damien Hardwick’s nose. Bachar Houli has been a great servant but will the Tigers look to transition Markov into that role? Watch this space. Provides great dash from defence or on the wing and ignored interest from rivals at the end of the year to re-sign with Richmond. Track watchers have told us he’s put on some serious size.
Isaac Quaynor (Collingwood) $153,300
Collingwood’s first-round draft pick has been likened to Bulldog Jason Johannisen for his speed and ability to take the game on, and many believe he’s ready to step into the senior team should an opportunity arise. With an ASADA drug test hanging over Sam Murray, the Pies do need a small rebounding defender and Quaynor definitely fits the bill. He averaged 419m gained in the under-18 championships, ranked No.2 in the competition and was rated elite for contested possessions. Watch his pre-season form.
Jack Scrimshaw (Hawthorn) $149,800
A former No.7 draft pick, Scrimshaw was traded to Hawthorn from Gold Coast during the trade period after never really getting settled in Queensland. The Hawks have a history of turning players from rival clubs into stars and talent doesn’t disappear overnight, so Scrimshaw could be a diamond in the rough. We know coach Alastair Clarkson has given big roles to younger players in the past two years as he regenerates his list for another tilt at a premiership. Look out for him in the JLT Series to gauge whether he’s in the senior selection mix early.
Callum Wilkie (St Kilda) $124,900
Picked up by the Saints in the rookie draft from SANFL club North Adelaide, where he won the best-and-fairest this year as a playmaking defender. The 22-year-old averaged 26 disposals and nine marks a game and could have an immediate impact.
Jordan Clark (Geelong) $144,300
The Cats haven’t been afraid to throw their draftees into the AFL furnace early and Clark could be one to come in and have an immediate impact. The No.15 draft pick has a lot of upside still, after only recently focusing on footy, but has played against senior bodies in the WAFL already which holds him in good stead for a potential debut. He’s a very creative player who could come in and play across halfback to free up Zach Tuohy.
Chris Burgess (Gold Coast) $123,900 def/fwd
One of the Suns’ three priority mature-age access recruits, along with Sam Collins and forward Josh Corbett. The 22-year-old played as a swingman for West Adelaide this year and has been given dual-position status in SuperCoach. It also doubles his chances of selection after the departure of bookends Tom Lynch and Steven May.
Marty Hore (Melbourne) $117,300
Took the second-most marks in the VFL this year (behind Collins) and gets a chance at the Demons at age 22. He is likely to be a back-up for first-choice backmen Steven May and Jake Lever but the Dees chopped and changed their defence a fair bit last season and Lever has had some hiccups in his return from a knee injury. Ready if called upon.
Jez McLennan (Gold Coast) $117,300
The Suns are expected to give their kids plenty of game time next season and McLennan is one who could be given an opportunity. At 185cm and 81kg, he’s got a pretty solid body already and plays across halfback — a perfect position for a young player finding his way in the game. He reads the ball very well in flight and is known for his intercept marking, an area Gold Coast is lacking down back.
Harrison Wigg (Gold Coast) $102,400
Wigg was on plenty of SuperCoach radars 12 months ago after being traded to the Suns from Adelaide following a big season in the SANFL when he averaged 25 disposals, five tackles and 98 SuperCoach points a game. He never got a chance to show what he can do at AFL level in 2018 after breaking his ankle in an early pre-season training session, but if he’s fit for Round 1 he could be a great bottom-priced bench option.
DECEMBER 19, 2018
DEFENDERS
Tom Williamson (Carlton) $189,500
Williamson’s 2018 season was ruined by injury, a major blow given he is very highly rated at the Blues. He’s a smooth-moving halfback and with Sam Docherty suffering another ACL tear, some believe Williamson will be the man to fill the void. He played 15 senior games in 2017 and averaged only 49.9 SuperCoach points but will another pre-season under his belt and time in the gym, he should be better equipped for senior footy. The Blues play a high-possession style, which could mean very good things. Watch him over the pre-season.
Connor Rozee (Port Adelaide) $189,300 def/fwd
The No.5 draft pick is lightly-framed but the Power are looking to inject more speed into the midfield following the loss of Jared Polec and Chad Wingard, and Rozee brings just that. He’s had experience playing against senior bodies in the SANFL, which will hold him in good stead as he pushes for a Round 1 debut. He’s also known for his tackling and aggression, two characteristics that should see him in the selection mix. Has played both midfield (157 SuperCoach-point average in 2016 under-16 championships and 104 points in 2017) and forward (74-point SuperCoach average at under-18 carnival), so watch his role over pre-season before making a decision. Still, if he can average 74 points at AFL level you’d take that as a nice cash cow injection.
Sam Collins (Gold Coast) $188,900
During his first stint in the AFL Collins put up some good scores for Fremantle in 2016-17 (including a 126 against Collingwood) before being delisted by the Dockers after just 14 matches. The 24-year-old gets another chance, this time at the Suns, after an outstanding season in the VFL where he led the league for total marks and contested marks. Should see plenty of action down back for Gold Coast.
Isaac Cumming (GWS Giants) $173,700
Cumming was on the radar at this time last year but managed just two AFL games in 2018 for modest SuperCoach returns. With another pre-season under his belt and senior players including Dylan Shiel, Tom Scully and Ryan Griffen departing, there are spots available in the Giants’ best 22. He averaged just over 20 disposals per game in the NEAFL, including one 33-disposal and two-goal game. Could he be 2019’s Jeremy Finlayson?
Oleg Markov (Richmond) $158,000
The Tigers have big raps on Markov but 2019 is surely a make or break year for him. It will be his fourth season at Richmond and given he’s still yet to cement his spot in the team, he needs a big pre-season to get himself in the mix. With the departures of depth players Sam Lloyd, Reece Conca, Corey Ellis and Anthony Miles, there is opportunity for Markov to put himself under coach Damien Hardwick’s nose. Bachar Houli has been a great servant but will the Tigers look to transition Markov into that role? Watch this space. Provides great dash from defence or on the wing and ignored interest from rivals at the end of the year to re-sign with Richmond. Track watchers have told us he’s put on some serious size.
Isaac Quaynor (Collingwood) $153,300
Collingwood’s first-round draft pick has been likened to Bulldog Jason Johannisen for his speed and ability to take the game on, and many believe he’s ready to step into the senior team should an opportunity arise. With an ASADA drug test hanging over Sam Murray, the Pies do need a small rebounding defender and Quaynor definitely fits the bill. He averaged 419m gained in the under-18 championships, ranked No.2 in the competition and was rated elite for contested possessions. Watch his pre-season form.
Jack Scrimshaw (Hawthorn) $149,800
A former No.7 draft pick, Scrimshaw was traded to Hawthorn from Gold Coast during the trade period after never really getting settled in Queensland. The Hawks have a history of turning players from rival clubs into stars and talent doesn’t disappear overnight, so Scrimshaw could be a diamond in the rough. We know coach Alastair Clarkson has given big roles to younger players in the past two years as he regenerates his list for another tilt at a premiership. Look out for him in the JLT Series to gauge whether he’s in the senior selection mix early.
Callum Wilkie (St Kilda) $124,900
Picked up by the Saints in the rookie draft from SANFL club North Adelaide, where he won the best-and-fairest this year as a playmaking defender. The 22-year-old averaged 26 disposals and nine marks a game and could have an immediate impact.
Jordan Clark (Geelong) $144,300
The Cats haven’t been afraid to throw their draftees into the AFL furnace early and Clark could be one to come in and have an immediate impact. The No.15 draft pick has a lot of upside still, after only recently focusing on footy, but has played against senior bodies in the WAFL already which holds him in good stead for a potential debut. He’s a very creative player who could come in and play across halfback to free up Zach Tuohy.
Chris Burgess (Gold Coast) $123,900 def/fwd
One of the Suns’ three priority mature-age access recruits, along with Sam Collins and forward Josh Corbett. The 22-year-old played as a swingman for West Adelaide this year and has been given dual-position status in SuperCoach. It also doubles his chances of selection after the departure of bookends Tom Lynch and Steven May.
Marty Hore (Melbourne) $117,300
Took the second-most marks in the VFL this year (behind Collins) and gets a chance at the Demons at age 22. He is likely to be a back-up for first-choice backmen Steven May and Jake Lever but the Dees chopped and changed their defence a fair bit last season and Lever has had some hiccups in his return from a knee injury. Ready if called upon.
Jez McLennan (Gold Coast) $117,300
The Suns are expected to give their kids plenty of game time next season and McLennan is one who could be given an opportunity. At 185cm and 81kg, he’s got a pretty solid body already and plays across halfback — a perfect position for a young player finding his way in the game. He reads the ball very well in flight and is known for his intercept marking, an area Gold Coast is lacking down back.
Harrison Wigg (Gold Coast) $102,400
Wigg was on plenty of SuperCoach radars 12 months ago after being traded to the Suns from Adelaide following a big season in the SANFL when he averaged 25 disposals, five tackles and 98 SuperCoach points a game. He never got a chance to show what he can do at AFL level in 2018 after breaking his ankle in an early pre-season training session, but if he’s fit for Round 1 he could be a great bottom-priced bench option.
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MIDFIELDERS
Sam Walsh (Carlton) $207,300
Normally the No.1 draft pick is overlooked as a cash cow option because their price is steep for an untried AFL player, but Walsh is different. Champion Data described him as one of the most “reliable ball-winners ever seen” after averaging 29 disposals across 41 matches and at least 23 disposals in all 25 of his TAC Cup matches as both an under-age and top-age player. He will join Patrick Cripps in the Blues midfield and be given plenty of opportunities. Watch his scores in the JLT Series before locking him into your team but signs out of Carlton are good if you’re willing to invest over $200,000 of your cap in him.
Luke Davies-Uniacke (North Melbourne) $197,500
He was one of the must-have cash cows last season but things didn’t quite go to plan for the No.4 draft pick. Davies-Uniacke was in and out of the North Melbourne side and averaged only 40.4 SuperCoach points per game. With the addition of Jared Polec, Aaron Hall and Dom Tyson, it’s hard to see him playing a big role. Pass.
Bailey Smith (Western Bulldogs) $180,300
At 185cm and 83kg, Smith is ready for senior footy and he’s exactly the type of player the Bulldogs love — he’s a hard runner who is quick, wins plenty of the ball, uses it well and is clean with his hands in contested situations. He has battled a sore Achilles but is expected to be OK by January, which puts him in the frame to impress during the JLT Series. Was ranked behind only Sam Walsh for disposals in the under-18 carnival. Watch this space.
Tarryn Thomas (North Melbourne) $175,800
The talented Tasmanian is exactly the type of X-factor player the Kangaroos are looking for but will he slot straight into their team for Round 1? He can play forward, midfield or down back but with his natural goal sense, he’ll surely get his opportunity inside forward 50, while also pushing up the ground. Unlikely to be a popular choice but that could change with a solid JLT Series campaign.
Harley Bennell (Fremantle) $167,700
We know he’s not a rookie but Benell is rookie priced, so that gets him on this list. If he can get his body right, the Docker would be the cash cow of the year given he has the potential to be an elite player. The only questions are — can he stay fit, and how much does he want it? If he plays in the JLT Series and he’s picked for Round 1, at just $167,700 he is absolutely worth the risk for such a low investment with seriously high scoring potential.
Jye Caldwell (GWS Giants) $162,300
After losing Dylan Shiel, Tom Scully and Ryan Griffen from the midfield, the Giants bolstered their onball brigade with Caldwell at pick No.11 in the draft. He has had some injury troubles but he’s got a strong body already and with good pre-season training and match form, could push himself into the mix for senior selection given there are spots available. He averaged 22 disposals, four clearances and five tackles in his two full TAC Cup games (before injury), which is a great sign.
Jackson Hately (GWS Giants) $148,800
Like Caldwell, Hately will see opportunities for a senior debut early in 2019 and has the added benefit of already having experience against bigger bodies in the SANFL. He averaged 91 SuperCoach points in the SANFL in 2017 and is an elite stoppage player who tackles hard. He can play almost anywhere because of his size, at 189cm and 80kg, and has been compared to West Coast star Elliot Yeo. He’s on the watch list.
Will Setterfield (Carlton) $144,900 mid/fwd
Former No.5 draft pick is a discount price after playing only two senior games due to injuries, but arrives at Carlton from GWS ready to step straight into the starting midfield at age 20. Showed what he is capable of when he averaged 25 disposals, five clearances and almost eight tackles a game in the NEAFL in 2017 before rupturing his ACL in a practice match early this year. Dual-position status makes him close to a must-have.
Liam Stocker (Carlton) $126,300
The Blues pulled off that risky trade with the Crows to secure Stocker, meaning they must see serious potential in him. He’s already strongly built, with a body that appears ready for AFL footy. He’s been touted as a potential replacement for co-captain Sam Docherty across halfback, while he’s also viewed as a long-term partner for Cripps and Walsh in the midfield. Stocker won the Morrish Medal as the best under-18 player in the TAC Cup, which ticks another box. Can see him being given opportunities to ply his trade early for Carlton. He’s definitely one to closely monitor.
Charlie Constable (Geelong) $123,900
Constable pushed hard for a senior debut in 2018 but despite his impressive VFL form didn’t get his opportunity. He finished top-10 in the Cats’ VFL best and fairest after averaging 24 disposals in his 15 matches, with his best a 34-disposal and one-goal game against eventual premiers Box Hill in Round 21. The tall midfielder will definitely be in the mix to play a role for the Cats in 2019 as they look for more midfield and half-forward options. He’s a must-watch during the JLT Series.
Joe Atley (Port Adelaide) $123,900
Another of the 2017 draftees to consider, Atley was close to senior selection for the Power in 2018 but didn’t break through for his debut, meaning he’s still a nice price for us. He did have an injury-interrupted season but proved his ball-winning ability by winning 20 or more disposals in most of his SANFL games, finishing with an average of 21.5 in his 10 games. Definitely one have on your list.
Matthew Ling (Sydney Swans) $123,900 mid/fwd
The second-year Swan has pace to burn and could be ready to add some excitement to a regenerating Sydney team. With Gary Rohan, Dan Hannebery and Nic Newman all departing during the trade period, John Longmire will need his younger players to step up and fill the void and Ling could be one of those. He was restricted to just six NEAFL games in 2018 but with a big pre-season can push himself into the frame for a debut. Sydney’s head of development, John Blakey told the club’s website: “We drafted him for a purpose — for his run and his talent he showed through his under-18s year. We get him back next year probably looking like a first-year player again because he hasn’t played much football at all. We’ll be really pleased to get him on the park.” Good signs.
Corey Wagner (Melbourne) $123,900
The ex-Kangaroo was signed by Melbourne under the new rookie rules — does that mean coach Simon Goodwin has a specific role in mind? The Demons have a history of plucking mature-age players (Bayley Fritsch, Mitch Hannan) and turning them into significant role players. Is Wagner the next cab off the rank?
Brett Bewley (Fremantle) $117,300
Recruited from Williamstown, where he averaged 25 disposals a game in 2018 and led the league for effective long kicks. Has been likened to Tom Scully for his running ability. Ross Lyon had success with mature-age recruit Bailey Banfield last year and seems to have taken a liking to the concept.
Luke Valente (Fremantle) $117,300
The classic draft slider, Valente was tipped as a likely first-round selection on draft night but slipped to pick 32, where he was happily snapped up by the Dockers. The South Australian under-18 captain already has an AFL-ready body was ranked the 10th-best player in the draft by Champion Data and rated elite for intercept possessions and score involvements. Think Tiger Jack Graham.
Rhylee West (Western Bulldogs) $117,300
Calder Cannons coach Ross Smith says the son of Bulldogs champion Scott West is ready to play in his first season. “He’s a very mature 18-year-old,” Smith said of West, who averaged 19 disposals, six tackles and a goal in the TAC Cup this year. Smith likened tough onballer West to another hard nut Jack Viney — it’s worth noting he scored 117 SuperCoach points in his AFL debut.
Will Hayes (Western Bulldogs) $117,300
The Dogs have a long list of new faces so it’s hard to know what their starting 22 will look like but Hayes is ready to play if needed upon after winning Footscray’s best-and-fairest in the VFL this year. The 23-year-old midfielder averaged 26 disposals and 10 contested possessions a game and finished third in the comp for inside-50s.
Nick Hind (St Kilda) $117,300
Hind’s matchwinning multi-bounce run in the VFL semi-final gave Saints fans, and SuperCoach players, a glimpse of what to look forward to as he dashes off the halfback line in 2019. He averaged 22 disposals, four marks and 87 points a game for Essendon’s VFL side and ranked fourth in the comp for score assists.
Sam Walsh (Carlton) $207,300
Normally the No.1 draft pick is overlooked as a cash cow option because their price is steep for an untried AFL player, but Walsh is different. Champion Data described him as one of the most “reliable ball-winners ever seen” after averaging 29 disposals across 41 matches and at least 23 disposals in all 25 of his TAC Cup matches as both an under-age and top-age player. He will join Patrick Cripps in the Blues midfield and be given plenty of opportunities. Watch his scores in the JLT Series before locking him into your team but signs out of Carlton are good if you’re willing to invest over $200,000 of your cap in him.
Luke Davies-Uniacke (North Melbourne) $197,500
He was one of the must-have cash cows last season but things didn’t quite go to plan for the No.4 draft pick. Davies-Uniacke was in and out of the North Melbourne side and averaged only 40.4 SuperCoach points per game. With the addition of Jared Polec, Aaron Hall and Dom Tyson, it’s hard to see him playing a big role. Pass.
Bailey Smith (Western Bulldogs) $180,300
At 185cm and 83kg, Smith is ready for senior footy and he’s exactly the type of player the Bulldogs love — he’s a hard runner who is quick, wins plenty of the ball, uses it well and is clean with his hands in contested situations. He has battled a sore Achilles but is expected to be OK by January, which puts him in the frame to impress during the JLT Series. Was ranked behind only Sam Walsh for disposals in the under-18 carnival. Watch this space.
Tarryn Thomas (North Melbourne) $175,800
The talented Tasmanian is exactly the type of X-factor player the Kangaroos are looking for but will he slot straight into their team for Round 1? He can play forward, midfield or down back but with his natural goal sense, he’ll surely get his opportunity inside forward 50, while also pushing up the ground. Unlikely to be a popular choice but that could change with a solid JLT Series campaign.
Harley Bennell (Fremantle) $167,700
We know he’s not a rookie but Benell is rookie priced, so that gets him on this list. If he can get his body right, the Docker would be the cash cow of the year given he has the potential to be an elite player. The only questions are — can he stay fit, and how much does he want it? If he plays in the JLT Series and he’s picked for Round 1, at just $167,700 he is absolutely worth the risk for such a low investment with seriously high scoring potential.
Jye Caldwell (GWS Giants) $162,300
After losing Dylan Shiel, Tom Scully and Ryan Griffen from the midfield, the Giants bolstered their onball brigade with Caldwell at pick No.11 in the draft. He has had some injury troubles but he’s got a strong body already and with good pre-season training and match form, could push himself into the mix for senior selection given there are spots available. He averaged 22 disposals, four clearances and five tackles in his two full TAC Cup games (before injury), which is a great sign.
Jackson Hately (GWS Giants) $148,800
Like Caldwell, Hately will see opportunities for a senior debut early in 2019 and has the added benefit of already having experience against bigger bodies in the SANFL. He averaged 91 SuperCoach points in the SANFL in 2017 and is an elite stoppage player who tackles hard. He can play almost anywhere because of his size, at 189cm and 80kg, and has been compared to West Coast star Elliot Yeo. He’s on the watch list.
Will Setterfield (Carlton) $144,900 mid/fwd
Former No.5 draft pick is a discount price after playing only two senior games due to injuries, but arrives at Carlton from GWS ready to step straight into the starting midfield at age 20. Showed what he is capable of when he averaged 25 disposals, five clearances and almost eight tackles a game in the NEAFL in 2017 before rupturing his ACL in a practice match early this year. Dual-position status makes him close to a must-have.
Liam Stocker (Carlton) $126,300
The Blues pulled off that risky trade with the Crows to secure Stocker, meaning they must see serious potential in him. He’s already strongly built, with a body that appears ready for AFL footy. He’s been touted as a potential replacement for co-captain Sam Docherty across halfback, while he’s also viewed as a long-term partner for Cripps and Walsh in the midfield. Stocker won the Morrish Medal as the best under-18 player in the TAC Cup, which ticks another box. Can see him being given opportunities to ply his trade early for Carlton. He’s definitely one to closely monitor.
Charlie Constable (Geelong) $123,900
Constable pushed hard for a senior debut in 2018 but despite his impressive VFL form didn’t get his opportunity. He finished top-10 in the Cats’ VFL best and fairest after averaging 24 disposals in his 15 matches, with his best a 34-disposal and one-goal game against eventual premiers Box Hill in Round 21. The tall midfielder will definitely be in the mix to play a role for the Cats in 2019 as they look for more midfield and half-forward options. He’s a must-watch during the JLT Series.
Joe Atley (Port Adelaide) $123,900
Another of the 2017 draftees to consider, Atley was close to senior selection for the Power in 2018 but didn’t break through for his debut, meaning he’s still a nice price for us. He did have an injury-interrupted season but proved his ball-winning ability by winning 20 or more disposals in most of his SANFL games, finishing with an average of 21.5 in his 10 games. Definitely one have on your list.
Matthew Ling (Sydney Swans) $123,900 mid/fwd
The second-year Swan has pace to burn and could be ready to add some excitement to a regenerating Sydney team. With Gary Rohan, Dan Hannebery and Nic Newman all departing during the trade period, John Longmire will need his younger players to step up and fill the void and Ling could be one of those. He was restricted to just six NEAFL games in 2018 but with a big pre-season can push himself into the frame for a debut. Sydney’s head of development, John Blakey told the club’s website: “We drafted him for a purpose — for his run and his talent he showed through his under-18s year. We get him back next year probably looking like a first-year player again because he hasn’t played much football at all. We’ll be really pleased to get him on the park.” Good signs.
Corey Wagner (Melbourne) $123,900
The ex-Kangaroo was signed by Melbourne under the new rookie rules — does that mean coach Simon Goodwin has a specific role in mind? The Demons have a history of plucking mature-age players (Bayley Fritsch, Mitch Hannan) and turning them into significant role players. Is Wagner the next cab off the rank?
Brett Bewley (Fremantle) $117,300
Recruited from Williamstown, where he averaged 25 disposals a game in 2018 and led the league for effective long kicks. Has been likened to Tom Scully for his running ability. Ross Lyon had success with mature-age recruit Bailey Banfield last year and seems to have taken a liking to the concept.
Luke Valente (Fremantle) $117,300
The classic draft slider, Valente was tipped as a likely first-round selection on draft night but slipped to pick 32, where he was happily snapped up by the Dockers. The South Australian under-18 captain already has an AFL-ready body was ranked the 10th-best player in the draft by Champion Data and rated elite for intercept possessions and score involvements. Think Tiger Jack Graham.
Rhylee West (Western Bulldogs) $117,300
Calder Cannons coach Ross Smith says the son of Bulldogs champion Scott West is ready to play in his first season. “He’s a very mature 18-year-old,” Smith said of West, who averaged 19 disposals, six tackles and a goal in the TAC Cup this year. Smith likened tough onballer West to another hard nut Jack Viney — it’s worth noting he scored 117 SuperCoach points in his AFL debut.
Will Hayes (Western Bulldogs) $117,300
The Dogs have a long list of new faces so it’s hard to know what their starting 22 will look like but Hayes is ready to play if needed upon after winning Footscray’s best-and-fairest in the VFL this year. The 23-year-old midfielder averaged 26 disposals and 10 contested possessions a game and finished third in the comp for inside-50s.
Nick Hind (St Kilda) $117,300
Hind’s matchwinning multi-bounce run in the VFL semi-final gave Saints fans, and SuperCoach players, a glimpse of what to look forward to as he dashes off the halfback line in 2019. He averaged 22 disposals, four marks and 87 points a game for Essendon’s VFL side and ranked fourth in the comp for score assists.