Kevin Sheehan’s 2011 Top 30

It’s over a month since the NAB AFL Combine was held at Etihad Stadium in to scrutinise the talent pool. The event tested agility, speed and skills. Meanwhile the endurance testing was a highlight, with many record breaking performances.

Now our focus is on the NAB AFL Draft which for the first time, be held in and will welcome 18 AFL clubs, including the newest club the Greater Western Sydney Giants.

In the last month AFL Recruiting Managers and their teams have watched endless edited highlights of prospects; absorbed countless numbers relating to the speed, endurance, effective kicks, efficiently rates and clearances, studied medical reports and conducted interviews not just with the players, but with coaches, parents and teachers.

It now comes down to opinions – human judgements on which players, in the view of the individual clubs, have what’s necessary to make a difference at the elite level. The computer in this instance won’t provide the answer but sports science helps with decisions.

Who has the greater ball-winning ability, decision-making and skill execution? Who has the competitive edge and sufficient athleticism to be chosen for a professional AFL career? Who will grow and develop most in the AFL club environment?

What we do know is that more than 90 players can be given the chance (there will be passes late in the draft to leave room for preseason draft selections in late December) and only father-son selections and upgraded rookies can be certain of their destination.

This year my top 30 takes into account performances in both state leagues and at the NAB AFL Under 16 and 18 Championships over the last three years. Along with the extra insight gained at the NAB AFL Draft Combine I believe that they all have excellent chances of having exciting careers.

But the beauty of AFL talent identification is that selections are not clear cut. The NAB AFL Rookie Draft in December will include those unlucky not to be drafted on Thursday November 24.

Good luck to all contenders – may your dreams come true.

Kevin Sheehan AFL National Talent & International Talent Manager

Please note: player headshots and action shots are available upon request.

Contact: Michelle Clyne: (03) 9643 1926 or [email protected] Amy Hattam: (03) 9643 1783 or [email protected]

Taylor Adams

Position: Small Midfielder Height: 179cm Weight: 80kg DOB: 20/09/93 Club: St Joseph’s FC/ Falcons

AFL Profile: is a clean ball handler who consistently wins contested in the midfield. He is a strong tackler, averaging 3.4 per game, as well as compiling 27.7 disposals per game in the TAC Cup in 2011.

He represented Vic Country at the NAB AFL Under 18 Championships, playing four games and averaging 18.8 disposals with his best matches against and South Australia. His excellent performances and hard edge demonstrated during the championships earned him All-Australian honours.

He proved that he possesses a high level of endurance at the NAB AFL Draft Combine when he reached level 15.1 in the beep test, a top 10 result.

X-factor: “Footy nous to win the ball in contested situations.”

Q&A with Taylor Adams: Which AFL footballer do you model your game on? . He's an extremely hard worker and he goes about the footy in the right way. He’s tough and professional.

What are your strengths as a footballer? I’m a competitive player with clean hands. I have the ability to win contested ball.

What parts of your game do you want to improve on? My speed and outside game needs improvement, as well as my ability to get uncontested possessions.

Why do you want to be a professional footballer? I’m a competitive person and want to compete against the best. It’s always been a goal of mine to play AFL footy.

Joshua Bootsma

Position: Tall Defender Height: 190cm Weight: 74kg DOB: 22/02/93 Club: South Coogee JFC/South

AFL Profile: Joshua Bootsma is a rebounding defender with good closing speed and a long penetrating kick. He is a team-oriented player who spoils well.

He tested extremely well at the NAB AFL Draft Combine at Etihad Stadium with a time of 2.98 seconds in the 20 metre sprint and 10.40 minutes in the 3km time trial, showcasing his speed and endurance combination.

His father, Brad Bootsma, played 23 games with Fremantle in the AFL a decade ago and was a great South Fremantle player captaining the club and winning a award.

X-factor: “One-grab marking and precision kicking from defence.”

Q&A with Joshua Bootsma: What type of player are you? I’m a hard running player.

What are your strengths as a footballer? My strengths are marking, spoiling and kicking.

Who has been the biggest influence on your football career so far? My dad who played for Fremantle (Brad Bootsma) has had the biggest influence. He is always watching my game and helping me to improve it.

Matthew Buntine

Position: Medium Defender Height: 189cm Weight: 84kg DOB: 19/10/93 Club: Berwick FC/

AFL Profile: is an AIS/AFL Academy graduate who was awarded the Ben Mitchell Medal, as voted on by his peers, for his outstanding on and off field performances during his time in the program.

He represented Vic Country at the NAB AFL Under 18 Championships with injury restricting him for all but two of the matches. However he was at his best in the final game against Vic Metro, showing his natural talent at Etihad Stadium.

Hardly beaten in one-on-one contests, he is a good size, strong and courageous overhead. He has a good feel for the game and uses the ball well.

X-factor: “Ability to read the opposition’s attacks and use his marking ability then precision kicking to setup counter attacks.”

Q&A with Matthew Buntine: Who influenced you growing up? My dad has been a great role model and support in my life. He taught me the importance of enjoying myself.

Which AFL player do you model your game on? . I play a similar role in the backline and aerially I can impact the game as he does. He has a great marking ability which I aspire to have and love the way he kicks the ball.

What are you strengths as a footballer? My greatest strengths are my one-on-one ability, leadership qualities out on the ground and reading the play.

What drives you to want to be an AFL footballer? I love football and am passionate about it. When I'm around it I feel happy.

Stephen Coniglio

Position: Medium Midfielder Height: 182cm Weight: 76kg DOB: 15/12/93 Club: Upper Swan JFC/Swan District

AFL Profile: As the winner of this year’s Larke Medal, awarded to the player judged the best and fairest in Division One of the NAB AFL Under 18 Championships, has showed he is a standout prospect. He has demonstrated that he is particularly dangerous around goals, kicking eight throughout the championships.

Representing , he averaged 22.4 disposals per game, 10.4 contested possessions and four tackles. He was awarded Western Australia’s MVP and All-Australian honours.

At just 16, he played at senior level with the Swan Districts, kicking four goals in the 2010 WAFL grand final.

Coniglio is a hard running midfielder with terrific speed and long kicking ability and is not afraid to take the game on with his separation from stoppages.

He was a member of the 14th intake into the AIS/AFL Academy.

X-factor: “His repeat speed and direct long kicking often leaves the opposition floundering.”

Q&A with Stephen Coniglio: What type of player are you? I’m a hard running midfielder with good skills who can run with the ball and break away on the outside.

Which AFL player do you model your game on? . He gets the job done in contested situations and then breaks lines and kicks goals.

What are you strengths as a footballer? My strengths are stamina, pace, skills, determination, leadership and ability to attack the ball.

What parts of your game would you like to improve? I need to build a bit of muscle and improve my overhead marking.

Hayden Crozier

Position: Medium Forward Height: 185cm Weight: 68kg DOB: 24/12/93 Club: Rowville FC/

AFL Profile: was a standout at the NAB AFL Draft Combine, recording the second best result in the running vertical jump test at 91 centimetres. He also received top results in the 20 metre sprint (2.89 seconds), and in the agility run (8.08 seconds – top six).

He represented Vic Metro at the NAB AFL Under 18 Championships playing in all five games. He can take a great mark, which was highlighted at Patterson Stadium when he took a against Western Australia. Crozier kicked a total of eight goals during the five games that he played in the championships.

He is very well balanced and a beautiful kick of the footy on his preferred left side. He averaged 18.7 disposals for the Ranges this year at 67.4 efficiency.

X-factor: “Has outstanding speed, vertical leap and goal sense.”

Q&A with Hayden Crozier: How would your coaches and teammates describe you? My coaches would say I’m very coachable. I respect them and am willing to learn. My teammates would say I’m respectful towards them and I’m a hard worker on and off the field.

What parts of your game would you like to improve? My body size needs some work on as I’m not the biggest guy going around.

Why do you want to be a professional AFL footballer? It’s a career that sets you up for life with all the friends that you make. Plus winning a Premiership looks like the best feeling in the world.

Who influenced you growing up? Certainly my parents have been the biggest influence. They were in the street every night kicking the footy with me.

Sam Docherty

Position: Medium Defender Height: 183cm Weight: 85kg DOB: 17/10/93 Club: Phillip Island FC/

AFL Profile: is a rebounding defender who reads the play extremely well and uses the ball efficiently, especially by foot.

He represented Vic Country at the NAB AFL Under 18 Championships, winning best on ground honours versus Western Australia in one of the two games he played.

At TAC Cup level he averaged 22.1 disposals at 71.8 per cent efficiency, showing ability to play inside and outside.

He didn’t test at the NAB AFL Draft Combine due to injury, however he has recorded a 13.12 score in the beep test, as well as 3.00 seconds for the 20 metre sprint test at Gippsland Power training.

X-factor: “Penetrating kick and dash from defence.”

Q&A with Sam Docherty: Who influenced you growing up? My dad by far has been the biggest influence. He coached me for two years and would critique my game afterwards.

What type of player are you? I’m more of a backman but with fitness I could be in the midfield and it would be very beneficial to my game.

What parts of your game would you like to improve? I need to improve my physical strength, achieve more one-percenters, tackles and spoils.

What drives you to be an AFL footballer? I love playing the game. I’m a real footy head and couldn’t think of anything better than playing footy as a career. It can’t get much better than that.

Brandon Ellis

Position: Medium Defender Height: 181cm Weight: 83kg DOB: 03/08/93 Club: West Coburg FC/

AFL Profile: is a well built defender who reads the play very well. He is a team oriented player, an excellent kick, has clean ball handling skills and makes good decisions with the footy.

Representing Vic Metro at the NAB AFL Under 18 Championships, he had an outstanding game against NSW/ACT, gathering 29 disposals. He averaged 18.2 disposals, at 75.8 per cent effectiveness during the championships. He was rewarded with All-Australian honours

Ellis was a top performer at the NAB AFL Draft Combine, reaching level 15.4 in the beep test. He also recorded 70 centimetres in the standing vertical jump, putting him in top 11 per cent.

X-factor: “Ability to win the ball back from opposition in defense.”

Q&A with Brandon Ellis: What would your teammates and coaches say are your best attributes? My preparation during the week, the extra things I do. I try to be one step ahead of everyone else.

What are your strengths as a footballer? My strengths are my physicality and kicking, I love the contact and I love crunching bodies.

What parts of your game would you like to improve? I need to improve my speed. I’m not the quickest guy but I’m not slow.

What motivates you to be an AFL footballer? It’s been my dream since I was kid to play AFL. I grew up in watching North Melbourne players in the change rooms before or after a match and I said to my parents I want to be here one day.

Todd Elton

Position: Ruckman / Tall Forward Height: 197cm Weight: 92kg DOB: 29/04/93 Club: Somerville FC/Dandenong Stingrays

AFL Profile: was a member of the 14th intake of the AIS/AFL Academy. He has the ability to cleanly gather the ball below his knees and dispose effectively. He is an outstanding athlete, recording 2.93 seconds in the 20 metre sprint and 89 centimetres in the running vertical jump test, placing him in the top one per cent at the NAB AFL Draft Combine.

He represented Vic Country at the NAB AFL Under 18 Championships, with his strong overhead marking prominent during the five games he played.

He showed great character and leadership on the field, averaging 12.6 disposals and six marks for the Stingrays this year.

X-factor: “Ability to play multiple positions with his athletic ability and strength overhead.”

Q&A with Todd Elton: Which AFL player do you model your game on? . He’s got a good tank and strong overhead.

What parts of your game would you like to improve? I need to work on my muscular strength but I’ve been working out at the gym. I also want to perfect kicking on my left side.

What are your strengths as a footballer? My strengths are mobility, versatility for a tall fellow, athleticism and marking.

Alex Forster

Position: Medium Defender Height: 189cm Weight: 77kg DOB: 14/07/93 Club: Payneham FC/ Norwood

AFL Profile: was selected in the All-Australian team following very consistent performances for South Australia at the NAB AFL Under 18 Championships. He averaged 15.4 disposals at 84.4 per cent efficiency, with five marks.

He has clean hands both in the air and on the ground, is composed under pressure and kicks the ball well on both feet.

His agility was the standout feature at the NAB AFL Draft Combine with a time of 8.21 seconds for the agility run, placing him in the top 17 per cent.

X-factor: “Composure with the ball under pressure by hand and foot.”

Q&A with Alex Forster: Which AFL player do you model your game on? from Geelong. He reads the play well, has great skills and is a good rebounder.

What parts of your game would you like to improve? My strengths are speed, physical strength and endurance.

How would your teammates and coaches describe you? I have good decision making skills, a strong ability to read the play and good efficiency.

Why do you want to be a professional AFL footballer? I love playing footy and I couldn’t think of anything better than getting to play it professionally. Plus I love the friendships you make.

Toby Greene

Position: Medium Midfielder Height: 180cm Weight: 78kg DOB: 25/09/93 Club: Wesley College/

AFL Profile: is a prolific midfielder who wins contested ball, has terrific evasive skills in traffic and can find the ball in space.

He excelled at the NAB AFL Under 18 Championships, averaging 24.5 disposals, including 11 contested. He was awarded with All-Australian honours and MVP for Vic Metro.

Greene also had an outstanding year in the TAC Cup, averaging 29.2 disposals, six clearances and six hard ball gets.

He has good endurance and is able to cover plenty of ground. At the NAB AFL Draft Combine he came seventh in the beep test recording 15.2.

X-factor: “Ball winning ability around stoppages and distribution is elite.”

Q&A with Toby Greene: Which AFL player do you feel you resemble, and why? . He’s very professional, plays well in big games and his work around stoppages is really good.

How would your teammates and coaches describe you? I’m a likeable guy who doesn’t go over the top. I’m determined, composed and focussed on contributing to the team’s success.

What are your strengths as a footballer? My strengths are getting first use of the ball and my work around stoppages, also my ability to get the ball in a congested situation and to make the right decision once I've got the ball.

What parts of your game would you like to improve? I’d like to improve my confidence kicking with both feet. I want to develop into a more damaging player and to work on my speed over five to ten metres and trying to break clear.

Joel Hamling

Position: Tall Forward Height: 193cm Weight: 78kg DOB: 09/04/93 Club: Cable Beach FC/Claremont

AFL Profile: represented Western Australia at the NAB AFL Under-18 Championships, averaging five marks. He kicked six goals during the championships and was particularly impressive against the Northern Territory and Tasmania

He tested extremely well at the NAB AFL Draft Combine, recording an impressive time of 2.90 seconds for the 20 metre sprint, along with his running vertical jump of 84 centimetres, putting him in the top 10 per cent.

He is a mobile forward who can also move to defence and hails from Broome in far north Western Australia.

X-factor: “Natural leap and speed, and overhead marking are features.”

Q&A with Joel Hamling: Which AFL player do you model your game on? . He is good with his overhead marking and a good kick. He creates contests, can run all day and gets in the right spots.

What are your strengths as a footballer? My strengths are kicking, marking, decision making, speed and ability to get the ball.

What parts of your game would you like to improve? I want to improve my physical strength and preparation .

How would your teammates and coaches describe you? I love the game and I’m an honest lad.

Nick Haynes

Position: Tall Medium Midfielder/Forward Height: 191cm Weight: 76kg DOB: 18/05/92 Club: Frankston Bombers FC/Dandenong Stingrays

AFL Profile: represented Vic Country at the NAB AFL Under 18 Championship as a 19-year-old after playing locally with the Frankston Bombers at senior level in 2010.

He has great agility, takes a good overhead mark and possesses very good running and aerobic capacity.

In the TAC Cup he averaged 17.4 disposals and six marks with the Stingrays, winning his club’s best and fairest award.

Haynes proved that he possesses a high level of endurance at the NAB AFL Draft Combine when he came fifth in the 3km time trial with a time of 10.16 minutes.

X-factor: “Aerial ability and mobility make him difficult to match up on.”

Q&A with Nick Haynes: Which AFL player do you feel you resemble, and why? Nick Riewoldt for his running patterns and the way he works the field. as he has a similar build to me.

What are your strengths as a footballer? My strengths are my ability to take a contested mark and make a lead. I can play forward, half forward flank and wing.

What parts of your game would you like to improve? I’ve been working on my strength by doing weights before work. I would also like to improve my kicking penetration.

What drives you to want to be an AFL footballer? I want to play at the highest level I can. I would love to be part of a team environment and team success. I think I would make mates for life.

Bradley Hill

Position: Small Midfielder Height: 179cm Weight: 71kg DOB: 09/07/93 Club: Joondalup Kinross JFC/West

AFL Profile: Younger brother of Docker Stephen, Bradley Hill proved he is an elite athlete at the NAB AFL Draft Combine. He broke the beep test record with a score of 16.1 and was the fastest in the 3km time trial running 9.52 minutes. He was also a top 10 finisher in the 30 metre repeat sprint test (24.49 seconds). To top off his athletic set, his 20 metre sprint time of 2.88 seconds was in the top five at the Draft Combine.

Hill represented Western Australia at the Under 18 Championships, averaging 14 disposals over the two matches that he played.

X-factor: “Brilliant ability to run at high speed for a long period.”

Q&A with Bradley Hill: What type of player are you? I’m a hard running team player.

What are your strengths as a footballer? My strengths are speed, endurance and positioning.

What parts of your game would you like to improve? I’d like to improve my kicking and strengthen my ability to win a contested ball.

Who has had the biggest influence on your career so far? My mum has been a big influence because she has always been there to take me to games and training. Also my oldest brother has tried to help me improve my skills.

Will Hoskin-Elliott

Position: Medium Midfielder Height: 186cm Weight: 73kg DOB: 02/09/93 Club: North Sunshine FC/

AFL Profile: Will Hoskin-Elliott is an AIS-AFL Academy graduate who shows great endurance and breakaway speed on the field. He has clean hands, speed and is a long penetrating kick, as well as being a good mark overhead and a good decision maker.

His run and carry is elite, averaging seven inside 50s per match, among his 14 disposals per match playing for Vic Metro in the NAB AFL Under 18 Championships. He was clearly among Vic Metro’s best performers against Western Australia and Vic-Country and earned All-Australian honours.

Hoskin-Elliott recorded the second best performance both in the 3km trial (9.53 minutes) and the beep test (15.12) at the NAB AFL Draft Combine, highlighting his athletic ability.

X-factor: “Ability to gather the ball cleanly in all conditions, then run and carry.”

Q&A with Will Hoskin-Elliott: What are your strengths as a footballer? My strengths are my ball skills, running with the ball, carrying the ball, kicking and marking.

How would your teammates and coach describe you? I’m funny, hard working on the field and a good bloke.

Which AFL player do you model your game on? Stephen Hill from Fremantle. I love the way he gets the ball and just runs and carries it. I'd like to play like him.

Why do you want to be a professional AFL footballer? I want to play footy at the highest level and to be the best I can. It’s been a dream to play AFL since I was a kid.

Elliott Kavanagh

Position: Medium Midfielder Height: 185cm Weight: 75kg DOB: 19/05/93 Club: PEGS/Western Jets

AFL Profile: was a member of the 14th intake into the AIS/AFL Academy. He has excellent endurance and game sense. He had an injury interrupted year but finished the year in good fashion.

He uses the ball well, is a strong mark overhead and a good decision maker. He is a real competitor and enjoys winning the contested ball.

His time of 10.37 minutes for the 3km test was impressive at the NAB AFL Draft Combine, putting him in the top 25 per cent and he also topped the Clean Hands Test, highlighting his skill.

X-factor: “Smooth mover with big engine, clean hands and makes good decisions with the football.”

Q&A with Elliott Kavanagh: Which AFL player do you model your game on? I like the way plays and the way he is able to reverse out of packs. I also like the because he gets down under.

What are your strengths as a footballer? My strengths are kicking, making quick decisions through traffic, endurance and speed.

What parts of your game would you like to improve? I want to be able to fly more and I’ve been practising jumping forwards and backwards, and trying to adapt to pressure situations.

Why do you want to be an AFL footballer? The friendships you make and the bonds you have after winning a grand final. The lifestyle with all the structures, it’s easier to be driven with structures.

Shane Kersten

Position: Tall Forward Height: 190cm Weight: 88kg DOB: 15/03/93 Club: Kwinana JFC/South Fremantle

AFL Profile: is a powerful forward who is strong overhead and a long kick. He had a taste of senior WAFL football in 2010.

Kersten kicked five goals against Queensland in the 2010 NAB AFL Under 18 Championships as a 17-year-old but missed the 2011 Championships due to injury.

At the NAB AFL Draft Combine, he received an efficiency rating of 83 per cent in the Matthew Lloyd Clean Hands Test and recorded 2.96 seconds for the 20 metre sprint test. His running vertical leap of 83 centimetres was also impressive, putting him in the top 13 per cent.

X-factor: “Thumping long kick for goal with strong hands overhead.”

Q&A with Shane Kersten: Which AFL player do you model your game on? . He’s great at marking and he'll crush a pack to get the ball.

What are your strengths as a footballer? My strengths are my goal kicking, long kicking, marking and speed.

What parts of your game would you like to improve? I’ve been working on my defensive pressure.

Why do you want to be an AFL footballer? It’s been my dream since I was a kid. I've got this far and if I get the chance to play AFL I will grab it with both hands and do my best.

Billy Longer

Position: Ruckman Height: 202cm Weight: 95kg DOB: 12/05/93 Club: Macleod FC/

AFL Profile: is a deceptively quick ruckman who excels at stoppages with his tap work. He is strong overhead, whether it be up forward or assisting in defence.

He was impressive at the 2011 NAB AFL Under 18 Championships, averaging 10.8 disposals, 21.5 hit-outs, as well as 5.3 marks per game. Captaining Vic Metro, his outstanding performance and leadership skills during the championships earned him All-Australian honours.

The 2009 AIS-AFL Academy graduate also had a terrific season with the Northern Knights this year, averaging 11.7 disposals, four marks and 29 hit outs per game.

X-factor: “His tap work at stoppages and mobility for size are impressive.”

Q&A with Billy Longer: Which AFL player do you feel you resemble? I’ve been likened to Dean Cox. We are both mobile around the ground and can take a mark.

What are your strengths as a footballer? My strengths are tap work, follow up work, marking and leadership.

What parts of your game would you like to improve? I would like to work on my fitness.

Daniel Markworth

Position: Tall Forward Height: 191cm Weight: 78kg DOB: 03/04/92 Club: Macedon FC/Calder Cannons

AFL Profile: Daniel Markworth is a speedy forward who represented Vic Metro in one game at the NAB AFL Under 18 Championships as a 19-year-old in his first year in the TAC Cup. He had an outstanding year with the Cannons, showing clean hands and goal sense as a forward and creativity in the midfield, averaging 15 disposals and two goals per game.

Markworth has explosive pace which he showed at the NAB AFL Draft Combine, running 2.89 seconds for the 20 metre sprint (top eight per cent) and 24.31 seconds for the repeat sprint (top six per cent).

X-factor: “Exceptional speed for a 191 centimetre forward with clean hands overhead.”

Q&A with Daniel Markworth: Which AFL player do you model your game on? . He’s a tall player that can play in the midfield and go up forward. He’s good at breaking away from packs and having an impact on the game.

What parts of your game would you like to improve? There is a lot to learn. I guess game sense, I could be a lot stronger physically, my endurance could improve and knowing when to give it off or take players on.

What are your strengths as a footballer? My strengths are speed and I’m opportunistic around goals. I have good vision which I pride myself on.

Tom Mitchell

Position: Medium Midfielder Height: 180cm Weight: 73kg DOB: 31/05/93 Club: Hale School/Claremont

AFL Profile: Tom Mitchell is a left footed midfielder who has outstanding ball winning ability and excels at the clearances.

Mitchell missed the early games in the NAB AFL Under 18 Championships but was impressive for Western Australia in the final two matches, averaging 28 disposals with 13 contested and five clearances.

He has already been drafted at selection 21 under the father-son rule to where his father Barry was a star.

He was a member of the 13th intake of the AIS-AFL Academy where he recorded a 14.1 beep test result, showcasing his endurance.

X-factor: “Natural feel for the game and reading the ball off hands.”

Q&A with Tom Mitchell: Which AFL player do you model your game on? Sam Mitchell. He’s good at winning the ball around clearances. He’s also an inside midfielder and left foot kick like me.

What are your strengths as a footballer? My strengths are my ball winning ability around clearances and general ball handling.

What parts of your game would you like to improve? I’d like to improve my kicking with my opposite foot, endurance and speed.

How would your coaches and teammates describe you? I’m always focused on the team result. A team oriented player.

Who has had the biggest influence on your career? My parents. They’ve shaped the way I act. They taught me to always give it your best and to not give up.

Jonathon Patton

Position: Tall Forward Height: 197cm Weight: 100kg DOB: 20/05/93 Club: Scoresby FC/Eastern Ranges

AFL Profile: is a powerful tall forward who is outstanding overhead, with exceptionally strong hands on the lead or in a pack situation.

The AIS/AFL Academy graduate was a key player for Vic Metro at the Under 18 Championships, averaging nine marks, 15 disposals and 3.6 goals per game. He kicked a total of 18 goals during the five games he played and was selected in the All-Australian Under 18 team.

At TAC Cup level he averaged 17 disposals, eight marks and three goals, highlighting his overall talent.

X-factor: “Imposing and powerful marking forward with a penetrating right foot kick.”

Q&A with Jonathon Patton: What type of player are you? I’m a hard working, power forward. I’m athletic, good on a lead and one-on-one.

Which AFL player do you feel you resemble? Jonathan Brown. I try and work as hard as he does. Also I can take a good contested mark.

What parts of your game would you like to improve? I’d like to improve my goal kicking, defensive transition, speed over 30-40 metres and my left-foot kicking.

Sebastian Ross

Position: Medium Midfielder Height: 187cm Weight: 83kg DOB: 07/05/93 Club:Horsham FC/ North Ballarat Rebels

AFL Profile: is the cousin of . He represented Vic Country at the NAB AFL Under 18 Championships, averaging 14.5 possessions and four tackles a game as part of their midfield.

His strengths are his work rate, contested footy, clean hands and ability to play many roles on the field.

He had an outstanding TAC Cup year with the Rebels, averaging 24.8 disposals, 4.6 marks and 3.4 tackles.

His repeat sprint time at the NAB AFL Draft Combine of 24.66 seconds was impressive, putting him in the top 18 per cent, along with his beep test of score of 14.8, showcasing his endurance.

X-factor: “His contested ball winning ability and clean hands.”

Q&A with Sebastian Ross: Which AFL player do you model your game on? . I love the way he can win the contested ball and break away from packs and kick goals.

What are your strengths as a footballer? My strengths are my work rate and contested ball winning ability. I show good leadership, decision making and awareness.

What parts of your game would you like to improve? I’ve been working on my endurance by doing kick boxing sessions.

Why do you want to be an AFL footballer? I want to reach my full potential. I’m not pursuing AFL for the money, more just for the love of the game.

Tom Sheridan

Position: Medium Midfielder Height: 185cm Weight: 76kg DOB: 28/10/93 Recruited from: Riddells Creek FC/Calder Cannons

AFL Profile: Tom Sheridan represented Vic Metro at the NAB AFL Under 18 Championships, averaging 14 possessions. He has very good endurance and has the ability to bring others into the game through clever use of the ball by hand or foot.

He demonstrated he possesses an elite level of endurance at the NAB AFL Draft Combine where he recorded top three results in the beep test (15.7) and in the 3km trial (9.57 minutes).

He had an outstanding TAC Cup year with the Cannons, averaging 24.4 disposals and 4.7 tackles.

X-factor: “His exceptional work rate allows him to get to many contests.”

Q&A with Tom Sheridan: What are your strengths as a footballer? My strengths are endurance, kicking with both legs and handballing.

What parts of your game would you like to improve? I want to work on my physical size. I need to get stronger being a skinny lad. My left handball needs a bit more penetration and I could work on kicking penetration.

Why do you want to be a professional AFL footballer? I’ve always wanted to succeed as a football player and to play at the highest level against the best players.

Clay Smith

Position: Medium Midfielder Height: 180cm Weight: 78kg DOB: 11/05/93 Club: Lucknow FC/Gippsland Power

AFL Profile: is a tough inside left footer with an insatiable desire to win the ball, whether in the air or on the ground. He is relentless at the opposition when they are in possession.

He also has the capacity to win contests when outnumbered which was a feature of his play representing Vic Country in the NAB AFL Under 18 Championships where he won All-Australian honours.

He had an excellent year with Gippsland Power, averaging 26.3 disposals, 4.5 clearances and 5.4 tackles.

Smith tested well at the NAB AFL Draft Combine, recording 3.00 seconds for the 20 metre sprint and 15.3 for the beep test, putting him in the elite group for endurance.

X-factor: “A hard edged, tough and durable lefty with a great appetite for the contest.”

Q&A with Clay Smith: Which AFL player do you model your game on? Joel Selwood. He’s not scared of anything and he’s hard at it.

What parts of your game would you like to improve? I’d like to improve my kicking, transition from attack to defense and shutting down the opponents when my team hasn’t got the footy.

What are your strengths as a footballer? My strengths are competitiveness, tackles and spoils. My kicking has improved even though it's not the best style but it works for me. I’m hard at it and work well in a team environment.

Devon Smith

Position: Small Forward/Midfielder Height: 174cm Weight: 76kg DOB: 20/05/93 Club: Lara FC/

AFL Profile: was a member of the 14th AIS-AFL Academy intake. He averaged 18.5 disposals and four tackles at the NAB AFL Under 18 Championships, after missing the early part of the year while recovering from injury.

He has pace, agility and is a great decision-maker who is dynamic near goal. He averaged 27.3 disposals and 7.2 tackles with the Falcons this year.

Smith tested superbly at the NAB AFL Draft Combine with speed (2.91 seconds for the 20 metre sprint) and endurance (15.1 for the beep test), putting him in the top bracket.

X-factor: “Prolific contested ball winning ability as a small forward and radar around goals.”

Q&A with Devon Smith: Which AFL player do you model your game on? . I’m impressed by the way he runs and carries the ball.

What are your strengths as a footballer? My strengths are competitiveness and ability to play inside and outside.

What parts of your game would you like to improve? I want to work on not swinging onto my left foot too much and I need to try not to over play it.

Liam Sumner

Position: Small Midfielder Height: 178cm Weight: 71kg DOB: 16/08/93 Club: St Paul’s JFC/

AFL Profile: is a quick, agile midfielder who was a member of the 14th intake of the AIS/AFL Academy.

He represented Vic Metro at the NAB AFL Under 18 Championships, averaging 14.8 possessions.

He uses the ball well, breaks the lines and is ferocious at the contest. He is very good overhead and he has some real penetration with his kicking.

His 20 metre sprint time of 2.90 seconds (top 10 per cent), running vertical jump of 88 centimetres (top two per cent) and his 14.6 beep test were all in the top bracket at the NAB AFL Draft Combine, highlighting his physical assets.

X-factor: “Exceptional overhead for his size and dynamic near goal.”

Q&A with Liam Sumner: Which AFL player do you model your game on? . He’s a good run and carry player or Marc Murphy for his ability to jump at the ball. Both players are dangerous around the midfield and both have the desire to do defensive actions.

What are your strengths as a footballer? My strengths are my speed, agility and endurance, as well as my skills on my left and right foot and hands, and the ability to chase down or lay a block for a teammate.

What parts of your game would you like to improve? I’d like to improve my body strength and learn to communicate better.

Michael Talia

Position: Tall Defender Height: 192cm Weight: 90kg DOB: 11/02/93 Club: Greenvale FC/Calder Cannons

AFL Profile: represented Vic Metro at the NAB AFL Under 18 Championships providing good run and drive from the defensive end, averaging 16.2 disposals and 5.5 marks. He is extremely good one-on-one and a very good overhead mark. He capped off the championships with All- Australian honours.

He tested impressively at the NAB AFL Draft Combine, recording a time of 3.01 seconds for the 20 metre sprint and a score of 14.2 in the beep test.

X-factor: “His contested marking and ability one-on-one are great assets for a tall defender.”

Q&A with Michael Talia: Who influenced you while growing up? My father. He sacrificed a lot of time for my footy and he would always try and help me out with my game. Also my grandpa who played in the Bulldogs’ only Premiership as the ruckman had an influence on me growing up.

Which AFL player do you model your game on? Michael Hurley. He’s a tall versatile player who can play either end in a key position. I would like to have the same physical presence as him. The ball always seems to be directed towards him.

What are your strengths as a footballer? My strengths are overhead marking, endurance, competitiveness and the ability to win one-on-one contests.

What parts of your game would you like to improve? I’d like to improve my kicking, speed off the mark and cleanness around my knees with ground balls.

Adam Tomlinson

Position: Tall Defender Height: 193cm Weight: 88kg DOB: 10/08/93 Club: Trinity Grammar/Oakleigh Chargers

AFL Profile: is an AIS/AFL Academy graduate who is a very good athlete with great passion for the game.

He was super impressive in all aspects of his testing at the NAB AFL Draft Combine, with a time of 2.98 seconds for the 20 metre sprint, 10.32 minutes for the 3km trial and a score of 15.1 in the beep test, all outstanding results for a player of his size.

He represented Vic Metro at the NAB AFL Under 18 Championships playing back and forward, and had an excellent year with the Chargers, averaging 17.4 disposals, 5.5 marks and two tackles.

He uses the ball well, takes a very strong mark in a contested situation and presents well when he plays forward.

X-factor: “His versatility and athleticism for his size make him an attractive prospect.”

Q&A with Adam Tomlinson: Which AFL player do you model your game on? . He lays good tackles and works hard pushing up the ground. He has great endurance and is very good runner.

What are your strengths as a footballer? My strength is my work rate. I work as hard as I can with intensity.

What parts of your game would you like to improve? I need to take more time to read the play and my speed off the mark needs working on.

Why do you want to be a professional AFL footballer? I love the game and I want to be part of footy every day.

Dom Tyson

Position: Medium Midfielder Height: 186cm Weight: 80kg DOB: 08/06/93 Club: Trinity Grammar/Oakleigh Chargers

AFL Profile:

Dom Tyson is a good decision-maker who excels at clearances and winning the contested ball. He has the ability to dispose of the ball even when under pressure or being tackled using his left foot and excellent hands.

He represented Vic Metro at the NAB AFL Under 18 Championships, averaging 22 disposals at 78.9 per cent efficiency, 11 contested possessions and 3.6 tackles. He had 29 hard ball gets. Tyson won best on ground at Etihad Stadium against Vic Country in the final game, winning All- Australian honours for his outstanding effort during the championships.

His time of 3.02 seconds for the 20 metre sprint and score of 14.10 for the beep test confirmed his athletic ability at the NAB AFL Draft Combine.

X-factor: “Excels at the clearances and has outstanding ball use.”

Q&A with Dom Tyson: Which AFL player do you model your game on? . He has a good mix of inside and outside ball. He uses the ball well, even in a contested situation. I really value him as a player and try to emulate him.

What are your strengths as a footballer? My strengths are my kicking, clearance work and I can be creative with my hands. I’m good at winning the first possession and contested inside footy.

What parts of your game would you like to improve? I’d like to improve my burst away. I also want to work on my overhead marking and getting more uncontested footy.

Why do you want to be a professional AFL footballer? It’s been a dream ever since I was young to play against the best. The thought of playing against Chris Judd one day would be amazing as I’ve grown up watching him. I have a competitive nature which really motivates me to want to play at AFL level.

Chad Wingard

Position: Medium Forward Height: 181cm Weight: 70kg DOB: 29/09/93 Club: Imperials FC/Sturt

AFL Profile: is a left-footed midfielder/forward who excelled at the NAB AFL Draft Combine, jumping the highest in the running vertical jump test with 92 centimetres. He also recorded the fourth best score in the clean hands test, as well as top scores in the agility run and the standing vertical jump test.

He captained South Australia at the NAB AFL Under 18 Championships, averaging 19.3 possessions and winning All-Australian honours.

Part of the 13th intake into the AIS/AFL Academy, he has shown he has an uncanny ability to find the football at stoppages in the air or in space. He is also courageous overhead, creative with his handball and dangerous around goals with his penetrating left foot kick.

X-factor: “His uncanny ability in the air and around goal sets him apart.”

Q&A with Chad Wingard: Which AFL player do you model your game on? I really admire Gary Ablett. I really enjoyed watching him play for and was impressed how he was able to get so many votes at the Brownlow in a new side.

What are your strengths as a footballer? My strengths are my ability to jump. I’m courageous and can be a good leader.

What parts of your game would you like to improve? I’d like to improve my skills on my opposite foot and hand skills, as well as my endurance.

What drives you to be a professional AFL footballer? I’m driven by my love for the game.

Elliot Yeo

Position: Medium Defender Height: 189cm Weight: 76kg DOB: 01/10/93 Club: Attadale JFC/ East Fremantle

AFL Profile: was a standout at the NAB AFL Draft Combine, being the quickest in the agility run (7.80 seconds), having the best standing vertical jump with a score of 78 centimetres and running 2.91 seconds for the 20 metre sprint, showcasing his athletic ability.

He represented Western Australia at the NAB AFL Under 18 Championships, averaging 14 disposals as a medium defender.

He is a speedy defender who shows good run and carry. He also uses the ball well on both his right and left side.

X-factor: “Outstanding athleticism with speed, agility and spring, ball use is also a feature.”

Q&A with Elliot Yeo: Which AFL player do you model your game on? Nathan Fyfe. He’s a great player with a good strong grab. He takes good contested marks and I’d love to play like him.

How would your coaches and teammates describe you? I’ve got good speed, versatility and leadership skills.

What parts of your game would you like to improve? I’d like to improve my accountability and my physical strength.