Coach of the NAB AFL Academy side, Brenton Sanderson, has a strong knowledge of the talent available at this year’s AFL Draft.
Speaking in general about the tall options up for selection, Sanderson believes that there are plenty of opportunities for Clubs to snare elite talent, with all players having the potential to become future stars of the game.
“It’s a really strong year for the talls,” said Sanderson
“I think Schache or Weitering will go as either one or two, but I still think that’s up for debate.
“There are still some fantastic talls that are potentially going to be within Essendon’s picks.”
Here are Sanderson's top picks.
Charlie Curnow:
DOB: 03/02/1997
Height: 191cm Weight: 95kg
Club(s): Geelong Falcons/Vic Country
Position: Tall Forward/Defender
What Curnow lacks in height, he more than makes up for in strength.
Despite missing part of the season with a dislocated knee, Curnow still impressed with his pace, athletic ability, strong contested mark and overall class on the field. Expected to go in the top-ten, Curnow could tick a number of important criteria which would see him be a big inclusion at the Dons.
Sando’s say:
“He’s a really high energy half-forward, but can also play half-back as well. A bit of a utility because he can probably mature into a midfielder. He might be a bit of a freak, able to play a variety of roles. I think he’s a fantastic option for the Bombers.”
Sam Weideman:
DOB: 26/06/1997
Height: 196cm Weight: 94kg
Club(s): Eastern Ranges/Vic Metro
Position: Key Forward
Another player who was unfortunately cut down by injury, Sam Weideman showed plenty of signs early in the season that have him well placed at this year’s draft.
Weideman has a strong presence in the forward line with a smooth kicking action and strong hands which would see him be a strong partner for Joe Daniher in the years to come. There is no question around the youngster’s talent with his natural read on the play a massive part of his attraction to teams.
Sando’s say:
“He has had some injury setbacks over the last couple of seasons but… as long has he can get on top of his injuries, he’s going to be a ripper. A classic centre half-forward, he just works really hard up and down the ground. He’s a great contested mark and a really good frame, so he’s going to end up being a really strong competitor.”
Aaron Francis:
DOB: 10/08/1997
Height: 191cm Weight: 92kg
Club(s): West Adelaide/South Australia
Position: Tall Forward/Defender
Another one of South Australia’s fine contenders at this year’s draft, Aaron Francis is quick thinking utility who will develop into a quality senior player. Described as a ‘marking machine’, Francis had a terrific season for West Adelaide and was also an integral player for South Australia in the carnival.
His strong marking ability is one of his strongest traits and his versatility on the field has been likened to that of current Essendon star Brendon Goddard.
Sando’s say:
“He’s probably not your classical key position player and he’s going to be more of your third tall back/third tall forward. I really like him. He’s an incredible talent and a real natural. I see him playing more midfield but, when you look at his height and size, he might end up playing key position. I see him playing his best football as a midfielder. I think he’s going to be a real genuine talent.”
The Smokie:
Sam Skinner:
At 197cm tall, Sam Skinner could be a valuable tall option at the tail end of the draft.
Playing under the tutelage of former player Leigh Brown at the Gippsland Power, Skinner has proven himself as a strong ruck option in addition to being able to kick goals up forward and stop them down back.
Skinner’s season was cut short when he suffered an ACL injury during a match for Vic Country, meaning he was unable to fully demonstrate what he is capable of.
Sando’s say:
“A late pick - who will be a really valuable pick, and who is going into a really good AFL player. He has played most of his footy in the ruck or as a centre half-forward, but I see him playing as a centre half-back.”
