Essendon has topped up its key position stocks by selecting Michael Hurley with its first selection at the 2008 NAB AFL Draft.
A two-time All Australian under 18 representative, Hurley has played his under-18 football with the Northern Knights. At 192cm and 90kg has the size to develop into a key position defender.
Hurley is an excellent kick on both feet and very good in contested situations. In time he is expected to develop into the ideal replacement for Dustin Fletcher who has said he expects 2009 will be his final season.
""Michael fits perfectly with our succession planning. He has been All Australian at junior level the past two years. We think he could play senior football next season. He has played back, and that is primarily why we selected him, but we also think he could play forward,"" senior recruiting coordinator Merv Keane said.
""He is a quiet, unassuming young man but when he crosses the white line it is serious business. He would rank as an elite kick on both sides. He is a big boy but there is still development in his body.""
As expected Jack Watts was taken by Melbourne with the number one pick in the draft. West Coast picked up Nicholas Naitanui with Fremantle selecting Stephen Hill. Port Adelaide selected Hamish Hartlett with selection number four.
