Dodoro has just returned from Canberra where he along with Kevin Sheedy, Kevin Morris and Mark Harvey have monitored the 2003 AFL Draft Camp. “Some say it is a thin draft and it is fair to say it doesn’t appear as strong as in previous years. But time will tell. There will certainly be good players come out of this draft but they might not be as obvious as in other years,” Dodoro said.
Unlike previous years, Dodoro said there didn’t appear to be as many ready made senior players. “In the past we have had the likes of Nick Reiwoldt, Brendon Goddard and Chris Judd among others who have basically been ready to step straight into senior football. There aren’t many who fall into that category this year,” Dodoro said. “They are a very even group so you need to have done your homework.”
At this stage Essendon will head into next month’s National Draft with selection 13, 28, 44 and 60 but that could all change following the trade period. The trade period officially commences on Monday, October 13th and finishes at 2.00pm on Friday, October 17th.
Dodoro said the AFL Draft Camp is a very important few days for recruiters and coaches. “It is certainly beneficial for us to meet these players first hand and to monitor their performances during the camp. We met with about 40 of the players at the camp and you get a bit of an insight into their character and how prepared they were for the camp and how professional in their attitude. Having them all in the one place helps you line them up against each other,” he said.
