Jones optimistic for a double-digit WA draft haulMonday, October 13, 2025 - 10:56 AM - by Jordan McArdle

WA Football State Talent Manager Adam Jones is hopefully of getting as many as a dozen West Aussies picked up in the AFL national and rookie drafts next month.

Speaking at Sunday’s WA State Draft Combine, Jones said he expected to see 8-12 WA players realise their AFL dreams across the National Draft on November 19-20 and Rookie Draft on November 21.

It comes after several WA talents impressed at the State Combine, including West Coast father-son prospect Charlie Banfield and Fremantle Next Generation Academy pair Toby Whan, Ryda Luke, Swan Districts midfielder Blake Kelly and Perth defender Dale Sutherland, in a boost to their draft hopes.

Sixteen West Aussies were invited to test at the AFL National Draft Combine (eight) and State Combine (eight).

Swan Districts pair Leon Kickett and Tylah Williams were among the standouts at last week’s National Combine in Melbourne alongside West Perth half-back Jacob Farrow and South Fremantle on-baller Fred Rodriguez.

Kickett has bolted up the draft calculations after a strong finish to the season which saw him impress at senior level for the Swans, likewise with West Coast NGA prospect Williams who made his debut for the Eagles’ WAFL side.

“I actually think the numbers are going to be pretty close. The draft range I’m hoping for is between 8-12,” Jones said.

“If we get anything above 10, it’s going to be a fantastic result, and I think we’re on track for that. Some great results this weekend will certainly help that.”

Last year, 10 West Aussies were picked up after 14 the previous year.