AFL clubs set sights on WA talent

A GROUP of 19 WA players have been invited to attend the 2013 NAB AFL National Draft Combine in Melbourne in October including key members of WA’s State 18s team.

To attend the NAB AFL Draft Combine, players must be nominated by at least five AFL clubs.

The Draft Combine measures a combination of athleticism and football skills as well as assessing each player’s personality and character – all essential elements clubs need to consider in the drafting process.

The 2013 NAB Draft Combine will be conducted at Etihad Stadium in Melbourne from Tuesday October 1 to Friday October 4.

A further 100 players will be tested at State Combines in Melbourne, Adelaide and Perth.

AFL National and International Talent Manager Kevin Sheehan said the NAB AFL Draft Combine is an integral part of the decision-making process for AFL recruiters.

“This year’s Draft Combine will be the twentieth time the clubs have come together to test the country’s best young footballers.

“Clubs are widening their focus to include more senior players. It is very positive to see players from state league competitions being given the chance to come one step closer to joining an AFL list,” he said.

The NAB AFL Draft Combine is part of the NAB AFL Rising Stars Program, which supports grassroots players and football communities and helps young Australians fulfil their dream of playing in the AFL.

WA players invited to attend the National Combine:

Claremont – Tom Barrass, Darcy Cameron, Steven Edwards

East Fremantle – Richard Bourne, Patrick Cripps, Jarrad Jansen, Jonathon Marsh

East Perth – Thomas Hodgson

South Fremantle – Blaine Johnson, Dylan Main, Cameron McCarthy, Tom Vandeleuer

Subiaco – Dom Sheed, Michael Wood

Swan Districts – Charlie Cameron, Dayle Garlett, Rory Lobb

West Perth – Blake Acres, Nick Robertson

Picture: Jonathon Marsh playing for WA State’ 18s.