WA’S DARCY JONES DOMINATES 2022 NAB AFL DRAFT COMBINE

Swan Districts draft hope Darcy Jones surprised himself with his results at the weekend’s NAB AFL Draft Combine.

Jones broke the agility test record previously held by former Dockers champion Stephen Hill for 14 years.

The 18-year-old posted a time of 7.70 seconds, beating Hill’s time of 7.77 seconds.

“I’m very satisfied with the results.

I trained quite hard so just to see a bit of reward for effort is always good to see.

The numbers I posted surprised me.

I beat all my previous numbers at training, and I think the adrenaline, combined with nerves gave me a boost,” he said.

Jones also impressed during the standing vertical leap test, jumping 75cm to share top billing with Vic Country teenager James Van Es.

“Obviously I’ve never been to something like this before with guys that have the same dreams and ambitions that I do.

At times it did get quite stressful but that’s all part of it and it was more enjoyable for sure,” Jones said.

WAFC State Talent Manager Adam Jones paid tribute to the 175cm midfielder.

“That result will certainly confirm what recruiters have seen of Darcy in games, which is elite speed and agility.

In the past we have seen some top end results for players help their draft stocks.

Hopefully, it will do the same for Darcy,” Jones said.

Jones believes the combine was outstanding for WA, with 12 players making the trip to Melbourne for a series of physical tests and interviews with clubs.

“It was a terrific combine for our players, with some very good results which will no doubt help our players in how they’re viewed by recruiters.

Four of the top five in the agility is remarkable and there were some other very good results across the board,” Jones said.

?Claremont’s Ed Allan tested strongly, dominating the 20-metre sprint, while East Perth’s Reuben Ginbey also was impressive during the combine.

“For the players it’s now time for a well-earned rest after what is a huge year for the boys.

Some players will now have exams to focus on and others work.

All players will recommence with WAFL clubs for pre-season before hopefully hearing their names called out in the national or rookie drafts,” Jones said.

Image credit: Jonathan DiMaggio