2023 Team of the Year
Interim junior draftees for 2023
Select 22:
The elements that make up my Select 22 are based on statistical analysis, as follows:
1. Defenders, must know how to intercept. Given a balance of 2 talls, 2 taller-mediums & 2 smaller-mediums/smalls, every defender should be leading the club's statistics on interceptions (ideally 5+ average per game). Where there is a player that has struggled to find a position but can take regular marks (4+ ave.) then I've tried that player in the defensive half.
2. Inside midfielders - primarily centre clearances and disposals, secondarily tackles for inside pressure (tackles). If you can't consistently get more than 20 disposals per game, you're not a genuine midfielder.
3. Outside midfielders - primarily metres gained - quick movement on the outside is an imperative. Secondarily, kicking efficiency - gotta hit the target.
4. Forwards - primarily goal power, secondarily marking inside-50.
5. Rucks - hit outs & marks. A premiership team doesn't need to win in the ruck, but it can't afford to be losing in the ruck. Negating the opposition ruck can be enough.
6. Juniors - look for their strengths, and position them accordingly.
1. Defenders, must know how to intercept. Given a balance of 2 talls, 2 taller-mediums & 2 smaller-mediums/smalls, every defender should be leading the club's statistics on interceptions (ideally 5+ average per game). Where there is a player that has struggled to find a position but can take regular marks (4+ ave.) then I've tried that player in the defensive half.
2. Inside midfielders - primarily centre clearances and disposals, secondarily tackles for inside pressure (tackles). If you can't consistently get more than 20 disposals per game, you're not a genuine midfielder.
3. Outside midfielders - primarily metres gained - quick movement on the outside is an imperative. Secondarily, kicking efficiency - gotta hit the target.
4. Forwards - primarily goal power, secondarily marking inside-50.
5. Rucks - hit outs & marks. A premiership team doesn't need to win in the ruck, but it can't afford to be losing in the ruck. Negating the opposition ruck can be enough.
6. Juniors - look for their strengths, and position them accordingly.
Adelaide 2023
List:
The Adelaide list is building from below and appears to have strength in each height group. As a result Adelaide should expect to see significant improvement over the next three years as its developing core grows into maturity. They still rely heavily on the experienced Laird, and will hope that they can develop 2 or 3 genuine midfielders from their smalls and smaller-mediums. Hopefully, juniors Berry and Schoenberg and a couple of others can achieve 20+ disposal per game averages. They will also help to get more out of the developing Himmelburg, who needs to get his mark-taking average per game above 5 to become a regular.
Select 22:
There is opportunity at Adelaide for improving players. In defence, either Hately or Himmelburg could cement a third tall position. In attack, junior tall Thilthorpe can develop as either a key position forward or as a ruckman, Rankine has the opportunity to become more than a fringe forward, and a couple more smaller juniors, like Rachele, can show some more genuine midfield-forward skill.
Mid-season review:
As stated above, Adelaide's improvement was foreseen with a strong list across all height ranges up to 24yo, with a handful of mature players as leaders.
Congrats to their recruiting team for following a text book strategy that should see them open a premiership window of opportunity within the next 3 years.
The Adelaide list is building from below and appears to have strength in each height group. As a result Adelaide should expect to see significant improvement over the next three years as its developing core grows into maturity. They still rely heavily on the experienced Laird, and will hope that they can develop 2 or 3 genuine midfielders from their smalls and smaller-mediums. Hopefully, juniors Berry and Schoenberg and a couple of others can achieve 20+ disposal per game averages. They will also help to get more out of the developing Himmelburg, who needs to get his mark-taking average per game above 5 to become a regular.
Select 22:
There is opportunity at Adelaide for improving players. In defence, either Hately or Himmelburg could cement a third tall position. In attack, junior tall Thilthorpe can develop as either a key position forward or as a ruckman, Rankine has the opportunity to become more than a fringe forward, and a couple more smaller juniors, like Rachele, can show some more genuine midfield-forward skill.
Mid-season review:
As stated above, Adelaide's improvement was foreseen with a strong list across all height ranges up to 24yo, with a handful of mature players as leaders.
Congrats to their recruiting team for following a text book strategy that should see them open a premiership window of opportunity within the next 3 years.
Brisbane 2023
List:
Brisbane is all about the now, as their key players are in the twilight zone (28yo+). Neale, Zorko, Cameron, Lyons, Rich, McInerney & Daniher are all in the last years of their career. Even new-comer Fort is a twilighter. Success this season will depend on improvement from their developing group McCluggage, Bailey, Raynor, Coleman, Starcevich, Answerth & Berry. More will be expected from Fullarton, and junior Ashcroft will be given every opportunity (fingers crossed).
The knock is that their smalls - Neale, Zorko, Cameron & McCarthy - are aging, and there's nothing coming after. And, their junior & developing mobile-talls look very thin. But, with Brissie, it's all about the now.
Select 22:
Gunston comes in to replace McStay, and Dunkley adds to their outside run. An early start for Ashcroft depends how well he impresses in pre-season.
Mid-season review:
As said before, Brisbane is all about the now. Well done to the developing players, who've taken their games to new levels; to Gunston and Dunkley for slotting in so well; and junior Ashcroft for beginning his AFL career in spectacular fashion.
Beware Brisbane, there are big holes forming in your lists of smalls, and holes in your developing and junior mobile and genuine talls.
You are paying a big future cost for your now. Hope it's worth it for you!
Brisbane is all about the now, as their key players are in the twilight zone (28yo+). Neale, Zorko, Cameron, Lyons, Rich, McInerney & Daniher are all in the last years of their career. Even new-comer Fort is a twilighter. Success this season will depend on improvement from their developing group McCluggage, Bailey, Raynor, Coleman, Starcevich, Answerth & Berry. More will be expected from Fullarton, and junior Ashcroft will be given every opportunity (fingers crossed).
The knock is that their smalls - Neale, Zorko, Cameron & McCarthy - are aging, and there's nothing coming after. And, their junior & developing mobile-talls look very thin. But, with Brissie, it's all about the now.
Select 22:
Gunston comes in to replace McStay, and Dunkley adds to their outside run. An early start for Ashcroft depends how well he impresses in pre-season.
Mid-season review:
As said before, Brisbane is all about the now. Well done to the developing players, who've taken their games to new levels; to Gunston and Dunkley for slotting in so well; and junior Ashcroft for beginning his AFL career in spectacular fashion.
Beware Brisbane, there are big holes forming in your lists of smalls, and holes in your developing and junior mobile and genuine talls.
You are paying a big future cost for your now. Hope it's worth it for you!
Carlton 2023
List:
The Carlton list looks pretty good for the most part, although it is a tall squad, especially in the midfield, which begs the question, how well does it perform during wet winters? Such was the case this year, when the rains came, the Carlton talls were washed away.
Acres, another taller-medium, has been brought in for outside run, but the squad still lacks for the genuine speed of a first rover. For them, Fisher and/or Motlop may improve, but Walsh's pace and running power may be permanently affected by back surgery. Carlton may need to cherry-pick a first rover from outside, as Brisbane did with Lachie Neale, and Richmond with Dion Prestia. Improvement is not always linear, and for Carlton it appears to be less so, but it should come.
Select 22:
Picking a Carlton team looked good until it came to picking the smaller midfield positions, with Fisher, Motlop, and the aging Ed Curnow the only options. Pittonet will return after injury. Walsh's recovery after back surgery will be of major concern. Acres will start the season replacing Walsh on a wing.
Mid-season review:
Yep, thought speed was Carlton's "Achilles heel". Saw it in that drawn game against Richmond, round 1.
Playing with slow controlled movement will never win a team big games against big opponents. That's what the Bulldogs have done over the last few years, and it didn't work for them.
Progress isn't linear, and until Carlton find a couple of genuine first rovers, ala Brent Harvey, they'll find progress difficult.
The Carlton list looks pretty good for the most part, although it is a tall squad, especially in the midfield, which begs the question, how well does it perform during wet winters? Such was the case this year, when the rains came, the Carlton talls were washed away.
Acres, another taller-medium, has been brought in for outside run, but the squad still lacks for the genuine speed of a first rover. For them, Fisher and/or Motlop may improve, but Walsh's pace and running power may be permanently affected by back surgery. Carlton may need to cherry-pick a first rover from outside, as Brisbane did with Lachie Neale, and Richmond with Dion Prestia. Improvement is not always linear, and for Carlton it appears to be less so, but it should come.
Select 22:
Picking a Carlton team looked good until it came to picking the smaller midfield positions, with Fisher, Motlop, and the aging Ed Curnow the only options. Pittonet will return after injury. Walsh's recovery after back surgery will be of major concern. Acres will start the season replacing Walsh on a wing.
Mid-season review:
Yep, thought speed was Carlton's "Achilles heel". Saw it in that drawn game against Richmond, round 1.
Playing with slow controlled movement will never win a team big games against big opponents. That's what the Bulldogs have done over the last few years, and it didn't work for them.
Progress isn't linear, and until Carlton find a couple of genuine first rovers, ala Brent Harvey, they'll find progress difficult.
Collingwood 2023
List:
The Collingwood list appears in two tiers - the upper-aged mature-twilighters and the juniors, with some in between. But, they also have players in every height group. The trading in of McStay and Frampton fill the two key holes in their spine, while Mitchell and Hill add experience to their midfield.
Some supporters are upset that the Brown boys are gone but, in truth, for 22-24yos, they didn't do enough, and McCrae was prepared to call it out.
Select 22:
An indication of team depth was that new boy Bobby Hill hasn't done enough yet to be an automatic selection.
Frampton, McStay and Mitchell fill holes. If improvement was linear, Collingwood should look forward to further improvement.
Mid-season review:
At this point, progress is linear for Collingwood. There is a lot to like.
Coach McCrae is a lovely fellow. They play an exciting big game style of footy, and they remind me of the 2017 Tigers.
They have experience where they need it, and young fast legs where they need them too.
And, their juniors list is strong across all height ranges. Good luck, 'Pies, in September!
The Collingwood list appears in two tiers - the upper-aged mature-twilighters and the juniors, with some in between. But, they also have players in every height group. The trading in of McStay and Frampton fill the two key holes in their spine, while Mitchell and Hill add experience to their midfield.
Some supporters are upset that the Brown boys are gone but, in truth, for 22-24yos, they didn't do enough, and McCrae was prepared to call it out.
Select 22:
An indication of team depth was that new boy Bobby Hill hasn't done enough yet to be an automatic selection.
Frampton, McStay and Mitchell fill holes. If improvement was linear, Collingwood should look forward to further improvement.
Mid-season review:
At this point, progress is linear for Collingwood. There is a lot to like.
Coach McCrae is a lovely fellow. They play an exciting big game style of footy, and they remind me of the 2017 Tigers.
They have experience where they need it, and young fast legs where they need them too.
And, their juniors list is strong across all height ranges. Good luck, 'Pies, in September!
Essendon 2023
List:
Every team has an unexpectedly bad year, and in Essendon's case it was the whole club - from the fish's head to its tail. It happens!
Hooker, Stewart, Hurley, Phillips, Smith, McDonald-Tipungwuti, and others went missing for various reasons. And so it seems, did their footy department and their Board.
Essendon still has a good list and should improve this season. Weideman gets his opportunity, though Setterfield will need to improve his decision-making and backwards running. The list has a depth of players in each height and age group and will do better.
Select 22:
Weideman, Langford and Snelling will add to Essendon's forward half. Zerk-Thatcher should be left to settle at full back. Setterfield adds depth. And, Stewart may get back if he returns to his 2021 form. Enough to win them more games.
Midseason review:
Progress is not always linear but, in Essendon's case, fortunately, last year was an aberration and they have returned to improvement this season.
The strength across all heights of the junior group alludes to continued improvement in coming years.
Every team has an unexpectedly bad year, and in Essendon's case it was the whole club - from the fish's head to its tail. It happens!
Hooker, Stewart, Hurley, Phillips, Smith, McDonald-Tipungwuti, and others went missing for various reasons. And so it seems, did their footy department and their Board.
Essendon still has a good list and should improve this season. Weideman gets his opportunity, though Setterfield will need to improve his decision-making and backwards running. The list has a depth of players in each height and age group and will do better.
Select 22:
Weideman, Langford and Snelling will add to Essendon's forward half. Zerk-Thatcher should be left to settle at full back. Setterfield adds depth. And, Stewart may get back if he returns to his 2021 form. Enough to win them more games.
Midseason review:
Progress is not always linear but, in Essendon's case, fortunately, last year was an aberration and they have returned to improvement this season.
The strength across all heights of the junior group alludes to continued improvement in coming years.
Fremantle 2023
List:
Fremantle's list strategy is an interesting one. Even though they played in finals, we do not see the "now" imperative in their list management. They have retired or traded twilighters and "non-committed" mature players, traded in a couple to fill in holes, then drafted juniors to fill the major gaps in their list. This is a very different list management strategy - one for the better, long-term - although it may not pay immediate gains. They can retire more at year's end. Last season, Fremantle made the finals without relying on Taberner or Fyfe. O'Meara can replace Acres. Corbett doesn't quite replace Mundy. While Jackson and more opportunity to Amiss should cover the loss of Lobb and more. One should expect Fremantle to be competing in finals again.
Select 22:
The Fremantle core is still strong, but recent outgoings will provide opportunities to inward players, others who've lacked opportunity, and two twilighters whose bodies are questionable.
Midseason review:
Fremantle are doing well, considering they have a young and up-and-coming list. This season, they have played again without Taberner and Fyfe, and are winning games, 10th on the ladder, and equal on points with 8th. Their junior list is strong and deep. This bodes well for their future success.
Fremantle's list strategy is an interesting one. Even though they played in finals, we do not see the "now" imperative in their list management. They have retired or traded twilighters and "non-committed" mature players, traded in a couple to fill in holes, then drafted juniors to fill the major gaps in their list. This is a very different list management strategy - one for the better, long-term - although it may not pay immediate gains. They can retire more at year's end. Last season, Fremantle made the finals without relying on Taberner or Fyfe. O'Meara can replace Acres. Corbett doesn't quite replace Mundy. While Jackson and more opportunity to Amiss should cover the loss of Lobb and more. One should expect Fremantle to be competing in finals again.
Select 22:
The Fremantle core is still strong, but recent outgoings will provide opportunities to inward players, others who've lacked opportunity, and two twilighters whose bodies are questionable.
Midseason review:
Fremantle are doing well, considering they have a young and up-and-coming list. This season, they have played again without Taberner and Fyfe, and are winning games, 10th on the ladder, and equal on points with 8th. Their junior list is strong and deep. This bodes well for their future success.
Geelong 2023
List:
Well, the AFL gods, or more particularly AFL officials, finally gifted a long-awaited and long-expected premiership to Geelong.
From a list point of view, we already see a handful of "twilighters" drop off the list, with more expected in coming seasons. The bulk of the list now sits strongly in the junior and development phases, spread over the height groups.
Again, Geelong's fortunes this season with rely heavily on the rotation and retention of the remaining twilighters, and the further development of their junior core, which includes some handy trading pick-ups - Bowes, Henry Jnr, Riccardi, Bruhn, etc.
Select 22:
As always it's hard to make changes to a premiership core, although one expects one or two changes to each team. Maybe, Rohan may play a full season, or Henry Jnr may beat him to the punch. Again, overall performance will rely on the consistency of their twilighters, and the influence of the AFL gods.
Midseason review:
The Cats are still hanging onto the final eight by a whisker (no pun intended). The long list of medium-tall (186-189cm) twilighters stands out like a sore thumb, then taking the mature Hardie in the midseason draft. The junior (18-21yo) small-mediums (181-5cms) also looks crowded.
Well, the AFL gods, or more particularly AFL officials, finally gifted a long-awaited and long-expected premiership to Geelong.
From a list point of view, we already see a handful of "twilighters" drop off the list, with more expected in coming seasons. The bulk of the list now sits strongly in the junior and development phases, spread over the height groups.
Again, Geelong's fortunes this season with rely heavily on the rotation and retention of the remaining twilighters, and the further development of their junior core, which includes some handy trading pick-ups - Bowes, Henry Jnr, Riccardi, Bruhn, etc.
Select 22:
As always it's hard to make changes to a premiership core, although one expects one or two changes to each team. Maybe, Rohan may play a full season, or Henry Jnr may beat him to the punch. Again, overall performance will rely on the consistency of their twilighters, and the influence of the AFL gods.
Midseason review:
The Cats are still hanging onto the final eight by a whisker (no pun intended). The long list of medium-tall (186-189cm) twilighters stands out like a sore thumb, then taking the mature Hardie in the midseason draft. The junior (18-21yo) small-mediums (181-5cms) also looks crowded.
Gold Coast 2023
List:
The Suns list is much better than the disjointed / unbalanced one from a handful of years ago. And, their juniors from that time are now coming into the mature and developing stages. Their defence is a much more experienced and reliable mixture that with the fresh legs of Budarick and Powell, or maybe Long, can be better. King will return but major knee surgery recovery still requires a full on-field season to reach 100%. Chol has made the Tigers blush that they didn't appreciate nor respect him more. Long, is an experienced newy, but has yet to reach a desirable standard for even a B grade regular. And, Casboult can return to being a part-time floater. An extra two wins and a 110+% this season will see the Suns tapping on the finals door.
Select 22:
The inclusion of more younger players with talent will improve team performance, and they can input a few. As said, Budarick and Powell can improve their defence, while juniors Jeffrey and Hollands stats have indicated being given more games.
Midseason review:
Continued list improvement and experience has seen the Suns become a competitor for a finals spot. More experience into their developing and junior players, with continued good drafting, and a cherry-picked key forward could see them become a genuine finals contender in the next 2 or 3 years.
The Suns list is much better than the disjointed / unbalanced one from a handful of years ago. And, their juniors from that time are now coming into the mature and developing stages. Their defence is a much more experienced and reliable mixture that with the fresh legs of Budarick and Powell, or maybe Long, can be better. King will return but major knee surgery recovery still requires a full on-field season to reach 100%. Chol has made the Tigers blush that they didn't appreciate nor respect him more. Long, is an experienced newy, but has yet to reach a desirable standard for even a B grade regular. And, Casboult can return to being a part-time floater. An extra two wins and a 110+% this season will see the Suns tapping on the finals door.
Select 22:
The inclusion of more younger players with talent will improve team performance, and they can input a few. As said, Budarick and Powell can improve their defence, while juniors Jeffrey and Hollands stats have indicated being given more games.
Midseason review:
Continued list improvement and experience has seen the Suns become a competitor for a finals spot. More experience into their developing and junior players, with continued good drafting, and a cherry-picked key forward could see them become a genuine finals contender in the next 2 or 3 years.
GWS 2003
List:
Last season, GWS faced the same plight as many clubs before it - the Board gets tired, the footy leadership gets tired, the players get tired - and the old coach had too firmer relationship with the older players. Developing players don't get sufficient opportunity and lose interest, as in the case of Hopper, Taranto, Brander, Sproule, Hill and Bruhn. Both Sproule (defender) and Brander (forward) are genuine talls (195-199cm) to keep an eye on.
As a result, a general lack of depth will see the promotion of juniors and developing players. Bedford appears to have moved to the right place at the right time.
Select 22:
GWS have to put their past heroes behind them. It's no further use in selecting Davis in the team to again do another hamstring 5 minutes in. A re-jigging of the defence to add a balance of younger talls and mediums, with the inclusion of talented developing and junior players should give the club new energy. But, their loss of key mature players will cost them this season. Doesn't appear to be any significant change in ladder position.
Midseason review:
As said, GWS are in transition but have strength across each of their developing and junior height ranges. However, they still rely heavily on their twilight core - Coniglio, Greene, Whitfield, Haynes, and Ward. There will be another 2 to 3 years before GWS can complete this transition, but that will only be if they can hold onto their talented younger players.
Last season, GWS faced the same plight as many clubs before it - the Board gets tired, the footy leadership gets tired, the players get tired - and the old coach had too firmer relationship with the older players. Developing players don't get sufficient opportunity and lose interest, as in the case of Hopper, Taranto, Brander, Sproule, Hill and Bruhn. Both Sproule (defender) and Brander (forward) are genuine talls (195-199cm) to keep an eye on.
As a result, a general lack of depth will see the promotion of juniors and developing players. Bedford appears to have moved to the right place at the right time.
Select 22:
GWS have to put their past heroes behind them. It's no further use in selecting Davis in the team to again do another hamstring 5 minutes in. A re-jigging of the defence to add a balance of younger talls and mediums, with the inclusion of talented developing and junior players should give the club new energy. But, their loss of key mature players will cost them this season. Doesn't appear to be any significant change in ladder position.
Midseason review:
As said, GWS are in transition but have strength across each of their developing and junior height ranges. However, they still rely heavily on their twilight core - Coniglio, Greene, Whitfield, Haynes, and Ward. There will be another 2 to 3 years before GWS can complete this transition, but that will only be if they can hold onto their talented younger players.
Apologies, as an extended overseas trip has paused the midseason updates, but they will recommence now.
Hawthorn 2023
List:
With Hawthorn at present, it's hard to determine whether the resources are going into the footy department or the new stadium at Dingley. Clearly, they've cut the guts from their carcass of a list and are prepared to go on-field with juniors. The positive is that they have a good spread of junior talent and may have to wait another 6 years for a another genuine premiership window to begin to open up. At best, the list looks like it will be lucky to hold ground on last season, and more likely drop a couple of spots.
Select 22:
With McEvoy's retirement, Reeves and Lynch can get a good go along with some talented juniors - Jiath, Bramble, Reeves & Worpel. Amon walks onto a wing but given his experience, maybe needed for an inside role.
Midseason review:
Hawthorn's season has been as largely expected, except for the off-field trauma. They just need to continue drafting and putting resources into their developing players, and time will take them into a new window of opportunity. Good to see the juniors and developing players, noted earlier in the year, come on.
With Hawthorn at present, it's hard to determine whether the resources are going into the footy department or the new stadium at Dingley. Clearly, they've cut the guts from their carcass of a list and are prepared to go on-field with juniors. The positive is that they have a good spread of junior talent and may have to wait another 6 years for a another genuine premiership window to begin to open up. At best, the list looks like it will be lucky to hold ground on last season, and more likely drop a couple of spots.
Select 22:
With McEvoy's retirement, Reeves and Lynch can get a good go along with some talented juniors - Jiath, Bramble, Reeves & Worpel. Amon walks onto a wing but given his experience, maybe needed for an inside role.
Midseason review:
Hawthorn's season has been as largely expected, except for the off-field trauma. They just need to continue drafting and putting resources into their developing players, and time will take them into a new window of opportunity. Good to see the juniors and developing players, noted earlier in the year, come on.
Melbourne 2023
List:
How lucky are Melbourne? They lose Jackson and pick up an even better junior forward in Jefferson. And, they got Van Rooyen last year!
The Dees list sits squarely in the junior and mature zones - they have a present, and they have a future - and, yes, it is two tiered - one wave after another.
Last season, Melbourne reminded me of the Tiges in 2018 - injuries at the wrong time. Hopefully, Melbourne will rotate more juniors through the season to ease pressure on their mature players, and to pick up some more run. As for Jefferson and Van Rooyen, watch out Dees! There'll be a few clubs looking to cherry-pick them in a couple of years, if you don't give 'em opportunity. Also, the inclusion of Grundy as a genuine first ruck will give Gawn more freedom to do more twilight damage.
Select 22:
One of last year's riddles was why didn't the Dees give inside midfielder Dunstan a fair go? They have to give him a fair chance this year! Other injured players - McDonald and Salem - will return; Grundy will go straight in, unless injured; and Melksham may continue his goal kicking spree, from late last season. The challenge will be how to rotate some very talented juniors into a team already in a premiership window.
Midseason review:
Melbourne have continued among the leaders this year, but injury has caused them to go to juniors because, as you see, they are almost devoid of development players. Fortunately, Van Rooyen, Chandler, McVee, and other juniors have risen earlier than expected. However, they have had to go to juniors (18-21), when developing players (22-24 years) should have been there. Jefferson, in the twos, looks to be their next key forward option.
How lucky are Melbourne? They lose Jackson and pick up an even better junior forward in Jefferson. And, they got Van Rooyen last year!
The Dees list sits squarely in the junior and mature zones - they have a present, and they have a future - and, yes, it is two tiered - one wave after another.
Last season, Melbourne reminded me of the Tiges in 2018 - injuries at the wrong time. Hopefully, Melbourne will rotate more juniors through the season to ease pressure on their mature players, and to pick up some more run. As for Jefferson and Van Rooyen, watch out Dees! There'll be a few clubs looking to cherry-pick them in a couple of years, if you don't give 'em opportunity. Also, the inclusion of Grundy as a genuine first ruck will give Gawn more freedom to do more twilight damage.
Select 22:
One of last year's riddles was why didn't the Dees give inside midfielder Dunstan a fair go? They have to give him a fair chance this year! Other injured players - McDonald and Salem - will return; Grundy will go straight in, unless injured; and Melksham may continue his goal kicking spree, from late last season. The challenge will be how to rotate some very talented juniors into a team already in a premiership window.
Midseason review:
Melbourne have continued among the leaders this year, but injury has caused them to go to juniors because, as you see, they are almost devoid of development players. Fortunately, Van Rooyen, Chandler, McVee, and other juniors have risen earlier than expected. However, they have had to go to juniors (18-21), when developing players (22-24 years) should have been there. Jefferson, in the twos, looks to be their next key forward option.
North Melbourne 2023
List:
Well, North subtracted 4 taller-mediums from their list, and added an extra one - still looks terrible! A team full of flankers!
The positive is that they used nearly all their trades and drafts to fill other height areas, and George was best available at that point in the draft.
Can only do so much in one draft/trading period!
Still the worst list in the comp! North will be a long process that should take at least another 6 years to open any type of opportunity window.
Select 22:
Not much you can do! Maybe include the recovering Cunnington into the 22. Bring in some newies! Keep rotating the juniors! Try to build some experience and balance in defense! Pop ruck-men in to fill key positions! Good luck North!
Midseason review:
As expected, North has struggled, and the list will continue to need an extensive overhaul. For them, thank goodness they held onto Larkey, who was on the shortlist of some key clubs. Also, a special note to the selectors for backing Sheezel from game one, as he has been a revelation for them. One might suggest that coming towards this draft, North may trade/delist a few from its medium-talls (186-189cms), and draft two junior mobile-talls (190-194cms) and a junior genuine tall (195-199cms).
Well, North subtracted 4 taller-mediums from their list, and added an extra one - still looks terrible! A team full of flankers!
The positive is that they used nearly all their trades and drafts to fill other height areas, and George was best available at that point in the draft.
Can only do so much in one draft/trading period!
Still the worst list in the comp! North will be a long process that should take at least another 6 years to open any type of opportunity window.
Select 22:
Not much you can do! Maybe include the recovering Cunnington into the 22. Bring in some newies! Keep rotating the juniors! Try to build some experience and balance in defense! Pop ruck-men in to fill key positions! Good luck North!
Midseason review:
As expected, North has struggled, and the list will continue to need an extensive overhaul. For them, thank goodness they held onto Larkey, who was on the shortlist of some key clubs. Also, a special note to the selectors for backing Sheezel from game one, as he has been a revelation for them. One might suggest that coming towards this draft, North may trade/delist a few from its medium-talls (186-189cms), and draft two junior mobile-talls (190-194cms) and a junior genuine tall (195-199cms).
Port Adelaide 2023
List:
Port's list still looks very good and last season may be an aberration - progress is not always linear, and they did have a few big untimely injuries. My only criticism is that their defence is a bit short in key positions. Also, they have lost Amon and Gray, but that creates opportunity for others. Rioli is a good mature pick-up, while Evans and Horne-Francis will be ones to watch. Lycett, Fantasia, Dixon, and Duursma should all return to strengthen their depth.
Port should play finals again this year.
Select 22:
Finlayson was used in the ruck last season in Lycett's absence, although, as the season progressed, Hayes was a stand-out there.
Hayes should continue in the ruck, supported by the recovering Lycett, and young Teakle showed a bit too in his 2 games.
Finlayson needs to go to CHB to strengthen the defence, supported by Allir and Burton, with experienced mediums around them. McKenzie and Clurey are twilight defenders adding depth, if injuries occur.
Midseason review:
Port have had another good season, despite injuries. Also their on-field weaknesses reflect the gaps in their list. They were short on small forwards, and had to go for Narkle mid-season. Also, the gaps in their mobile talls (190-194cms) and the thinness in their genuine talls (195-199cms) has shown up through injuries.
Port's list still looks very good and last season may be an aberration - progress is not always linear, and they did have a few big untimely injuries. My only criticism is that their defence is a bit short in key positions. Also, they have lost Amon and Gray, but that creates opportunity for others. Rioli is a good mature pick-up, while Evans and Horne-Francis will be ones to watch. Lycett, Fantasia, Dixon, and Duursma should all return to strengthen their depth.
Port should play finals again this year.
Select 22:
Finlayson was used in the ruck last season in Lycett's absence, although, as the season progressed, Hayes was a stand-out there.
Hayes should continue in the ruck, supported by the recovering Lycett, and young Teakle showed a bit too in his 2 games.
Finlayson needs to go to CHB to strengthen the defence, supported by Allir and Burton, with experienced mediums around them. McKenzie and Clurey are twilight defenders adding depth, if injuries occur.
Midseason review:
Port have had another good season, despite injuries. Also their on-field weaknesses reflect the gaps in their list. They were short on small forwards, and had to go for Narkle mid-season. Also, the gaps in their mobile talls (190-194cms) and the thinness in their genuine talls (195-199cms) has shown up through injuries.
Richmond 2023
List:
Yes, the Tigers are trying to fight a war on two fronts - one, ala Geelong, squeeze another premiership out of their 2017-20 window, and two, set themselves up for a new window. The trading in of Hopper and Taranto is big news but it has cost a lot from their future in first round draft picks.
For me, there are two critical factors - one, the loss of Chol and Coleman-Jones have left no replacements for Reiwoldt and Lynch, and Balta is not a key forward. And, two, there is nearly nothing to replace their mobile-tall defenders - Grimes, Broad, McIntosh, and even Vlastuin, all now in the twilight zone. See that large gap running down in the 190-194cm column. And the delisting of Collier-Jones, who had a good season as a tall defender in the VFL last season, makes it worse.
Select 22:
Taranto and Hopper instantly walk into two key midfield positions. The rest of the team picks itself, with an unknown Martin recovering, Cumberland hopefully continuing as per last season, and Soldo now recovered, and showing a bit at the end. Whether it's enough, we hope so - it's really up to them!
There is certain to be seemingly regulars to miss out at the start - Ross, Graham, etc - but "twilighters" mean injuries and provides opportunities later down the track.
Midseason review:
The "Tiges" are "over-the-hill" and developing at the same time. There is an enormous gap between their twilight (28+y.o.) players and their next developing group, who aren't quite ready. The real stand-out is their lack of mobile talls (190-194cms). Who will replace Riewoldt, Grimes, Broad and McIntosh? Balta already in the team, and Bauer has to succeed, merely to replace Riewoldt, nothing else. This area has to be the key area of Tiger drafting, of course, at this stage, without a 1st or 2nd round draft pick. Their surplus of smalls is a worry and may need to be traded for mobile talls seeking opportunity.
Yes, the Tigers are trying to fight a war on two fronts - one, ala Geelong, squeeze another premiership out of their 2017-20 window, and two, set themselves up for a new window. The trading in of Hopper and Taranto is big news but it has cost a lot from their future in first round draft picks.
For me, there are two critical factors - one, the loss of Chol and Coleman-Jones have left no replacements for Reiwoldt and Lynch, and Balta is not a key forward. And, two, there is nearly nothing to replace their mobile-tall defenders - Grimes, Broad, McIntosh, and even Vlastuin, all now in the twilight zone. See that large gap running down in the 190-194cm column. And the delisting of Collier-Jones, who had a good season as a tall defender in the VFL last season, makes it worse.
Select 22:
Taranto and Hopper instantly walk into two key midfield positions. The rest of the team picks itself, with an unknown Martin recovering, Cumberland hopefully continuing as per last season, and Soldo now recovered, and showing a bit at the end. Whether it's enough, we hope so - it's really up to them!
There is certain to be seemingly regulars to miss out at the start - Ross, Graham, etc - but "twilighters" mean injuries and provides opportunities later down the track.
Midseason review:
The "Tiges" are "over-the-hill" and developing at the same time. There is an enormous gap between their twilight (28+y.o.) players and their next developing group, who aren't quite ready. The real stand-out is their lack of mobile talls (190-194cms). Who will replace Riewoldt, Grimes, Broad and McIntosh? Balta already in the team, and Bauer has to succeed, merely to replace Riewoldt, nothing else. This area has to be the key area of Tiger drafting, of course, at this stage, without a 1st or 2nd round draft pick. Their surplus of smalls is a worry and may need to be traded for mobile talls seeking opportunity.
St Kilda 2023
List:
The Saints list has looked better. Although it has removed a few twilighters, as with time, their previous mature players are now slipping into the twilight zone. The area of concern is their midfield. Dunstan was a big loss but one wonders why he hasn't made any inroads at the Dees. Their midfield lacks depth, as highlighted by injuries to Billings, Higgins and Gresham leaving unfillable holes.
Even with a new coach, it's hard seeing the Saints doing any better until they gather a stronger midfield.
Select 22:
Cordy will add height to the defense, allowing Howard to play a more attacking role. They have plenty of back flankers. Rookie Jack Hayes showed a fair bit in his 5 games last year, showing he can take marks, get kicks, and kick a goal a game. He should be elevated immediately and placed at CHF.
Midseason review:
The Saints have done better than expected this season. Unfortunately, the lack of depth in the midfield has cost them. Their lack of smalls (<180cms), and developing smaller-mediums (181-185cms) have meant them going to unready juniors. Wherever they end up, the "Sainters" are improving. Their depth of junior talls is there and just needs development, But their lack of smalls is a worry. Maybe, they should do a deal with the "Tiges", who have a surplus of smalls.
The Saints list has looked better. Although it has removed a few twilighters, as with time, their previous mature players are now slipping into the twilight zone. The area of concern is their midfield. Dunstan was a big loss but one wonders why he hasn't made any inroads at the Dees. Their midfield lacks depth, as highlighted by injuries to Billings, Higgins and Gresham leaving unfillable holes.
Even with a new coach, it's hard seeing the Saints doing any better until they gather a stronger midfield.
Select 22:
Cordy will add height to the defense, allowing Howard to play a more attacking role. They have plenty of back flankers. Rookie Jack Hayes showed a fair bit in his 5 games last year, showing he can take marks, get kicks, and kick a goal a game. He should be elevated immediately and placed at CHF.
Midseason review:
The Saints have done better than expected this season. Unfortunately, the lack of depth in the midfield has cost them. Their lack of smalls (<180cms), and developing smaller-mediums (181-185cms) have meant them going to unready juniors. Wherever they end up, the "Sainters" are improving. Their depth of junior talls is there and just needs development, But their lack of smalls is a worry. Maybe, they should do a deal with the "Tiges", who have a surplus of smalls.
Sydney 2023
List:
Sydney's list is well-managed over the height and age groups. They have carefully managed the retirement of twilighters, while it clearly appears that they are focusing on redeveloping their midfield with junior smalls - Konstanty - and mediums - Vickery, Magor & Mitchell - yet still drafting in two tall juniors - Edwards & Owen. They have also added depth to their defence by importing the mature mobile tall, Francis from Essendon.
Naismith & Sinclair make way to provide more opportunity to Ladhams.
They may lose Parker and others due to aging over the next couple of years, but you can see a genuine premiership window opening soon, if last year's grand final thrashing hasn't traumatised them.
Select 22:
The Sydney team continues to develop with juniors Warner, Gulden and Stephens developing from talented juniors into core players. Consistent but fringe twilighter Fox did well again last season and deserves more games but may see his place taken by talented juniors Stephens or Campbell.
McLean is developing well as a key forward.
Midseason review:
Sydney has shown that you can make transition and be competitive, if you have the juniors on the list. Gulden and Warner are their best disposal getters. McDonald and Amartey now have better goal averages per game than the seemingly irreplaceable Franklin. Blakey is their best interceptor. While, for the second year running, Ladhams is right up there with the experienced Hickey. More experience in their junior and developing players will see more consistent success.
Sydney's list is well-managed over the height and age groups. They have carefully managed the retirement of twilighters, while it clearly appears that they are focusing on redeveloping their midfield with junior smalls - Konstanty - and mediums - Vickery, Magor & Mitchell - yet still drafting in two tall juniors - Edwards & Owen. They have also added depth to their defence by importing the mature mobile tall, Francis from Essendon.
Naismith & Sinclair make way to provide more opportunity to Ladhams.
They may lose Parker and others due to aging over the next couple of years, but you can see a genuine premiership window opening soon, if last year's grand final thrashing hasn't traumatised them.
Select 22:
The Sydney team continues to develop with juniors Warner, Gulden and Stephens developing from talented juniors into core players. Consistent but fringe twilighter Fox did well again last season and deserves more games but may see his place taken by talented juniors Stephens or Campbell.
McLean is developing well as a key forward.
Midseason review:
Sydney has shown that you can make transition and be competitive, if you have the juniors on the list. Gulden and Warner are their best disposal getters. McDonald and Amartey now have better goal averages per game than the seemingly irreplaceable Franklin. Blakey is their best interceptor. While, for the second year running, Ladhams is right up there with the experienced Hickey. More experience in their junior and developing players will see more consistent success.
Westcoast 2023
List:
One might see this as a crucial year for Westcoast twilighters, who were there in 2018 but may be past it now. Recurring injuries to particular twilighters saw their 2022 seasons as follows: Gaff (16 games), Shuey (17), McGovern (10), Yeo (5), Natanui (8). Then there are other twilighters that have disappeared quietly over the summer - Black, Meadows & Dewar snr. McGovern on a statistical per game basis is their best defender, but 10 games isn't enough.
Mind you, injuries to mature & developing players - Allen (0), Witherden (13), Petruccelle (8), etc. - didn't help either.
So, 2023 may be the year that Westcoast's set up may fundamentally change as it undergoes a rebuild that looks at least about 3 years from a new window.
Select 22:
Due to uncertainty surrounding the Eagles, I've picked one based on changes during the season. Edwards should gain more experience in defence, with McGovern as a back-up. Bailey Williams will take up more of the ruck, as Natanui spends more time up forward, given Allen's return from injury. And, Hunt needs to show more consistency, if he is to be more than a fringe player.
Midseason review:
We're not allowed to say Westcoast are tanking, but they are!
Their good lines of list management indicate a new group of developing (22-24yo) and junior (18-21yo) midfielders and key position players breaking into senior football. As their "twilighters" depart at season's end, and they get their choice of draft picks, we'll see improvement next year.
One might see this as a crucial year for Westcoast twilighters, who were there in 2018 but may be past it now. Recurring injuries to particular twilighters saw their 2022 seasons as follows: Gaff (16 games), Shuey (17), McGovern (10), Yeo (5), Natanui (8). Then there are other twilighters that have disappeared quietly over the summer - Black, Meadows & Dewar snr. McGovern on a statistical per game basis is their best defender, but 10 games isn't enough.
Mind you, injuries to mature & developing players - Allen (0), Witherden (13), Petruccelle (8), etc. - didn't help either.
So, 2023 may be the year that Westcoast's set up may fundamentally change as it undergoes a rebuild that looks at least about 3 years from a new window.
Select 22:
Due to uncertainty surrounding the Eagles, I've picked one based on changes during the season. Edwards should gain more experience in defence, with McGovern as a back-up. Bailey Williams will take up more of the ruck, as Natanui spends more time up forward, given Allen's return from injury. And, Hunt needs to show more consistency, if he is to be more than a fringe player.
Midseason review:
We're not allowed to say Westcoast are tanking, but they are!
Their good lines of list management indicate a new group of developing (22-24yo) and junior (18-21yo) midfielders and key position players breaking into senior football. As their "twilighters" depart at season's end, and they get their choice of draft picks, we'll see improvement next year.
Western 2023
List:
Last season, the Bullies slipped from grand-finalists to just scraping into 8th place, and were narrowly beaten by Freo in Perth in the elimination final.
Their midfield is an enigma made up of mobile talls - Macrae, Bontempelli, Dunkley, rather than the usual pacey smalls and smaller mediums.
Also, one must question why so many twilighters who aren't core players - Duryea, Johannisen, Crozier, Hannan, O'Brien, Jones - are still on the list.
The Bullies 2023 season will provide momentum change, but one isn't too sure whether it'll be taken up.
Select 22:
One hopes that more developing and junior players will be given opportunity, but gutfeel is that will not happen this season, so the team remains relatively the same with Sweet, West & Vandermeer getting more opportunity.
Note, Sweet is as good a knock-ruckman as English, and if he doesn't get more than 6 games this season, he may be approached as an NFA at season's end. Lobb's inclusion makes this scenario more likely.
Midseason review:
Again, the Bullies are competitive, without having quite enough firepower to dominate the competition. The middle columns from taller mediums (186-189cms) through to genuine talls (196-199cms) looks thin, especially since twilighters - Hannan, Bruce, O'Brien, Crozier & Jones - haven't given them much at all, even on an average per game played basis.
Surely, every club needing a first ruckman must be looking at Sweet. Two years ago, as a junior, he was outpointing the older English, but has not been given a look-in over the last two seasons. English is still developing, so Sweet must look elsewhere. (Hint, hint, Port Adelaide, Geelong!)
In the end of year draft, their focus must be on quality junior taller mediums (186-189cms).
Last season, the Bullies slipped from grand-finalists to just scraping into 8th place, and were narrowly beaten by Freo in Perth in the elimination final.
Their midfield is an enigma made up of mobile talls - Macrae, Bontempelli, Dunkley, rather than the usual pacey smalls and smaller mediums.
Also, one must question why so many twilighters who aren't core players - Duryea, Johannisen, Crozier, Hannan, O'Brien, Jones - are still on the list.
The Bullies 2023 season will provide momentum change, but one isn't too sure whether it'll be taken up.
Select 22:
One hopes that more developing and junior players will be given opportunity, but gutfeel is that will not happen this season, so the team remains relatively the same with Sweet, West & Vandermeer getting more opportunity.
Note, Sweet is as good a knock-ruckman as English, and if he doesn't get more than 6 games this season, he may be approached as an NFA at season's end. Lobb's inclusion makes this scenario more likely.
Midseason review:
Again, the Bullies are competitive, without having quite enough firepower to dominate the competition. The middle columns from taller mediums (186-189cms) through to genuine talls (196-199cms) looks thin, especially since twilighters - Hannan, Bruce, O'Brien, Crozier & Jones - haven't given them much at all, even on an average per game played basis.
Surely, every club needing a first ruckman must be looking at Sweet. Two years ago, as a junior, he was outpointing the older English, but has not been given a look-in over the last two seasons. English is still developing, so Sweet must look elsewhere. (Hint, hint, Port Adelaide, Geelong!)
In the end of year draft, their focus must be on quality junior taller mediums (186-189cms).