Garlett gives grog the boot
Swan Districts youngster Dayle Garlett has sworn off alcohol in the build-up to next month's national draft in the hope it will be the final piece of the puzzle that delivers him his AFL dream.
Garlett was overlooked in last year's national, pre-season and rookie drafts despite being ranked among the three most talented youngsters in Australia.
Clubs refused to select him because of concerns over his discipline and lifestyle which included a social media photo of him drinking and smoking.
But Garlett changed his life- style this year and was rewarded with an invitation to this week's draft combine in Melbourne.
Clubs have spent the past two days interviewing him and haven't held back with interrogations about his personal life.
Garlett said he had made it clear he was a different person.
The 19-year-old said he no longer smoked and hadn't consumed any alcohol since Swan Districts' season finished on September 8.
"I will lay low, look after my body and keep quiet until then," Garlett said.
"Hopefully I'll get on a list.
"The last time I had a drink was the time we lost to East Perth.
"I was at the club with the boys for a bit for the presentations, stayed behind and had a few beers, but was home by 12.30.
"I only drink on rare occasions and all of my drinks have been with the Swan Districts footy boys.
"I've been home at one o'clock every time I go out. If one of the senior boys are out, I tell them whenever you're going at 12 or 1, to take me with you."
Garlett's new attitude shone out during testing yesterday.
He began this year at 85kg, but arrived in Melbourne at 73.4kg.
His skin folds have fallen from 68mm to 53mm and his 20m sprint and agility times improved on last year's results.
"I was stoked with everything today and hopefully that has opened a few eyes for the AFL recruiters as well," Garlett said.
"I hope I've convinced AFL recruiters that I am ready to play at any footy club that wants to pick me up.
"My lifestyle is a lot better."
Garlett kicked 48 goals and averaged 16 possessions from 19 games this season to finish equal 10th in the Sandover Medal.
Clubs are certain to monitor him closely ahead of the November 21 draft and he looms as a potential bargain because it appears they will be reluctant to select him early. Did you know? 48 The number of goals teenager Dayle Garlett kicked for Swans in 19 games this year
