Blakely pushes up draft order
Swan Districts midfielder Connor Blakely has emerged from the national under-18 championships as a potential first-round pick at this year's AFL draft, with Hawthorn believed to be considering the midfielder.
Blakely was named yesterday as WA's sole representative in the under-18 All-Australian side after averaging 21 disposals and seven clearances in his four games.
His ability to win the ball at stoppages and his composure stood out in an underperforming side.
Given the trend towards taller midfielders, his 186cm frame has clubs considering picking him in the 15-20 range in the national draft in November.
Victorians dominated the All-Australian side again, with 12 in the 22, including Larke medallist Christian Petracca and likely No.1 pick Patrick McCartin.
Despite winning the division one championship for the second year running, South Australia had only four players selected, including Melbourne father-son prospect Billy Stretch.
NSW-ACT midfielder Isaac Heeney, who is tied to Sydney as an academy player, was the best of the five division two players chosen in the side.
WA struggled at this year's championships, losing their first five games before an unlikely win over Vic Country on Wednesday, but could have three players selected in the first round.
South Fremantle midfielder Jarrod Pickett could land in the top three, given strong interest from Greater Western Sydney.
He possesses a rare combination of speed and skill.
His 20m sprint time of 2.8 seconds is only 0.05sec. off the AFL draft combine record.
Rugged defender Clem Smith, who was WA's MVP at last year's championships, is another tipped to be picked in the top 15. Tall utility player Tyler Keitel is also in the mix for an early selection.
Claremont midfielder Jared Hardisty was one of the success stories of the championships.
He was one of WA's most consistent and has come into draft contention despite being one of the last selected in the squad.
Attention now turns to the Gold Coast where the under-16 championships start today.
The WA side features two potential West Coast father-son picks from dual premiership players - Jake Waterman, son of Chris Waterman, and Zane Sumich, son of Peter Sumich.
