FORMER Fremantle rookie Haiden Schloithe has boosted his hopes of a second chance at AFL level after claiming the Sandover Medal on Monday night.
Schloithe polled 52 votes – the highest tally in four seasons under the WAFL's 5-4-3-2-1 system – to finish seven clear of South Fremantle teammate and fellow draft hopeful Tim Kelly.
Subiaco captain Kyal Horsley rounded out the top three, finishing with 39 votes.
Schloithe was on the Dockers' rookie list in 2012 and '13 but the 182cm midfielder didn't play a game.
However, the 24-year-old could now come under closer consideration from AFL recruiters looking for a mature-aged onballer.
Schloithe averaged 28 disposals for the Bulldogs and showed he can go forward by booting 27 goals in 19 games.
He has been invited to the WA State Combine next month, which requires interest from at least two AFL clubs.
Four of the previous 10 Sandover medallists have gone on to play in the AFL, including Brownlow medallist Matt Priddis (2006), All Australian Hayden Ballantyne (2008), Andrew Krakouer (2010) and Kane Mitchell (2012).
Kelly's runner-up placing capped a brilliant campaign, when the stoppage specialist averaged 27 disposals and kicked 22 goals.
A seven-goal, 35-disposal effort against arch-rival East Fremantle in round 11 highlighted Kelly's talent and he appears strongly placed for a shot at AFL level.
The silky 23-year-old was one of 10 West Australians invited to the NAB AFL Draft Combine after being nominated by at least four clubs.
A goalkicking midfielder who can burst clear from clearances, Kelly could appeal to West Coast, which needs to restock its engine room with running power.
High-flying Subiaco livewire Liam Ryan – the WAFL's leading goalkicker with 68 goals – is also on the radar and has been invited to the state combine.
Ryan finished eighth in the Sandover Medal after polling 30 votes.
Sandover Medal top 10
1. Haiden Schloithe (South Fremantle) 52 votes
2. Tim Kelly (South Fremantle) 45
3. Kyal Horsley (Subiaco) 39
4. Leigh Kitchin (Subiaco) 37
5. Clint Jones (Perth) 36
6. Jye Bolton (Claremont) 35
7. Lachlan Delahunty (Subiaco) 34
8. Liam Ryan (Subiaco) 30
9. Shane Nelson (West Perth) 26
10. Ryan Lim (Claremont) 25
Haiden Schloithe at the Doig Medal presentation in 2012. Picture AFL Photos
