A BOOMING Fletcher boot could soon be set for the world stage after Dustin's son Mason quit football to pursue NFL punting.
The father-son prospect informed Essendon of his decision to end dreams as an AFL defender in recent weeks and begin chasing a career in the USA.
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Fletcher, 19, opted to sit out of last year's NAB AFL Draft after a season plagued by back injuries, instead eyeing the 2020 drafts as a pathway to the Bombers.
Invited back to NAB League club Calder Cannons, the 200cm backman also spent time training with the Bombers and using the club's facilities during school holidays.
Sons of guns Tom Hird and Mason Fletcher on the track at @EssendonFC training this morning pic.twitter.com/R0unPjB06o
— Mitch Cleary (@cleary_mitch) January 16, 2019
He went on to play 14 matches as an overage player for the Cannons, including booting five behinds in a NAB League final at IKON Park in September.
Known for his punishing right boot that consistently travelled more than 60m, Mason carries distinct similarities to his 400-game father Dustin, who was known for his long boot.
With his draft hopes fading, Mason decided to explore the potential of a career as an NFL punter with experts believing he could land a College scholarship within 12 months.
Scroll across to the second video to see Mason Fletcher in training
He has signed with Melbourne-based punting program Prokick Australia, headed by former Brisbane and Hawthorn player turned NFL punter Nathan Chapman.
Former AFL-listed players who have graduated to College systems include Ben Griffiths and Ben Lennon (Richmond), Arryn Siposs (St Kilda), Max Duffy (Fremantle) and Cameron Johnston (Melbourne).