Today we look at Stef Martin, James McDonald, Brock McLean, Tom McNamara and John Meesen.
Stef Martin – Claimed the final spot on the senior list when he was snapped up with Melbourne's only selection in last December's NAB AFL Pre-Season Draft. The versatile tall impressed with Sandringham early on, before making his AFL debut in round 14. He quickly showed plenty to like about his game in a key defensive post and remained in the side until the final round. Although the former basketballer is still relatively new to the game, he looms as a genuine long-term prospect and should continue to improve in 2009.
James McDonald – The reigning 2006-07 Keith 'Bluey' Truscott Trophy winner again gave his all for the red and blue, taking on the co-captaincy with Cameron Bruce after David Neitz's neck injury and subsequent retirement. Despite missing three matches, he was still one of Melbourne's more consistent performers and could still feature strongly in the club champion award. The tenacious midfielder also spent some time down back as the club continued to develop its youngsters. The 31-year-old is signed on for 2009.
Brock McLean – The hard-at-it midfielder hit back with some fine form in the first half of the season after being stood down from the leadership group due to an off-field incident early in the year. It would not surprise if he is leading the club best-and-fairest award mid-way through the season, but unfortunately an ankle injury sustained against the Brisbane Lions in round 14 ended his season. McLean, who will still only be 23 years old in 2009, remains an integral part of the club's midfield brigade and long-term future.
Tom McNamara – The youngest player on an AFL list in 2008, McNamara was Melbourne's final selection – No.66 overall – in last year's NAB AFL Draft. The former AIS-AFL Academy member spent most of the season with the Sandringham reserves, although he did make his senior VFL debut with the Zebras, playing three matches. The young defender's season was cut short, however, with a hamstring injury sidelining for the final three rounds. He will continue to hone his craft in 2009.
John Meesen – After three seasons and two matches in 2007 with Adelaide, the 200cm ruckman returned to Victoria, joining Melbourne in last October's exchange period. But the No.8 selection in the 2004 NAB AFL Draft didn't manage a senior match with the Demons this year, with Jeff White, Mark Jamar and Paul Johnson all preferred. He also had an ankle problem and missed the final two rounds. The 22-year-old faces an important period of his career entering the 2009 pre-season.
