IT WAS in the third quarter of Vic Metro's game against Western Australia at Simonds Stadium in June when Paul Ahern caught the eye.
With the ball up for grabs in the middle of the ground, Ahern gathered it, stepped through traffic and immediately had opened up space.
He took two bounces, separating himself from his chasers, and sent the ball inside-50. It took skill, composure and balance – a handful of Ahern's main traits.
Ahern, of Indigenous background, played five games for Vic Metro during the NAB AFL Under-18 Championships and was named an All Australian.
He also averaged 17 disposals in 15 games for the Calder Cannons, chipping in with 17 goals to show his versatility in attack.
Ahern showed his quality in the TAC Cup Grand Final, when he gathered 26 disposals, took seven marks and kicked a goal for the Cannons. It was a good example of what he is capable of producing, and also came with his side staring down a hefty defeat.
The smooth-moving midfielder has a special mix of being able to create the play as well as finish it. Ahern is quick but glides across the ground, and is best when running with the ball in hand, closing in on goal and slotting his shot. His kicking can be long and accurate or short and precise.
Ahern's mix of speed and endurance means he can play as an inside or outside midfielder, and his ability to win a disposal and then burst away is rare in this draft pool.
Ahern had an inconsistent second half of the season after the championships, and at times that can be put down to his sometimes patchy intensity, where he can float in and out of games.
He's been likened to Bernie Vince, but probably with a touch more pace. Like the Melbourne midfielder, Ahern's delivery by foot is top-notch and he can go forward to hit the scoreboard.
At this stage Ahern looks a likely first-round selection.
This isn't a draft loaded with midfielders who run quickly, ooze class and kick goals, so there are key reasons for Ahern's popularity among recruiters.
He loves having the ball in his hands and directing teammates where to lead with smart kicks. He's the one you want in possession.
