Which of Port’s new draftees and rookies look set to spend a bit of time playing in the seniors this year?
Cameron Hitchcock is one rookie that I’m sure will get promoted with the way he’s been playing and training. He’s a real goal sneak and I think he might make an impact straight away. Jasper Pittard should come in and make a real impact as well. There are a few bargains to be had in our team if you just do your research.
Is there anyone at your club that may be shifted into a different role this year which could help boost their Dream Team value?
Nick Salter played forward last year and has been training in defence and he played there in our round one NAB Cup game against the Adelaide Crows and did really well. He’s a really good user of the footy and can get a lot of possession as well, so I’m sure he’s a cheap option who’ll play a lot of games and get the ball down back.
Are there any Port Adelaide players who spent most of last year injured but have now completed their rehabilitation and are fit and ready to go in round one?
Steven Salopek missed bits of last year and his form wasn’t where he wanted it to be. But he is one of the fittest players on our list at the moment and training really well. He’ll be moving back into the midfield and coming off that wing he’s going to get a lot of the ball, so he’s definitely a good buy.
Are there any recycled players at your club who you think might be able to rejuvenate their Dream Team careers?
Jay Schulz has really been on fire up in the forward line. He’s been training the house down and works as hard as anyone and showed some really good signs during our round one NAB Cup game. His defensive pressure and tackling and chasing along with his marking and goal kicking is right up there and everyone at Port has been impressed with his progress. Cameron Cloke is also on the rookie list and I think we’re going to need another ruck option so he might be elevated at some stage.
Who do you think will be the most consistent Dream Team performer at Port Adelaide this year?
I have to say my brother Kane, it’s a bit biased but he is the most consistent player I’ve played with at the club. He’s been training really well so I’m tipping he’s in for another big year.
Do you think he’s a bit overpriced at $418,400?
He is very expensive but you know with Kane he doesn’t miss games with injuries and always gets a lot of the ball and uses it pretty well so I’d say he’s worth it. A bit of brotherly love there, I’ll look after him!
Who’s the biggest Dream Team fanatic at your club?
Brendon Lade used to be so it’s probably Steven Salopek, Troy Chaplin and Brett Ebert. They’re right into it. But it’s really catching on. Most of the guys have their own Dream Teams now so there’s a bit of competition between the boys.
Do the boys ever joke about trying to hit up teammates on the field just to rack up more Dream Team points?
Well everyone always tells me and Kane to keep handballing to each other and they’re always saying we’re only in it for the Dream Team points. That’s not true obviously but we do get a bit of stick about that.
You’re valued at $383,300, do you think you offer some good value there for Dream Team punters?
I’d like to think so. My last couple of years have been disappointing but this year I’m moving into a permanent centre half-back position which has given me some real stability in my training and this year I’ll know where I’m playing. In the past I’ve been all over the place but I’m feeling really confident down back so to the people who want to buy me, I hope I can repay you this year.
Chad Cornes is a $383,300 defender/midfielder in this year’s Toyota AFL Dream Team.
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