WITH the conclusion to the NAB AFL Under-16 Championships set for September 26 at the MCG, as a precursor to the Toyota AFL Grand Final, afl.com.au profiles the key players from the opening three rounds of competition at Sydney’s Blacktown Olympic Park earlier this month.

Adam Treloar (Vic Country): The dashing 181cm half-back was instrumental in ensuring Vic Country remained undefeated on their way to the division one final. Averaging 23 possessions per game and launching countless attacks from defensive 50, Treloar was an absolute springboard for his side. A consistent performer, Treloar’s ability to win contested ball and break the lines is sure to have caught the eyes of recruiters.

Jack Hombsch (South Australia): The 187cm versatile utility that can play as both a medium forward and defender was ultra-impressive throughout the opening three rounds. Hombsch’s athleticism was on full display, at no stage more evident that when he pulled down a ‘screamer’ to remember against Vic Country.

Alex Greenwood (Vic Metro): Ferocious 175cm midfielder who tirelessly won his own football in the opening three matches. His consistency and courage were features of his game, as was his ability to find the footy, averaging 24 possessions per game. Leading his state in contested possessions and hard ball gets, Greenwood’s efforts were rewarded with Vic Metro’s NAB MVP Award.

Tom Mitchell (Western Australia): Left-footed medium midfielder who racked up possessions at will across the opening three rounds. Mitchell averaged 32 disposals per game, the most of any player at the championships. His consistent efforts were rewarded with Western Australia’s NAB MVP Award. Mitchell is the son of former Sydney, Collingwood and Carlton player Barry Mitchell.

Jackson Allen (Queensland): Blessed with exceptional foot skills that defy his age, the talented wingman has been a standout for the Queensland side. From local club Sherwood, Allen’s ultra clean hands and ability to win contested ball was evident in all three matches, especially against the Northern Territory in round two.

Oliver Tweeddale (NSW/ACT): Exciting key position prospect from Pennant Hills in NSW whose development is sure to have delighted Essendon, at which Tweeddale is a current AFL Scholarship holder. Already standing at 193cm, the athletic Tweeddale can play forward, back or in the ruck. A strong performer for his NSW/ACT side, Tweeddale is just one of many promising talents to emerge from the championships.

Sam Darley (Tasmania): The 184cm medium midfielder is sure to have caught the eyes of all observers with a tremendous carnival. Darley’s strength overhead, his ability to amass contested possessions and hurt the opposition with the football, were all features of his game. From North Hobart, Darley averaged 28 possessions and topped the Champion Data player rankings.

Jarrod Erlandson (Northern Territory): Playing across half-back and wing, Erlandson was not afraid to display his electrifying pace and dash that will make him one to watch for the future. Exceptional ball use by both hand and foot only add to his appeal. From Pioneer in Alice Springs, Erlandson represented Northern Territory at this year’s NAB AFL Under-18 Championships.