AFL recruiting managers from across the country will converge in Perth on Saturday to preview the talent on display ahead of November’s NAB AFL Draft, when Western Australia and South Australia clash at Subiaco Oval.
Five of the first seven draft picks from 2008 emerged from last year’s match-up of these two sides, including Nicholas Naitanui, Stephen Hill, Hamish Hartlett, Chris Yarran and Daniel Rich. Former star graduates from the west include Simon Black, Daniel Kerr, Lance Franklin, Joel Corey and Rhys Palmer.
South Australia also has a rich history, with Matthew Pavlich, Adam Cooney, Jason Porplyzia, Bryce Gibbs and Kane Cornes all hailing from SA.
Sunday will see Victoria Country and Victoria Metro clash at Geelong’s Skilled Stadium. Products of the Vic Country squad have included Gary Ablett, Jonathan Brown, Adam Goodes, Jimmy Bartel and Joel Selwood.
Defending national champions Vic Metro have also provided a consistent flow of talent, with Chris Judd, Sam Mitchell, Brendon Fevola and Brad Johnson previously donning the navy blue Big V. The past three NAB AFL number one draft picks – Marc Murphy, Matthew Kruezer and Jack Watts – are products of Vic Metro.
This year’s championships are once again expected to highlight future stars of the game.
Western Australia v South Australia
Saturday May 30, 2.20pm
Subiaco Oval
Victoria Country v Victoria Metro
Sunday May 31, 1.30pm
Skilled Stadium
