WEST Australian Josh Rotham has pulled in a mark for the ages, soaring for a remarkable grab on the final day of the NAB AFL Under-18 Championships at Simonds Stadium in Geelong on Wednesday.
The 18-year-old from West Perth leapt for heavens in the first half, and ended up sitting on the head of Vic Metro's Taylin Duman, somehow managing to hold onto the ball as he came to ground.
Rotham is a tall defender with a strong ability to rebound the football. He played for WA in last year's championships as a 17-year-old and could be used as a running half-back or wingman if drafted, given his athletic talents.
Unfortunately for Rotham, his team couldn't go on to claim a victory, with Vic Metro taking the win by 23 points and being crowned division one champions for 2016.
Potential first-round draft pick Josh Rotham soared above Vic Metro's Taylin Duman to haul in a towering grab in Wednesday's Under-18 Championships clash at Simonds Stadium. The rebounding defender came off his opponent to take the intercept mark, as Duman was trapped in no-man's land.
Rotham, who has been a consistent performer for Western Australia in the back end of the carnival, launched himself for the mark as the ball, kicked by Metro's Oliver Florent, sailed over Duman's head. At the peak of his jump, Rotham turned his body to brace for contact, but kept his hands firmly clasped around the footy.
The 18-year-old, who has averaged 22.6 disposals for West Perth in the WAFL Colts, was upended by Duman – who bounced back to be one of Metro's strongest performers with 16 touches. Despite a heavy landing, Rotham leapt right back up to take his kick.
Rotham is considered as one of the best rebounding defenders in this year's draft pool. At 192cm, he has the versatility to play on a taller opponent, but can also match it with the smaller players at ground level given his mobility. He has pace and makes good decisions with ball in hand.
