NAB AFL Draft Combine

The annual NAB AFL Draft Combine will still go ahead in Canberra this week despite Saturday’s drawn Grand Final. Looking to impress will be NSW/ACT pair Ben Mabon and Ben Reid. 

Over the four days of the combine, which starts on Wednesday, September 29, each potential draftee will be put through a range of physical, measurable, medical, psychological, psychomotor and skills tests to compare the best against the best from around Australia. Click here for the week’s itinerary.

Of all the 2010 AFL draftees, the majority will emerge from this talent pool. AFL Talent Manager Kevin Sheehan says the Draft Combine’s place in the NAB AFL Rising Star pathway is pivotal.

“The Combine represents the final chance for players to present their case for inclusion on an AFL list,” said Sheehan.

“AFL clubs have made their judgement on a prospect’s playing ability and game sense, but at the Combine they can look a little deeper into the physical and intangible areas,” he said.

With most AFL clubs likely to interview the majority of players, Sheehan says recruiters will be identifying a player’s character, not only his football ability.

“The make-up, personality and fabric of the player will be observed,” Sheehan said.

“Clubs are after players who are smart, tough and disciplined.”

In 2009, the kicking skill test designed by Nathan Buckley was introduced to the combine.

This year, the ‘clean hands’ test devised by AIS/AFL academy assistant coach Matthew Lloyd will be included.

Each player’s test will comprise six takes and six handballs to various targets nominated randomly by the assessor.

“The test looks for players with a clean take of the ball at varying heights, quick execution of a handpass with perfect spin and reaching the target at the right height and speed,” Lloyd said.

“The accurate execution of the fundamental skills of the game is still the key to success in AFL football, and the introduction of skills tests at the Draft Combine sends a message to all aspiring players: practice your hand and foot skills,” Lloyd said.