Reinhard keeps the dream alive
Eastern Suburbs local Ned Reinhard is looking to follow in the footsteps of 2014 draftees Jordan Foote and Abaina Davis as he aspires to join an AFL club in 2016.
Growing up in the Eastern Suburbs the 194cm centre half forward played for East Sydney Bulldogs before moving across to the Maroubra Saints at sixteen.
Coming through the Sydney Swans Academy ranks has taken Reinhard’s game to the next level.
“Coming through the Swans academy has been brilliant for my footy in regards to high training standards and a professional outlook on football,” Reinhard said.
“Training twice a week at a high intensity and having an offseason fitness program really forces you to improve your footy, and I hope it stands me in good stead come Draft time.”
Reinhard started the season strongly, impressing recruiters and coaching staff in the Swans 55-point win against the Brisbane Lions Academy in Coffs Harbour.
Ned Reinhard’s 2015 AFL Under 18 NSW/ACT head shots at Simonds Stadium, Melbourne, Australia on June 27, 2015. (Photo by Michael Dodge/AFL Media)
Managing three TAC Cup and Swans reserves games this year the East Sydney junior had a consistent season, highlighting his versatility by playing in a range of positions.
In the NAB AFL Under 18s Championship game against Queensland Reinhard played centre half back.
Although he had never played there before the youngster relished the opportunity, winning the second highest number of disposals for his side.
“I’d never played there before but I feel I performed pretty well across half back as the ball was down there a lot.”
Reinhard has just finished his Grade 12 HSC schooling, and enjoyed a solid afternoon of testing at the State Combine at Riverview recently, highlighted by a 2.97 20m sprint and a 13.4 beep test.
Genuine utilities are handy commodities at any club, and Reinhard will be hoping his versatility is enough to hear his name read out in either the National or rookie Drafts later this month.
