Next generation: Hugh Byrne, Oliver Poole and Oskar Smartt tested themselves at the AFL State Combine on Sunday. Photo: Bendigo Pioneers
Four local football talents have made a splash at the AFL Draft Combine weekend in Melbourne.
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Echuca’s Hugh Byrne, Leitchville-Gunbower’s Oskar Smartt and Echuca United’s Oliver Poole were among a list off 55 players nominated by recruiters to test at the State Combine last Sunday, which took place after the National Combine.
Margaret Court Arena was the testing site as players from across Australia were put through tests, including the 20m sprint, vertical leap and a 2km time trial.
The Bendigo Pioneers trio are highly touted talents, having been invited back in August.
Byrne has established himself as one of the more dynamic half-forwards in the Goulburn Valley League, while midfielders Poole and Smartt showcased consistent form across the Coates Talent League season.
“The AFL state draft combines provide another opportunity for players from across Australia to showcase their athletic prowess to AFL clubs ahead of the 2023 AFL Draft,” AFL Talent Ambassador Kevin Sheehan said.
“There is a long list of players who have participated in state combines who have gone on to be recruited by AFL clubs and produced fantastic football careers.”
Wheels in motion: Harley Reid was in Melbourne at the weekend to interview with AFL clubs. Photo: Steve Huntley
Photo by
Steve Huntley
Tongala’s Harley Reid was the centre of it all during the AFL National Combine.
The projected number one pick didn’t take part in any testing due to a knee niggle, but the young gun was busy talking to media and clubs ahead of the November 20 draft, saying it was “flat out” across the three-day event.
West Coast and North Melbourne are the two frontrunners to secure Reid’s services, but wherever he ends up, Reid reiterated that he would be thrilled for the opportunity to play at the top level.
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